Category Archives: Stellenbosch
Taste Rare Clos Malverne Limited Release Wines On Saturdays
Restaurant puts lid on winter blues with complimentary lunchtime tastings
The Restaurant @ Clos Malverne, a hidden culinary hotspot, idyllically situated on a family-run wine farm in the Devon Valley outside Stellenbosch, offers its guests the rare opportunity to taste the estate’s exclusive Limited Release wines on the house with their lunch on Saturdays.
These wines are available in limited quantities and exclusive to exceptional vintages only and from now until the end of August, the restaurant will be sharing these precious cellar gems as a winter weekend treat with its diners – all at the comfort of their own tables.
Clos Malverne is renowned for its repertoire of quality-driven, food friendly red wines and the flight of exceptional Limited Release wines to be tasted includes Clos Malverne’s brand new Cape Blend, Spirit of Malverne; as well as and old 2001 vintage and more recent 2008 vintage of the estate’s multi-crowned flagship Cape Blend, Auret.
Clos Malverne’s time-honoured, handcrafted wines can only be bought directly from the estate or via its newly improved online wine sales facility which delivers your wine to your doorstep in no time.
Clos Malverne bacon wrapped chicken breast and mash
The Restaurant @ Clos Malverne embraces the chilly season with new Winter Menu that sizzles with hearty, seasonal tastes to transform winter from a period of hibernation into a food celebration.
Wholesome, wintery sensations on chef Nadia Louw Smith’s bill of fare include a steaming Smoked Snoek & Mussel Pot; and Asian inspired Orange & Thyme Marinated Duck Breast; Slow Roasted Pork Belly; an aromatic Chicken & Mango Curry, and all her time favourite Lamb Shanks.
Vegetarians can coax their senses with her homemade Gorgonzola Pasta; a nourishing Roasted Onion Soup; or a rich Sundried Tomato & Goat’s Cheese Risotto, whilst her ever-popular Tempura Prawns with a chilli cucumber, lime and coriander salsa provide just enough sting to melt jaded palates.
Or kiss winter blues goodbye with dreamy desserts such as a dark Chocolate Fondant with a white chocolate centre; Malva Pudding with Butternut & Pistachio ice cream; Apple Crumble, or a White Chocolate Crème Brûlée served with a berry-licious compote.
Most of the accompanying vegetables and greens are organically grown on the estate and The Restaurant @ Clos Malverne uses the eggshells and natural scraps from their kitchen to create their own compost.
In addition to its generous Food & Wine Pairing Menu, relaxed atmosphere and awe-inspiring views from its wraparound terrace, The Restaurant @ Clos Malverne, is also renowned for its signature Ice Cream & Wine Pairings which now feature four new winter inspired sensations – at R65 per person for four scoops and matching estate wines.
Nadia, who describes her own cuisine as ‘world food with an earthy sophistication, cooked from the heart and presented with perfection’ eschews the elaborate and creates sumptuous yet unpretentious food, simple in structure yet complex in flavour, texture and colour.
For reservations contact the restaurant at Tel: (+27)21 865 2022 or visit www.closmalverne.co.za. The Restaurant @ Clos Malverne is open daily for lunch except on Mondays and bookings are essential.
Waterkloof Appoints Nadia Barnard As Winemaker
Waterkloof, a biodynamic marvel on the outskirts of the Helderberg Winelands, celebrated for its elegant wines and passionate commitment to sustainable wine farming ethics, has appointed a new winemaker who is everything but a newcomer to this conservation-minded estate, the young and vibrant Nadia Barnard.
“A combination of destiny and good judgement brought me to the wine industry and ultimately to Waterkloof and it is here were I have learned the true aspects of quality vines and wines and realised, that to live and work in harmony with nature is to acknowledge, respect and promote its intrinsic value,” says Nadia.
“I firmly believe in the biodynamic and organic philosophies of Waterkloof. I have been here since the cellar opened its doors in 2009, and today, after five years working here as Assistant Winemaker, I can truly say that I know every square inch of vineyard on the farm like the palm of my hand and the amazing potential that lies within them,” adds this new cellar guardian who chooses to discover Mother Nature’s helpings hands-on.
After matriculating from Bloemhof High School in Stellenbosch, Nadia followed her dream of becoming a winemaker and graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Agriculture (BSc Agric) specialising in Viticulture and Oenology from the University of Stellenbosch.
