Waterblommetjie season in the Boland

09:55:00

A CELEBRATION OF WATERBLOMMETJIES
The annual Waterblommetjie Festival returns on Saturday 7 September.

Rhebokskloof cellar master Rolanie Lotz (left) with Windmeul Kelder winemaker Jenna Higgins.

Windmeul Kelder and Rhebokskloof Estate outside Paarl will host a fun-filled day of festivities suitable for the whole family.

The waterblommetjie (also known as Cape Pond Weed, Water Hawthorne, Vleikos, Aponogeton distachyos (Aponogetonaceae) is an indigenous delicacy that is only found in the Boland area of the Western Cape. It is only harvested for a short period each year, which makes it a sought-after ingredient. Used in heritage foods such as the traditional waterblommetjiebredie (stew), the KhoiKhoi used it for medicinal purposes and is packed with vitamins.

Waterblom pickers (left to right) Samantha September, Monique Saulse and Nichole Saulse.

CULINARY DELIGHTS

On the festival day, waterblommetjies will be featured in both the traditional and highly innovative ways. Windmeul will serve the traditional stew and fresh waterblommetjies will be available from the fresh produce vendor at the famous farmers’ market. Festival goers can also watch the experts in action during the highly competitive potjiekos competition. The Plaaskombuis will be serving breakfast and fabulous homemade stews and dishes.

Rhebokskloof Estate has pulled out all the stops with cellar master Rolanie Lotz collaboration with their chef to create some amazing offerings. Five award-winning wines are teamed up with a variety of waterblommetjie-infused dishes. From waterblommetjie teriyaki sushi to fritters, smoked snoek tarts, curried pork bon bons or braised beef spring rolls, all five tasting portions feature waterblommetjies in some way. Prepare your senses for a taste explosion, when paired with the exquisite estate wines.

Book your wine tasting and pairing slot from 09:30. There are only four sessions available and limited seats for each tasting. The tasting cost R350 per person. Visit dineplan.co.za for the slots and book now!

Potjiekos ingredients for Windmeul potjiekos competition

For a more extensive gourmet experience, a delectable four-course menu showcases this local delicacy in several novel ways. Each course has been perfectly paired with one of the exceptional estate wines. The first course features togarashi tuna with a crispy tempura-battered waterblommetjie flower for a delightful fusion of spicy and crunchy textures. This is paired with the Rhebokskloof Estate 2022 Chardonnay. The second course of braised and roasted pork belly is served with silky smooth celeriac puree, waterblommetjie ‘bubble and squeak’, topped with a zesty gooseberry chutney and is paired with the Rhebokskloof Estate 2020 Shiraz. The traditional waterblommetjie and lamb bredie (stew) makes its appearance for the third course complemented by the exquisite Rhebokskloof Estate 2020 The Rhebok. The grand finale is a dark chocolate tart with candied waterblommetjie ice cream. The Rhebokskloof Estate's Flatrock Sparkle ends the final course on a high note.

Indulge in these exquisite dishes crafted especially for the Waterblommetjie Festival. Book your table now for a culinary experience like no other. Bookings are essential. Tickets cost R550 per person. Bookings are essential. https://www.rhebokskloof.co.za/.../waterblommetjies-event/

Also try their waterblommetjie ice cream and wood-fired pizzas – obviously, there is one featuring waterblommetjies as well!

Rhebokskloof pairing menu

OUTDOOR EXPERIENCES

Outdoor enthusiasts can also get in some action before sampling the great food and wines at the Waterblommetjie Festival. The Run the Vines trail run will take place at Windmeul Kelder. Distances include a 3km for juniors, 5km, 10km and 17km with starting times between 08h00 and 08h45. Entry fees range between R80 and R180 depending on the distances and can be done online. All finishers receive medals. Register here.

Keen mountainbikers can head to Rhebokskloof Estate for some fun outrides with Paarl Trails from 09:00. There will be an easy 10km MTB Outride suitable for the kids, a 20km Outride and a 30km E-MTB Outride. Each ride will have a ride leader as well as a sweeper to assist and guide the riders. If you don’t have your bike with you, there will be bike and E-Bike rentals on offer. Book here.

Windmeul will serve up a waterblommetjie treat on Saturday, 7 September

MUSIC AND ENTERTAINMENT

At Windmeul Kelder Wynand Windpomp and Vosloo Bekker will perform live in alternating sets from 10:00 - 16:00 to keep the festive vibes going. Kids can look forward to a special treat with face painting and balloon twisting between 10h00 and 13h00 at Windmeul.

Rhebokskloof Estate will continue the festive atmosphere with background music throughout the days. While parents sip some awesome wines and savour amazing waterblommetjie dishes, kids can come out to play at both venues. Windmeul Kelder has a dedicated play area. Kids can enjoy the sprawling lawns at Rhebokskloof Estate as well as a special playground area under the trees.

Waterblom pizza at Rhebokskloof

WINNING WINES

This is a perfect time to stock up your wine cellar with wine specials while stocks last. Taste and purchase your favourite wines ranging from Windmeul’s highly acclaimed Chenin Blancs to Rhebokskloof multi-award-winning Shiraz. There is a wine for every palate.

