From 25th – 27th November, South Africa’s finest artisans will showcase their talent for the second year at Hyde Park Corner rooftop, at the corner of Jan Smuts Avenue, Hyde Park.
Talented local food artisans, winemakers and designers – handpicked to include only the best in South African products – will gather on the roof of the Hyde Park Corner from 25 to 27 November for the second annual FoodWineDesign Fair presented by Sanlam Investment Management (SIM). Guests of the boutique outdoor market will be treated to a feast of quality and originality under the Jozi summer sky.
Ross Douglas, director of Artlogic, says the fair gives a nod to the much loved ‘farmers market’ culture in South Africa.
FoodWineDesign is unique because all participants are hand-picked to take part in the fair to ensure exhibitors of the highest quality are represented over the weekend. This year, there will be more food and wine exhibitors and we encourage visitors to make a day of the fair and sample the offerings available.
Douglas says tent structures, theatre lighting, specially designed and manufactured dining and selling areas and larger than life landscaping will greet visitors.
Food Wine Design Fair
Standout exhibitors include wineland favourites, Kleinood wines and olive oil, Rickety Bridge and Vrede en Lust wine estates. We Love Real Beer will offer fine ale for those who prefer a beer, and food lovers should look out for popular Karoo based cooking school, African Relish, as well as Hijke Cheese and Honest Chocolate.
Those visiting the fair with an interest in design will not be disappointed as the lineup includes the likes of Koop Design, Shaw Sisters and Missibaba.
Sponsors SIM were drawn to the fair because it is a true celebration of the pioneering spirit of South Africa’s entrepreneurs. Candice Paine, Head of Retail at SIM, says
Artlogic’s ability to find unique and exceptional talent, particularly at grass roots level, is a great fit for SIM. Our approach to investing is to identify businesses with masses of potential – be they small or large – and support their growth over the long term. We are truly excited about the prospects within the small business space in our country.
The 5000 square meter roof-surface at Hyde Park will host the country’s top producers and will feature a seated dining area.
Operating Hours:
Friday, 25 November: 13h00 – 22h00
Saturday, 26 November: 10h00 – 22h00
Sunday, 27 November: 10h00 – 17h00
Ticket price: R80.00 per person (children under 12 get in for free), tickets available at the door and at Hyde Park Corner a week prior to the event.
I never take for granted the gorgeous country that we live in and even less, our corner of
Woolworths Limited Release TMV Spectrum 2008
paradise on the banks of Zandvlei. It’s hard to think that today was the shortest day in the year, supposedly the middle of Winter, and we found ourselves enjoying the early sunset, on the jetty with our canine companions and pelagic birds, sipping another delectable South African wine.
Mostly we enjoy red wines but the glorious sunshine today called for a fresh white wine and Tullbagh Mountain Vineyards Spectrum was the perfect choice.
Tulbagh is a wine district in the Coastal Wine Region of South Africa, a valley enclosed by mountain ranges. TMV is run using a terroir driven approach and bio-dynamic farming methods, by Paul Nichols who tends the vineyards and Rebecca Tanner who is the cellar master.
Spectrum 2008 is a much lauded blend of Chenin Blanc 62%, Chardonnay 14% Grenach 9%, Rousanne 8% and Viognier 7%. The components were fermented seperately in old oak barrels and 600 liter Nomblot egg-shaped fermenters and only native yeasts were used. Malolatic fermentation was allowed and the wine was left on its lees without sulphur additions. After a year the wine was racked and blended. The result is natural richness and mouth feel as well as natural minerality. The palate is rich and complex with elegant layers of citrus, lime and vanilla flavours ending in a long, long finish.
Food matches are roast herb chicken or duck with orange or ginger sauce.
For me this is a superior quality wine and I rate it 19/20.
It has a screw cap and the alcohol content is 13.5%.
Amongst the diverse and enjoyable wines that added sparkle to the holidays, one stood out from all others.
A wine collector and bon vivant, Jude, personal chef to the Canadian Ambassador in Oslo, Norway, shared a Kanonkop Black Label Pinotage 2007 with us to celebrate Christmas Eve.
Co-owner of Kanonkop Estate, Paul Krige’s vision for the limited release of 1,000 bottles is that the market will decide the true value of this wine. Only two negociants control the supply and demand so that stock will be bought back from willing sellers to sell on for a higher price. More of this secondary market will help to establish South Africa as a producer of really premium wines and will set in motion a new set of dynamics in the industry as well as create a greater appreciation for truly fine, collectible wines.
Char-grilled ostrich steaks paired absolutely with the beautiful wine. For me, sipping this pinotage was ultimate local wine experience for me.