Always in search of a great challenge, Nadia has had an eclectic training as a winemaker with experience in man
y top Cape and international wineries which include an internship at Vergelegen Estate and a stint at Flagstone Winery. Her pursuit of quality winemaking also landed her harvest internships at Balnaves of Goonawarra, a small family-owned wine company in South Australia; Koru Wines and Moutere Hills in New Zealand, and Domaine La Roche and the Rhône valley in France, where she gained valuable knowledge in terroir variation and the crafting of diverse wine styles.
“Sauvignon blanc and Shiraz are unequivocally my two most favourite grape varieties to experiment with and my favourite Waterkloof wine is the Circumstance Syrah 2009, which speaks of elegance and femininity,” shares Nadia, an avid animal lover who reckons the best time of day at Waterkloof is at six in the morning, when the farm comes to life and all its animals rise and shine, eager to get trotting and tilling and take bio-dynamic farming in their stride.
With idyllic terroir and wines of vitality, which have a truly defining sense of origin, on top of her priority list, Nadia has certainly found her match at Waterkloof.
“Albeit somewhat of a cliché, my winemaking philosophy is one of minimal intervention. Fine wine is made in the vineyards. Just apply meticulous care and guidance and you can just let the wine make itself,” explains Nadia who expresses a real love for Waterkloof’s natural winemaking process.
Wine, travelling and the outdoors are three of her biggest passions in life. When Nadia is not hard at work she enjoys spending time with friends or exploring the road less travelled with her mountain bike.
For more information on Nadia and her Waterkloof wines contact the estate at
Tel: 021 858 1292 or visit www.waterkloofwines.co.za.
Delheim Estate Goes Wild With Mushroom Huntings
Gear up for a Wild Fungi Forage in the forest on this legendary wine farm
17 & 18 June 2013
Want to know a Boletus Edulis from a pine ring and discover the secret world of wild mushrooms? While many fungi fans remain tight lipped about their favourite hunting spot for the elusive shroom, Delheim Wine Estate, just outside Stellenbosch, lifts the lid on this secrecy with its popular Mushroom Week which kicks off with two exclusive foraging expeditions in its own forest on 17 & 18 June.
Avid aficionados can slip on their boots and baskets and join the Sperling family for an enchanting trudge through the forest in search of these rare seasonal delicacies under the guidance of Nora Sperling-Thiel and Gary Goldman aka “The Mushroom Hunter’ – a guru with a keen fungi sense and sharp eye who can spot a camouflaged porcini in no time.
“Over the years mushroom hunting has become somewhat of a family passion. It is all about the mystique and excitement of the season, the timing, the search, and then the ultimate satisfaction…to create a delicious meal from something you have foraged yourself. As a winemaking family we love to live close to nature and besides mushroom are packed with good things like potassium, vitamin D and anti-oxidants” shares Nora, daughter of farm owner Spatz Sperling – a inimitable Cape wine pioneer and co-founder of the Stellenbosch Wine Routes more than 40 years ago.
After working up an appetite in the forest, foragers will head to Delheim’s Vat Cellar for an exquisite buffet-style lunch indulgence featuring wild and exotic* mushroom dishes, to be enjoyed with a selection of Delheim’s latest vintages and cellar gems.
There are only a few spots available for the Delheim Wild Mushroom Forage (on 17 & 18 June) and tickets cost R250 per person, which include a short-course in mushroom identification – a very important precursor to avoid poisoning and learn the dangers and don’ts when it comes to picking these edible wonders – prior to the forest forage, as well as the languid cellar lunch (beverages excluded).
The hunt starts at 10.30 and pre-bookings for this ex-CEP-tional experience are essential. For more information or to book, contact Delheim at Tel. 021 888 4607; send an email to restaurant@delheim.com, or visit www.delheim.com.
Delheim was the first wine estate in the country to serve food almost four decades ago and today its family-friendly Garden Restaurant with its stunning setting remains a firm lunchtime favourite, celebrated for its homely atmosphere and comfort food. Those who miss out on the mushroom foraging experience can still enjoy an array of delicious wild mushroom dishes at the restaurant throughout Delheim’s popular Mushroom Week which runs from 17 until 23 June.
* Wild mushrooms are those such as Boletus edulis, commonly known as the porcini or cep mushroom, which cannot be cultivated by man. They work in conjunction with the environment’s mycorrhizal system, growing in conjunction with the trees. Exotic mushrooms are unusual mushroom varieties that can be cultivated, such as Shiitake, Oyster, Shimeji & Enoki.
