Federica and Vittoria, a dynamic mother-daughter duo, are proudly carrying forward their family's legacy of excellence in winemaking and olive oil production. Building on the foundations laid by their late father and grandfather, they're driven by a shared passion to innovate and propel their farm into a bright new era, while honoring its rich heritage.

The Tasting Room at Morgenster Estate

Open to the public Monday to Sunday, the Tasting Room offers a bespoke tasting menu, which caters to all palates. The prices for the tastings range from R85 to R135 per person and includes The Giulio Range or The Bordeaux Style ranges within the estate’s niche portfolio. These tastings allow for a tailor-made wine experience as you pick and choose the range you would like to treat your tastebuds to.

The contemporary setting of the Tasting Room is an inviting venue to enjoy a lazy afternoon with friends, sipping on superb wines whilst enjoying each other’s company. The breathtaking views of the Helderberg mountain range and all that nature has to offer add the final touches to an unforgettable winelands outing.

Over the Easter weekend, the Tasting Room will offer a fun kids’ experience, which includes colouring in an Easter egg and a delicious mini platter. For more information email tastingroom@morgenster.co.za or phone 021 852 1738.

The Restaurant at Morgenster Estate

For the all-round Italian experience, the restaurant, adjacently situated to the Tasting Room, pays tribute to the vibrance of Italian flavours and authentic cuisine, blending exciting additions with comforting classics you know and love. With locally sourced produce to ensure the freshest flavours, the carefully curated dishes add extra touches to the essence of Summer. Complementing the flavoursome dishes is Morgenster Estate’s range of award-winning wines.

This Easter Sunday, Italy takes centre stage with a mouth-watering menu that's sure to delight. Your culinary experience commences with a crisp glass of Vermentino and a Bruschetta al pomodoro, featuring fresh tomatoes, garlic, and basil on toasted bread.

Next up, choose from three irresistible antipasti options: a traditional Ligurian savoury pie loaded with spinach, ricotta, and eggs; succulent grilled calamari in spicy tomato sauce served with a side of focaccia; or crispy rice croquettes bursting with mozzarella and ragù.

The main course features three delicious dishes: a slow-cooked lamb shoulder infused with rosemary, paired with roasted potatoes and broccoli; a chicken roulade packed with earthy mushrooms and spinach, served with creamy leek sauce and roasted potatoes; or a comforting ricotta and spinach lasagna that's sure to become a new favourite.

Dessert includes two Italian classics: creamy tiramisu and rich dark chocolate mousse. Whichever you choose, it's the perfect way to round off a truly unforgettable Easter Sunday feast.

The cost is R700 per person for three course or R550 per person for two courses. A children’s menu, at R250 per child, is available on request.

Operating Hours

The tasting room is open Monday to Saturday from 9 to 5pm and on Sundays from 9am to 4pm.

The restaurant is open Wednesday to Saturday from 11am to 10pm and on Sundays from 11am to 6pm.

The estate will be closed on Good Friday, 18 April.

For more information or to book visit www.morgenster.co.za.

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© 2024 Herman Lintvelt - WineTourismZA

• Theuniskraal Cape Riesling: Fresh and crisp on the palate with nuances of green apple, guava and nectarines.
• Theuniskraal Sauvignon Blanc: An elegant, but crisp wine with ripe fruit on the front palate, backed by asparagus and gooseberries, with a hint of grassiness and lingering aftertaste.
• Theuniskraal Semillon/Chardonnay: A full bodied, well balanced, unwooded blend of two classic varietals. Flavours of citrus and peach are prominent in this blend with a long lingering aftertaste.
• Theuniskraal Bouquet Blanc (natural sweet): A sweet wine with a perfect balance between sweetness and acidity, keeping the wine crisp with an abundance of floral and spicy flavours.
• Theuniskraal Moscato Rosé (natural sweet): A semi- sweet wine, well balanced and with a complexity of fruity muscat flavours. A low alcohol contributes to the wine's drinkability.
• Theuniskraal Prestige: A full bodied, complex red wine with emphasis on soft tannins and lots of fruit with a hint of spiciness.
• Theuniskraal Shiraz: A full-bodied wine with hints of spice and smokiness, supported by the fruity flavours of ripe plums. Well balanced with soft tannins.
• Theuniskraal Cabernet Sauvignon: A full-bodied wine with red berry fruit and soft tannins, as well as good ageing potential.

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© 2024 Herman Lintvelt - WineTourismZA

Since its establishment in 1937, Van Loveren has built a legacy of innovation and quality, growing its premium portfolio with renowned brands such as Christina, Retief Reserve, Blaauwklippen, Zandvliet, and the newly acquired Survivor. The addition of Neil Ellis Wines not only enhances this portfolio but also unites two family-run wineries with a shared commitment to authenticity, sustainability, and excellence in winemaking.

Neil Ellis Wines, founded on the principles of sourcing exceptional grapes from carefully selected vineyard-specific sites across the Western Cape, is widely regarded for its meticulous approach to crafting wines that reflect the unique character of the land. Neil Ellis, who remains an active figure in the business, continues to collaborate with his son, Warren Ellis, and together they will lead the business into its next chapter.