Alex Milner and Stefan Gerber, who met while studying wine making in Stellenbosch, have teamed up to create a series of wines labelled Boer & Brit which recognise their great-great grandfathers, each of whom fought on opposing sides during the Boer War 1880 – 1902.
Stefan is the great-great grandson of Paul Kruger, the Afrikaner leader and then president of the Transvaal. The bitter war resulted in the British Imperial Army defeating the Boers and gaining control of the gold and diamond fields of South Africa. Leading a cavalry charge to end the siege of Kimberley, was Field Marshall John Denton Pinkstone French, 1st Earl of Ypres, the great-great grandfather of Alex.
The range of wines consists of a Sauvignon Blanc called Gezina after Stefan’s grandmother; The General which is a blend of Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot and The Field Marshall, a blend of Shiraz, Mouvedre, Tinta Amarela and Carignan. Ironic back label phrases state: “The war is over – let’s party” and “With the body ofa boer and the nose of an Englishman – you can’t go wrong”.
Bob's Your Uncle
Another ofthisfunky duo’s irreverant wines is a Bordeaux blend of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon called Bob’s Your Uncle which is bottled in a brown, beer bottle complete with a crown cork.
This year’s Guild Platter 5-star wines, Le Riche Cabernet Sauvignon Auction Reserve 2007 and the acclaimed white blend, Steenberg Vineyards The Magus 2009, are amongst the 19 Platter 5-star wines crafted by members of the Cape Winemakers Guild listed in the 2011 guide.
Etienne le Riche, legendary Cabernet Sauvignon specialist and founder member of the Cape Winemakers Guild, hand selected the grapes personally from one of his prime vineyard sites for his 5-star wine which spent 24 months in new French Oak barrels. He describes the wine as vibrant with fresh, ripe cherry fruitiness and well integrated classic spiciness. The “classy” palate is full and rich, supported by a firm yet fine tannin structure ending in a long finish. This wine fetched on average R3 500 a case of six at the Guild auction.
John Loubser’s renowned white blend of Sauvignon blanc and Semillon was fermented separately in old French oak barrels to capture maximum fruit whilst lees contact for eight weeks enhanced the mouth-feel. Wild and herbaceous with piercing mineral notes, this wine is a true reflection of cool terroir and will age wonderfully with careful cellaring. Its full, vibrant palate with hints of passion fruit and tangerine is elegantly balanced by subtle smokiness. Steenberg Vineyards The Magus 2009 went under the hammer at an average price of R1 400 a case of six at the Guild Auction.
Herewith the full list of 19 5-star wines made by Guild members featured in the 2011 Platter’s South African Wine Guide:
Etienne Le Riche
Cabernet Sauvignon
· Boekenhoutskloof 2008 (Winemaker: Marc Kent)
· Kanonkop 2007 (Winemaker: Abrie Beeslaar)
· Le Riche CWG Auction Reserve 2007 (Winemaker: Etienne le Riche)
Grenache
· Neil Ellis Vineyard Selections 2008 (Winemaker: Neil Ellis)
Pinotage
· Beyerskloof Diesel 2008 (Winemaker: Beyers Truter)
Shiraz
· De Trafford 2008 (Red Wine of the Year) (Winemaker: David Trafford)
· Haskell Pillars 2008 (Winemaker: Rianie Strydom)
· Rijk’s Private Cellar 2005 (Winemaker: Pierre Wahl)
Red Blends
· Ernie Els Signature 2007 (Winemaker: Louis Strydom)
· Graham Beck Ad Honorem 2007 (Winemaker: Pieter Ferreira)
· Hartenberg The Mackenzie 2007 (Winemaker: Carl Schultz)
· Spier Frans K. Smit 2006 (Winemaker: Frans Smit)
Sauvignon Blanc
· Graham Beck Pheasants’ Run 2010 (Winemaker: Pieter Ferreira)
Chardonnay
· Groot Constantia Gouverneurs 2009 (Winemaker: Boela Gerber)
White Blends
· Cape Point Isliedh 2009 (Winemaker: Duncan Savage)
· Steenberg Magna Carta 2009 (Winemaker: John Loubser)
· Steenberg CWG Auction Reserve The Magus 2009 (Winemaker: John Loubser)
Méthode Cap Classique
· Villiera Monro Brut 2005 (Winemaker: Jeff Grier)
Port
· Boplaas Cape Vintage Reserve 2008 (Winemaker: Carel Nel)
The Cape Winemakers Guild comprises some of South Africa’s most respected winemakers with the single minded vision to elevate the standing of the South African wine industry amongst the world’s best through their ongoing dedication to the production of world-class, quality wines.
For the comprehensive list of all of the 5 star wines visit wine.co.za.
