Wine Tours Stellenbosch By Tsiba Tsiba Tours

Wine Doesn't Make You Fat

2010-03-10T13:25:00.001+02:00

If you love a glass of wine (or two) but lament the empty calories you're taking in, fear not according to a new study.

Recent research published in the March 8 issue of Archives of Internal Medicine shows that women who drink regularly are less likely than non-drinking women to become obese -- 30 percent less likely, in fact. Red wine drinkers were the slimmest of the bunch, followed by white wine drinkers -- and even those who drank beer and liquor on a regular basis were in better shape then the non-drinkers, literally.

To figure this out, Dr. Lu Wang and colleagues of the Brigham & Women's Hospital in Boston studied nearly 20,000 middle-aged women for over 13 years. All of them started in this study with a healthy BMI, and many of them gained weight as time went on. But surprisingly, it was the non-drinkers who gained the most weight. But they're not entirely sure why this is. "Further investigations are warranted to elucidate the role of alcohol intake and alcohol metabolism in energy balance and to identify behavioral, physiological and genetic factors that may modify the alcohol effects," they wrote in the study.

This goes directly against what weight loss experts have been telling us for years -- that alcohol (or rather its empty calories) pack on the pounds. Make no mistake, booze has calories and lots of them. A large glass of wine can have up to 150 calories, and that can really add up over time. Still, the findings suggest that drinking in moderation may be part of the puzzle to keep our weight in check. It wouldn't be the first big health advantage for red wine -- previous studies have shown it to reduce the risk of heart attacks.

But moderation is the key word here. While the study may promote the idea that a few drinks won't make you fat, you should still be careful to not overdo it -- only small amounts are recommended, and keep in mind that although wine may help you maintain your weight, it probably won't help you lose it. "Middle-age and older women who have normal body weight initially and consume light-to-moderate amounts of alcohol could maintain their drinking habits without gaining more weight," Dr. Wang told Health Day reporters.

So just what is light-to-moderate drinking? That works out to one or two drinks a day, maximum. And no, you can save all of those for Saturday night. While light drinking may help keep you slim, other research has found that binge drinking definitely pads your waistline.

South Africa overtakes France with British Wine Drinkers!

2010-02-26T18:07:00.003+02:00

For the first time, the British are drinking more South African wine than French, the latest figures show.

Sales of South African wine grew 20% by volume to 12.27m cases in the 12-month period ending 23 January this year, according to AC Nielsen.

This is compared to a 12% decline in French wine sales to 12.26m cases.

South Africa is now fourth in wine by volume sales in the UK, behind Australia, California and Italy.
'In 1994 our producers wouldn't have dreamt of selling more wine to the UK than France', said Jo Mason, UK market manager for Wines of South Africa.

'The wine landscape has changed completely and the quality of wine from South Africa is up there with the best in the world.'

In 2009, global exports of South African wine reached nearly 400m litres.

Source: decanter.com

Wine and chocolate fight cancer

2010-02-17T11:17:00.002+02:00

Cabernet and chocolate are potent medicine for killing cancer, according to recent research from the USA.

Red grapes and dark chocolate join blueberries, garlic, soy, and teas as ingredients that starve cancer while feeding bodies, said Angiogenesis Foundation head William Li. "We are rating foods based on their cancer-fighting qualities," Li said.

The US foundation is identifying foods containing chemicals that evidently choke-off blood supplies to tumours, starving them to death. A Harvard Medical School study showed that men who ate cooked tomatoes several times weekly were 30% to 50% less likely to have prostate cancer.
Deprive tumours

About a dozen drugs are already in use to deprive tumours of blood supplies in a treatment tactic called "anti-angiogenesis".

The foundation pitted some foods against approved drugs and found that soy, parsley, red grapes, berries and other edibles were either as effective or more potent in battling cancer cells.

Eaten together, the foods were even more effective in fighting cancer.

"We discovered that Mother Nature laced a large number of foods and herbs with anti-angiogenesis features," Li said. "For many people around the world, dietary cancer treatment may be the only solution because not everyone can afford cancer drugs."

The foundation also discovered that anti-angiogenesis properties of foods melt away fat, which relies heavily on blood flow to sustain itself.

Tests showed that mice genetically prone to be chubby could be trimmed to average mouse size using the approach. "It got weight down to a set point for normal mice," Li said. "In other words, we can't create supermodel mice."

Read the article on news24.com

Dassie's Relation to Elephant Finally Makes Sense!

2010-02-11T18:48:00.003+02:00

Dassies being the closest living relative to the African elephant is finally believable! And can I say that many many people do not believe us when we tell them this on a tour!

Dassies are the closest related relatives to Elephants, despite the enormous difference in size between the two, research has claimed the dassie is the African elephant’s closest living relative. A new discovery has revealed that the oldest ancestors of modern-day elephants were little bigger than a rabbit.

A 60 million-year-old skull dug up in Morocco has been identified as the earliest form of elephant species. This creature was trunk-less, measured less than 50 cm from tip to tail and weighed just 5kg. The mini-jumbo had front incisors which jutted out of its mouth to form the forerunner of the modern tusks.

Analysis of the teeth in the skull proved it was related, however distant, to the modern elephant. It is 10 million years older than other Elephant ancestor fossils discovered.

This is where the beloved dassie steps in. The close evolutionary relationship between the teeny-tiny Dassie and the ginormous African Elephant is deduced from similarities in the structure of their feet and teeth.

Dassies are heavily preyed upon by Eagles, Caracal and Leopard. Besides their treacherous incisors and a moveable membrane in the eye which shields the pupil and allows vision directly into the sun they don’t have much going for them when it comes to protecting themselves from predators.

We love them, but it looks like the Dassie got the short end of the genetic stick in this family tree.

Dassies have evolved into somewhat lazy creatures. Their favourite pastime is basking in the sun on large rocks, particularly during mornings and late afternoons – the rock dassie seems to be the small and lazy brother. Ah, bless 'em!

27 for Freedom Race - celebrating 20 years since the release of Nelson Mandela

2010-02-02T18:03:00.002+02:00

Its been 20 years since Nelson Mandela finally walked free – out the doors of the Victor Verster Prison near Paarl in the Cape Winelands. The prison is commonly known as the Drakenstein Prison and many people do not know that this where Mandela spent the last 2 years of his imprisonment, under house arrest, following his move from Robben Island in 1982 and then his subsequent 6 years at Pollsmoor Prison in Cape Town.

