Tag: wine

24 Hours At Spier Wine Estate

Cape Town,Cape Winelands
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By Tamlin Wightman on

“And wine can of their wits the wise beguile, make the sage frolic, and the serious smile.” – Alexander Pope

The Cape Winelands is one very suave gentlemen. It’s the cufflinks on Cape Town’s tuxedo. Take a date here and you’re bound to win him or her, or it, over. A friend met me for lunch at Spier Wine Estate, my accommodation for the night, and even we ended up frolicking around together by the river. Platonically, of course.

Spier is about a 45 minute drive from Cape Town in Stellenbosch, South Africa’s second oldest town, after Cape Town, founded in 1679. It is a four star wine estate featuring three restaurants, a wine cellar and tasting room, and endless rolling green lawns to picnic on. I arrived at 10h30 and began drinking at 11h00.

DID YOU KNOW: The Western Cape is the largest wine producing region in South Africa and produces about 1,000,000,000 litres of wine annually.

Spier Hotel

The sky was blue with wispy clouds and the lawns begging to be frolicked on. The outside terrace of the Spier Hotel Restaurant the perfect place to recline with the morning paper and a glass of Spier Creative Block 2: Sauvignon Blanc.

And then a glass of 21 Gables Chenin Blanc…, and then a Merlot from the Spier signature…, and then back to Creative Block, which the connoisseurs among us would describe as: “Beautifully clear with a distinctive green tinge. Hints of gooseberries, crushed nettle and grapefruit with lively acidity.” The Creative Block 5 is a particularly delicious Bordeaux-style blend.

Lunch at Eight

I’ve dined at Spier before – at the African inspired Moyo Restaurant where people in traditional African garb sang and danced before us and people painted our faces with little white dots at our tree top tables – quite different to the usual dining experience.

The new Eight Restaurant offers something more contemporary. The food is healthy and fresh from the farm on Spier’s plot. And you need all the health you can get when glugging back so many bottles of vino. Their farm also provides many surrounding restaurants with produce, such as Majeka House‘s Makaron Restaurant.

My friend and I enjoyed the quinoa and pan roasted vegetable salad which is delicious, served with fresh farm bread. Their other meals, wafting past us on white plates to the other patrons outside, looked just as tasty – such as the chicken pie, sesame chicken salad, courgette souffle and Cape hake fish cakes.

Lunch time at Eight

Bread board at Eight
Those little yellow treats are butter. Do not pop directly into mouth!

We followed the meal up with a romp by the river. The immense gardens and bridges traversing the river provide a great playground and one particularly ideal for picnics, with little ones included. Spier provides already-made picnics, with choices for children, vegetarians and raw foodies. Bookings are essential. Their new deli, Eight To Go, offers several tasty take-away options to line your stomach with!

On sunny days you can chill by the pools down at your room and enjoy more wine, if you can manage, on your private terrace. There’s plenty more to get up to here, though, so best not overindulge too soon. Although, if you do, there are golf carts with friendly drivers willing to chauffeur you around from place to place. Definitely a highlight for me.

The Cape Winelands

Go on a segway tour of Spier
Go on a segway tour of Spier

Things To Do At Spier

  • Segway Tours of the Vineyards – Tour the vineyards with friends on the Segway PT (Personal Transporter), a two-wheeled, self-balancing electric vehicle, and glide through the farm.
  • Heritage Walk – Meander through the estate and learn more about Spier’s natural and social heritage on the walk, and more about their related projects.  The walk takes you through the protea garden and avenue of indigenous coral trees.
  • Wine Tasting – Sip Spier’s award-winning wine paired with innovative food at their new tasting venue, on the banks of the Spier dam, overlooking the Helderberg mountains.
  • Art – Spier’s walls are adorned with great and creative artworks that you can view in the public spaces.
  • Dine – Select either Moyo, Eight, Eight to Go, or the Spier Hotel Restaurant & Wine Bar for your dining experience.

Sculptures at Spier

The Cape Winelands

I stayed in a standard room for the night – it’s convenient, with WIFI, airconditioning and satellite TV, and a big fireplace to snuggle in front of with that deviant Merlot while you munch the complimentary Spier chocolates. The rooms are fairly simple but comfortable with a big bath to pop bubbles in. And not the champagne kind. For a more luxurious experience, you can also stay in one of the other options – the Superior Rooms or Suites.

Standard Room at Spier Hotel

Take a stroll around the estate

Fancy a trip to the Cape Winelands? We can arrange a tailor-made tour for you that includes several destinations and accommodation options in the Winelands region. Go on a guided tour or self-drive. See the Cape Winelands tour options on our website or contact one of our expert travel consultants to start planning your journey.

