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Winning at wine tourism
South Africa is part of a global network of wine producers – the Great Wine Capitals – and they all celebrate their various wine tourism offerings. Recently, the local chapter of this organisation announced the winners in a variety of categories.
Winning at wine tourism
South Africa is part of a global network of wine producers – the Great Wine Capitals – and they all celebrate their various wine tourism offerings. Recently, the local chapter of this organisation announced the winners in a variety of categories.
As Monica Iuel, the Wesgro executive responsible for tourism, said, “year after year, the Best Of Wine Tourism and Wine Tourism Ambassador Awards continue to demonstrate the continuous growth and evolution of the wine tourism industry in the Western Cape and around the world. Wineries across the province have showcased their dedication to innovation and excellence in wine tourism by participating in these awards, and I wish to convey my sincere congratulations to all the winners and the industry at large for their continued dedication and support.”
Wesgro is the official tourism, trade and investment promotion agency for Cape Town and the Western Cape, and as such is the custodian of the Great Wine Capitals membership for South Africa.
The various winners were announced at a ceremony held at Benguela Cove Lagoon wine estate near Hermanus. The winners in the Best Of Wine Tourism Awards for 2024 were Brookdale Estate of Paarl for accommodation, Jordan Wines of Stellenbosch for restaurants, Creation Wines of Walker Bay for wine tourism services as well as art and culture while Somerset West’s Vergelegen Wine Estate won for sustainable wine tourism practices. Ernie Els Wines of Stellenbosch won top honours in the architecture and landscape category while Benguela Cove was recognised in the field of innovative wine tourism experiences.
The wine tourism diversity award went to Robertson’s Van Loveren while Franschhoek’s Leopard’s Leap won the authentic South African experience award. Located on the slopes of the Simonsberg in Stellenbosch and one of the original three farms which kickstarted the Stellenbosch Wine Route more than 50 years ago, Delheim Wine Estate won the conservation pioneer award.
“The Western Cape’s wine tourism industry exemplifies the spirit of innovation, sustainability and commitment to excellence, making the province a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts from around the world,” said Wesgro CEO, Wrenelle Stander.
“Not only are the Cape winelands some of the most breathtakingly beautiful in the world but they go beyond conventional practices to produce our internationally acclaimed wines, from picturesque landscapes to organic farming methods and a commitment to environmental stewardship.”
Limited edition
Johnnie Walker whisky can be found at any bar from Cairo to Cape Town, Singapore to Savannah, Georgia. Selling more than 19 million cases in 180 countries worldwide, it’s easy to see why it’s the world’s number one whisky brand.
Limited edition
Johnnie Walker whisky can be found at any bar from Cairo to Cape Town, Singapore to Savannah, Georgia. Selling more than 19 million cases in 180 countries worldwide, it’s easy to see why it’s the world’s number one whisky brand.
And while the famous Striding Man keeps walking, the whisky brand’s blenders keep innovating. The most recent announcement was that a new release – Johnnie Walker Elusive Umami – would be available in South Africa.
The new whisky is a very select, limited edition developed between master blender Emma Walker and world-renowned chef Kei Kobayashi. The duo set out on a flavour discovery to create a blend that encapsulates the enigmatic taste of Umami. The result is an expression of sumptuous taste, complexity and transportive depth; a beautiful balance of savoury-sweet qualities.
“Derived from the Japanese term meaning pleasant savoury taste, Johnnie Walker Umami is known for its rich and complex flavours that invites connoisseurs on an unparalleled journey, painting the palate with a symphony of opulent and robust flavours that are unique to Johnnie Walker’s master blend. With notes of dried fruits, dark chocolate, and hints of seaweed, this exceptional blend tantalises the palate, leaving a lasting impression of sophistication and elegance,” the press release stated.
Thembeka Mgobozi, Innovation manager at Diageo South Africa, said great whisky was an exploration of flavours as well as a celebration of taste. “And Umami embodies this philosophy perfectly. It's an invitation to savour a journey of complexity and depth, inspired by the culinary world's most elusive taste.”
Taking to Stellenbosch’s streets
During summer, the oak-lined streets of Stellenbosch will once again be thronged with a host of people meandering around, glass of wine and a snack in hand, catching up with friends or simply chilling and enjoying live music.