After 26 years in captivity, Nelson Mandela did not want to be set free straight away. Two days before his release, the world's most famous political prisoner was taken to see President FW de Klerk in his Cape Town office. The president got a surprise.

"I told him he would be flown to Johannesburg and released there on 11 February 1990. Mr Mandela's reaction was not at all as I had expected," said De Klerk. "He said: 'No, it is too soon, we need more time for preparation.' That is when I realised that long hours of negotiation lay ahead with this man."

Just after 4pm on the date appointed by De Klerk, Mandela, then 71, walked free, holding the hand of his wife, Winnie. The prisoner had lost his argument for a later release date but had persuaded De Klerk to allow him to leave directly from Victor Verster prison, in Paarl. Mandela held up his fist in an ANC salute. In an instant he switched from being a symbol of the oppressed to the global symbol of courage and freedom that he remains today.

Mandela's release did not signal the end of apartheid. In fact, the white-ruled pariah state was entering the most dangerous chapter in its history since the introduction of racial separateness in 1948.

Four hours after leaving prison, Mandela arrived in Cape Town to address thousands of people gathered outside city hall. The impatient crowd had clashed with police and bullets had been fired. But Mandela did not bring a message of appeasement. "The factors which necessitated armed struggle still exist today," he told the cheering onlookers.

Mandela called on the international community to maintain its sanctions. "I have carried the idea of a democratic and free society in which all persons live together in harmony and with equal opportunities. I hope to live to see the achievement of that ideal. But if need be, it is an ideal for which I am prepared to die," he shouted.

ON Saturday, 13 February the “27 For Freedom” Race will take place at Drakenstein Correctional Services. Drakenstein Correctional Services, formerly known as the Victor Verster Prison before it was renamed in 1998, is the historic place where Madiba took his first steps to freedom after many years of incarceration.

The 27 For Freedom Race is an inaugural race which forms part of the festivities of the release of Madiba 20 years ago.

Athletes participating in this race will be taken along the same route that was taken by Madiba as he left prison, beacon by beacon, from the Madiba House, along the Long Walk to Freedom route, all the way to the Madiba Statue at the entrance of the prison.

Every participant will receive a medal which will be a collector’s piece. The first 500 entrants in the 27 For Freedom Race will also receive a 27 For Freedom branded T-shirt. Two shorter races will form part of the 27 For Freedom Race inaugural race to cater for the needs of the entire athletics family. Apart from the main 27 km run, athletes can also choose between a 10 km course or a 5 km, which they can either run of walk. Wheelchair athletes are also invited to participate in the 10 race.

The closing date for entries is 7 February. For more information, call 021 883 2413 or visit http://www.bolandathletics.co.za/.

SA Wine industry recognised abroad for ethical practices

2010-01-22T15:08:00.004+02:00

As the South African wine industry continues to grow exports, it is also achieving increasing international recognition for its ethical approach to winemaking, says Wines of South Africa (WOSA) CEO Su Birch. Within the space of a few weeks SA was acknowledged by influential UK trade publication The Drinks Business, winning its Ethical Award for 2009 while also earning the lion's share of trophies and prizes in the Fairtrade Wine Committee's competition for best wines of the year, held in London.

The Ethical Award was presented to Project Laduma, WOSA's programme established to train 2,010 wine stewards ahead of the 2010 World Cup, funded mainly through the sale of Fundi Wines, created for the purpose. These wines are selling in a range of markets abroad, including the UK, North America and Japan. Candidates for training are drawn from both the hospitality industry and the ranks of the unemployed.

Birch said that Fairtrade, initiated to protect workers across a range of industries, had helped to focus international attention on the importance of fair labour practices in promoting socio-economic sustainability. Research conducted by Globescan earlier this year had found that 87% of UK consumers believed the issue of payment to farmers or their workers in developing countries was important.

The first Fairtrade certified wine to be launched in the UK was a South African product, Thandi Pinot Noir. There are now more than 250 Fairtrade-certified wines available in the UK, sourced from South Africa, Chile and Argentina.

South African producers won the 2009 trophies for Best Overall Fairtrade Wine, Best Fairtrade Red Wine and Best Fairtrade White Wine. The top prize and also the prize for best red went to Isabelo Pinotage 2008, while the prize for the best white went to Six Hats Sauvignon Blanc 2009. The title of Best Fairtrade Sparkling Wine was won by the Co-operative Fairtrade Cape Sparkling Rosé NV, produced by Du Toitskloof Cellars.

Decanter, a prominent British consumer magazine with an international readership, chose six South African wines for its top ten list of Fairtrade wines. These included wines from Isabelo, Hope's Garden, Thandi, Fairhills and two produced for the Co-operative Group.

Birch said that WIETA, the Agricultural Ethical Trading Initiative SA, founded in 2002, had also helped local producers to raise working conditions on wine farms. The organisation had established a code of good practice governing labour standards to encourage reform. It was also collaborating with major retailers abroad to build support for its objectives.

South Africa boasts the fastest growth rate of wine sales amongst its competitors in the UK with a volume share of the market at just over 10%.

Weekend Wine Tasting in Montagu in the Klein Karoo

2010-01-11T11:07:00.004+02:00

To kick start the year, we thought we would head off to another part of the Winelands – Montagu & Robertson – to sample some of their wine estates and see what the region has to offer. We are lucky to have a friend with a self-catering apartment right in town, The Full Monty-gu. The weekend started of course with a braai and then we explored the surrounding area...

The Klein Karoo Wine Region in the Southern Cape is the easternmost wine producing region in the country and stretches from Montagu to Oudtshoorn. Robertson is renowned for the quality of its wines. Many believe it is the source of some of the Cape's finest red wines, particularly Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon. The distinctive fortified dessert wines for which it was originally famed continue to be produced.

Personally I am a white wine fan – especially in this heat! – but Lucas is more a fan of the reds.... but there was more than enough to keep us both very happy. That said I was the designated driver so I was not as “merry” as the other three!

We started the day at Arrabella where they have a large number of horses roaming the fields around and the first wine of the day was purchased! Then onto De Wetshof for a fantastic Sauvignon Blanc that was right up my street and more wine to buy – this time their De Wetshof Mine D Or – a Rhine Riesling. Such a stunning setting for a tasting room!