Tucked away in the beautifully restored 18th century town houses of Heritage Square is Signal Hill Winery, bringing South African wine making back into the city of Cape Town where it began so long ago.
Jean Vincent Ridon and Kyle Anthony Zulch
Jean Vincent Ridon, winemaker of renown and famous for growing vines in Clos Montmartre, the unique Paris vineyard, was inspired to replant vines in the Cape Town city center and so Clos d’Oranje at the foot of Table Mountain was established with ungrafted Syrah vines. Other tiny suburban vineyards are in Camps Bay and Kalk Bay and the Mourvedre, Syrah and Cabernet Franc from these vines are crafted into classy wines in Heritage Square.
The oldest producing vine in the Southern Hemisphere is thriving in the Heritage Square courtyard thanks to the loving care of Kyle Zulch, winemaker and co-owner. Almost destroyed by powdery mildew, this beautiful old Crouchen Blanc vine can produce about 20 liters of wine. The 2008 vintage made 4 magnums and twelve 750ml bottles which were auctioned off to raise money for the Zip Zap Circus. Probably planted in 1771, the first landlord of the townhouses wrote in his 1785 journal about, “Drinking wine under the grape tree”.
Also part of the winemaking team since 2001 is Laurence Buthelezi . Originally from Kwazulu Natal, Laurence followed his brother to the Cape Winelands to work with him. Trained in Burgundy, Laurence relates how he first became aware of wine during church communion services and today finds learning exciting.
Laurence Buthelezi in the tiny winery
Signal Hill Winery can well be called Cape Town’s Winery with a niche market and close connection to the consumer. Any kind of wine event can be arranged in partnership with the restaurants of Heritage Square such as Caveau, Africa Café or Simply Asia.
The extensive range of wines are made with a sensitive approach to the environment by using only recycled glass bottles as well as recycled paper labels. This has even resulted in a reduction in the price of wines .
One of my favourites is the Grenache Blanc 2008 , the only in South Africa, made in an elegant old-world style. Sexy Threesome of Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and Merlot is easy drinking and very French.
Follow Signal Hill Winery on Facebook or book a special tasting on 021-422 5206.
Another benefit of South Africa hosting the 2010 FIFA World Cup was the launch in June, of Google Street View for maps.google.co.za. Using 360 degree street-level images taken by the Google cars and trikes, Street View allows users to view and navigate through South African streets, gardens and past historic buildings. Says Julie Taylor, Communications Manager for Google South Africa:
Rustenberg Manor House
The local launches of Google Maps and Street View reflect Google’s investment in South Africa, as well as our commitment to making the Internet more useful and relevant to South Africans. Street View also shows South Africa’s heritage to the world, ranging from the iconic winelands to the Kruger National Park.
A world first is that Cape winelands images are featured on Street View. Right now it is possible to visit via Street View: Bouchard Finlayson, De Rust Estate, De Wetshof, Fairview, Jordan Wines, Klein Constantia, Meerlust, Morgenster, Rustenberg, Vilafonte Vineyards and Warwick Wine Estate.
South African wine connoisseur, Juliet Cullinan, commenting on Street View and the growing importance of digital technology within South Africa’s wine industry, says:
Wine-lovers all over the world can now visit the estates of some of our leading wine domains using Street View, plan their own wine routes and buy online. As the world’s first vineyards to be placed on Street View, South African wineries will receive great exposure and can take advantage of this new technology in innovative ways, whilst expanding tourism and their global and local customer base.
The scope for improving the online presence of wineries is huge as Richard Cheary of Afrozaar explained:
There are so many ways wine farms can utilise geo products, including the creation of virtual wine route tours, incorporating video and interviews; mobile applications, comprising travel directions and preloaded tourist information; and online bookings with specific requests.
Soon to be added to Street View are Ataraxia Wines, Boekenhoutskloof Winery, Constantia Glen, Glen Carlou, Groote Post, Hamilton Russell, Iona Wines, Journey’s End, Kaapzicht, Le Riche, Mont Du Toit, Mooiplaas, Ormonde Vineyard, Raka, Rickety Bridge, Robertson Winery, Saronsberg, Strandveld, Thelema Mountain Vineyards, Vergelegen, Villiera and Weltevrede.
Using Google Street View
In areas where Street View is available, you can see the images on Google Maps (on a PC or Internet-enabled mobile) by zooming into the lowest level, or by dragging the orange “Pegman” icon on the left-hand side of the map onto a blue highlighted street.
Google has gone to lengths to safeguard privacy while allowing all South African users to benefit from this feature. Street View only contains imagery that is already visible from public roads and features technology that blurs both faces and licence plates. In addition, any user can easily flag images for removal that he or she considers inappropriate by clicking on “Report a problem”. South Africa is the first country in Africa to get Street View imagery in Maps. Street View first launched in 2007 and is currently available in 23 countries and 100 metropolitan areas worldwide, including large areas of the US, Australia, Japan, France, Italy and Spain.