Feast Of Shiraz & Charcuterie Returns To Hartenberg Wine Estate
Saturday, 1 June 2013
Kick the cold weather to the curb by revelling in some of South Africa’s finest Syrahs from leading cellars paired with an array of meaty indulgencies at the annual Feast of Shiraz & Charcuterie at Hartenberg Wine Estate on Saturday, 1 June 2013.
Carl Schultz, celebrated winemaker at Hartenberg, widely regarded as one of South Africa’s oldest and leading producers of Shiraz for almost 40 years, has invited a select group of winemakers to present their cellar gems at this indulgent day of Shiraz and Charcuterie. They will be joined by some of the best local charcuterie masters, cheese makers and olive enthusiasts that will bring foods to life to entice palates and complement this hardy varietal.
“Shiraz and charcuterie is a classic combination; the robust flavours created when curing or smoking meat complements Shiraz superbly. This festival is meant for everyone, whether you are a novice wanting to try something new or wine connoisseur on the hunt for fresh discoveries,” says Carl, who celebrates his 20th harvest at Hartenberg this year and has played an integral part in the estate’s Shiraz success story.
As the home of the world’s No. 1 Shiraz, The Stork 2008 as declared by Syrah du Monde in 2012 there is no better place to experience this varietal first hand than at Hartenberg Wine Estate.
The Feast of Shiraz & Charcuterie @ Hartenberg takes place on Saturday, 1 June 2013 from 12h00 noon until 17h00. Tickets cost R180 per person, including a tasting glass and are available online at www.webtickets.co.za. For more information, call Tel: (+27)84 207 3820, Email: info@dnaevents.co.za.
Hartenberg Estate is situated on the Bottelary Road off the R304 to Stellenbosch. (www.hartenbergestate.com)
All New Spirit Of Malverne – A Classic Clos Malverne Maverick Limited Release Cape Blend A Sophisticated Act Of Artistic Freedom
(Afrikaans Volg Na Die Engels)
The Family-owned Clos Malverne Wine Estate, primarily known for its classics flagship Cape Blends stemming from the hidden Devon Valley outside Stellenbosch, has unveiled its rendition of artistic freedom with the launch of its latest limited release wine, Spirit of Malverne 2011.
Winemaker Suzanne Coetzee was given full carte blanche to handcraft a wine that best portrayed her style and the innovative spirit of Clos Malverne, and this ‘no holds barred’ challenge gave birth to this powerful Cape Blend of Pinotage (50%), Cabernet Sauvignon (33%) and Shiraz (17%).
“Clos Malverne’s owner, Seymour Pritchard gave me the freedom to create a new wine for our Limited Release range, without any prescriptions, restrictions, or preconceived ideas of its style and taste. It was humbling, nerve-racking and liberating all at the same time and so Spirit of Malverne was born,” shares Suzanne.
The name is derived from Seymour’s yacht, Spirit, which he personally built more than two decades ago, on the exact same premises where Clos Malverne’s popular restaurant cum tasting room is situated today, to sail around the world.
Clos Malverne winemaker Suzanne Coetzee
Available in limited qualities only, Spirit of Malverne 2011 is the first Clos Malverne Cape Blend in which Pinotage as oppose to Cabernet Sauvignon rules, which lends a fragrant fruit character to the wine. It unfolds notes of cassis and stewed fruit at the fore uplifted by the supple blackberry character of the Cabernet whilst the smack of Shiraz adds finesse to this elegant newcomer which lingers with sweet spicy nuances on the palate. The wine spent 18 months in new barrels (80% French oak and 20% American oak) and is well-structured with close-knit yet juicy tannins.
“This wine reminds me of a woman, flawless in her youth whilst her character and unique features make her even more beautiful as she ages gracefully. A Sofia Vergara when you drink it now and a Sofia Loren when it reaches its full maturation potential in the next five to seven years,” adds Suzanne.
The elegant yet full-bodied Spirit of Malverne 2011 is a superb meat partner. Try it with a grilled rump steak topped with gorgonzola and tomato chutney; Springbok loin enriched with a dark chocolate chilli sauce, or a star anise infused slow roasted pork belly with sweet potato mash.