Next we dropped into Bon Courage, which was very busy but the tasting room staff seemed to be everywhere at once and always knew when our tasting glasses were in need of the next wine. We hoped to have lunch at Viljoensdrift on their riverboat cruise, but unfortunately many others had the same idea – book in advance or get there early! – so we settled for the tasting room and I explored their cute shop Ways.

Next up was my favourite – how now I wished I was not the driver! – Springfield. Here I had to battle Lucas’ urge to buy several bottles of all their wines! After all, we only live 90 minutes away, we can go again. Again, their white wines (especially the Special Cuvée, a sauvignon blanc) won me over, and Lucas added their Methode Ancienne – a cabernet sauvignon – and the Work of Time – a Bordeaux blend – to our collection!

Finally, we thought six estates was a good number, we stopped at Major’s Hill wine estate – yet another wonderful member of staff and the wine tasters were happy and we added a Port to our stash – thanks Riaan.

In the afternoon, we explored Montagu abit more, its a cute little town with some lovely old buildings and a nice atmosphere – enhanced by us stumbling across Montagu’s Premier Beer Festival at The Mystic Tin & Karoobrew[ery]. A stroll through the village will introduce you to its fascinating architecture and historic buildings - there are 14 National Monuments in Long Street alone. The Museum showcases local history and a medicinal herb garden, and there is a profusion of local flora and bird life in the Nature Garden. There are also many scenic walks, nature trails and mountain hikes in and around Montagu and for the more energetic, Montagu is a rock climber's paradise and offers some of the best rock climbing in South Africa.

Dinner was enjoyed at "Ye Olde Tavern on Church" – set in an old historical house on Church Street and described as a casual and friendly place, I think does not do it justice, once again the friendly staff and service was amazing and we had a great meal and fantastic value. But again, I would recommend booking in advance in season.

On Sunday, we woke to the most quiet Sunday morning I can remember! Tummys were rumbling again so off to Cafe Fresh for a scrummy omelette and a never-ending pot of tea, and then the dried fruit and nut farm stall to stock up on goodies. A great relaxed weekend away and lots of nice bits and bobs purchased to stock the cupboards and wine rack! If you want to chill, I can highly recommend Montagu as a great base and explore the area. Different again from Stellenbosch & Franschhoek for the sights, and the tasting rooms all offer something different again and in my experience, the service and friendliness of everyone we met was amazing!

Thank you Montagu and thank you Riaan and The Full Monty-gu for a great place to visit!

Moreson launches a new range of wine - Miss Molly

2009-12-03T21:48:00.003+02:00

Moreson wine estate in Franschhoek has added a new range to their offering!

Miss Molly consists of two easy drinking white wines (a Chenin Blanc and a Sauvignon Blanc) and one red wine (a Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot blend).

Miss Molly, the Môreson Weimaraner, is such a huge presence in Moreson lives that they felt she deserved her own range of wines. Her larger than life personality, her unique quirks and her naughty nature ensure that she is a love magnet.

When food goes missing, from the kitchen, or the farm starts to look like it's being remodelled by a landscaper - with a love of meter-deep holes - you can be sure that Miss Molly is somehow involved.

All the Miss Molly wines have been designed to capture the fun, and good-natured naughtiness, that Moreson believe makes Miss Molly so incredibly easy to love.

Presently the Miss Molly range of wines consists of Hoity Toity Chenin Blanc, Kitchen Thief Sauvignon Blanc and In My Bed Cabernet Merlot.

* Miss Molly wines proudly supports the South African Guide-Dogs Association by donating a portion of each bottle sold to this association.

Its time for the Franschhoek Champagne Festival again!! 4 - 6th December

2009-12-01T11:35:00.002+02:00

In Franschhoek we believe life is about experiences and the best experiences are the ones involving the ‘magic of bubbles’. It’s for this reason that wewill be hosting the third annual Franschhoek Cap Classique and Champagne Festival. Where the finest South African Cap Classique and French Champagne flows for an entire weekend.

Spend the Champagne festival weekend popping corks, filling flutes, sipping vivacious bubbly and snacking on delicacies prepared by some of the valley’s gourmet masterminds.

FRIDAY 4TH DECEMBER 18H00 - 22H00 - Join us for a cocktail event under the stars!

The imported bubbly brands represented at the Festival will be Billecart Salmon, Joseph Perrier, and Laurent Perrier, while local brands are Avondale, Bon Courage, Boschendal, Bramon, Cape Chamonix, Colmant, Dieu Donne, Du Preez, Genevieve Mcc, Graham Beck, Groote Post, JC le Roux, Krone, Hout Bay Vineyards, Kumkani, La Motte, L’Avenir, Morena, Morgenhof, Nitida, Pierre Jourdan, Seidelberg, Silverthorn, Simonsig, Steenberg, Topiary, Villiera, Weltevrede and Woolworths.

Not only will the visitors taste the best of bubbly, but they will also be able to taste delicacies of the Franschhoek restaurants, which include Cafe Allee Bleue, Dieu Donne, Haute Cabriere, La Petite Ferme, Le Franschhoek, L’Ermitage, Mange Toute, Monneaux, Grande Provence, and Salmon Bar.

Tickets cost R180 for a tasting glass and 10 tasting coupons, and can be booked at www.webtickets.co.za. The dress code for the Festival is ‘white with a touch of black’. The Festival runs from 18h00 - 22h00 on 4 December, and from 12h00 - 18h00 on 5 and 6 December.

Digital Guide to the Cape Winelands Available for your Mobile Phone

2009-11-29T10:15:00.002+02:00

Turn Left at the Barrel is an interactive guide to the Cape Winelands for mobile phones. Use it to plan a trip to the winelands or find nearby wine estates. View details on each estate, along-side wines recommended and rated by local wine experts. A wide variety of tours, catering for all interests is recommended for exploration. Integration with the phone's GPS provide useful turn-by-turn directions and maps to all destinations.

This comprehensive guide comprises estate details, wine ratings by local experts and the best tour recommendations selected from over 600 cape estates. Integration of the mobile phone's GPS with Google Maps guide users to each way-point, with turn-by-turn directions and visual maps.

Even for a local, the winelands can be a confusing place for a day-trip - so much to choose from! Understanding the attractions of each estate, choosing which ones to visit, determining when they are open, and then getting there is difficult enough. Let alone deciding which foods and wines to try. Now imagine being a tourist in 2010, with limited knowledge of South African estates, wines and roadways.