Reported in South Africa The Good News is the fantastic news that Laborie Alambic Brandy has been voted “Best Brandy in the World” at the 2010 International Wine and Spirit Competition (IWSC).
Alambic brandy still
The IWSC is generally regarded as an international benchmark test of technical excellence and stylistic quality of the world’s finest wines and spirits. Tasting is blind and conducted by panels of experts with world-class knowledge of the particular category and style they’re called upon to judge.
This is the fourth consecutive year that a South African brand has come out tops in this competition. South African brandies overall put in a remarkable performance at this year’s IWSC. All of the 31 products entered achieved either a gold (12) or a silver (19) medal. The only other country to win gold, with just one brandy deemed worthy of gold, was Spain. Among the 12 South African gold medallists, six were voted best in their class and of the 19 silver medallists, three were tops in their category.
Asked to describe his reaction to the news, KWV brandy master distiller Kobus Gelderblom, had this to say:
Shocked, but absolutely delighted. Shocked, because we were expecting our other traditionally top-performing brandies such as the KWV 15 Year Old or the KWV 20 Year Old, both of which have been gold medalists at leading competitions this year and previously voted ‘Best Brandy in the World’, to get the nod. But delighted because it’s an estate brandy made in extremely limited quantities from grapes grown on Laborie, our Paarl wine estate.
Gelderblom was also pleased with the result because it vindicates his passion for and belief in pinotage as a variety from which to distill fine brandy. This particular Laborie Alambic, a five-year-old pure potstill, is an unusual blend of mainly chardonnay with a touch of pinotage matured in old red wine oak barrels.
The chardonnay gives structure, the pinotage adds wonderful peach and apricot aromas and flavours, and the whole was touched up with a bit of 10-year-old brandy to add complexity to the final blend.
Besides the Laborie Alambic, the other South African brandies to win gold (and be voted best in their class) were Flight of the Fish Eagle, Oude Meester Souverein 18 Year Old, Oude Meester VSOB, Van Ryn’s 12 Year Old Distillers Reserve, Van Ryn’s 15 Year Old Fine Cask Reserve, Oude Molen Solera Grand Reserve and Uitkyk Grand Reserve 10 Year Old Estate Brandy.
The other gold medallists included the KWV 15 Year Old, KWV Imoya VSOP, Oude Meester Reserve 12 Year Old and Klipdrift Export.
The winery was founded in 1945 on land near Stellenbosch which was first planted with grapes in 1707 by early viticulturists. 1707 Was significant because it marked the release of the first political prisoner in South Africa. It was also the first time that the term “Afrikaner” was used when a certain Hendrik Beerman called himself this, while riding through the streets of Stellenbosch after a heavy, brandy-drinking session.
PG Slabbert, Cellarmaster at Stellenbosch Hills and Sonja Burger, features writer for Farmer's Weekly, celebrating the new release
In the early years from 1945 onwards, distilled wine for the production of brandy was made. What is interesting about this period is that the first affirmative action winemaker Abe Dawidse managed the cellar alongside the cellar master, Charlie Sparks.
These days PG Slabbert assisted by Juan Slabbert crafts mostly well priced wines from choice grapes supplied by 16 different farms, making Stellenbosch Hills effectively, a co-op. This does not mean that the winery cannot make sexy, boutique wines. To celebrate the anniversary, PG and his team have released the 1707 Reserve Duo.
The 1707 Reserve 2009 is a blend of Chardonnay, Semillon and Viognier. PG explains that the quality of Chardonnay grapes coming out of the Polkedraai Hills is superlative and an easy choice for the main cultivar. Viognier brings an aromatic quality to the blend while Semillon adds a round feel. The result is a buttery yet fresh wine which I found to be perfect. Even though the barrels used were new, they were only lightly toasted so that the blend is not over powering as I find often happens with white blends which have had oak treatment. Definitely a great food wine.
Stellenbosch Hills 1707 Reserve 2009
The companion wine is 1707 Reserve 2008, a blend of Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Vedot. This wine drinks beautifully right now but can be kept for up to 5 years. It paired well with a rich, cheesy Butternut, Spinach and Feta Rotolo.
The 1707 Duo can be bought at Checkers Retail Stores and at speciality wine shops for around R81.00 per bottle for the red blend and about R60.00 for the white. An absolute steal for these quality wines!
Some UK Big Issue vendors are affronted by South African wine producer, Fairhills, which has sponsored the new high-visibility red vests worn by street sellers of the magazine.