ENTRY FEE – DONATION TO FESTIVAL CHARITY

Free entry to the venues can be secured with the donation of one tin of canned food per person. The cans will go to the official festival charity – Athlone House of Strength, a shelter for abused women and children in Paarl.

For more information, visit www.waterblommetjiefees.com or Waterblommetjiefees on Instagram and Facebook.

Issued by: PERIDOT COMMUNICATIONS

Pictures: SUPPLIED

Loxtonia Cider Kicks Off the Ultimate Adventure with their annual Cherry Trail Run

15:07:00

Gear up to welcome summer, in the Ceres Valley, by participating in the Loxtonia Cherry Trail Run.

Enjoy magnificent views of mountains and run in between orchards on Saturday, November 9th.

The family friendly trail run over 6km, 12km or 21km starts and finishes on Loxtonia Farm, the home of Loxtonia Apple Cider. This delicious cider is founded on the core belief “from orchard to bottle” and is made from freshly pressed apples, handpicked on Loxtonia farm.

The trail run takes you through beautiful landscapes and your morning’s effort will be rewarded with a festive market atmosphere to chill out and enjoy the Loxtonia country hospitality. With lots on offer from fresh Cherry Time™cherries, food trucks, kids entertainment, freshly brewed coffee, to cider, gin and beer, get ready for a Cherrific-filled day at the cidery.

The full Loxtonia Cider range will be available for you to try, and with Cherry Time™ season in full swing, the Loxtonia Cherry flavoured apple cider is a must. Fresh and juicy with bright cherry aromas and a crisp apple finish, this lightly sweet cider is perfectly balanced with a slightly sour tang adding complexity.

The Loxtonia Cherry Cider is the ultimate summer refreshment.

The Loxtonia Cherry Cider is the ultimate summer refreshment, perfectly capturing the season's essence. We’re excited to welcome Cherry Time™ as a key sponsor this year. A perfect pairing with our Loxtonia Cherry Cider. Through their "Season of Splendour" campaign, we proudly present their premium cherries, renowned for their exceptional quality and flavour. to our Hand-picked at peak ripeness in the pristine Western Cape orchards, these large cherries will elevate your summer celebrations. Don’t miss the chance to savour their delicious cherries and the vibrant energy they bring to the day.

The first race of the Loxtonia Cherry Trail Run starts at 07h30 and runners and walkers of all ages are welcome. To enter visit Cherry Trail Run 2024 - Entry Ninja The entry fee for the 6km is R180 per person, 12km is R210 per person and R260 for the 21km All finishers receive a complimentary Loxtonia Cider with a Non-Alcoholic option for the designated drivers or a refreshing apple juice for the under 18s.

The trail run takes you through beautiful landscapes.

Diary listing information:
Loxtonia Cherry Trail run 2024
Date: Saturday, 9 November 2024
Time: 07:30-15:00
Start times: 21km: 07:30 ; 12km: 07:45; 6km: 08:00
Registration: Friday 15:00-18:00 and Saturday opens from 06:30
Price: 6km R180, 12km R210 and 21km R260
*No entries will be taken on RACE DAY for the 6km, 12km or 21km.
Tickets available at Cherry Trail Run 2024 - Entry Ninja Venue: Loxtonia Farm, Ezelfontein Road, Ceres

Badsberg Wine Cellar releases 2022 Pinotage from award-winning single vineyard

10:37:00

Lovers of South Africa's most iconic wine cultivar should take note of a new vintage of an award-winning single vineyard Pinotage from Badsberg Wine Cellar in the Breede Valley.

Philippie van der Merwe of Groote Vlakte farm, at the foot of the Badsberg mountains, knows what we know. This region offers ideal conditions for winemaking, with its wet, cold winters, mountainous terrain, floodplains, excellent irrigation, and dry summers.

The grapes for Badsberg’s 2022 Pinotage are sourced from a 15-year-old vineyard on Van der Merwe’s farm, planted on red, rocky, well-drained hillside soil. This 100% Pinotage is made from a single block yielding 14 tonnes per hectare. Notably, this very block won the General Smuts Trophy as the overall champion wine at the SA Young Wine Show in 2016.

Cellar master Willie Burger and his team are renowned for producing a range of quality wines that consistently win prestigious national and international awards. The promising potential of their Pinotage has been recognised with a gold medal for the 2021 vintage at the 2023 Michelangelo International Wine and Spirits Competition, alongside excellent results for previous vintages at the Veritas Awards and Vitis Vinifera Wine Awards.

Winemaker Jaco Booysen highlights the 2022 Pinotage’s distinctive ripe plum flavours. "Aging in French oak brings out a lovely vanilla character, with the wood seamlessly integrated," Booysen says. "This wine shows excellent aging potential of up to five years."

The 2022 Pinotage is part of Badsberg’s Premium range and is available for R115 per bottle on their website, www.badsberg.co.za, as well as in stores nationwide.

Visitors to Badsberg’s wine tasting centre will experience Boland hospitality at its best, such as a special kiddies’ goodie box that includes snacks, drinks, and activities. The centre is open Monday to Friday from 08:00 to 17:00 and Saturdays from 10:00 to 15:00; only closed on Christmas Day and over Easter weekend.