“You have to have it in your blood, you have to grow up with the soil underneath your nails, the smell of the grapes in the air that you breathe. The cultivation of the vine was an art form. The refinement of the vine is a religion that requires pain and desire and sacrifice.” – A word on wine making, “Bottle Shock” (2008)

Explore the Cape Winelands – start with Stellenbosch…

Cape Winelands
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By Matthew Sterne on

The Stellenbosch wine route in the Cape Winelands is one of the biggest in the Western Cape and a major hit with travellers. Along with award-winning vinyards and wines, the town’s leafy streets are dotted with bistros and restaurants, bars and music venues, clothing stores and boutiques, spas and art galleries, antique shops and second hand book stores, chocolatiers, and so much more. A stroll around town could last days and there are many great B&Bs and guesthouses in the area to stay at while getting in your dose of idle exploration.

Behold the tall town church
Image credit: Lugerda

Early settlers to this fertile region were encouraged to plant oak trees and Stellenbosch’s oak lined streets are the reason for the Afrikaans name “Eikestad” – village of oaks. Some of these mighty oaks have even been proclaimed national monuments. So take your cameras along because there’s plenty to snap.

Getting out of town to visit the winelands is a favourite pastime of the Rhino Africans. Stellenbosch is about 50 km northeast of Cape Town – an easy drive and probably a little too close for temptation. This beautiful part of the Western Cape Province is the second oldest European settlement after Cape Town itself.

Oak trees are one of the majestic sights
Image credit: Stellenbosch Unveiled

Wine Time

There are 106 cellars on the Stellenbosch wine route, so you’re bound to find a wine you like. Like me, you may like them all. Key contributors to the quality of the wine are the cooler mountain slopes, varied soil types and breezes off False Bay which moderate summer temperatures. Some of my personal favourites include:

  • De Toren (try ‘Z’ and Fusion V – both remarkable red blends)
  • Kanonkop (excellent Cabernet Sauvignon. The Kadette is great value, while Paul Sauer is their exceptional flagship blend)
  • Klein Zalze (excellent Sauvignon Blanc)
  • Meerlust (try the Bordeaux Blend Rubicon or the fantastic Pinot Noir)
  • Middlevlei (try the Shiraz and their free run Pinotage)
  • Neil Ellis (for an exceptional Sauvignon Blanc)
  • Rainbow’s End (try their Cabernet Franc)
  • Warwick (go for the 2008 Cabernet Franc)
  • Waterford (Kevin Arnold Shiraz is a winner and the Pecan Stream Sauvignon Blanc is great value. If you’re feeling flush you might want to splash out on the Jem).
Charming Dorp Street in Stellenbosch
Image credit: Norton G

For The Foodies

Stellenbosch and the surrounds are also the setting for some of South Africa’s best restaurants. In fact three of this year’s Eat Out Top 10 restaurants are in Stellenbosch: Overture, Terroir and Jordan Restaurant. Makaron Restaurant won the style award and you can read our Horny Grazer review here. You’ll need to book well in advance at all these restaurants especially in the summer.

We started the day with a visit to Klein Zalze (where you can find Terroir restaurant) – I couldn’t resist buying a bottle of their Family Reserve Sauvignon Blanc which has won so many awards you can barely see the bottle. It cost R120 so I’m hoping it’s going to be pretty good.

From there we made our way into central Stellenbosch. It really is a charming town. Strolling along Dorp Street and Church Street I felt distinctly nostalgic. It’s a civilised place. And quaint. Distinctly quaint. With a combination of young and old, what with Stellenbosch University being in the town and the students adding their youth and energy to the mix.

One of Stellenbosch's best - Makaron Restaurant at Majeka House
Image credit: Majeka House

The Wild Peacock

One of my favourite spots is the Wild Peacock – if you like your food and wine, do yourself a favour and stop in. It’s a family-run business that sells premium gourmet brands to the trade. It was so popular that they started a bistro-styled restaurant to showcase all the brilliant ingredients. The menu changes daily, but there are some perennial favourites like fresh oysters (served with cold bubbly) or simple, steamed mussels. Classic flavour combinations, such as the fried pear and gorgonzola salad, are the order of the day.

There are loads of interesting options, with boutique wineries being championed and it’s nice to see so many by-the-glass options. It’s unbelievably affordable. If you’re a cheese fan, you’ll know how hard it is to get good cheese in South Africa. Well look no further. The Wild Peacock has a fantastic selection of local and imported cheese – if you’re up for a challenge buy yourself a little Munster. It will knock your whole sock drawer off its hinges.

The Wild Peacock
Image credit: LC Interiors

I stopped in for a lazy lunch at Casparus in Dorp Street to enjoy the fruits of Etienne Bonthuys’ master cooking. Etienne is the chef who brought nouvelle cuisine to South Africa. He’s done a supreme job here as the great venue combines with interesting food and good value. Some dishes to expect include quail paired with raw salmon and strawberries, baby calamari with shredded oxtail, and lamb flank with mint and lobster sauce.

The popular Oom Samie se Winkel
Image credit: CitySeeker

Did You Know?