The Big Issue vendor
One of them is Matthew Blackman, 40, who sells the The Big Issue in the Bristol city center and commented,
It’s disgusting because most of us vendors are either drug addicts or alcoholics. To be sponsored by a company that profits from that seems wrong.
They are making a big mistake. Even though they are being paid a lot of money it’s still bad publicity. It’s like some bad, ironic joke.
A more balanced view is expressed by Steve, a vendor in Bath who says,
I am a bit annoyed to hear that a wine company will be sponsoring the jackets as a lot of the vendors have an alcohol dependency.
If it is helping the Big Issue then it is important but I think the company should provide some kind of support to vendors on how to get off the alcohol.
Fairhills wine company is not called that for nothing. They are Fair Trade producers; have supported alcohol abuse treatment centers in South Africa for many years and are opening a center in England to assist alcoholics kick the habit.
Bernard Fontannaz, owner of Origin Wine addressed the controversy by explaining,
That is all good to do it here in South Africa, where the needs are big, but we wanted to contribute, as well, in countries where we sell our wines. As we all know the Cape does not have the monopoly on alcohol related abuse.
In order to do so we thought that, by sponsoring the Big Issue sellers, and in doing so helping them in their task to sell more and make a decent living, we will contribute to help people who fall out of the track sometimes due to alcohol abuse.
I do believe that we are acting responsibly and, in fact, are trying to be consequent with our involvement in the alcohol industry. We are a stakeholder in it and we need to assume responsibility for the good and the bad.
What the 60,000 pound deal means is that The Big Issue sellers will be more visible and easily recognized resulting in increased sales and hopefully, a speedier repatriation into society.
This can only be good.
Postscript
The recovery center is in fact in South Africa and not in England as I thought.
2010 Is the year of celebrations. As the thrill of the 2010 FIFA World Cup subsides, celebrate freedom in the Franschhoek Wine Valley.
Franschhoek Bastille Festival
It was here that the French Huguenots sought freedom from European persecution. Close by is the Drakenstein Prison (formerly Victor Verster Prison) from which the iconic South African leader, Nelson Mandela, was released from prison exactly 20 years ago.
The Franschhoek Bastille Festival offers something for everyone and at the heart of the festival will be the Food and Wine Marquee. For R100.00 ($13) per person you will receive a tasting glass and a 5 coupon book for food and wine tasting. After that it is pay as you go. To be tasted and sipped at the Food and Wine Marquee are food and wines from - Akkerdal Wine Estate; Allee Bleu Restauant; Allee Bleu wines; Angels Tears wines; Anthonij Rupert Wines; Bellingham wines; Boekenhoutskloof wines; Boschendal Cellar Door; Bread & Wine Restaurant; Cabriere wines; Chamonix spring water; Dieu Donne Restaurant; Dieu Donne Vineyards; Franschhoek Cellar; Franschhoek Pass Winery; French Connection Bistro & The Grill Room; Glenwood wines; Graham Beck Wines; Grande Provence Wines; The Restaurant at Grande Provence; Haute Cabriere Cellar Restaurant; Ci at La Quartier Francais; La Bri Estate; La Motte wines; L’Ermitage; Lynx wines; Monneaux Restaurant; Mont Rochelle Hotel, Mont Rochelle Vineyards; Moreson; Plaisir de Merle wines and Reubens Restaurant and bar.
This will be a sumptuous opportunity to experience all of these producers in one afternoon. The Food and Wine Marquee will open on both days from 12h00 – 17h00.
A Franschhoek Minstrel Parade, a barrel-rolling contest and a waiters’ race will keep us entertained. Alternately try your hand at a game of boules.
Also part of the festival will be a farmers market, childrens’ activities and a film festival where screenings will take place at La Quartier Francais.
Several accommodation establishments will be offering special deals and here are some of them:
Mont Rochelle Hotel and Mountain Vineyards
Rates start at R999.00 ($130) per person sharing per night for a luxury room as well as a day ticket for entry to the Food and Wine Marquee plus transfers from the hotel. A three-course gourmet dinner at Mange Tout Restaurant, full breakfast and in-room treats such as fresh fruit and Huguenot chocolates are included in the price.
To book phone 021-8762770 or email info@montrochelle.co.za
5* L’Ermitage Franschhoek Chateau and Villas
Rooms cost R1200.00 ($156) for a single room and R2000.00 ($260) per double room per night. This includes a ticket to the Food and Wine Marquee and shuttle transfer.
For bookings phone 021-8769200 or email ester@lermitage.co.uk.
Le Franschhoek Hotel and Spa
From 12 – 18th July rooms will cost R2000.00 ($260) per night and include a 3 course dinner and breakfast.