Badsberg Winery is located only 800 m from the Goudini Spa holiday resort, 20 km from Worcester and 80 km from Cape Town, in Goudini Road, Rawsonville.

For more information, visit www.badsberg.co.za, call 023 3443021, or send an email to info@badsberg.co.za. Follow @Badsbergwinecellar on Facebook and Instagram.

Issued by: YOLANDI DE WET PR
Pictures: SUPPLIED

© 2024 Herman Lintvelt - WineTourismZA

Revive Mind, Body & Soul at Vergenoegd Löw in Stellenbosch

14:06:00

Sometimes, all you need is some time out so you can rest, restore and recharge.

Vergenoegd Löw is the ideal place for switching off, and slowly on again, at your own tempo.

All the way, appreciating the farm’s preservation of heritage, commitment to sustainable farming and top-notch hospitality.

When Pieter de Vos was granted the title deed to this Stellenbosch farm in 1696, he had no idea what the future might entail. Interestingly, while he may have been full of hope about its potential, he chose to call the property “Vergenoegd”, meaning contented. There have been many owners of the land in the almost 330 years since then, but never has this part of the name been changed.

There is something almost magically transporting about this location. Broad, unspoiled skies, tinged with the salt of the nearby sea, soaring birds and aromatic indigenous flora and the shielding presence of massive, undulating mountains. In a word: a universe all its own. Contained and safely cocooned in nature, where sustainability is as important as luxury.

There is something almost magically transporting about this location.

The Vergenoegd Löw Boutique Hotel & Spa, a member of the prestige portfolio of the European Heritage Project of historic, luxury country estates, is very protective of that tranquillity and preservation. Each of the individually appointed accommodation options nestles in its own peaceful, private quietude.

The accent is on detailed, thoughtful comfort and convenience. Capacious beds and fine-textured linens and soft furnishings; log fires in autumn and winter; floor-to-ceiling fenestration to feel close to nature in all seasons and to make the most of the mountain and vineyard views.

The exclusive accommodation is inspired by the farm’s classic 18th century Cape Dutch buildings, all sensitively restored for historic authenticity but repurposed for contemporary comfort.

The indulgent luxury spa

The Farm Lodge a former farm manager’s home, is a modern interpretation of the Cape Dutch style, with a tasteful, eclectic mix of antique and contemporary furnishings and finishes. The building has been repurposed to create four en-suite bedrooms, each individually appointed. They are all equipped with an indoor living space, a private jacuzzi and a generous veranda overlooking the gardens. The lofty interiors feature traditional wooden beams in an echo of the original interiors. The lodge is within easy reach of the historic farmstead, home to the Homestead Wine Lounge, two restaurants, the spa and gym/yoga room.

A short distance from the farmstead there are four modern Vineyard Suites, each with a living area opening onto a private sundeck, complete with plunge pool. The floor to ceiling windows look out onto uninterrupted vistas of either the Helderberg Mountains or the nearby vineyards.

A short distance from the farmstead there are four modern Vineyard Suites

The six free-standing Luxury Cottages reflect Vergenoegd Löw’s rich history, honouring its former residents - the winemaker, wood carver, and blacksmith - as well as themed gardens like the orchard, olive grove, and chef's garden, echoing the crops typical of an old farm. Crafted with the timeless elegance of Cape vernacular architecture, each cottage features traditional thatched roofs, creating a harmonious blend of rustic charm and contemporary luxury. Nestled in their own secluded haven, every cottage is complemented by a private pool deck, perfect for soaking up the tranquil vistas. The heart of each cottage is a spacious lounge - a communal space which flows seamlessly into the outdoor area, where a generous pool awaits.

The Presidential Suite offers complete privacy, exquisite sunrises and sunsets, its own crystal pool and sundeck, a jacuzzi and spacious veranda. There’s a dining table for 12 (that comes with dishes chosen from the farm’s restaurant menus and private service, of course), leather couches and a dual fireplace to warm up both the bedroom and the living room in cooler weather. Ample and luxurious, gracious and comfortable, it is the acme of detailed, considered but masterfully understated luxury.

The Presidential Suite offers complete privacy, exquisite sunrises and sunsets, its own crystal pool and sundeck, a jacuzzi and spacious veranda.

Then there’s the Owner’s Villa, a contemporary architectural triumph. It has seven en-suite bedrooms, a spacious open-plan entertainment area, a large lap pool and deck overlooking the vineyards and Helderberg Mountains.

The indulgent, luxury spa with its signature milk bath and other treatments; gym/yoga room; mountain trails to walk or run; meandering gardens punctuated by bronze sculptures by leading local artists like the internationally celebrated Dylan Lewis; and a variety of wine-tasting options plus two terrific restaurants serving contemporary Cape heritage cuisine; mean you can remain on the estate without ever needing to leave, if you prefer.

There’s Clara’s Barn, for lunch or supper, that offers formal, five-course dining, enhanced by an outstanding cellar. (But if it’s non-alcoholic beverages you’re after, you’ll be very well looked after.) Much of the locally grown seasonal produce is sourced from the farm and small suppliers nearby. The dishes reflect the Cape’s local cultural and social history through the eyes of celebrated Stellenbosch chef Bertus Basson and his on-site acclaimed colleague Drikus Brink. Geuwels is their casual small-plate eatery that offers breakfast and lunch.

