GRAAFF-REINET NEWS - The Karoo Wine Club says the Stoep Tasting Original Weekend 2026 was an incredible few days in Graaff-Reinet and Nieu-Bethesda.
From vibey stoeps and unforgettable wine tastings to live music, amazing food, beautiful Karoo sunsets and streets filled with laughter, music and conversation… this weekend truly delivered something special.
Visitors to the Stoep Tasting Original Weekend said that every minute was entertaining, and that friendliness and warmth was visible at all the stalls.
A visitor recalled that some stalls were definitely busier that others, and some stalls were also much more expensive than others, “but visitors could pick and choose where they wanted to buy, as there were more than enough opportunities!”
The Stoep Tasting Sibling Weekend took place from 21 to 23 May, followed by the Stoep Tasting Original Weekend from 28 to 30 May. Both festivals were hosted across the historic streets and sun-soaked porches of Graaff-Reinet and Nieu-Bethesda.
The massive outdoor country event featured three full days of wine tastings, live music and regional Karoo cuisine, including a number of highlights.
Ticket holders could taste the Terroir while they strolled at their own pace between registered stoeps and venues to sample pours from distinct South African wine producers.
Around 140 wine and spirit producers participated in the event across the twin weekends in Graaff-Reinet and Nieu-Bethesda.
Each weekend featured different wine producers, with interactive guides featuring over 40 curated producers per specific route.
A massive 80s-themed Stage to Stoep concert headlined by Centrestage took place at the Montego Botanics Sport Ground in Graaff-Reinet.
Fringe events attracted attendees who booked for specialised add-on experiences such as the Fryer’s Cove Coast meets Karoo tasting, Paserene luxury liquorice & wine pairing, the quilt and wine pairing and multi-course gastronomy events.
To top it all, a unique hangover and hydration station, with IV drip therapy was provided by Dr Lindi Kruger.
This service was stationed on Somerset Street throughout both weekends.
The Karoo Wine Club extended a huge thank you to every visitor, wine producer, venue, local business, artist, volunteer and community member who helped make these Stoep Tasting weekends so successful.
The energy, support and atmosphere throughout the weekend were absolutely incredible.
The Karoo Wine Club is already looking forward to next time with cheers to good wine, good people and great weekends.
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