What is a Water Tasting?

A sensory journey that reveals the subtle character of waters from around the world.

A water tasting is a unique and enlightening sensory experience, where participants explore the diverse flavors, textures, and aromas of waters sourced from around the world. Guided by Nico Pieterse, a Certified Water Sommelier, it’s an opportunity to discover the hidden complexity of water, much like a wine or coffee tasting — minus the intoxication.

During the tasting, participants sample waters from pristine natural springs, exotic watersheds, and even urban tap water, experiencing firsthand how mineral content, source, and filtration methods shape the water’s character.

Each tasting lasts 45 minutes, features six hand-selected waters (still and sparkling), and costs R350 per person. The session is designed to be both educational and enjoyable, giving guests a deeper appreciation for water’s subtleties and nuances.

Why Experience a Water Tasting?

• Discover Exceptional Waters – Taste hand-selected still and sparkling waters from around the world, each with its own story and unique mineral profile.

• Explore Subtle Nuances – Learn how factors like source, mineral content, carbonation, and filtration shape flavor, aroma, and mouthfeel.

• Enhance Your Knowledge – Perfect for diners, hospitality professionals, or anyone looking to deepen their appreciation of water as a refined beverage.

• A Memorable Experience – Guided, educational, and social tasting with friends, colleagues, or fellow enthusiasts.

What Happens During a Tasting

Curated Water Selection
Participants sample a variety of waters, which may include:

• Mineral-rich spring waters

• Soft glacial waters

• Purified or distilled waters

• Urban tap water for comparison

• Rare or exotic waters from regions such as the Alps, Iceland, or volcanic springs

Sensory Exploration
Attendees are encouraged to observe and describe:

• Appearance: Clarity, color, and presentation

• Aroma: Subtle scents influenced by the minerals in the water

• Taste: Ranging from neutral to distinct, influenced by factors like calcium, magnesium, and sodium levels

• Mouthfeel: Texture or body of the water, such as light, smooth, or full-bodied

Tasting Techniques

• Sip small amounts and allow the water to linger on the tongue to experience its full profile

• Cleanse the palate between samples with neutral water or mild snacks

Educational Insights

• The sommelier explains the unique mineral compositions, sources, and origins of each water

• Guests learn how these characteristics impact taste, texture, and hydration

Why Attend a Water Tasting?

• Discover Hidden Flavours: Each water reflects its geological journey, revealing distinct tastes and textures.

• Appreciate Water as Art: Learn how water can be more than a beverage — it’s an experience.

• Educate Yourself: Understand the science of water and its role in health, wellness, and sustainability.

• Elevate Your Palate: Fine-tune your ability to detect subtle differences in flavor and quality.

Water tastings are more than an event — they invite you to celebrate the complexity of water and elevate it from an everyday necessity to a refined experience.

Visit Us

Our tasting room, The Library, is located at Lanzerac Estate, Stellenbosch. Tastings are by reservation only, ensuring a private, immersive experience.

• Available hours: Monday – Sunday, 09:30 – 19:30

• Private group tastings are available on request.