Chef Drikus Brink in front of Geuwels, one of the two terrific restaurants on the farm serving contemporary Cape heritage cuisine

Stop over at the Homestead Wine Lounge for a tasting of Vergenoegd Löw wines: red, white and Cap Classique. Fresh, elegant and restrained with a hint of the sea, they are a pleasure to try. They all reflect the passion and commitment of our young winemaker Vusi Dalicuba.

If you fancy a sensory adventure, consider a line-up of some of the cellar’s wines showcased in the special Indigenous Tasting, where you also get to sample local flavours from *bokkoms and biltong to roosterkoek. Resident sommelier George Young is at your service.

Hungry after a long hike but it’s too early for supper? Afternoon tea and home-baked indulgences are yours for the savouring in the historic 1717 homestead (available only to guests staying overnight.)

Stop over at the Homestead Wine Lounge for a tasting of Vergenoegd Löw wines

One of South Africa’s oldest working farms and a proud WWF Conservation Champion, Vergenoegd Löw is a regenerative enterprise where all cultivation focuses on building soil health, climate-resilience and biodiversity. Consider their Indian Runner ducks and Dexter cattle in this context. They eat the pests and the weeds and fertilise the soils, while the cover crops attract pollinators like honeybees, and insects that feed on vineyard pests. Nature’s integrated pest management!

If you want an away-from-it-all location that also happens to be close to local tourist amenities, then Vergenoegd Löw is for you.

It's all there for the taking in your own time. But, if you want an away-from-it-all location that also happens to be close to local tourist amenities, then Vergenoegd Löw is for you too. Take advantage of the pampering but come and go as you choose. Right at the gateway to Stellenbosch’s world-famous wine route, close to the cultural centre of Stellenbosch, to Somerset West, to captivating Cape Town, the airport and even the coastal resort of Hermanus, everything outside is within quick and easy reach.

Best of all, the well-trained and attentive staff will ensure everything goes according to your wishes. Just ask, and you'll be taken care of.

Click here to view a summary of what you can experience at the farm.

Click here to reserve your stay, your wine tasting (tip: try the award-winning Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Chardonnay) or your meal.

Sometimes, all you need is some time out so you can rest, restore and recharge. Vergenoegd Löw is the ideal place for switching off, and slowly on again, at your own tempo.

The farm offers some of the best Stellenbosch accommodation and spa specials! To find out more, keep an eye on its social media and website, and sign up here to receive their informative newsletter.

Tel: +27 21 843 3248
E-mail: info@vergenoegd.co.za

Address: Vergenoegd Löw The Wine Estate, 1 Faure Road, Somerset West, off R310/Baden Powell Drive, Stellenbosch Wine Route (Please note, there is a new entrance to Vergenoegd Löw via Old Faure Road. Some maps may still indicate the old entrance in Baden Powell Drive.)

Visit https://vergenoegd.co.za/ for more information and https://vergenoegd.co.za/collection/all/ to peruse the selection and buy wine.

Sample from the range: if you prefer, reds only, whites only or mix it up the way you like.

Also see:
Vergenoegd Löw's 'Back to the Future' Wine Growing

Vergenoegd Löw has their ducks in a row

Issued by: AUGUST COLLECTIVE

Pictures: SUPPLIED

Stellar performance makes Zandvliet the top estate at the 2024 Shiraz SA Challenge

08:39:00

Zandvliet Wine Estate became the year’s most successful producer at the 2024 Shiraz SA Challenge with no less than two of its wines having been selected among the show’s Top 12 winners.

The achievement announced this week, once again underscores Zandlviet’s long-held reputation as the home of fine South African Shiraz.

The list of winners in this year’s championship was again replete with South African superstar wineries. Among them were the Zandvliet Kalkveld Shiraz 2020 and Zandvliet Hill of Enon Shiraz 2021.

Their achievement follows on the heels of equally outstanding performances in June with two consecutive vintages of the Kalkveld range winning Platinum medals at the 2024 National Wine Challenge and inclusion in the list of the year’s Top 100 South African Wines; and, the Hill of Enon Small Berry Pick 2021 scoring 94 points in the 2024 Prescient Shiraz Report by Winemag.co.za. The score placed the flagship wine in the competition’s Top 10 winners overall.

“Doing well at the Shiraz SA Challenge is always a highlight for us. The show is highly regarded by consumers as an authoritative guide to quality wine,” says Zandvliet winemaker Jacques Cilliers. “To have the judges agree with our assessment that Zandvliet terroir is truly something special, is very gratifying.”

“The accolades help to shine a light on Zandvliet’s upcoming half-century of Shiraz celebration next year, and of course, the annual Shiraz Day celebrations on August 21.”