All Clos Malverne wines are exclusive to the cellar or high-class restaurants only, but with the estates virtual wine shop one can gain access to the entire range which is available for online purchase.
Visitors can also buy the wines directly from Clos Malverne’s tasting lounge and restaurant – in fact one actually gets a discount on them if you buy after your dining experience. With its stunning setting amidst the vineyards and breathtaking views of the picturesque Devon Valley, The Restaurant @ Clos Malverne is the perfect retreat to spend a soul-quenching afternoon under the trees, linger over lunch on the wraparound glass balcony or simply to pamper the senses on chilly, rainy days.
To order your Spirit of Malverne 2011 online click on http://closmalverne.co.za/shop or contact the estate at Tel: (+27)21 865 2022 for more information. The wine retails at R280 per bottle and there are only 500 bottles available.
More about Clos Malverne
Clos Malverne stays true to a time-honoured winemaking tradition with low intervention techniques and still uses traditional basket presses – a soft and gentle way of extracting grape juices most commonly used in champagne production. The basket press produces the softest wines with delicate tannins, dominant, fragrant fruit nuances and longevity due to the slow and gentle pressing. In addition the vines are hand cultivated, the grapes hand harvested and open top fermentation tanks are used in the cellar.
Spirit of Malverne 2011 – ‘n klassieke Clos Malverne nuweling
Eksklusiewe Kaapse rooiwynversnit laat skepper se vryheid seëvier
Clos Malverne, ‘n familiewynplaas was bekend is vir sy reeks klassieke vlagskip Kaapse rooiwynversnitte wat spruit uit die skilderagtige Devonvallei buite Stellenbosch, het sopas sy weergawe van vryheid van uitdrukking die lig laat sien met die bekendstelling van sy jongste keldertrots – Spirit of Malverne 2011.
Wynmaker Suzanne Coetzee is volle carte blanche oftewel vry spel in die wingerd en kelder gegun om ‘n nuwe handgemaakte wyn te skep wat haar eie unieke styl en die innoverende gees van Clos Malverne die beste na vore bring en weerspieël. Hierdie ‘geen perke’ uitdaging het toe geboorte gegee aan dié kragtige Kaapse rooiwynversnit van Pinotage (50%), Cabernet Sauvignon (33%) en Shiraz (17%).
“Clos Malverne se eienaar, Seymour Pritchard het my die vryheid gegee om ‘n nuweling vir ons gesogte Limited Release reeks te skep, sonder enige voorwaardes en voorafbepalings van watter tipe wyn dit moet wees en hoe dit moet proe. Hierdie uitdaging was terselfdertyd senutergend maar ook as ‘n skepper uiters bevredigend en bevrydend en ek is baie trots op die Spirit of Malverne,” gesels Suzanne.
Die wyn se naam is afgelui van Seymour se seiljag, Spirit, wat hy persoonlik meer as twee dekades terug – op dieselfde plek as waar Clos Malverne se gewilde restaurant cum proekamer vandag geleë is – gebou het om reg om die wêreld te vaar.
Spirit of Malverne 2011, waarvan daar slegs 500 bottels beskikbaar is, is die eerste Clos Malverne Kaapse rooiwynversnit waarin daar meer Pinotage as Cabernet Sauvignon is, en dit verleen ‘n indrukwekkende, geurige vrugkarakter aan die wyn. Dit onthul nuanses van cassis en gestoofde vrugte op die news, ondersteun deur die soepel swartbessie-aromas van die Cabernet, terwyl die sweempie Shiraz finesse aan die wyn verleen wat lekker langsaam met ‘n soet, aromatiese nasmaak talm. Die wyn het 18-maande in die vate (80% Franse eikehout en 20% Amerikaanse eikehout) vertoef.
“Hierdie wyn laat dink my aan ‘n vrou. Beeldskoon terwyl sy jonk is terwyl haar karakter en gelaatstrekke haar net nog mooier maak soos wat sy ouer word. Mens kan sê sy is nou soos
Sofia Vergara en soos Sofia Loren wanneer sy haar volle potensiaal oor vyf tot sewe jaar bereik,” voeg Suzanne by.
Die elegant, volronde Spirit of Malverne 2011 is ‘n uitstekende pasmaat vir vleisgeregte. Probeer dit saam met ‘n kruisstuk met gorgonzola en tamatieblatjang; Springbok-lende verryk met ‘n donkersjokolade-en-brandrissiesous, of ‘n stadig geroosterde varkpensie met steranys en soetpatat.