The Barrel covers all 15 of South Africa's wine producing regions, from Darling, through the Overberg, right down to Cape A'ghulus, comprising over 600 wine estates, producing over 6 000 wines. However, the focus is not just on wines, with 19 recommended tours on interests ranging from Art, Chocolate, Family-friendly and even Green estate tours.

An expert-rated wine is listed along-side descriptions of each estate. Important contacts details like phone numbers, email- and web- addresses are readily available with estate opening times and embedded are clever features like click-to-call, click-to-email and click-to-browse.

For additional information on the release of Turn Left at the Barrel (or for a sample copy), contact Neill Adamson or visit http://thegiraffe.co.za. The Barrel is in beta testing on Nokia touch-enabled phones. Apple iPhone, Blackberry and Android version will be available in early 2010. Versions for additional countries will be published later in 2010.

The NEW Restaurant at Jordan - now open!

2009-11-26T16:26:00.002+02:00

Highly acclaimed chef George Jardine and award winning winemakers Gary and Kathy Jordan have joined forces to open a new restaurant in the grounds of Jordan Wine Estate in Stellenbosch.

The partnership brings together the Jordans, owners of one of the country's best known and respected wineries, with former South African Chef of the Year Jardine.

The new restaurant, which will be called The Restaurant at Jordan, will be located next to the estate's tasting room in a former tobacco curing house and seat up to 80 guests, either indoors or outside on the patio.

George Jardine's menu will focus on local and seasonal ingredients sourced from South Africa's best suppliers and producers using relationships he has built up over many years. These include The Magic Man, Buffalo Ridge Mozzerella, Kimililli Pigs and Wild Peacock. The restaurant will also house a selection of the finest seasonal South African cheeses in a walk-in cheese room.

Vintages from Jordan Wine Estate will form the cornerstone of the restaurant's wine list. The Restaurant at Jordan will also stock vertical vintages of Jordan Wine Estate's Cape Winemakers Guild offerings, along with choice wines from neighbouring wineries in Stellenbosch and those visible from the estate, such as Le Riche - they can see all the way to Constantia!!!! Gary and Kathy will also source a selection of leading Bordeaux and Burgundies from close contacts in the French winemaking community.

"George is quite rightly recognised as one of the finest chefs in South Africa, and we are delighted to be working with him and his wife Louise on such an exciting project.

Lunch: Opening Hours 12h00 - 15h00
Tuesday to Sunday from December to March
Wednesday to Sunday from April to November
Dinner: Thursday and Friday nights only

The 2010 World Cup gets closer..... 32 teams, concerts, expo's and more!

2009-11-26T16:05:00.003+02:00

The 32 teams that have qualified for the 2010 World Cup are: Portugal, France, Slovenia, Greece, Algeria, Uruguay, Japan, the Netherlands, North Korea, Australia, South Korea, the USA, Brazil, Ghana, England, Paraguay, Spain, Denmark, Ivory Coast, Chile, Germany, Italy, Mexico, Serbia, Argentina, Switzerland, Honduras, Slovakia, Nigeria, Cameroon, New Zealand and South Africa.

The new Cape Town Stadium has been completed and handed over by the building contractors to the City of Cape Town, reports the Cape Argus. The R 4,5 billion stadium has had all its seats installed, the grass pitch has been grown from seeds planted 3 weeks ago, the outer facade has been re-cleaned and painted after the storms earlier this month dirtied some of the exterior, and the signage erected, all in time for the roof-wetting party.

The stadium allows spectators a good view onto the pitch. Spectators will not be more than 190 meters away from the soccer action. Two special VIP boxes are contained in the stadium - one for FIFA President Sepp Blatter, and the other one is speculated to be for President Jacob Zuma. Three events will be held at the Cape Town Stadium in the first half of next year, to test it before the 2010 World Cup.

Despite sales of 650 000 World Cup tickets in total to date, few of them have been sold to African soccer fans, with the exception of those in South Africa, report the Cape Times and Cape Argus. South Africans (350 000) have bought just more than half of all the World Cup tickets, followed by soccer fans from the USA (86 000), the UK (50 000), and Germany (25 000). Addressing Parliament earlier this month, World Cup Local Organising Committee CEO Danny Jordaan speculated that soccer fans from Africa were waiting for their teams to qualify before they bought tickets.

During the 2010 World Cup, the Global Icons Expo-Tainment Experience will take place at the Cape Town International Convention Centre, for the duration of the World Cup, reports Southern African Tourism Update. The expo sees 24 countries exhibiting, a different country every day, reflecting that country’s “sights, sounds and flavours in one global village.

The company that organised Live Aid 1985 and Live Earth 2007 has been appointed by FIFA to organise a rock concert in the Orlando Stadium on the day before the start of the 2010 World Cup, i.e. on 10 June. Emmy Award-winning producer Kevin Wall and his company Control Room will produce the Official Kick-Off Celebration Concert, a 3-hour event featuring major international and African pop stars, together with special appearances by past and present football stars. The show will be broadcast around the world, and is expected to be the biggest entertainment event ever to be hosted in Africa. All proceeds after expenses will go to the FIFA 2010 World Cup “20 centers for 2010″ campaign. No details have been announced as to the stars that have been invited to perform. The concert organizer wants the concert to be an African music concert in the first instance. Beyonce, Jay-Z, and the Black Eyed Peas are some of the stars that will be invited.

The Western Cape province and the BBC have signed a deal, which allows the BBC to set up its broadcasting headquarters on top of the Somerset Hospital close to the new Cape Town stadium, and adjacent to the V & A Waterfront, reports the Cape Times. A special glass top roof will be constructed on top of the hospital building, allowing the BBC to broadcast the 2010 World Cup from Cape Town with a view of Table Mountain, and of the Cape Town Stadium. Soccer star Gary Lineker will be the BBC’s host for the soccer event. The studio will not interfere with the operation of the hospital.

2009 Prudential Eat Out Restaurant Awards - South Africa's Top 10!

2009-11-23T16:03:00.004+02:00

Five local restaurants claimed honours at the 2009 Prudential Eat Out Restaurant Awards, and eight of the Top 10 are in the Western Cape!!