For this year’s Shiraz SA Challenge, a distinguished panel of leading wine experts, led by De Grendel’s cellar master Charles Hopkins, again judged the entries. Joining Hopkins on the panel were Cape Wine

Master Bennie Howard, vice chairman of the SA National Wine Show Association; Heidi Kritzinger of Kanonkop Wine Estate; Nongcebo Langa, winemaker of Delheim Wines; RJ Botha, Cellar Master of Kleine Zalze; and Karabelo Masoleng of De Grendel as protégée.

In his judging report, Charles Hopkins noted the very high standard of entries this year and therefore the extremely high level of competition.

From the very first Shiraz wines produced at Zandvliet, it was clear the estate’s combination of diverse soils and ideal climate provided what has been called “an oenological treasure”. It was the beginning of a lifelong romance between Zandvliet and the Shiraz variety.

Hallmarks of every vintage have consistently been a conscious approach to winemaking underscored by hand selection, hand harvesting and the combination of respect for tradition and courageous experimentation.

At the heart of Zandvliet’s most outstanding vintages and its pursuit of perfectly balanced wine has been healthy fruit with good acidity and crucially, meticulous and judicious skin contact and use of oak.

Both the Kalkvled Shiraz and Hill of Enon Small Berry Pick wines take their name from the limestone-rich soils on the farm. The latter is however made from vineyards at the epicentre of the Enon conglomerate soils that occur on an elevated part of the property.

“These are truly the wines that demonstrate everything that a Shiraz can be,” says Jacques.

Both wines are available across the country as well as directly from the online shop, along with Zandvliet’s full portfolio, at https://tinyurl.com/37sfbnx9.

For more information, contact zandvliet@vanloveren.co.za or visit www.zandvliet.co.za. Find and share your memories of the estate with ZandvlietWine on X, Facebook, Instagram and, as ZandvlietWines, on Pinterest.

Issued by: ON THE MARQUE PR & COMMUNICATIONS
Pictures: SUPPLIED

© 2024 Herman Lintvelt - WineTourismZA

2024 Shiraz SA Awards Results

12:25:00

Shiraz SA revealed the winners of the 12th annual Shiraz SA Challenge, with six vintages from a wide variety of regions performing excellently.

The awards event on Thursday 15 August 2024 brought together finalists and wine industry celebrities at Simonsvlei Wine Cellar in Paarl.

The main sponsor was Vinventions, a long-time partner of Shiraz SA.

SIXTEEN WINNERS AWARDED IN THREE CATEGORIES

Sixteen winners were named in the three categories of the Shiraz SA Challenge. Zandvliet Wine Estate performed excellently by achieving two places in the Top 12 Shiraz:

The Top 12 Shiraz of 2024 are:

* Bon Courage The Pepper Tree Shiraz 2022

* De Morgenzon Reserve Syrah 2019

* Kleine Zalze Family Reserve Syrah 2020

* Leeuwenkuil Shiraz 2023

* Lomond Single Vineyard Conebush Shiraz 2021

* Nederburg The Winemasters Shiraz 2022

*Survivor Wines Syrah 2022

* Saronsberg Provenance Shiraz 2022

* Spier Seaward Shiraz 2022

* Stellenbosch Reserve Kruithuis Syrah 2022

* Zandvliet Kalkveld Shiraz 2020

* Zandvliet Hill of Enon Shiraz 2021

The 2024 Shiraz blend winners are:

* Benguela Cove Lighthouse Collection Moody Lagoon 2021

* Eagle’s Cliff Wines Arendskloof Shiraz Tannat 2020

* KWV Roodeberg Dr Charles Niehaus 2020

The 2024 Shiraz Rosé winner is:

* Eerste Hoop Shiraz Rosé 2024

JUDGES IMPRESSED WITH EXCELLENT QUALITY

A distinguished panel of leading wine experts, led by De Grendel’s cellar master Charles Hopkins, judged the entries from 16 to 19 July at Nederburg. Joining Hopkins on the panel were Cape Wine Master Bennie Howard, vice chairman of the SA National Wine Show Association; Heidi Kritzinger of Kanonkop Wine Estate; Nongcebo Langa, winemaker of Delheim Wines; RJ Botha, Cellar Master of Kleine Zalze; and Karabelo Masoleng of De Grendel as protégée.

According to Hopkins, the panel was impressed with the variety and quality of the entries. "The winners are all great wines that can confidently carry the flag of Shiraz in South Africa," says Hopkins. “While most of the 100% Shiraz entries were from the 2022 and 2021 vintages, we also tasted excellent wines from older vintages. The range of our Shiraz styles is impressive, from big, complex wines, to modern, more delicate styles with a lower alcohol content, made from whole bunches of grapes that were harvested earlier, giving the wines a unique peppery character. "

Wine MS assisted the judges, and Exceed Group audited the process and the results. Crystal Direct sponsored glasses, and Lebone Paarl Labels provided the bottle seals for the winning wines. Unused wines were donated to the Pebbles Project.

JORDAN HONOURED AS THIRD SHIRAZ TROPHY WINNER

Shiraz SA awarded the third annual Bellingham Bernard Podlashuk Shiraz Trophy to Jordan Wine Estate, along with a cash prize of R30 000, sponsored by Bellingham.

This magnificent trophy is named after the "Father of South African Shiraz", Bernard Podlashuk. Together with his wife Fredagh, Podlashuk bought the farm Bellingham in Franschhoek in 1943, and they became the pioneers who bottled South Africa's first single-varietal Shiraz in 1956.