Warren & Neil Ellis

“This partnership is a meeting of like-minded values,” says Neil Ellis. “Van Loveren and Neil Ellis Wines share a deep respect for heritage, family traditions, and a mutual passion for creating exceptional wines that tell a story of place.”

“Welcoming Neil Ellis to the Van Loveren family marks an exciting step forward for us,” says Phillip Retief, MD of Van Loveren. “By combining Neil Ellis’ unparalleled expertise in site-focused winemaking with our dynamic sales and distribution capabilities, strategic inputs and commercial approach we aim to amplify the global reach and reputation of premium South African wines. The growth of this exceptional brand will unlock value and build on the synergies that this investment and partnership will bring.”

The collaboration blends Van Loveren’s commitment to sustainability, salesforce and distribution network with Neil Ellis Wines’ established reputation for site-focused wines. Together, they are poised to elevate South African winemaking, crafting a legacy that showcases the country's finest vineyards and brings their exceptional wines to wine enthusiast around the globe.

For more information contact:info@vanloveren.co.za or T +27 (0)23 615 1505

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© 2024 Herman Lintvelt - WineTourismZA

From the Family Tree Collection, the Pumphouse Shiraz 2023 stands out as a bold and generous wine that delights with every sip. With rich notes of ripe plum, black cherry, mulberry and spiced fruitcake, it meets its perfect match in char-grilled lamb or hearty roasts, making it a must-have for your festive spread.

The Patriarch Cabernet Franc 2023 is the pinnacle of the collection.

Honouring the legacy of Sydney Back, the Patriarch Cabernet Franc 2023 is the pinnacle of the collection, exuding sophistication and nuanced balance. A bright ruby hue with cherry undertones sets the stage for an aromatic profile of gooseberry, dusty cedar, blackcurrant, plum and violets. With a clean, dry finish, this wine, made exclusively in exceptional vintages, pairs exquisitely with roast pork, turkey, duck and cherry sauce or rich cheeses—ideal for all December decadence.

The John Martin Bordeaux Blend 2022 completes the trio, offering a refined blend of Malbec, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc. Its flavours of stewed plum, cedar and forest berries make it the ideal companion to gammon, slow-cooked beef or the sweet indulgences that follow the feasting.

Backsberg Winemaker Alicia Rechner with the John Martin Bordeaux Blend 2022

With over 100 years of winemaking tradition and Winemaker Alicia Rechner’s 22 years of dedication at the helm, the winery continues to honour its auspicious history, while embracing modern innovation. As South Africa’s first verified carbon-neutral winery, the commitment to sustainability is evident, seamlessly blending time-honoured techniques with forward-thinking practices. Created to inspire moments of celebration, Backsberg’s wines reflect five generations of passion and an enduring commitment to excellence, making them the perfect accompaniment to the abundant toasts, shared moments of joy and family traditions of this season.

Savour slow-roasted shoulder of lamb, ideally complemented by the bold Pumphouse Shiraz.

To elevate December gatherings, Backsberg presents two delicious recipes created by renowned chef Sam Linsell, perfectly paired with the featured wines. Savour slow-roasted shoulder of lamb, ideally complemented by the bold Pumphouse Shiraz, or for those who prefer a white wine alternative, indulge in succulent roast chicken cooked with wine, herbs and garlic.

Thoughtfully crafted, these recipes aim to alleviate some seasonal stresses, allowing more time for what matters most - family, friends and exceptional wine.

Backsberg’s award-winning selections are available both online and via select retail outlets nationwide. Shop online today: www.backsberg.co.za

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© 2024 Herman Lintvelt - WineTourismZA

Issued by: POSY & JEREMY HAZELL - PR & WINE CONSULTANT5S
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“We are sincerely grateful for the expertise and input of Van Loveren over the past two and a half years. They’ve helped us to build a strong foundation for our next phase of growth, particularly in strengthening our global market presence and footprint, as we look forward to the next three hundred years for the estate,” says Charl Cronje, Chairman of Blaauwklippen Board of Directors.

Notably, Van Loveren has provided Blaauwklippen with essential support in farm management as well as the local and international distribution of Blaauwklippen's wines. Key successes achieved through this collaboration include securing listings with major retailers such as Makro and Spar, as well as significantly expanding exports to the USA, Asia, Europe, and Africa.

With this transition, Van Loveren will conclude its operational involvement in the business by 31 December 2024. Meanwhile, as Blaauwklippen takes the helm of its operations, the estate plans to draw on its enhanced capabilities to introduce new offerings, strengthen its position in the luxury wine market, and continue enriching its visitor experiences as a premier wine destination.

“We look forward to advancing our leadership position within the South African wine industry and to exploring new opportunities for growth, building upon Blaauwkilppen’s reputation for exceptional wines. Our new strategic focus will allow us to embrace change while staying true to a proud tradition of timeless craftmanship. Ultimately, we remain inspired by the past, passionate about the future, and excited about the journey that lies ahead.” Cronje adds.

This seamless transition highlights Blaauwklippen’s unwavering commitment to exceptional quality, customer satisfaction, and industry leadership. By taking full charge of its operations, Blaauwklippen is positioned to achieve even greater success locally and internationally, cementing its legacy as a cornerstone of South African winemaking.

"Inspired by the past, passionate about the future."

www.blaauwklippen.com

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© 2024 Herman Lintvelt - WineTourismZA