Taking to Stellenbosch’s streets
During summer, the oak-lined streets of Stellenbosch will once again be thronged with a host of people meandering around, glass of wine and a snack in hand, catching up with friends or simply chilling and enjoying live music.
Dubbed the Stellenbosch Street Soirées, the monthly events have become extremely popular and are held between November and March. “As many have already discovered, our Street Soirées are ‘the’ occasion to be immersed in the Stellenbosch lifestyle,” said Elmarie Rabe, manager of Stellenbosch Wine Routes and organiser of the event. “With the hours of each Soirée limited to between 18h00 and 20h00, they’re ideal for enjoying pre-dinner drinks with friends ahead of a meal at one of Stellenbosch’s many fine restaurants.”
A portion of Drostdy Street is closed off to host the event with the first one being held on November 22. Tickets for the event costing R190 a head are limited so pre-booking is advised. They are available online from Plankton.mobi but there will be some available at the gate on a first come, first served basis.
For more information, email info@wineroute.co.za or call 021 886 4310 or go to the website: www.wineroute.co.za or www.visitstellenbosch.org.
Round number two
The Nel family of Calitzdorp wine farm Boplaas are renowned for their champion fortified Port-style wines – but in the past decade they have branched out into spirits as well.
Auction records tumble
It was ironic that with less wine available at the 2023 Nedbank Cape Winemakers Guild (CWG) auction, the 39th event to be held, new sales record were set. Prices were up 12% on 2022 and business was brisk with bidders tussling over the lots both in person and online.
After the hammer fell on the final lot, a sum of R14,788 million was realised for the total of 1 792 cases of wine sold. There were just 15 white and 24 red wines up for auction, all exclusively produced for the auction by members of the Cape Winemakers Guild, a group of highly respected vintners who hail from all over the Cape winelands.
According to feedback from the event organisers, the average price per case was R8 814 for six bottles of red wine with white wines not far behind on R7 372 per case. South African buyers comprised the largest group while nearly a quarter – 24% – of sales went to the United Kingdom, 3% to Denmark and 2% to the Netherlands.
New records were set for cabernet franc with Leeu Passant Franschhoek Hillside 2021 from Andrea Mullineux reaching R25 000 per case. Hartenberg’s CWG Auction 2021 from Carl Schulz was knocked down for R16 000 while Pieter Ferreira’s Graham Beck Blanc de Blancs cuvee 108 reached R10 000. Bartho Eksteen’s Vloekskoot 2022 wooded sauvignon blanc was sold for R10 000 a case and Mullineux’s Swartland “The Gris” Old Vines sémillon 2022 went for R17 500.
Gordon Newton-Johnson, CWG Chair said: “We’re thrilled that this trajectory of excellence sparked the interest of buyers from 24 countries and continues to entice loyal support among South African wine-lovers.”
Auction records tumble
It was ironic that with less wine available at the 2023 Nedbank Cape Winemakers Guild (CWG) auction, the 39th event to be held, new sales record were set. Prices were up 12% on 2022 and business was brisk with bidders tussling over the lots both in person and online.
Round number two
The Nel family of Calitzdorp wine farm Boplaas are renowned for their champion fortified Port-style wines – but in the past decade they have branched out into spirits as well.
Brandy has always been part of the lineup and a few years ago a boldly citrus gin was added. Then came a whisky – which sold out in a matter of weeks. Because of this, their second single malt whisky has just been released.
Harnessing their skills and knowledge acquired over years of making fortified wines, this second single malt from Boplaas was matured in barrels previously used in the production of Port-style wines.
The bad news from Daniel Nel, the distiller in the family, is that just 300 bottles are available.
“I opted for Port barrels in this new whisky because Boplaas is among the most highly awarded in South Africa. The wine is also a legacy of my father’s work,” he said. “The result is a whisky with its own identity, sharing the foundation of quality present across our range.”
Like its forerunner, the new single malt is made from imported Scottish peated malt barley and aged in ex-bourbon casks for five years. It is then finished for two years in a French oak cask that previously held Boplaas Vintage Reserve port.