In 2022, Saronsberg became the first trophy recipient, in recognition of their performance over the first decade of the Shiraz SA Challenge. Creation Wines was awarded as the second winner in 2023 after the future criteria were established as "sustainability, excellence, innovation, creativity, and social responsibility", in collaboration with Andrew Harris of Bellingham.

This year’s panel included Francois Haasbroek of Shiraz SA's Management Committee, Dr. Etienne Terblanche of Vinpro, Prof. Jako Volschenk of Stellenbosch University Business School, and Gerard Martin, South Africa Wine Manager: Research, Development, and Innovation. Three finalists were chosen, with Jordan outperforming two other worthy contenders, namely Babylonstoren and Stellenrust.

CELEBRATE NATIONAL SHIRAZ DAY ON 21 AUGUST

Shiraz SA invites all fans of the cultivar to celebrate national Shiraz Day on Wednesday 21 August. "Make sure to book for our special pairing experiences of Seven Days of Celebrating Shiraz," says Edmund Terblanche, Chairman of Shiraz SA.

Visit www.ShirazSA.co.za for all the results and more information. Join the conversation on social media with #ShirazSAAwards and follow Shiraz SA on X @Shiraz_SA, Facebook @ShirazSouthAfrica, and Instagram @shirazsouthafrica.

Celebrating 50 Years Of The Fairview Label

17:54:00

Celebrating 50 Years Of The Fairview Label and a passion for Shiraz

Left to Right: Fairview 1974 Shiraz, the first wine bottled at Fairview and sold at the Cape’s first public auction held at Fairview in 1974; Cyril Back watching the auction proceedings and Beryl Back pouring the Fairview Shiraz for the auction buyers to taste.

And Introducing the New Cool Climate Fairview Single Vineyard Lanner Hill Syrah from the Darling Hills

It has been 50 years since Cyril Back bottled the first Shiraz under the Fairview label in 1974, together with Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinotage from grapes grown exclusively on the Fairview property. These fledgling Fairview wines were sold at the Cape’s first public wine auction, initiated by Cyril Back and hosted at Fairview in 1974. Since that time Fairview has experienced an extraordinary development from a family farm to a brand internationally known for its wine, cheese and tourism. Throughout all the exciting changes at Fairview over 50 years, one unwavering constant has been Fairview’s commitment to and passion for Shiraz, the backbone of the Fairview range of wines.

Shiraz has always been a flagship variety for Fairview, carrying with it a special heritage and significance. It is Fairview’s most planted varietal in terms of vineyard hectares. Fairview’s Shiraz wines and Shiraz-led red blends, featuring in almost all of their ranges, have led the way in racking up numerous prestigious wine awards, confirming Fairview’s position as a Shiraz-producing jewel in the Cape Winelands. Most recent awards include a Platter’s 2024 Five Stars and Wine of the Year award (in the Red Blends Shiraz/Syrah-based category) for the flagship Fairview Cyril Back 2020, and a Five Star accolade for the Fairview Caldera 2021 (a Shiraz-led Southern Rhône-style blend). At the other end of the price scale, the Fairview team were delighted when their Goats Do Roam Red 2021 (also a Shiraz-led Southern Rhône-style blend), retailing at only R73, received the joint highest score (94 points) in Winemag.co.za’s Prescient Signature Red Blends Report 2023.

Shiraz also happens to be cellarmaster Anthony De Jager’s favourite grape. “It is the diversity and versatility of Shiraz that excites me the most. Shiraz resonates a sense of place few varieties can match. Proudly owning vineyards in Paarl, Darling, Swartland and Stellenbosch, we also venture out further into the Western Cape’s wine regions, choosing to ‘go where the terroir is’, in a quest to discover more extraordinary vineyards to expand our wine offering. This exploration has given us access to an exciting range of climates, topography, soils and extraordinary Shiraz vineyards from which to forge our prized range of Single Vineyard Shirazes. Using only selected hand-picked and pressed grapes from older vineyards, the wines in the Single Vineyard range are terroir driven, each with their own unique story to tell, each expressing the uniqueness of their respective terroirs in terms of taste and flavour.”

Fairview cellarmaster Anthony de Jager

Always innovative and adventurous, Fairview was one of the first wine farms to pursue the single vineyard concept. The Fairview Single Vineyard Eenzaamheid Shiraz (from Paarl) and the Fairview Single Vineyard The Beacon Shiraz (from Swartland) both saw their debut in 2000. In celebration of the 50th anniversary of the first Fairview Shiraz and to further showcase the versatility of Shiraz, a third Single Vineyard Shiraz has been added to the Fairview Single Vineyard range, the new cool climate Lanner Hill Syrah from the Darling Hills.

Fairview’s Single Vineyard Shiraz range: The Beacon Shiraz from the Swartland, Eenzaamheid Shiraz from Paarl and the new Lanner Hill Syrah from the cool climate Darling Hills

Anthony continues, “Shiraz vineyards from ‘warmer’ areas like Paarl and Swartland, often tend to display riper dark berry fruit with a lush profile, however topography, soils, the vines themselves and vintage all play a significant role in determining flavour profiles. Shiraz vineyards from cool climate terroir like the Darling Hills however produce wines with elegance and gorgeous spice, bright red fruit notes and a leaner profile, reminiscent of the Northern Rhône style — thus the name Lanner Hill Syrah as opposed to Shiraz.”