Alle Clos Malverne wyne is slegs direk beskikbaar vanaf die plaas of by ‘n handjievol uitgesoekte restaurante, maar met hul gerieflike kuber-wynwinkel kan jy enige persoon van hulle wyne aanlyn koop.
Besoekers kan ook wyn direk vanaf Clos Malverne se proelokaal en restaurant koop – mens kry selfs afslag indien jy wyn na jou eet-ervaring koop. The Restaurant @ Clos Malverne het sedert hy sy deure in 2009 geopen het, groot gewildheid gewerf vir sy ruimhartige, seisoenale kos-en-wyn ervarings en meer onlangs ook vir sy eiesoortige roomys-en-wynproeë.
Om jou Spirit of Malverne 2011 te koop klik op http://closmalverne.co.za/shop of skakel die landgoed by Tel: (+27)21 865 2022 vir meer inligting. Die wyn kos R280 per bottel.
Meer oor Clos Malverne
Clos Malverne, wat eens bekend gestaan het as die kleinste rooiwynkelder in die Kaap, stap al ‘n lang, suksesvolle pad sedert eienaar Seymour Pritchard die eerste wyne onder die Clos Malverne naam – ‘n skamele 800 bottels Cabernet Sauvignon – in 1986 die lig laat sien het. Seymour het ook oor die jare getrou gebly aan eertydse, tydsame wynmaaktradisies en vandag is Clos Malverne een van die min kelders wat nog hul handgeplukte druiwe met mandjies pers om sodoende die beste gehalte sap, delikaat vanuit die druiwe te ontgin. Die mandjie pers wat hulle gebruik verg tyd en uithouvermoë maar lewer die sagste wyne met delikate tanniene, dominante, geurige vrug-nuanses en goeie verouderingspotensiaal.
Mother’s Day 5-Course Extravaganza At Simonsig’s Cuvée Restaurant
Sunday, 12 May 2013
Dedicate a five-course extravaganza to your mom this Mother’s Day at Simonsig Estate’s ever popular Cuvée restaurant on Sunday, 12 May 2013.
Head Chef Lucas Carstens has cooked up an assortment of indulgences for Cuvee’s Mother’s Day menu for the whole family to tuck into. Potato and leek soup with bacon toast will be served as starters followed by a rich mussel risotto with a Chardonnay and saffron cream. A delicious beetroot sorbet with buttermilk and orange will clean the palate before a juicy beef sirloin with wild spinach, sweet onion and tomato relish arrives at the table. To end the afternoon classic apple pie will be served with delicious vanilla bean ice-cream.
The Mother’s Day lunch at Cuvée restaurant costs R295 per person and includes wine for three of the courses. Bookings are essential. As a special treat, Moms will receive a 10% off voucher for a pamper session of their choice at Linda van Niekerk Skin Care Clinic. For reservations or more information contact Cuvée restaurant on Tel: (021) 888 4932 or send an email to cuvee@simonsig.co.za.
Cuvée is open from Tuesday to Thursday, 12h00 – 15h00, Friday to Saturday, 12h00 – 15h00 and 19h00 – 22h00 and Sundays for lunch. Private evening functions and parties can be reserved in Simonsig’s stylish Van Niekerk Room.
Simonsig Wine Estate is located outside Stellenbosch, on the Kromme Rhee road between the R44 and R304. For more information on Simonsig Estate visit www.simonsig.co.za.
Give Mom The Ultimate Mother’s Day Experience At The House Of J.C. Le Roux
Saturday, 11 May to Sunday, 12 May
Make Mom feel like a queen with a free mini-makeover, delicious lunch, tasting and prizes at The House of J.C. Le Roux in Stellenbosch on Mother’s Day weekend.
Stylish moms and daughters will be pampered by Makeover International in the La Fleurette Room on Saturday, 11 May and Sunday, 12 May – the perfect treat to enjoy Le Good Life with a glass of bubbly.
Mom can also flaunt her new look while enjoying a special lunch at the Le Venue restaurant. Scrumptious starters include creamy mushroom and roasted chicken soup, or calamari, rocket and bell pepper salad, while Mom can choose hearty monkfish and prawn Thai green curry or char grilled sirloin steak for mains. As the pièce de résistance, dessert will be served on a buffet table with seductive choices such as white chocolate and raspberry cheese cake and nutty chocolate cake.
