The Fine Water Company is running the world’s first Fine Water Tasting Room at The Library at Lanzerac, charging R295 per person for a fine water tasting session.
The Fine Water Company was founded in 2021 by Nico Pieterse, an experienced entrepreneur and Water Sommelier from Franschhoek.
Pieterse is one of only a few certified water sommeliers around the world, and one of only two in South Africa.
The Fine Water Company started out in Franschhoek and ran a tasting room at Chef’s Warehouse at Maison.
In November 2024, the Fine Water Tasting Room announced that it had found a new home at the Lanzerac Hotel in Stellenbosch.
More recently, it thanked Dr Michael Mascha for being part of the unveiling of the world’s first Fine Water Tasting Room at The Library at Lanzerac.
Lanzerac’s history dates back to 1692, and the wine estate is synonymous with old-world charm and rich Cape heritage.
It belonged to former Steinhoff CEO Markus Jooste until recently, when the South African Reserve Bank attached it.
The Fine Water Company is now offering 45-minute water tasting sessions at R295 per person at The Library at Lanzerac.
“Similar to wine tastings, guests sip, evaluate, and compare the qualities of different waters,” the company explained.
The Fine Water Company added that it is guided by expert insights into the water’s origins and compositions.
Participants sample a variety of waters, including mineral-rich spring water, soft glacial water, purified and distilled water, and urban tap water, for comparison.
There is also water from rare and exotic sources, such as the Alps, Iceland, or volcanic springs, available to taste.
Water tasting at The Library at Lanzerac
The Fine Water Company described a water tasting session as a unique and enlightening sensory experience.
“Participants explore the diverse flavours, textures, and aromas of water sourced from around the world,” it said.
“Guided by a water sommelier or expert, it’s an opportunity to discover the hidden complexity of water, much like a wine or coffee tasting.”
During a water tasting, participants sample waters from pristine natural springs, exotic watersheds, and even urban tap water.
“This allows them to experience firsthand how factors such as mineral content, source, and filtration methods shape the water’s characteristics,” it said.
Attendees are encouraged to observe, describe, and evaluate the appearance, aroma, taste, and mouthfeel of the different waters.
For this experience, participants sip small amounts and allow the water to linger on the tongue to experience its full profile.
They cleanse the palate between the different water samples with neutral water or mild snacks.
“The sommelier explains the differences between waters, their unique mineral compositions, and their impact on health and hydration,” it said.
It explained that it allows people to discover hidden flavours. “Each water reflects its geological journey, revealing distinct tastes and textures,” it said.
“Water tastings are more than an event. They’re an invitation to rethink water’s role in our lives,” The Fine Water Company said.
“By celebrating its complexity, these experiences elevate water from an everyday necessity to a luxurious, sensory delight.”
“Whether you’re a connoisseur, a health enthusiast, or simply curious, a water tasting offers a fresh perspective on this life-giving resource.”
Inside the Fine Water Tasting Room