The Top 10 SA Restaurants are below, but include just some of the fantastic restaurants to visit in the Cape Winelands:

La Colombe, Constantia Uitsig, Cape Town
Luke Dale-Roberts was appointed as executive chef of La Colombe in November 2006 and has since made his mark at this award-winning restaurant by adding exciting new Asian influences to the mix of classic and contemporary French Cuisine.
Restaurant Mosaic at at the Orient, Pretoria
Rust en Vrede Restaurant, Stellenbosch
The original cellar, a National Monument, has been converted with the kitchen placed “front and centre”, thus creating an ambiance that is relaxed but vibey. Also available is a proprietor / winemaker table in a private area between or cellars which can accommodate a maximum of 8 people.
Terrior Restaurant, Klein Zalze Wine Estate, Stellenbosch
The setting, under historic oak trees with views over the De Zalze golf course and surrounding gardens and vineyards, is both refined and relaxed. It’s the perfect environment in which to enjoy a fine meal matched to excellent wines.
The Roundhouse, Cape Town
Since its establishment in 1756, the heritage of the Roundhouse has been a large part of South African history. With panoramic views that rival some of the best in the world, the Roundhouse also wants to do that with its food, wines and service.
The Restaurant at Grand Provence Wine Estate, Franschhoek
Steel joinery, galvanised metals and skylights distinguish this design approach. Grande Provence is an estate of senses, providing guests with a full working farm experience, with spaces to be used and spaces to be admired. The 5-star Grande Provence Heritage Wine Estate, Franschhoek, is known locally and internationally for its superb boutique accommodation and culinary achievements.
The Greenhouse at the Cellars-Hohenort, Cape Town
This stylish restaurant, situated adjacent to the historic cellar, and carefully built around a giant 300-year-old oak, offers unparalleled garden vistas, whether you opt for the airy indoors or the sun-drenched terrace.
Roots at the Forum Homini Boutique Hotel, Johannesberg
9th Avenue Bistro, Morningside, KZN
Joint awards for the Tasting Room at Le Quartier Français & Overture
Overture Restaurant, Hidden Valley Estate, Stellenbosch
The restaurant is set on a glorious wine farm, Hidden Valley, which produces a range of exceptional wines. The farm offers extraordinary views of Table Mountain, Stellenbosch valley and Robben Island on a clear day.
The Tasting Room at La Quartier Francais, Franschhoek
The serious business of fine dining at Le Quartier has been set apart and defined by The Tasting Room. Guests can choose a four, six or eight course dining experience from a constantly evolving menu.

Another 5 Star Rating for De Toren

2009-11-18T20:51:00.002+02:00

The 2006 Vintage of De Toren Fusion V received the sought after accolade of 5 stars from the John Platter Wine Guide and what a fitting way to celebrate 10 years of making wine.

Following straight in the footsteps of the 2006 vintage, the 2007 vintage made it to the John Platter short list for 5 stars again, but did not crack it. Even more important though Decanter Magazine in their January 2010 edition thought the 2007 vintage was also worthy of 5 stars. This is also the second 5 star rating for De Toren in Decanter Magazine.

The last wine to achieve this rating was the 2002 vintage of De Toren Fusion V. De Toren usually do not submit their wines for review by Decanter, but Albie Koch attended the WOSA Mega Tasting in London recently where John Cullimore of Decanter tasted the wine and requested it to be presented to Decanter.

Read the review on South African Wines in the January 2010 edition of Decanter Magazine.

This is the first rating that came in for the 2007 vintage which was released only on 1 November 2009..

Fusion V is the crown of the De Toren Cellar's labour - a tasting sensation and ageing jewel!

Fusion V is named such because it is a blend of the only the best of the five red Bordeaux variatals that the farm produces. Made up of all of the classic varieties - Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot - the final assemblage is created by a panel that includes wine makers, sommeliers and enthusiasts, and the result is a wine that is judged of the highest quality by a range of tasters even before it is released.

The De Toren wines are still on strict allocation and there will be even less wine available in the trade. They still have some stock on the farm. Click Here to order

Champagne - French or English???

2009-11-12T12:30:00.002+02:00

There are few thing as quintessentially French as a glass of Champagne. Champagne is, of course a region of France with a long tradition of wine making however it may have been the English who first turned a mediocre country wine into the luscious drink celebrated around the world.

In order to become a sparkling wine Champagne goes through a double fermentation process. First the grapes are picked off the vine and pressed then it is taken to the winemaker’s maison where it will ferment for some two years. Fermentation is slowed down during the cold winter months, a process which these days is controlled by air-conditioning.

Back in the 17th Century it was this flat wine that got shipped to England in barrels where it was extremely popular. It was during the bottling process that the English discovered that the wine had continued to ferment and become fizzy. This is because the gas given off by the fermentation dissolved into the wine.

The English found that they liked this sparkling version more than the flat one. To help the wine along they added sugar, moalasses and a little yeast then over the course of two years the wine gained strength, character and its fizz to become the vivacious bubbly wine that we know and love.

Eventually the French adopted the English method and Champagne, as we know it, today was born around 1700. And when they did finally get round to making it themselves their first customers were of course the English.

According to the French encyclopaedia Quid Champagne was invented by a French Benedictine monk named Dom Perignon in 1688. However, wine writer Tom Stevenson in A World Encyclopaedia of Champagne and Sparkling Wine reproduces an English recipe for the production of champagne dating back to 1662 by Christopher Merrit and presented to the Royal Society in London.

Now that’s worth toasting!!

Drostdy- Hof Country Christmas market at Tulbagh's stately De Oude Drostdy

2009-11-10T13:58:00.002+02:00

Avoid the manic mall rush this year and kick off your festive season shopping spree at Drostdy-Hof's annual Christmas market and Country Day to be held at the historic De Oude Drostdy in scenic Tulbagh on Saturday, 28 November.

Enjoy a relaxing day in the country just over an hour's drive from Cape Town and join the locals and visiting revellers as they fill up their Christmas stockings with homemade goodies including everything from confectionery and biltong to kids' toys and jewellery.

Land van Waveren Art School will be exhibiting some of their work while a jumping castle will absorb the boundless energy of your kids and give you a chance to enjoy a relaxing glass of Drostdy-Hof wine under the umbrellas.

De Oude Drostdy is home to quality, palate friendly Drostdy-Hof wines with their rich heritage and pocket friendly appeal. Enjoy this perfect everyday summer sip while listening to the laid back music. You will be able to taste and buy Drostdy-Hof wines on the day.