Adding even more glamour to the weekend, an Eton Mess meringue tasting experience, crafted especially to pair with the palate pleasing La Vallée Rosé, will be on offer at the tasting room. Visitors will also stand a chance to win a night at the Devon Valley Hotel for two with breakfast and a cellar experience, by simply buying their favourite J.C. Le Roux to the value of R200 or more.
The Mother’s Day weekend lunch costs R200 per person and will be served on Saturday, 11 May and Sunday, 12 May from 12h00 to 15h00. Booking is essential, phone 021-865 8200. The Eton Mess tasting experience will cost R30 per person. The free mini-makeovers on 11 and 12 May will take place from 10h00 to 14h00.
The House of J.C. Le Roux, situated in the Devon Valley in the heart of the Stellenbosch Winelands, is open seven days a week. Visit www.jcleroux.co.za, www.facebook.com/HouseofJCLeroux or follow @LeGoodLife on Twitter.
Winter Wines From Lanzerac
Steeped in rich heritage since 1692, Lanzerac Wine Estate, situated in the heart of the Stellenbosch Winelands, has throughout the years become known for making superb wines. This winter is no exception as wine enthusiasts can look forward to the perfect winter warmers with their Pionier Pinotage 2010, Cabernet Sauvignon 2011 and the award-winning Le Général 2009.
Regarded as a ‘young wine’, yet the perfect investment wine, the Lanzerac Pionier Pinotage 2010 is a tribute to the world’s first bottled Pinotage – a 1959 Lanzerac Pinotage. Having spent 18 months in the barrel, winemaker Wynand Lategan describes the wine as deep in colour with typical varietal aromas like ripe, plumy red fruits on the nose. A big mouth-feel, complex and velvety palate as well as a long and lingering aftertaste rounds of this wine. With five to ten years maturation it will start to acquire the velvet density and luxurious chocolate and caramel flavours for which its predecessors is known. An extremely popular wine the last two vintages were sold out within six months of being released. Perfect for winter with Malay curries, bobotie or venison. Available from the farm only at R280 per bottle.
Wynand describes the Cabernet Sauvignon 2011 as displaying inviting flavours of blackberry and youngberry with hints of cocoa, almond and cedar. A full-bodied wine with excellent balance on the palate, and a lingering aftertaste. Ready to be enjoyed now, but will benefit with a further five to eight years of maturation. The perfect food wine best served with roast beef, grilled lamb chops, ostrich, casseroled poultry, tuna or pasta. Available from select retail outlets nationwide the wine retails at approximate R115 per bottle.
Hot on their heels is the award-winning Le Général 2009, made from a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Shiraz, Pinotage and Malbec, with only 2 200 bottles produced annually. A gold medal winner at the 2012 Veritas Awards the wine displays layers of black and red berry aromas with hints of currant and cacao on the nose. The wine delivers a well-rounded amalgam of berries and chocolate on the palate that lingers on the aftertaste, with potential to mature over a four to five year period. The Lanzerac Le Général goes well with duck, turkey, roast beef, venison, roast lamb or simply enjoy on its own. Available directly from the cellar at R235 a bottle.
For more information on these wines or any other wines within the range visit www.lanzeracwines.co.za.
Simonsig Releases Legendary Mr Borio’s 2011 Shiraz
The legacy of Alessandro Borio lives on at Simonsig Estate with the release of the new Mr Borio’s Shiraz 2011 vintage. This richly layered wine pays homage to the intrepid Italian Prisoner of War, Alessandro Borio, who stayed on after World War II to make South Africa his home.
A master in ‘cemento’ Alessandro’s unparalleled masonry skills and eccentric, colourful personality found a true home at Simonsig, the family owned Stellenbosch wine estate renowned for its distinctive red wines. The Mr Borio’s Shiraz 2011 honours Alessandro as a remarkable friend of the Malan family.
“Starting every day by cooking breakfast on his spade, Mr Borio, built the first cement wine tanks on Simonsig. His tanks found in the oldest part of our cellar, are still used today to produce our widely enjoyed Shiraz,” says cellarmaster Johan Malan.
The Mr Borio’s Shiraz 2011 allures with a rich berry bouquet encrusted in black fruit with a hint of vanilla pod. The feast of flavours comes with a touch of sweet spice which melds with subtle yet remarkable oak notes whilst the tamed tannins aptly capture the character of Mr Borio with the promise of excellent ageing potential.