To book phone 021-8768900
The festival programme is here:
Saturday 17 July
08h00 – 17h00: Pierre Jourdan SPCA Boules Tournament (Church Grounds)
10h00 – 17h00: The French Corner Market in the Town Hall
12h00 – 17h00: The Bastille Food and Wine Marquee
13h00: The Waiters’ Race (at the Food and Wine Marquee)
14h00: Porcupine Ridge Barrel Rolling Competition (at the Food and Wine Marquee)
18h30: Movies by MINI at the Screening Room at Le Quartier Francais
OFFICIAL AFTER PARTIES at Col’Cacchio and Elephant & Barrel.
Sunday 18 July
08h00 – 17h00: Pierre Jourdan SPCA Boules Tournament (Church Grounds)
09h30: Bastille Festival MTB Outride (meet at the Hugeunot Monument – R30)
10h00 – 17h00: The French Corner Market in the Town Hall
12h00 – 17h00: The Bastille Food and Wine Marquee
14h00: Porcupine Ridge Barrel Rolling Competition (at the Food and Wine Marquee)
18h30: Movies by MINI at the Screening Room at Le Quartier Francais
19h00: Queenie 2000 (the play) A story of 7 beggars and their struggle for survival. At the Town Hall. Cost: R15 per ticket.
Here’s the chance for Cape Town and Joberg wine aficionados to sample informally, the best that South Africa can offer as well as chat to the winemakers themselves.
The CWG consists of only 41 South African winemakers who have to craft two wines a year which are peer reviewed and qualified to be sold on the CWG Auction. The guild funds from this auction, social development investment for school children in the wineland areas and further education through the Protege Programme.
The events also offer a chance to bid on a silent auction of rare signed bottles of CWG wines from previous auctions.
The details are here:
Cape Town Nedbank Cape Winemakers Guild Auction Showcase
The auction itself takes place on Saturday, 02 October at 09h00 at Spier Conference Centre in the Stellenbosch Winelands and is open to the public. To purchase your tickets to the Auction Showcases or to find out how you can obtain these rare and exclusive wines visit: www.capewinemakersguild.com, email info@capewinemakersguild.com or call Tel: +27 +21 852 0408.
Scanning the shelves in Pick and Pay’s wine section I was stopped in my tracks by the zany, curious label of La Capra Shiraz and on closer inspection discovered this to be one of the new value wines made by Fairview, the much loved and visited Paarl wine farm whose name is linked as much to finely crafted cheese as it is to premium wines.
La Capra wines
That evening we paired our La Capra Shiraz with barbecued ostrich sausage and sirloin steak with delicious results.
Having a chance to review the entire range of La Capra wines at the public launch was a huge bonus which I grabbed with both hands. This gypsy carnival was staged complete with oompah band, gypsy caravan and beautiful fortune teller in the form of Bridget Back, daughter of the renowned wine maker Charles Back, owner of Fairview estate.
Bridget lured us into her caravan with the promise of delightful potions and disappointed we were not.
The Chenin Blanc 2009 is perky and delicious, as are the Sauvignon Blanc 2009, Rose 2009 from Pinotage, and the Chardonnay 2009. A real treat for consumers who want to be more adventurous is that the range includes a Viognier 2009.
My favourite amongst the red wines is the Cabernet Sauvignon 2009 which is amazingly smooth with almost imperceptible oak. This can happily be drunk as an aperitif for those of us who simply can’t get enough red wine. To my mind, the Pinotage 2009, Merlot 2009 and Shiraz 2009 will compliment food really well. Also in the range is Malbec 2009 another more unusual variety wine which I will be scouring the supermarket shelves for.
All of these wines are accessible and perfect for drinking straight away.
Sipping to the sound of the Oompah Band
“What about the name?” I asked the gypsy princess. My Italian being somewhat rusty I had missed the word capra meaning goat, referring of course to the Fairview goat herd from which the very first goat’s milk cheese was produced in South Africa. La rhymes with Ra the Egyptian sun god and Capra also points to the Cape Cap, suggesting a Cape to Cairo connection.
These wines are available at Fairview Estate for the unbelievable price of R200.00 per mixed 6 bottle case. Alternately they can be bought at Pick and Pay supermarkets in the Western Cape for between R35 and R42 per bottle.
We often assume that South Africa’s bulk wine producers such as those owned by the Distell group, do not very often craft wines that come up to the same standard as some of the boutique wineries.
Razvan Macici, Nederburg Cellar Master
This week we had a wake-up call spent in the company of the charming Romanian, Nederburg cellar master since 2001, Razvan Macici. We were privileged to taste (and consume) some of Nederburg’s most exclusive wines which, in our opinion are right up there with South Africa’s best.