  • Dorp Street has one of the longest rows of old buildings surviving in any major town in Southern Africa.
  • Most of the buildings date from the 19th century.
  • In 1859 the theological seminary was established in Stellenbosch, leading to Stellenbosch ’s proud heritage as leading educational centre.
  • Stellenbosch is virtually surrounded by beautiful mountains. They are the Helderberg, Stellenbosch Mountain, Jonkershoek Valley and Simonsberg, which is connected to Botmaskop and the rest of the Jonkershoek mountains by the saddle of Helshoogte.
  • South Africa currently has 101 957 hectares under vines, of which approximately 18 %is planted in the wine of origin Stellenbosch region.
Aerial view of Stellenbosch mountains and farms
Image credit: Ralph Pina

Not-To-Miss Events In Stellenbosch

  • SA Cheese Festival

When: 27 to 30 April 2012
Where: Sandringham Estate in Stellenbosch
Contact: +27 (0)21 975-4440 / 1 / 2 / 3

  • Stellenbosch Wine Festival

When: 28 to 31 July 2012
Venue: Paul Roos Gymnasium, Stellenbosch
Contact: +27 (0)21 886-4310

  • The Spier Harvest Festival

When: 25 Feb 2012
Venue: Spier Wine Estate in Stellenbosch
Contact: +27 (0)21 809-1100 or email info@spier.co.za

Keen to spend some time in Stellenbosch? Contact us and we can help you plan the perfect trip with great accommodation options and activities across the board.

French Toast Wine & Tapas Bar

Cape Town,General
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By Matthew Sterne on

The Horny Grazer Review

Four Rhino Rating

I drink champagne when I’m happy and when I’m sad. Sometimes I drink it when I’m alone. When I have company I consider it obligatory. I trifle with it if I’m not hungry and drink it when I am. Otherwise I never touch it – unless I’m thirsty. ~ Madame Lilly Bollinger

South Africans do love their wine and with good reason. The Cape Winelands is home to arguably some of the best wines in the southern hemisphere! From chocolate pinotages to buttery chardonnays and super crisp sauvignon blancs, there is something for just about every palate.

French Toast Wine & Tapas Bar

French Toast Wine & Tapas Bar is a wonderful French-style wine bar in the heart of Cape Town  just shy of a year old and already becoming a firm favourite with the Cape Town set. Until a few months ago I was completely unaware that this little gem existed. One rather miserable winter’s day in Cape Town, severely congested traffic and a hankering for a great glass of red wine was all it took. My friend suggested we meet at French Toast and the rest is history!

French Toast Wine & Tapas Bar

French Toast Wine & Tapas Bar is the brainchild of John Harrison and Karin Visser and is located high on Bree Street in an old, two -level converted warehouse outfitted with plush leather couches, crisp linens and floor to ceiling windows. Despite the industrial feel the atmosphere is warm and welcoming, as is the service. Both ground and upper floors boast fireplaces, an absolute treat in winter, and large doors and windows that open up in summer to let in a cool breeze. A versatile venue with great attention to detail.

But the best is yet to come! French Toast offers more than 80 different local and international wines by bottle or by glass as they employ a preservation system called Le Verre de Vin, which reseals wines by removing any oxygen from the bottle. They also offer wine flights which consist of three 50ml glasses of wines selected to compare countries, regions, cultivars and vintages.

French Toast Wine & Tapas Bar

And what could be better to accompany this selection of fine wines than a comprehensive tapas menu or perhaps a selection of cheeses and charcuterie. My friend is particularly obsessed with the aubergine fries while I could happily order plate after plate of their sautéed calamari. For those looking for a more in-depth tasting experience, French Toast offers a regular food and wine pairing evening around once a month.

By local standards the French Toast Wine & Tapas Bar can be rather pricey, particularly when one orders several dishes off the tapas menu to compile a full meal. But the quality and freshness of ingredients and presentation of the dishes is more than worth it! I personally love this venue for an after work drink or a pre-dinner tipple, with a small plate of tapas to accompany. Wonderful too for a post show drink or an after dinner night cap. Wonderful all round, in fact!

French Toast Wine & Tapas Bar

Contact:

Address: 199 Bree Street, Cape Town

Tel: 021 422 4084

Tapas dishes range from R20 – R50 per plate; charcuterie and cheese platters start from R60

For more information about Cape Town restaurants, visit our website. And if you’re looking for a bed for the night, contact us and we’ll set you off on an exciting Cape Town rendezvous…

Wining & Dining at the Vineyard Hotel

Cape Town
2 comments
By Tamlin Wightman on

A Cape Town Favourite

The Vineyard Hotel in Cape Town’s southern suburbs is not a place to pull up to in a battered, (gratefully) borrowed car that hums so loudly under the hood that dogs in Athlone growl back in reply. A car with wipers that won’t switch off and that wave furiously even on a rainless day, scraping the glass like fingernails on a blackboard. I probably should have walked.

Usually, I love valet parking. But when the attendant kindly greeted me in the car I’d borrowed (mine had recently deceased in a collision) and requested the keys, I clenched them tightly and said, “You don’t want to drive this car. Just show me the way.” He insisted, though. Sometimes good service is so unwelcome. I skulked out of the vehicle as a hotel porter took my bags and wheeled them off inside. I followed him, hoping no one had seen my entrance…

See Table Mountain from the gardens

The service at the check-in counter made everything better. Treated as though I’d just rolled up in a Rolls, I took my room card and made my way down the carpeted halls of the Vineyard to my room.