This full bodied red is a meat lover’s dream as it pairs beautifully with cottage or venison pie and is equally enjoyable during laidback gatherings with friends while preparing ribs on the grill. Tasty ham or bacon stuffed mushroom and monkeygland burgers also complement the wine exceptionally well.
Mr Borio’s Shiraz 2011 is available at selected wine outlets countrywide and sells for R70 at the cellar door.
For more information or wine orders contact Simonsig Estate at Tel: (+27)21 888 4915 or visit www.simonsig.co.za.
WSET Introduces First Stand-Alone Spirits Courses In South Africa.
The International Wine Education Centre is delighted to announce the first ever stand-alone general spirits courses starting in Stellenbosch in May.
The UK-based Wine & Spirits Education Trust (WSET) teaches internationally-recognised wine and spirit qualifications which are the industry-standard in 60 countries around the world. WSET has been educating people about wine and spirits since 1969 and more than 43,000 people, studying in 16 different languages sat a WSET exam in the last academic year alone.
The WSET Level 2 Award in Spirits underpins the skills needed in all areas of the spirit trade – customer service, hospitality, retail and wholesale.
The course covers the history, production and style of spirits of the world: Cognac, Armagnac and other brandies; Scotch, Bourbon and other whiskeys; white spirits, including vodka, rum, Tequila, gin; and liqueurs and other flavoured spirits. Tasting is part of every session with around 40 local and international spirits tasted over the duration of the course.
The first course in South Africa will take place at Van Ryn’s Distillery in Stellenbosch and will be lectured by spirits aficionado Dave Hughes and artisan distiller Roger Jorgensen. The course will last 6 weeks with a multiple-choice exam at the end.
Who is it aimed at?
• People employed in the spirits industry needing information on the characteristics of the principal spirits and liqueurs of the world, to provide guidance on brand selection and assist with tasting and evaluating of spirits and liqueurs using the Systematic Approach to Tasting.
• People who are not employed in the drinks industry, but who have a serious interest in spirits and wish to broaden their knowledge in a fun, informative yet structured way.
• People studying for wine qualifications and who would like a structured spirits course to support those qualifications.
There are limited places available for this course, so for more information, please go to www.thewinecentre.co.za . For more information about future courses in Stellenbosch, Cape Town and elsewhere, please contact Cathy Marston on info@thewinecentre.co.za
Course details.
Course Code L2SWL0513
Location Van Ryn’s Distillery, Stellenbosch
Date & Time Wednesdays from 22 May – 26th June, 6.30pm- 8.30pm (6 weeks, 2 hours/week)
Exam Wednesday 3rd July, 6.30pm
Cost R4,990 per person
Includes All tuition, all course material, exam, tasting of at least 40 local and international spirits and a lapel pin & certificate for successful candidates.
Step Back In Time As You Take An Historic Tour Through The Lanzerac Wine Estate
Due to popular demand Lanzerac Wine Estate, situated in the heart of the Stellenbosch Winelands, will be extending their historic tour of the Estate to visitors for the remainder of 2013. Regarded as South Africa’s birthplace of Pinotage, Lanzerac is steeped in a rich heritage dating back to 1692.
Whilst enjoying a chilled glass of Rosé on arrival, your guide will provide a brief overview of the tour, which commences in the Pionier Room with a tasting of the Mrs English, a reserve Chardonnay. This wine is a tribute to Mrs English who purchased the farm in 1914, changing its name from Schoongezicht to Lanzerac. It is believed that Mrs. English bottled the first Lanzerac wine from grapes grown on her land.
The tour continues to the Red Maturation Cellar, where you will taste the Pinotage, and then to the Chardonnay Maturation Cellar, where you’ll be met by winemaker Wynand Lategan for a barrel tasting of the Chardonnay. This tasting affords you the opportunity to taste the difference between fermenting Chardonnay must and wine.
After the tasting you’ll be taken to the Lanzerac Hotel, which highlights the Estate’s rich heritage. This part of the tour will also take you through the historic Manor House and its wine cellar.
Before heading home you will make your way back to the Restaurant for a delicious Food and Wine Pairing where your senses will be awakened to the diversities of these superb wines.
The tour costs R250 per person, and will be conducted on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. In order to make your experience as memorable as possible booking is essential as a maximum of 30 people per tour can be accommodated. For bookings and queries contact Rozane Els on 021 – 886 5641 or winesales@lanzerac.co.za.