The Christmas Market is open from 10h00 - 15h00. For further information contact De Oude Drostdy on (023) 230-0203 or fax (023) 230-0211.

Eagle's Nest Shiraz wins Best Shiraz 2009 in the IWSC!

2009-10-28T19:33:00.005+02:00

EAGLES’ Nest, a boutique vineyard in Constantia, has won the International Wine & Spirit Competition’s (IWSC’s) International Trophy for the Best Shiraz in this year’s competition with their Shiraz 2007!

Only two other South African wine estates have received this award: Boland Kelder in 2001 and 2003, and Nederburg in 2007. Says Leaver: “Both previous South African winners are from well-established estates, the 2007 Eagles’ Nest Shiraz is, however, only our vineyard’s second release.”

Andrew Leaver, commercial manager of Eagles’ Nest, says: “We are delighted with this international acclaim. This is probably the most respected competition on the international stage. The finest wines from every wine region in the world enter, making the winner, essentially, the best example of its cultivar in the world.”

Consulting winemaker to Eagles’ Nest, Martin Meinert, who won Winemaker of the Year at the Investec Private Bank Winemakers Choice Awards with this Shiraz, says: “I am exceptionally proud of this wine. To my knowledge, it is unprecedented that a small estate can win such international acclaim with its second release.”

Eagles’ Nest vineyards were established after a 2000 fire that destroyed the fynbos and natural vegetation on the farm, as well as 95% of the forestation, and the owners, the Mylrea family, decided to shift their focus to wine. In the 1600s the farm had formed part of Simon van der Stel’s Groote Constantia that produced wine for the nobility in Europe. According to resident winemaker Stuart Botha, although the Constantia wine region is well known for its white wines, Eagles’ Nest has a unique terroir within the valley as it is situated on the highest slope in the Constantia Valley, making it more suitable to reds. “We are concentrating on three cultivars, our prize- winning Shiraz; Merlot which is award-winning in its own right with four stars in the Platter Guide, and ironically the cultivar our customers often prefer; and one white, our Viognier, which also won a Silver-Best in Class award at this year’s IWSC.”

Google to launch Street View in South Africa!

2009-10-15T15:58:00.002+02:00

Google has officially announced that it will launch a South African version of its popular Street View service. Google have already started work – we have spotted them on the streets of Stellenbosch!

Google, using Toyota Prius models, will be driving around the country to take photographs of various locations – including Johannesburg, Cape Town, Pretoria, Port Elizabeth and Durban.

Street View is a popular feature of Google Maps that is already available in more than 100 metropolitan areas around the world. It allows users to explore and navigate a neighbourhood virtually through panoramic street-level images.

The SA Street View images will also be available in Google Earth and on Google Maps for Mobile. Images collected by the cars will be processed and carefully stitched together, a technological process that can take several months. They will be made available at a later date in Street View on Google Maps for South Africa.

In areas where Street View is available, users will be able to access street-level imagery by zooming into the lowest level on Google Maps, or by dragging the orange “Pegman” icon on the left-hand side of the map onto a blue highlighted street.

Google says the service will be available in time for tourists

visiting the country for the 2010 World Cup, which of course kicks off in June next year.

Green Point Stadium in Cape Town to be finished by December 2009!

2009-10-06T13:23:00.002+02:00

The image of Cape Town is uniquely characterised by the interaction of Table Mountain and Signal Hill - a soft, hilly landscape, and the surrounding Atlantic Ocean. Green Point Stadium sits at the foot of Signal Hill. The exterior shell of the stadium was designed as an abstract, linearly arranged membrane construction.

Cape Town's new Green Point Stadium is well on schedule for the handover of the stadium to the City of Cape Town on 14 December 2009. The glass roof of the new Cape Town Stadium will be completed and sealed, and the fabric membrane underneath fully installed by 15 October 2009.

With less than three months to the deadline for completion of the stadium, contractors are busy with the final touches to what many visitors and journalists believe will be one of the finest stadia in the world. Cape Town will host eight World Cup matches at the stadium, most of them at night, including one semi-final.

All the concrete work is complete, and the focus is now on commissioning cabling, IT infrastructure and electricity connections. Closed circuit television cameras, used to monitor crime and crowd behaviour, are still to be installed.The main work still to be appears to be the surrounding areas - car parks etc.

Construction of the steel support columns for the exterior fabric façade of the stadium is 70% complete, and the fabric will be attached as weather permits. The outer 'skin' - which will give a warm glow to the light emanating from the stadium - is scheduled for completion by the end of November 2009.

Work is also underway on the internal architectural finishes such as painting, ceilings, doors and locks. Most of the inside equipment has been installed on five of the six levels.

Over a quarter of the 68,000 seats have been installed, and the multi-layered foundations are being laid for the pitch. Temporary seating to raise capacity from 55,000 to 68,000 for the World Cup will be installed early in 2010.

Two pitches have been prepared in Stellenbosch, one of which will be held in reserve. The grass pitch is due to be laid in October!!!

Things you might not know about the new Green point Stadium:

There are 7,4 kilometres of steel cabling in the stadium roof
The glass covers 37 000 square metres and there are about 9 000 pieces of glass
The roof weighs 4 500 tons
Under the stadium are police holding cells, a large media centre, a drop-off zone for players and VIPs, practise and warming-up areas and lifts to the upper levels.

Cape Winemakers Guild defies recession with record turnout and highest ever auction sales

2009-10-05T19:37:00.002+02:00

Records tumbled at the 25th Nedbank Cape Winemakers Guild auction held in the Stellenbosch winelands over the weekend, when a record number of buyers spent over R5,2 million rand on the 2009 lineup of wines made exclusively for the auction by members of the Guild.

Bidding was brisk and the wines fetched unexpected high prices right from the onset culminating in a record turnover of R5,204 400. This represents an increase of over 5% on last year despite the global recession and a 10% reduction in the quantity of wine that went under the hammer this year.

A commemorative 12-litre bottle to celebrate South Africa's 350 years of winemaking - a singular blend crafted by Guild members whose cumulative experience in winemaking spans 350 years - raised R22 000 in the charity auction in aid of the Nedbank CWG Development Trust. The bottle was purchased by Neil and Sue Proudfoot of Wine Concepts on Kloof. The total raised on the silent auction was R91 600. Founded in 1999, the Development Trust assists with education, training and empowerment of young people from previously disadvantaged wine farming communities and includes the Guild's Protege Programme, a mentorship scheme for young, upcoming winemakers.