The Vineyard is on our Rhino Africa list of Favourite Cape Town Hotels. Situated in the leafy southern suburb of Newlands, on the banks of the Liesbeeck River, it’s a quiet haven just outside the city and is a 15 minute drive from all the must-see spots, including the City Bowl, the Atlantic Seaboard (where you’ll find the Camps Bay and Clifton beaches) or the False Bay coast where the seaside hamlets of Kalk Bay and Muizenberg are located.

Vineyard Hotel mountain facing room

There are several different kinds of rooms at the Vineyard Hotel – river facing suites, garden facing suites, mountain facing suites, courtyard facing suites, beautiful and spacious cottages tucked away in the Alice in Wonderland-like garden, and more.

My mountain facing suite looked out at, well, Table Mountain (unsurprisingly). It was just right – one higher than the ground floor, with sliding doors opening on to a balcony with table and chairs surrounded by greenery to screen the other rooms’ balconies from each other. Three rooms down, a couple popped open a bottle of Champagne from their patio, shooting the cork into the garden below. Cue: raid own mini bar.

We cracked open some beers – cool and straight from the fridge – and munched the complimentary biscotti. We were at the Vineyard for one of their special gourmet dinner evenings and wine pairings with Wine Concepts and a night’s stay. A knock on the door ushered in a ribboned gift box, complete with a personal note, truffle chocolates, nougat and Moyo creams. My poor man’s complex was fast dissipating. Clearly – as we tucked into the mini bar and wolfed down the mini wine bottles too. “Heck, when in Rome,” was the day’s dictum.

The crowds listening the pre-dinner talks

We heeled up and sauntered down the carpeted path to the Square Restaurant where dinner beckoned. The gourmet dinners and wine pairing evenings here have become quite popular. Respectable-looking people stood around chatting to other respectable-looking people. Waiters greeted us with glasses of Genevieve Blanc de Blancs 2009 Chardonnay, as David Ryan, our Rhino Africa Managing Director, arrived to join us with his partner.

Speeches about the wine pairing commenced and the chef spoke about what we could expect on the menu for the night. We were twitching-starving and about ready to bite into the chef’s ribs, when the hostess ushered us to a candle-lit table.

The Vineyard Hotel was originally built in 1799 as a single storey home for Lady Anne Barnard, and now includes new bedrooms designed by highly acclaimed architects Jack Barnett and Revel Fox. So expect class and panache. The decor combines modern and classic styles with a royal touch and makes you want to walk taller, with shoulders back, just being there.

The Square, which seats 130 people, is quite something in itself. Trees dot the area, bringing the outdoors in and creating a warmer, more comfortable atmosphere. Harp and piano music play in the background while water trickles from the fountain. Our glasses were topped with white wine (Secateurs Chenin Blanc 2011 from Bardenhorst Family Wines) and plates arrived for the first course: salad of Provencal vegetables, goat’s cheese pannacotta, cucumber gazpacho, toasted pine nuts and herb salad. And yes, it tasted just as good as it sounds.

Second Course at the gourmet dinner evening

Second course was the most perfectly cooked fried Norwegian salmon and slow-cooked duck egg, which, together with the confit beetroot and roast asparagus spears with vermouth abayon, went down as smoothly as water off a nasturtium leaf. This was paired well with Beau Constantia Cecily Viognier 2010.

For mains, we cut into springbok loin, paprika-spiced potato fondant, creamed leeks and roast parsnip puree with cherry jus, washed down with red wine (Gabrielskloof The Blend 2009).

It was by far the best red I’ve had in ages. Reds aren’t really my thing, but I’d elope with this one.

Main course at the Vineyard Hotel

The meals are small and so by the time dessert rings round you don’t feel overly gluttonous as you fork cheesecake, cassis and cranberry jelly with warm Cape gooseberry compote and honey and lavender ice cream into your mouth. I found the accompanying Ridgeback Natural Sweet Viognier 2010 too sweet but it is a dessert wine, so it’s expected. It’s obvious why the Square Restaurant received the Diners Club 2009 and 2010 Diamond Award for its wine list.

The uber cushy white-linen bed in our room was well received and though I’d like to say I continued to raid the mini bar, howl at the moon out my balcony window and make the most of my hotel stay, I faded like a burnt out light.

Yummy breakfasts on offer at the Vineyard Hotel

The thick curtains keep out morning light long after sunrise, but you’ll want to rise early to get the most out of the buffet breakfast on offer here. Colourful doughnuts, cheese platters, croissants, breads, hot breakfasts with sausages and bacon and more, fresh juices, cereals, fruits, yoghurts, and much more.