The evening’s Wine and Food Pairing was hosted by Andrea Foulkes’ Sidedish restaurant in Rose Street, Cape Town.
To mention a few recent achievements, Nederburg was the most successful producer at the Trophy Wine Show 2009 for two succesive years. And also achieved the highest score in the 2009 Syrah du Monde for the 2006 vintage of the Private Bin R121 Shiraz, sold exclusively for the Nederburg Auction. The wine was one of only two from South Africa on the top ten list, dominated by the French. Shiraz has won for Nederburg the 2008 Lexus WINE Challenge. The Manor House Collection maiden Shiraz 2005 took the IWSC Rosemount Trophy in 2007 for the World’s Best Shiraz.
Since 1975 the annual Nederburg Auction presents some of Cape Town’s finest wines from a host of various producers. Renowned are the Private Bin wines made especially for this event. It was a real thrill for us to enjoy two of the yet to be auctioned Private Bin creations in the tasting line Up.
Razvan grew up in the vineyards of Dealu Mare, about 70 kms from Bucharest where his father, Mihai, made his award-winning noble late harvest wines on the famous Pietroasa Estate in the area. This all made sense when we sipped the Nederburg Winemaster’s Reserve Noble Late Harvest 2009 which has to be the finest desert wine that I personally have enjoyed.
The wines in the line-up were:
2010 FIFA World Cup Sauvignon Blanc 2010 – an instant goal scorer.
Nederburg Private Bin D252 Sauvignon Blanc/Semillon
Nederburg Ingenuity White 2008 – a five star wine in Platter’s South African Wines 2010
Nederburg Ingenuity Red 2007
Nederberg Private Bin R181 Merlot 2001
Nederberg Wine Master’s Reserve Noble Late Harvest 2009
In a recent article on CNN.com, Fairview Estate’s head winemaker, Anthony De Jager chats about the benefits to the South African wine industry that the soccer extravaganza has brought. Also interviewed is winemaker Patrick Sidyiyo who shares his insights into the change in perception of middle-class black people who are turning more and more to wine as their tipple of choice.
Constellation Wines South Africa – brand owner of the award-winning Flagstone Winery and Kumala, the biggest selling South African wine globally – is ready to welcome the world to the Mother City. Flagstone and Kumala will be entertaining local and foreign visitors to Cape Town at The Lookout Village, the prestigious viewing venue in Granger Bay.
Constellation Wines South Africa
The Lookout Village, situated above the Breakwater Parking Garage at the V&A Waterfront, is a rooftop-marquee venue with panoramic views of the Cape Town Stadium and Table Mountain. It is set to become the Mother City’s most sought-after venue for discerning fans of the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
Jennie Sawdon
The Lookout Village features three distinct venues: Eagle’s Nest, Lion’s Den and Nina’s Wine Bar. Nina’s Wine Bar, sponsored by Kumala, is where visitors can sample, sip and savour some of the country’s premium wines along with sushi and oysters. Flagstone Winery will have a tasting counter at Nina’s Wine Bar, where guests can sample wines and place orders for their favourite vintages.
Scheduled to perform at Nina’s Wine Bar is TJ Johnson, widely considered to be one of the UK’s finest jazz and blues singers. Sharing the stage with TJ is Jennie Sawdon, a trained opera singer and an excellent pianist. She performs throughout the UK with her 6-piece soul-based cover band, the Rough Hill Band, and together they create a performance which is diverse and entertaining to audiences throughout the world.
The Lookout Village is open daily from 11am to 2am. Tickets can be bought at the door at R150 per person per day and entitles you to entry to the venue only. For more information, visit www.thelookoutvillage.com.
Alluvia Specialist Winery in the Banghoek area of Stellenbosch, South Africa, has every reason to celebrate after winning an award as well as receiving commendations from the judges at the Decanter World Wine Awards.
Ilka Cabernet Sauvignon 2005
The Decanter World Wine Awards is the world’s biggest wine competition and it is thrilling to see Cape Town wines holding their own against fierce competition from traditional old world wine producers and emerging countries alike.
Alluvia’s ilka Cabernet Sauvignon 2006 brought home a prestigious medal for the second year in a row. Named after co-owner Delarey Brugman’s twin daughters, Ilse and Karla, this wine scored 18.4/20 – very good to excellent. Andrew Harris, Alluvia’s Wine Business Manager, comments:
All of us at Alluvia are very proud of this achievement. The ilka Cabernet Sauvignon 2006 is an award winning wine with its richness of flavours and velvety elegance. Smart wine buyers and top restaurants will be pleased to know there are still a few cases available before we move on to the next vintage!
Hard to obtain, you may have to take a First or Business Class flight on China Eastern Airlines to sample this winning cab.