The highest price fetched for a case of wine (equivalent of 6 X 750ml bottles) was R5 200 for Peter Finlayson's Bouchard Finlayson Unfiltered Pinot Noir 2007(1,5 litre bottles), followed closely at R5 100 by Louis Strydom's Engelbrecht Els CWG 2007 and Marc Kent's Boekenhoutskloof Syrah Auction Reserve 2007, a new vintage of last year's record holder.

The highest priced white wine was Adi Badenhorst's Badenhorst Family Wines Kalmoesfontein Semillon Noble Late Harvest 2008 (375ml bottles) which fetched R4 600.

Of the 159 buyers - the most ever to bid at the auction and 59% more than last year - the vast majority, 84%, were local buyers who spent a total of R4, 396 400. Foreign buyers made up the remaining sales totalling R808 000. Alan Pick of The Butcher Shop and Grill triumphed for the 8th consecutive year as the biggest spender at R1, 056 200. Only one overseas buyer made the top ten list which this year included four newcomers to the auction. The biggest overseas buyers came from Belgium, the United Kingdom, Hong Kong and Denmark.

For more information, click here...

The world's Top Red Varietal is South Africa's Pinotage

2009-09-23T19:35:00.003+02:00

The 2009 'Decanter' World Wine Awards this year attracted 10,285 entries, cementing it as the world's biggest wine competition. The results were announced during the first week of September, and the International Trophy for Top Red Single Varietal over £10 was awarded to the Kaapzicht Steytler Pinotage 2006.

It is an historical moment for the South African wine industry as this country's homegrown red wine cultivar Pinotage delivered the wine that was chosen as the best single varietal red wine out of all the wines entered from all over the world. It also happened at a very appropriate time, as the very first award ever received by a Pinotage wine was exactly 50 years ago, when the Pinotage from Bellevue Estate received the Genl. Smuts trophy as the best young wine in South Africa.

Kaapzicht Estate in the Bottelary Hills is owned by the Steytler family and has now repeated a historical breakthrough for Pinotage. At the 2004 International Wine and Spirits Competition (IWSC) in London, the Kaapzicht Steytler Vision 2001 became the first so-called Cape Blend (a blend containing Pinotage, in this case 40%), to be chosen as the overall best red blend in the world. More than 30 wine producing countries participated at the 2004 IWSC.

The grapes for that blend and the Kaapzicht Steytler Pinotage 2006 that won the 2009 Decanter World Wine Award came from the same bush vines on Kaapzicht Estate, on the northwest facing slopes of the Bottelary Hills. The Kaapzicht Steytler Vision 2006 also received gold at this year's Decanter Awards, containing 35% of the same Pinotage.

"Bottelary Hills is a prime winegrowing terroir for red wine. The northwestern slopes have the perfect combination of direct sunlight and cool prevailing sea breezes from False Bay and Atlantic Ocean. The hills on our estate are situated only 20 km from the coast of False Bay. The medium potential soils and dry land vineyards produce low yields of 4 to 8 tons per hectare, thus creating small berries with concentrated flavours," says Danie Steytler, cellarmaster and co-owner of Kaapzicht Estate.

"Pinotage is a very versatile red wine variety and the Kaapzicht Steytler Pinotage from those vineyards is a shining example of the serious, well-oaked, full-bodied style to be enjoyed with food, especially venison, red meat, traditional South African dishes and cheeses."

Cape Wine Master Elsie Pels describes the wine as a Pinotage with deep layers of rich black fruit, mulberry and spiced plums supported by beautifully integrated flavours. "Harmonious, powdery tannins give definition to the multi-layered fruit; richly textured, yet elegant with balance to age beautifully."

The Kaapzicht Steytler Pinotage 2006 was matured in new French oak barrels for 24 months and the grand result in the bottle became history for South Africa's Pinotage, being chosen as the world's top single varietal wine at the world's biggest wine competition.

Other awards won include:
2009 International Wine Competition: UK - Silver Medal
2009 Premium Select Wine Challenge: Germany - Gold Medal, 4 stars
Veritas 2008 - Gold

Woman WInemaker of the Year - Ntsiki Biyela from Stellenbosch

2009-09-03T21:00:00.001+02:00

Ntsiki Biyela form Stellekaya in Stellenbosch has been crowned SA Woman Winemaker of the Year 2009. Ntsiki beat 64 wine entries, from 28 woman winemakers across South Africa in this year's competition, which is sponsored by Landbouweekblad, the country's leading agriculture and agri-business publication. The competition took place for the sixth time this year. After the top wines are selected through a blind tasting, a choice panel of judges interviewed the six finalists. The winner is judged according to her overall personality, her view of the wine industry and her career goals.

Nontsikelelo, or Ntsiki as she is fondly known, was born and raised in Kwa-Zulu Natal. She matriculated from Mahlabathini High School in 1996 where she excelled in science. She had high hopes to study engineering, but had no money to study full time. Not detoured and determined to save money to pay for her studies, she started off working as a domestic worker. Coincidently her uncle introduced her to winemaker Jabulani Ntshangase, and he assisted Ntsiki to apply for a SAA scholarship, and she was chosen as one of ten black students to pursue a bursary program to study winemaking at Stellenbosch.

In 2003 Ntsiki graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Agriculture, specialising in Viticulture and Oenology, at the University of Stellenbosch. Ntsiki started working at Stellekaya in 2004, and also boasts a vintage in Bordeaux, as well as extensive travels abroad for wine promotions. She is fluent wine enjoyment across cultures and language barriers.in Zulu, English, Afrikaans and Xhosa, and is determined to spread the magic of

Ntsiki wowed the judges with her 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon. When asked when she knew winemaking was her career of choice, she said: "I grew up in Zululand, so wine was not exactly part of my culture. Studying at Stellenbosch, and being exposed to wine regularly, I could not help falling in love with wine and the winemaking process. It all started to make sense to me when I did some practical work, including tastings at Delheim. I then just knew that I was hooked. Although a technical career, winemaking has an artistic side. I could never become bored of it, every vintage is different."