We soaked awhile in the big tubs in the en suite bathroom –  modern, white and stocked with Charlotte Rhys products – and then pulled up chairs at the Square for breakfast. We paged through the weekend paper, over hot coffee and a breakfast of champions. After all, we’d have to leave soon in a skedonk of a car (that’s a South African expression for a bit of a banger!) and needed the ego-boost.

Breakfast and the Weekend newspaper

The gardens are definitely a large part of the Vineyard’s allure. You could spend all day getting lost in its crooks, crossing the river, spotting geese stretching their wings on rocks and the big leopard tortoises, smelling the flowers, tracing the jogging routes with Table Mountain views, and more.

Visit the Vineyard and its restaurants – the Square, Myoga, Splash Café, and the Garden Lounge & Patio – just for a day if you’re in Cape Town and you’ll get a taste of its magic, but for the full course experience, try one of their gourmet dinner evenings and a night or two’s stay.

The next event is on Friday 21st October in the Square Restaurant and there will be wines from the Swartland, paired with a four course gourmet excursion. There are special stay-over rates when booking the wine events. Click here for more information.

Vineyard Hotel gardens

Contact the Square Restaurant:

Tel: 021-657-4500
Email: eat@vineyard.co.za
Address: Colinton Road (off Protea Road), Newlands, Cape Town

To book a night at the Vineyard Hotel or to tailor make a Cape holiday that includes the Vineyard, contact one of our travel experts today – or for more information about things to do and accommodation in Cape Town.

Grand Dédale – Luxury in the country

Cape Town,Cape Winelands,South Africa,Traveller's tales
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By Matthew Sterne on

Grand Dédale is a gem of a place located in a corner of the Wellington Mountains, just below Bainskloof Pass. What a delightful experience! The road leading to the Manor House is about four kilometres of dirt road, but not much of a challenge for our little Polo. It’s one of those ‘nice’ dirt roads. The house is on a working wine farm called Doolhof, so expect to bump into a few farm workers and their families around the estate.

The setting is stunning – high mountains with green lawns below; a stark white interior and slick furniture displays grand opulence as you enter the house. The first thing you notice is the clean, simple decor with a touch of luxury. The fresh flowers, textured fabrics and neat finishes make you feel as though you are entering a palace, but still put you completely at ease.

The lounge in the cottage is the ideal haven to retire to with a glass of vino

We were greeted by owner Angelou Casu, who operates Grand Dédale with wife Tina. They have a wealth of experience behind them. We were quickly offered a welcome drink and shown around the loft rooms, lounge and TV area upstairs and then finally… the suite. The upstairs area with its thatch roof has been nicely furnished to maintain the cosy atmosphere. You can sit and catch up on the news on TV or browse your Ipad / laptop using the WIFI, although there is a desk with internet facilities if you haven’t come prepared.

The honesty bars are in designated places in the house and not in the rooms. They have a lovely dinner service whereby a chef will come and prepare the four course table d’hôte menu especially for you. The dinner is additional and a great option if you don’t feel like leaving the comfort of this accommodation to find a place to eat! Welcome drinks and aperitifs are served on the patio at sunset before dinner.

What I enjoyed about the house was that there were many places to sit and relax, read or browse the selection of books available. Unless you’re in one of the suites with their own summer conservatories, it’s quite handy. The suites are beautiful; the choice of colour and texture are modern; rooms are comfy and warm – too warm in fact, but a huge welcome for those chilly winter days. Rooms are complete with under-floor heating, heated towel rails, gowns, iPod players, tea/coffee facilities, books, magazines and games.

The lounge in the upstairs loft offers a cosy corner to relax in

We woke up to a morning of rain so there weren’t any green hills or mountains in sight, but we didn’t mind because the breakfast was so remarkable – and extensive, what with several breads, cheeses, jams, honey as well as hot breakfasts like salmon scrambled egg, crepes and omelette. Good coffee (or a great selection of teas for my husband) and warm, fresh croissants and muffins are always a winner.

Overall, this is a great country experience, with a touch of luxury. You truly feel well-pampered after a stay at Grand Dédale.

Read more about Grand Dédale on our website.

A Bit of Varietal: Part Two

Cape Town,Cape Winelands,South Africa,Traveller's tales
0 comments
By Matthew Sterne on

I’ve heard many a tourist comment on the number of cultivars that can be found in the small wine belt of our rainbow nation. And I’ve noticed that what gets most of them is our South African mix of old school/new school with a dash of too cool for school. But whether you are partial to the Old World European styles or you prefer to let your hair down with something from the New World, you cannot fail to be impressed with the thriving South African wine scene. As promised, here are some of the more obscure grapes and glasses that are getting the global nod, as fermented by South Africa’s finest:

Barbera: This is a red, Italian wine grape with notes of vanilla, berries and dried fruit. Excellent with pan-friend meats in simple tomato sauces. Hofstraat and Hidden Valley produce great examples.