Bottelary Hills Winemakers Lunch Pops Up At Magical Mooiplaas
(Afrikaans Volg Net Na Die Engels)
Sunday, 26 May
Join the winemakers of the Bottelary Hills ward for a truly unique experience in the historic manor house on Mooiplaas Estate & Private Nature Reserve, when a ‘Langtafel’ sets an enchanting stage for this wine area’s next Pop Up Winemakers Lunch on Sunday, 26 May.
In addition to the prospect of a magical lunch at a long table – brimming with comfort food passionately prepared by Dirk Roos of Mooiplaas – in the estate’s atmospheric 1833 Cape Dutch Herenhuis, guests will also get to experience the latest cellar gems from this unsung sub-route of the Stellenbosch Wine Routes.
In the warm company of Mooiplaas, Kaapzicht, Goede Hoop and Hartenberg, the day will commence with a tasting of the finest Chenin Blanc, Riesling, Pinotage and Cabernet Sauvignon stemming from these eminent estates, followed by a sabrage ceremony and the languid Langtafel luncheon. During the lunch the winemakers will guide the guests through the different wines, explaining the finer details of vinification.
If sharing charming conversations, winter blues busting food and bottles of superb wine during a relaxed Sunday lunch in a national monument is your idea of ending your weekend on a blissful high, then you must make a beeline for the Bottelary Hills on 26 May.
The Bottelary Hills Winemakers Lunch at Mooiplaas starts at 12:30 and costs R250 per person for a wine tasting and a four-course lunch inclusive of a glass of wine per course. Pre bookings are essential as seating is limited. Only 40 seats available.
To book your seats contact Tamzin Isaacs at Tel: (021) 886 8275 or send an email to marketing@wineroute.co.za.
Bottelary Hills Wynmaker Middagete dek Langtafel by Mooiplaas
Sondag, 26 Mei
Sluit aan by die wynmakers van die Bottelary Hills vir ‘n rare ervaring in die historiese herehuis van Mooiplaas Landgoed en Private Natuurreservaat, wanneer ‘n gesellige Langtafel magiese atmosfeer sal verleen aan dié wynstreek se volgende ‘Pop Up’ Wynmaker Middagete op Sondag, 26 Mei.
Buiten die vooruitsig van ‘n betowerende middagete by een groot tafel in die landgoed se geskiedkundige Kaaps-Hollandse herehuis wat dateer uit 1833, sal gaste ook die jongste kelderskatte van hierdie sub-roete van die Stellenbosch Wynroetes kan ervaar.
In die hartlike geselskap van Mooiplaas, Kaapzicht, Goede Hoop en Hartenberg, sal die dag afskop met ‘n wynproe van ‘n keurspel Chenin Blanc, Riesling, Pinotage en Cabernet Sauvignon afkomstig vanaf hierdie erkende wynplase, gevolg deur ‘n sabrage seremonie en die luilekker Langtafel middagete. Gedurende die ete wat sal wat kreun van koesterkos wat met passie deur Mooiplaas se Dirk Roos voorberei is, sal die wynmakers ook met die gaste die fynere details en geheime van wynmaak deel.
Die Bottelary Hills Wynroete wat noordwes geleë is van Stellenbosch – half weggesteek op die R304 en M23 – bied ‘n onontgonne wêreld van gehalte wyn aan skerpsinnige wynliefhebbers en diegene wat ‘n groot waardering vir die Kaapse erfenis koester. Die groot sjarme van die wynroete is seker die feit dat meeste van sy plase aan families behoort wat al vir generasies lank dit bewerk en bewoon. Die ryke geskiedenis en familiegees wat daar heers kom duidelik na vore in hul wyne.
Die Mooiplaas feesmaal begin 12:30 en kos R250 per persoon wat ‘n wynproe, asook ‘n viergang-ete met ‘n glas wyn vir elke gang insluit. Voorafbesprekings is noodsaaklik siende sitplek uiters beperk is.
Om jou plek te bespreek skakel Tel: (021) 886 8275 of stuur ‘n epos na marketing@wineroute.co.za.
Mooiplaas is geleë op die M23 Bottelary pad, vanaf die R304 in die rigting van Stellenbosch.
Mooiplaas Estate is situated on the M23 Bottelary Road off the R304 to Stellenbosch.