Besides making the wine at Stellekaya, Ntsiki is also responsible for selecting individual vineyards and growers in Stellenbosch and ensures that each grower crops and hand picks the grapes to her exact standards. "Being involved from the beginning, and selecting the perfect grapes for a particular wine, deciding on oak treatment, and all the other elements to ensure we create a product worthy of the Stellekaya brand, forces me to think of every wine that I make as one of my children and it is my job to raise and guide that child, before I can let it go out to conquer the world. As one of the first black woman winemakers in South Africa, I want to be remembered for my wines and not me as a person, but I do not mind being a role model for other people. I want to communicate that with hard work and determination you can achieve anything."

According to Marilyn Cooper, head of the Cape Wine Academy and president of the judging panel, Ntsiki sparkled. "Not only did she impress us with her well made Cabernet Sauvignon, but she is confident and passionate about the wine industry, eager to share her knowledge and passion with others. She's not only an inspiration for future woman winemakers, but anyone who is considering winemaking as a career."

The pleasure of drinking Pinotage!

2009-09-01T09:43:00.002+02:00

Someone once said to me.....

The most important reason to drink Pinotage is because it is enjoyable. Another is that it is red.

Somebody once said that the first duty of wine is to be red. That it has health benefits when consumed in moderation is a bonus. Study after study has shown that the moderate consumption of red wine could be beneficial to your health. Red wine contains high concentrations of resveratol, an anti-oxidant that shows abilities to reduce the risk of cancer and heart disease.

And why Pinotage rather than other red wines? Because it is different, because it is uniquely South African, because it allows you to strike a blow against the tyranny of the conventional.

Click here to read about this years Top 10 Pinotages!

WineX Festival, Cape Town : 9 - 11 September 2009

2009-08-31T15:23:00.003+02:00

This year will see the seventh RMB WineX Wine Festival in Cape Town, and with it a celebration of the growth and consolidation of the Southern Hemisphere’s largest consumer wine show.

Expected to attract over 8500 wine aficionados who will have the opportunity of tasting nearly 1 000 wines from close to 150 South African and international producers, WineX – a celebration of the wonders of wine - is sponsored by Rand Merchant Bank together with associate sponsors British Airways (operating as Comair Limited), The Weekender and RMB Private Bank.

In South Africa’s rapidly evolving wine market, shows such as RMB WineX have become the single most important bridge builder between the producer and the consumer. Bringing together both large and small producers, RMB WineX showcases some of the country’s finest, amongst these are Elgin Vintners, Groot Constantia, Jordan Wine Estate, The House of Krone - Twee Jonge Gezellen and Vergelegen.

Meet the winemakers, taste their current releases, and learn about the latest trends in winemaking. In addition, handcrafted cheese, olives and olive products, imported and local wine accessories and glassware will be showcased and available for purchase.

RMB WineX is a unique wine show in that the public participates in the Best-Wine-on-Show poll, voting for their favourite reds and whites - a great diversity of wines being evident annually, along with lesser known varietals such as Sangiovese and Barbera, rare wines from boutique cellars and organic producers.

Once again visitors will be able to buy wines via the Shop@Show facility. Picardi Rebel, the WineX-appointed retailer, will be offering exceptional prices and delivery to your door.

This year there will also be the “Discover Wine” theatre hosted by Under the Influence, with sessions running from 17h30 until 19h30, hosting different themes throughout the evening. Bookings are essential as space is limited.

Prices:
Early Bird: R75 (available from 1 August to 6 September)
Special two day pass for Wednesday and Thursday nights: R140 (available from 1 August to 6 September)
Thereafter, and at the door: R90 (Wednesday and Thursday) and R95 (Friday)

Simonsig succeeds with twosome on the 2009 CWG Auction hotlist!

2009-08-20T23:12:00.000+02:00

Simonsig winemaker Johan Malan, has landed a double act at the 2009 Nedbank Cape Winemakers Guild Auction, with two of his red wines making it onto this year’s hotlist – a Pinotage and a Shiraz.

His remarkable duo, specially crafted for this year’s repertoire of rare auction wines to go under the hammer on 3 October this year, includes the elegant Simonsig Auction Reserve Pinotage 2007, which stems from a humble, twelve year old bush vine vineyard.

“This wine proves that looks can be deceiving, because what the vineyard lacks in appearance, its shale soil and excellent fruit quality certainly made up for it in the bottle,” shares Johan, current Chairman and one of the longest serving members of the Cape Winemakers Guild.

The full-bodied Simonsig Auction Reserve Pinotage 2007 was matured in new French (77%) and American oak for 25 months. It lends itself to exceptional ageing potential with the wood influence subtle yet supportive, respecting the complex plum and sour cherry Pinotage flavours, intertwined with smooth, ripe tannins. Dark black berry fruit infused with perfumed vanilla pod aromas add finesse to this boldly structured wine from an outstanding vintage.

The second 2009 auction wine is the Simonsig Auction Reserve Shiraz 2007 crafted from a low yielding vineyard on deep red soil which produced super ripe grapes. Viognier skins were added during fermentation and the wines spent 25 days with skin contact after which it was oak matured in a single new Francois Freres Nevers barrel for 26 months. The Simonsig Auction Reserve Shiraz 2007 exudes juicy ripe mulberries and spicy cinnamon on the nose whilst hints of white pepper aromas, layered with a cedary oak influence, coax the palate.

“Beautifully concentrated fruit in a framework of fine grained tannins, culminating in a long silky Shiraz finish,” is how Johan describes this red. The Simonsig Auction Reserve Pinotage 2007 and Simonsig Auction Reserve Shiraz 2007 are part of a collection of 41 rare and exclusive wines available in limited quantities only and can be purchased at the 25th Nedbank CWG Auction at Spier Conference Centre on Saturday, 3 October 2009.

Wine enthusiasts can taste this formidable pair along with the rest of the auction wines at the 2009 Nedbank Cape Winemakers Guild Auction Showcase to be held at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) at 18h00 on Thursday, 20 August and at the Atrium, Nedbank Sandton at 18h30 on Thursday, 27 August.

All auction wines are meticulously crafted to represent the pinnacle of what can be achieved in South African winemaking – the ethos behind the Cape Winemakers Guild. Tickets cost R100 per person inclusive of a tasting glass. For bookings visit www.capewinemakersguild.com, email bookings@capewinemakersguild.com or phone 021 852 0408.