Cabernet Franc: Is a grape of French origin and a key component of Bordeaux blends, but rarely found in it’s pure form in SA. Raats is our favourite, then Warwick. Pair it with rich varieties of seafood, chicken, turkey and fruit-based pork or veal. She’s not a big, loud wine like the Cab Sauv – the finesse of the peppery notes and tones of tobacco and cassis make it a welcome addition to the lighter side of red wine.

Malbec: This is another French expat that lends its purple grapes and robust tannins to Bordeaux blending. The hints of tobacco and raisins mean it is a pleasant accompaniment to stew and meat dishes. Find it at Le Pommier and Mount Vernon.

Mouverdre: A history infused with Catalan spirit has seen this French varietal become a favorite of many with its wild, earthy notes and soft red fruit flavours. Enjoy a glass or two with rich-bodied pasta, duck, game birds, herbed pork or veal, and beef. Great examples at Beaumont (Ross’s favourite) or Signal Hill.

Bukettraube: Well, as the name implies this is a white wine grape from Germany. With delightful fruit notes of peaches, apricot and butter, this would be well paired with mild cheeses, fruit-based pound cake, creams, custards and souffles. Stock up for the sake of your sweet tooth at Cederberg or Simonsvlei.

Roussanne: This French beauty is known for the variations in flavour and aromas: from flowery herbal teas to notes of honey and pear. Get the Bernard or the Roussane from Rustenberg and enjoy it with antipasti, soups, salads, egg dishes, light pasta and mild varieties of seafood.

And the final wine for ‘A Bit of Varietal Part Deux,’ or should I say ‘Zwei’ is the Gewürtztraminer. Another Germanic gem, this is an aromatic grape with notes of roses, passion fruit with floral hints. Its aromatic flavours make Gewürztraminer one of the few wines that are suitable for drinking with curries. Paul Cluver makes one of the best.

Monday we finish with Part Three…

Read the whole series:

A Bit of Varietal: Part One

A Bit of Varietal: Part Three

Everyone Likes a Bit of Varietal…

Cape Winelands,Traveller's tales
0 comments
By Matthew Sterne on

With the launch of our Cape Winelands section, I thought it fitting to share a little of my wine wisdom. It’s been accumulated after very little spitting and much sampling, swirling and swigging the vast bouquet of wines that South Africa, as the world’s 8th largest producer, has to offer.

World’s Top Wine Producers (millions of litres):

  1. France 5170
  2. Italy 4963
  3. Spain 3817
  4. USA 2357
  5. Argentina 1540
  6. Australia 1426
  7. China 1180
  8. South Africa 1033
  9. Germany 899
  10. Chile 845

While some of you might be new to this region, the Winelands have been barreled up in the valleys and slopes of the southern tip of Africa for 350 years! They’ve seen the flavours and cultures of Europe, America and Africa blended to create some truly inspired wines, vineyards and varietals. The viticulture belt of the Cape is home to some 112,598 hectares of vineyards and over 4,300 farmers that together produce about 1 billion litres of wine a year (approaching 4% of global production)! It is a wonder people in this part of the world are allowed to drive let alone farm! But perhaps that’s because 49% of SA’s total wine production is exported…

I’m sure we all know the more popular cultivars; Merlot, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauv, Shiraz as well as the Cape’s very own Pinotage. However, with the evolution of global palettes, recent years have seen over 40% of the more traditional, volume orientated vineyards being replaced by some lesser known cultivars. And with global trends such as innovative blending and of course the world’s fascination with shades and flavours of pink, I think its time to get to know some of the new vines on the block so you are not scared to try something new next time you visit one of the Cape’s awesome restaurants.

Stay tuned, as tomorrow I shall be showcasing some of those lesser known varietals!

A Bit of Varietal: Part Two

A Bit of Varietal: Part Three

The Cape Winelands – Santé!

Cape Town,Cape Winelands,Traveller's tales
0 comments
By Matthew Sterne on

This week sees the launch of the Cape Winelands section of our new website, so we thought it fitting to do some wineland themed Blog posts (more wine than lands). Rather conveniently, Ross spent five days there over Christmas, so watch out for some top tips, including a review of the recently refurbished Grande Roche hotel in Paarl and a Horny Grazer review of Bosman’s restaurant – recently voted the 4th best restaurant in South Africa by Eat Out Magazine.

Cape Wine Route
“And I love to live so pleasantly, live this life of luxury, lazing on a sunny afternoon!”

Picture the family humming along to the Kinks’ melody, meandering along the vineyard clad roads of the Cape Winelands. Over our few days we certainly took advantage of our time by the pool at the Grande Roche, but we did venture out from time to time. Highlights included a trip to Franschhoek where we did some wine tasting at Chamonix wine estate (talk about a super quaffer – I can heartily recommend the Chamonix Rouge for just R38 a bottle) before a pretty good lunch in the courtyard at Reuben’s. The service was slack and the interior in need of a spruce up, but the food was still good. A starter of scallops with crispy pancetta served with a corn chowder was out of this world. Moroccan chicken was a little too sweet, but the cheese burger was excellent.