“Fairview’s three Single Vineyard Shirazes, The Beacon, Eenzaamheid and the new Lanner Hill are all vintage 2021, but each offers its own genuine sense of place and identity, each sharing the most honest expression of the fruit of the vine. While The Beacon and the Eenzaamheid vineyards are dry-farmed vines of a similar age (planted in 1995 and 1996 respectively) only 5km apart, they are vastly different wines. The Beacon vineyard is all bush vines growing on an extreme site, an elevated north-west facing rocky outcrop of ancient metamorphic shale, confronting howling winds. The unirrigated bush vines have to battle through large, flat, grey shale stone, the roots clawing their way deep beneath the rock in search of moisture and nutrients. The bunches and berries are very small with intense concentration and depth, and the vines are pruned to bear a small crop, producing a brooding wine with gravitas, a wine of distinction. The Eenzaamheid vineyard however is immaculately trellised, and the rich red soils are deep and fertile with excellent water retention, allowing the unirrigated vines to easily ripen the crop without stressing during the hot, dry summers. The berries are bigger and offer sublime rich fruit concentration. The cool climate Lanner Hill vineyard is dryland trellised vines, growing in nutrient-rich oakleaf soils. The sea breeze off the nearby icy Atlantic Ocean cools down the fruit in the afternoon, allowing the grapes to ripen gradually and develop the distinct spicy character typical of the Darling Hills terroir.”

FAIRVIEW LANNER HILL SYRAH 2021

“We are very proud that Christian Eedes of Winemag.co.za has scored the Fairview Lanner Hill 2021 Shiraz 95 points, stating, ‘The Fairview cellar has long championed Syrah and the Lanner Hill 2021 is a cracker… The nose shows red and black berries, blood orange, violets, lavender and fynbos while the palate is succulent and fresh with fine tannins – plush and juicy on entry but ends wonderfully dry.’"

Fairview Lanner Hill 2021 Shiraz scored 95 points by Christian Eedes of Winemag.co.za

The name and the vineyard: Lanner falcons gracefully soar over Fairview’s parcel of land, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, located on the hilltops outside of the quaint town of Darling. The Back family has been farming here since the early 2000’s.

Winemaking: The grapes were picked between 22,5 and 23,5 degrees Balling to capture the cool climate and fresh style of the wine. Whole bunch clusters (20 %) — for increased freshness, mouthfeel, complexity and elegance — were placed at the bottom of a 50hl foudre (large open French oak fermenter), with the balance of the destemmed grapes added on top. Fermentation was allowed to start naturally with the indigenous yeast from the vineyard. Punch downs and pump overs took place three times daily for 10 days before pressing. Malolactic fermentation occurred in older French oak barrels. The wine spent a total of 18 months in oak before final barrel selection was made. The wine was bottled with minimal stabilisation and filtration.

Tasting notes: This wine is dark red in colour with a bright red rim in the glass, with a wonderfully aromatic nose displaying generous red berries, herbal notes of rosemary, lavender and typical hints of cracked black pepper. The palate is fresh with refined red fruit purity complemented by signature peppery spice and fine tannins. The wine is still firm and will age well.

Food recommendation: Enjoy with cheese, pâté, charcuterie and freshly baked bread, grilled lamb with herb sauce or spicy and earthy flavoured vegetable dishes.

FAIRVIEW THE BEACON SHIRAZ 2021

The name and the vineyard: The wine is named after the surveyor general’s trigonometric beacon 194 (at 33°44’ latitude 18°48’ longitude) which rises above the rocky outcrop, the highest in the area, where the vines grow. The Dreyer family, having owned this land since 1705, has intimate knowledge of dryland bush vine farming on extreme sites.

Winemaking: Grapes were harvested at 24,5 degrees Balling. The hand-harvested fruit was brought to the cellar early morning in small lug boxes. The berries were destalked and meticulously hand-sorted and sent straight to open French oak fermenters (foudres) where fermentation was allowed to start naturally. Manual punch downs and pump overs were performed up to three times daily. Post fermentation maceration lasted for two days. The wine was basket pressed, and malolactic fermentation was completed in French oak (35% new oak and the rest 2nd and 3rd fill barrels). This vintage spent a total of 18 months in oak before the final barrel selection was made. The wine was racked, allowed to settle naturally and then lightly filtered before bottling.

Tasting notes: This wine is an intense burgundy colour in the glass, with an elegant nose of dark plum and berries, salty liquorice, baking spices and pepper. The streamlined palate has gravitas with rich layers of pure dark fruit, charcuterie and dried olives. The palate displays a full and well-rounded mouthfeel with firm, powdery tannins. The structure promises good ageing potential of five to eight years.

Food recommendation: Enjoy this wine with grilled lamb, grass-fed beef or venison.