Nel said the climate of the Klein Karoo was a significant differentiator for the whisky. “We’ve always known how well potstill and grain whiskies age here, but it’s the first time we’ve seen how single malt does.
“The combination of a drier climate as well as the big variation in day and night temperature, speeds up maturation,” he said. “This makes for a great whisky that tastes older than it actually is.”
Brandy strikes gold
South Africa’s most luxurious amber spirit, brandy, claimed a host of medals at the 33rd annual Veritas Awards gala held in Cape Town recently; a number of them the sought-after Double Gold award.
Brandy strikes gold
South Africa’s most luxurious amber spirit, brandy, claimed a host of medals at the 33rd annual Veritas Awards gala held in Cape Town recently; a number of them the sought-after Double Gold award.
Veritas is the longest running and most prestigious wine and brandy competition in South Africa and is synonymous with excellence in wine and brandy.
As expected, the category was dominated by the country’s two top distillers – the KWV and Heineken Beverages, formerly Distell. The latter excelled with a stellar performance winning four Double Gold and one gold medal. The Double Golds were won by Richelieu International premium brandy, Richelieu 10 Year Old vintage, Van Ryn’s 15 Year Old single potstill and Van Ryn’s 20 Year Old single potstill brandy.
The KWV’s Double Golds were for KWV VS brandy, KWV 12 Year Old potstill and, KWV 15 Year Old alambic blend potstill brandy.
Corks pop at Bubbly festival
The garden party par excellence – Franschhoek Cap Classique and Champagne festival – will once again kick off the festive season the first week in December.
Corks pop at Bubbly festival
The garden party par excellence – Franschhoek Cap Classique and Champagne festival – will once again kick off the festive season the first week in December.
Presented by Sanlam Private Wealth, the event takes place over two days on December 2 and 3, with the venue once again being the historic Huguenot monument at the foot of the Franschhoek pass.
As with previous years, guests are gently encouraged to dress up in the classic white and blue colours of the sponsors, with a touch of silver added to contribute a little Franschhoek flair. (There are prizes up for grabs for the best dressed festivalgoers.)
“We’re delighted to once again be part of this luxury lifestyle event,” said Sanlam Private Wealth CEO, Theesan Moodley. “A highlight on the Franschhoek social calendar, it provides us with the perfect platform to create an exclusive experience for our guests.
“It also enables us to collaborate with fellow masters of their craft – the same characteristics that inspire and drive us to grow and preserve wealth, such as patience, meticulous attention to detail and even the need to take calculated risks, will also be evident in the top-quality bubbly, delectable dishes and live music that visitors will experience.”
Watershed will perform a live set on the Saturday while local radio host Leigh-Anne Williams will MC the event. Adding his own unique style – a fusion of Latino, house and beach club vibes – will be Johannesburg DJ Charles Lusengo.
Gates open at 11h00 on Saturday and Sunday with the venue closing at 18h00 and 17h00 respectively. Booking and reservations are advised and tickets can be obtained online at www.franschhoekcapclassique.co.za.
A pink classic
Cape Town Gin aligned itself with October’s National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, standing in solidarity and support with survivors of the dreaded disease.
A pink classic
Cape Town Gin aligned itself with October’s National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, standing in solidarity and support with survivors of the dreaded disease.
Sadly, breast cancer is a disease which affects people of all walks and stations in life – and at all times of the year, so while the awareness is highlighted during one month, it’s a battle which should be fought all year round. Breast cancer is one of the most treatable and survivable cancers but early detection and diagnosis is important. Don’t delay any medical checkups and should you or your partner find a lump, get it checked out as swiftly as possible.
Summer is here and with it, long, warm days which are ideal for refreshing drinks. The suggestion from Cape Town Gin is to make The Classic Lady cocktail – and use its subtle pink hues as a reminder of the campaign.
The Classic Lady
Ingredients:
50ml Cape Town The Pink Lady Gin
100ml Indian tonic
Strawberries or raspberries
Sprig of thyme
Ice
Method:
Combine the gin and tonic water into a tumbler glass and stir. Add ice, and raspberries or strawberries to enhance the flavour of the gin. Garnish with a sprig of thyme.