Sandy Straw Wine 2009, paying homage to Delarey’s wife, and Ilke Sauvignon Blanc 2009 were commended by the judges.
In total, 9 South African wineries were awarded Regional Trophies and 13 achieved Gold Medals.
For all of the results visit Decanter , select See results here, then Search by location – South Africa.
Cape Town winery, Nederburg, recently released this press release announcing it’s agreement with FIFA to produce and market FIFA endorsed wines.
Nederburg and FIFA have signed an agreement entitling the famous Paarl winery to make and market a range of South African wines for the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
Cellarmaster Razvan Macici has developed a special edition collection of three South Africa wines for the tournament which are sold locally and internationally. The three limited-edition wines are a Cabernet Sauvignon, a dry rose and a Sauvignon Blanc.
Capitalising on the pre-tournament excitement, the wines have been released worldwide, according to Nederburg marketing manager Rudolph Du Toit. “We have prioritised those markets where there is a strong interest in football but it is possible that distribution could be extended to meet demand.”
The wines are now locally available from selected stockists nationally, as well as from Nederburg itself.
Sold in bottles made from partially recycled glass, they are being marketed until December 2010 and span the 2007 to 2010 vintages. The white and rose are sold under screwcap.
The three wines were selected for their broad appeal, says Macici, but are being made in smaller quantities than the winery’s popular Winemaster’s Reserve Range, as grapes have been sourced from very specific vineyards for this purpose.
“The three wines bearing the 2010 FIFA World Cup emblem carry Nederburg’s hallmark blend of fruit intensity and finesse. They are intense but graceful and are clearly South African in that they have a very clear expression of fruit, but restrained classical styling, making them fresh, approachable and food-friendly. Given our association with such an important sporting initiative, we want them to serve as ambassadors for South African excellence.”
Each of the 2010 FIFA World Cup wines will feature a special facility on the back label that will enable consumers to instantly access information on Nederburg by clicking on an unique QR code with their cellphone cameras. The information will then appear on their cellphone screens.
In the Old Mutual Trophy Wine Show, Cape Town’s first winery to produce Viognier wines has walked away with Best Viognier and Best White Wine Overall Trophys.
Bruce Jack, Flagstone winemaker
Bruce Jack, cellar master of Flagstone Winery, crafted Word of Mouth Viognier 2008 from grapes grown in the cool ward of Elim and fermented 20% of the must in oak. The result is an elegant, creamy wine that could stand shoulder to shoulder with a Condrieu, as we experienced at a recent tasting at Steenberg Vineyards.
Bruce, philosopher and writer, was on the path to becoming an academic when he recognised his passion and already extensive knowledge of South African wines and their producers. Happily for us local wine aficionados, he then worked several vintages offshore and completed a degree in oenology at the University of Adelaide in Australia before starting Flagstone Wines.
The first vintage was in 1999 and in 2008, Flagstone was bought by Constellation Wines, the world’s largest wine business, producing, marketing and selling a broad portfolio of wines. Bruce is the winemaker for the Flagstone, Fishhoek and Kumala labels. Kumula on its own produces 31.5 million bottles per year and is the biggest selling of all South African brands overseas.
Two Roads Chardonnay 2002, The Music Room Cabernet Sauvignon 2007, CWG Flagstone Love Handles 2004
His parents are an architect and a music teacher and their imprint on his life reflects in the lyrical, poetic descriptions of his wines and the thoughtful names he has given them. There is a story behind each one. The name Flagstone reflects the first broad-base tax levied by the French government after the revolution – a turning point for society. Word of Mouth is the only way to sell wine as apposed to adverts and award stickers on bottles, not that Flagstone wines are short of these. This name underscores the power of social media marketing that more and more wine makers are embracing. A favourite of mine is Two Roads Chardonnay 2002 named for Robert Frost’s thought provoking poem, The Road Not Taken.
His father’s influence also shows in the present home of Flagstone Winery which is in the original dynamite factory in Strand, Western Cape. On the site is a house designed by Sir Herbert Baker.
One of only 41 South African winemakers to belong to the prestigious Cape Winemakers’ Guild, Bruce has to craft two wines a year which are peer reviewed and qualified to be sold on the CWG Auction. The guild funds from this auction, social development investment for school children in the wineland areas and further education through the Protege Programme.
For all of the Old Mutual Trophy Wine Show results click here.
The winners of the World Cup of Wines 2010 have been announced and South Africas excellent results underscore the new trend in international tastes for new world wines.
Beating the Australians hands down, South Africa came sixth overall after Chili, earning 80 medals. The winning country was France, followed by Spain, Italy, Portugal and Chili. 7,000 Wines and spirits were judged.
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