Another big winner was the gourmet picnic at Warwick Wine Estate near Stellenbosch (I think I should make this clear that we visited Warwick the next day) where we grazed unabashed, shaded by the leaves of the ancient Oaks and buffeted by bean bags, rugs and cushions. Of course we decided to do a little wine tasting there as well. Two whites and four reds. More swallowing than spitting – the perfect siesta inducing combo.

Cape Wine Route

Warwick make good wines. They’re extremely fruity and a bit overpriced for me but good wines nonetheless. We splashed out on a limited edition Black label Syrah which I can’t wait to try.

There’s also the most perfect gravel courtyard if, like me, you fancy yourself as a bit of master boules player. My dream is to one day make boules an extreme sport featured on ESPN. And yes, the boules are available for hire.

Collect your picnic and head out to your chosen spot with some fine wines. Forget your ham sarnies and scotch eggs. The picnic hamper for two without drinks is R299, but it’s well worth it and includes freshly baked ciabatta, camembert and oak smoked cheddar with an apple, pear and pecan chutney, sliced charcuterie with a biltong, mushroom and brandy pate or hummus as well as homemade rooibos and oak smoked Norwegian salmon.

Cape Wine Route

So there are a few cheeky tips from Ross’s holiday. What are your favourite Estates and favourite things to do in the Winelands?

Not only do we do day tours of the Cape Winelands, but we can tailor make an idyllic tour of the Cape Winelands incorporating some of South Africa’s finest hotels and restaurants, so don’t hesitate to contact one of our expert consultants today to plan your 2011 holiday!

Cape Wine Route

The Test Kitchen by Luke Dale-Roberts

Cape Town
2 comments
By Matthew Sterne on

The Horny Grazer ReviewFour Rhino Rating
“On the Continent people have good food; in England people have good table manners.” George Mikes

Luke Dale-Roberts is English. And he single handedly disproves George Mike’s notion that the English can’t make good food.

Luke-Dale-Roberts-Test-Kitchen

The Test Kitchen is his latest venture which follows a four-year tenure as the executive chef of La Colombe restaurant at the Constantia Uitsig wine estate culminating most recently in its winning 12th place in the San Pellegrino 50 Best Restaurants of the World Awards 2010 and gaining the title of Acqua Panna Best Restaurant in Africa and Middle East.

Dale-Roberts is an East Sussex lad whose first job after college was at the Baur Au Lac Hotel in Zurich, Switzerland – at the time recognised as one of the top five hotels in the world. Then it was back to the UK where he worked at a number of hot spots, most notably, The Sugar Club restaurants. “I worked under the hottest fusion chef around – and also met my wife, Sandalene, who is South African and was working there as a waitress.”

Luke-Dale-Roberts-Test-Kitchen

His first position as executive chef was at The Loft, part of the Accor Hotel Group, which subsequently asked him to open its signature concept restaurant in Asia, The Square in Singapore. He ended up spending 5 years in Asia. “It was a really good experience but I was getting tired of the hotel scene, so when Sandalene fell pregnant, we decided to come to South Africa. We arrived in Cape Town with a 10-day-old baby, and I started at La Colombe the next day.”

The Horny Grazer was privileged to eat at The Test Kitchen on a Friday night and at La Colombe the very next evening. Fourteen courses with wine pairing in just over 24 hours. Not for the faint cholesteroled. And not ideal for my debut on the beaches of Clifton. I’ve been seeing a personal trainer for 4 months now, but it’s weekends like this that keep the Horny Grazer on the fringes of desirability.

I think it’s unfair to try and compare the two restaurants. They are so very different, but it was nevertheless interesting to experience the restaurant where Luke really made a name for himself – to see from whence it came so to speak.

From what little I’ve found out about Luke, it’s clear that he is an inventive soul. And while La Colombe was no doubt a great platform for him, it seems only right that he now has his own space in which to create sans frontiers. And what better setting than the artistic and bohemian hub of the Old Biscuit Mill in Woodstock. I live nearby the Mount Nelson in town. It took me the same amount of time to get to the Old Biscuit Mill as it would to get to the V&A Waterfront, so I don’t want to hear any complaints about the venue!

In the corner of the Old Biscuit Mill opposite the Espresso Lab, The Test Kitchen has a definite NYC loft apartment’ feel to it. It’s a small restaurant, dominated by the open plan kitchen and the towering, double-volume shelves crammed full of delicious wines accessed via an enormous red ladder. The dark brown tables and chairs are low set, creating a wonderful effect with the high ceilings. And watch out for quirky touches such as the egg box salt and pepper shakers.

It was only the third night when we waltzed in. There was a slightly nervous anticipation among the staff who were all eager to impress. The atmosphere soon warmed up as the kitchen got into full swing and the wine settled in. My dining companion had just handed in his resignation from the city to take a place at the SA Chef’s Academy. There could surely be no better way to celebrate than this gastronomic feast. 7 Courses will set you back R550 each plus an additional R200 if you go for the wine pairing, which I’d certainly recommend. The tasting menu is definitely the best showcase for Luke’s insane talent.

I cannot begin to explain the complexity of these dishes, nor the exquisite attention to presentation – it’s quite simply food as art. From the trout tartare with green apple, lime, crème fraiche, miso cured aubergine, flat parsly and creamy miso dressing to the quail in three ways, served with langoustine, liquorices jus, miso, corn and ginger emulsion and a lime gremolata. Each dish is an experience.

Luke-Dale-Roberts-Test-Kitchen

Those two dishes, along with the pan seared duck breast, cashew nut and turnip puree, mineola and jasmine glacage, pan seared foie gras and confit duck sushi (paired with a delicious AA Badenhorst Red Blend) were my favourite of the 7 courses. As you might expect in a ‘Test’ kitchen, the invention did at times push the boundaries. There were quite a few rich meats in the 7 course menu which did get a bit heavy – foie gras, quail, lamb tongues, duck confit, sweetbreads and lamb fillets among them, but that’s partly down to my own ordering.

The only dish which I wasn’t wild about was the wood fired cauliflower, red roman, smoked bacon white mussel and clam dressing, white wine carrots and slow cooked leek. I found it a little overwhelmingly creamy and smokey. But one man’s meat is another man’s poison. In fact I’m quite certain my Dad would have enjoyed this dish.

The Asian influence is far more prominent here than at La Colombe – you’ll notice a lot of sushi inspired traits. Lots of miso and even a yuzu salsa as well as the Asian Style Beef Tataki were on the menu.

Pudding was the most inventive of all – Tomato and Mozzarella, with cape gooseberry, vanilla and pepper syrup, stracciatella and goat yoghurt snowballs. An extraordinary combination, but seriously delicious. The Buffalo Mozzarella was soft and creamy and the tomatoes sweet and tender.  Just try it – you’ll see.

I’d really like to go back in 6 months or so when The Test Kitchen has really found its feet and developed its character. There were a few nerves on show, but that’s to be expected. More confidence and perhaps a bit more banter and interaction from the kitchen wouldn’t go amiss. It’s a playful space and a great opportunity to pair fine, experimental cuisine with a relaxed and vibrant venue. The concept is fresh and exciting for the Cape Town restaurant scene. It’s a brave venture, which is set to become one of SA’s finest restaurants – the raw ingredients are there, none more so than the passion and genius of Luke himself.

The Test Kitchen, La Colombe and the River Cafe

Cape Town,Cape Winelands,South Africa,Traveller's tales
4 comments
By Matthew Sterne on

Wow! Weekends like this don’t come around too often…

It all kicked off last Friday on the most beautiful summer’s day. Courtesy of Manley Communications, I was invited to dine at The Test Kitchen in the Old Biscuit Mill in Woodstock. It’s the latest offering by acclaimed chef Luke Dale-Roberts of La Colombe fame. 7 Courses paired with wine – an eating extravaganza.

The Test Kitchen

After a disastrous start to the Ashes, Saturday got under way with a straight sets defeat at squash (the low light of the weekend, but some much needed exercise all the same), before a light, half-price sushi lunch at Sevruga. Then it was off to the peace and tranquility of Constantia in the Southern Suburbs of Cape Town. We checked in at Constantia Uitsig just in time for the kick off of the England v South Africa game at Twickenham. Constantia Uitsig is such a picturesque estate – the immaculately kept grounds and gardens are instantly relaxing. It’s the ultimate destination for food lovers to come and unwind with three of South Africa’s finest restaurants on the estate – La Colombe (currently ranked as the 12th best restaurant in the World), River Cafe and Constantia Uitsig itself.

The Test Kitchen, La Colombe and the River Cafe

After a cheeky half at Peddlars pub and a comfortable victory for the Boks, there was just time to change for our dinner at La Colombe. Little did I know that I was about to enjoy the best meal of my life. Another 7 Courses with wine pairing. I was in my element.

Sunday morning kicked off with a hearty country-style breakfast at La Colombe – fresh berries, smoothies, cereals, croissants and juices followed by a tasty full English – a great way to celebrate England’s magnificent fight back in the Ashes – Alistair Cook you beauty! And an honourable mention for Strauss and Trott. It was only fitting that we took a draught down to the Constantia Uitsig cricket pitch to watch some local village action and read the Sunday Papers. Next up – a full body massage at the Constantia Uitsig Spa. Jealous yet?

The Test Kitchen, La Colombe and the River Cafe

A much needed stroll through the vineyards preceded some wine tasting (and buying) and the final indulgence of the weekend – a long, lazy Sunday lunch at the River Cafe.

A quick tally came to 22 courses in 48 hours (excluding some sneaky amuses bouches). Nothing tastes as good as thin feels. Except all 22 of those courses.

After some delicious cheeses and a tasty port, we reluctantly left Constantia Uitsig. I got home just in time to watch Spurs beat Liverpool in a thrilling finale to what was undoubtedly the best weekend ever.

Look out for the Horny Grazer reviews over the coming weeks…

The Test Kitchen, La Colombe and the River Cafe

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