FAIRVIEW EENZAAMHEID SHIRAZ 2021

The name and the vineyard: In 1699, a certain Mr. Dippenauw was granted an enormous farm by his employer, the Dutch East India Company. On arrival, the newly-wed couple were so overwhelmed by the farm’s isolation from Cape Town that they named it ‘Eenzaamheid’, a Dutch word meaning solitude. Today Eenzaamheid is owned by Christo Briers-Louw, whose family has owned the land since 1775. Christo is a dedicated farmer with an intimate knowledge of the soils of Paarl.

Winemaking: The grapes were hand-picked at 25 degrees Balling. The fruit was brought to the cellar in small lug boxes, destalked and rigorously hand-sorted before being sent to open French oak fermenters (foudres). A combination of manual punch downs and pump overs took place during fermentation. The skins were basket pressed, and malolactic fermentation was completed in 25% new French barrels, with the remainder maturing in 2nd and 3rd fill barrels to respect the purity of the fruit. The wine spent a total of 18 months in oak before final barrel selection, light filtering and bottling.

Tasting notes: This wine displays a dense burgundy colour with layered aromas of plums and berries, fynbos perfume and cracked black pepper. The opulent and concentrated palate reveals an abundance of ripe dark and red fruit, pepper and cloves with grippy firm tannins and a long savoury finish. A particularly vintage specific wine, the 2021 is showing more spice than usual due to the cooler vintage. This wine has an aging potential of five to eight years.

Food recommendation: Enjoy with grilled beef, lamb chops with fennel relish, or paprika-roasted leg of lamb with Mediterranean sides.

PURCHASE: Fairview Single Vineyards Shirazes are available online at https://fairviewmarketplace.co.za/category/shop-red-wine

PRICE: R500 per bottle

MORE ABOUT FAIRVIEW

A pioneer throughout his career, Charles Back, third-generation owner, has built Fairview from a family farm to a brand internationally known for its wine, cheese and tourism. Experimental, adventurous and an outside-the-box thinker, Charles has never been satisfied with the ordinary, always looking for newer and better ways of doing things, always pushing boundaries. For 45 years Charles has marched to his own creative tune, achieving a long history of firsts for Fairview, building a legacy and playing a profound role in the wine industry. His legendary entrepreneurship and pioneering innovation have seen him become one of the most awarded winemakers in South Africa.

Charles Back, third-generation owner of Fairview

Situated on the slopes of the Paarl Mountain offering ever-growing visitor experiences and eponymous vistas over fields and vines to Table Mountain in the distance, Fairview is one of the most popular destinations in the Cape Winelands. Fairview is a working farm, housing a collection of micro-businesses all sharing in a common goal — to create artisanal and sustainable produce, with a focus on fine wine, artisanal cheese, free range meat, baked goods and also plant-based products.

Fairview offers eponymous vistas over fields and vines to Table Mountain in the distance

Fairview Wines: Led by cellarmaster Anthony de Jager, Fairview wines cover an extensive range of styles and price points, from crowd pleasers to serious, age-worthy reds, consistently over-delivering on quality.

Fairview Cheese: Home to Africa’s first goat’s cheese company, the Fairview Cheese Company has become every bit as successful as the wine side of the business. Creating over 50 different cow and goat's milk artisanal cheeses, Fairview is the biggest speciality cheese in the country.

Tasting Room: Fairview’s world-renowned tasting room consists of four unique custom-designed ‘pods’, offering a variety of wine tasting options expertly paired with selections of Fairview cow and goat’s milk cheeses, with dedicated hosts to guide and assist guests. In addition, the Master Tasting Room offers seated, tutored tastings in an exclusive, educational setting with Fairview’s finest wines carefully paired with Fairview cheese, freshly baked artisanal bread and farm-made olive oil.

Deli: The continually growing offering at the ever-popular Fairview Deli, located alongside the tasting room, brims with a diverse selection of homemade local products and sustainably farmed foods. The Fairview cheese is undoubtably the biggest drawcard, but there are layers of deliciousness to browse through including condiments, preserves and old-fashioned jams, free-range farm eggs, charcuterie, olive oils, yoghurt, freshly baked artisanal breads, buttery croissants and more. Latest additions include the Biltong Bar and the Farm Butchery housing Fairview’s fantastic farm-reared free-range Red Angus dry-aged steaks, boerewors and legendary burger patties. In addition, Fairview’s Plant-Based Range harnesses the power of plants in a selection of products loved by any foodie.

Goatshed Restaurant: The popular Goatshed, a country-style eatery where fresh and homemade is always better, aims to bring the paddock and the farm close to the table. As far as possible, the food served in the restaurant is grown, collected or made on the farm — from the artisanal baked bread, cheeses, eggs, jams and preserves to the lamb, beef and pork reared on Fairview’s pastures. The Goatshed reflects the holistic Fairview experience, bringing together everything on the farm.

Goat Tower: Rising above the Goatshed Restaurant stands the Fairview Goat Tower, a Cape Winelands icon. Adored by children and adults alike, it has been home, to Fairview’s beloved furry mascots since 1981.

Fairvalley Wines: Charles Back is not only a trailblazer in the wine and cheese industries and an agri-tourism pioneer; he is also a highly respected philanthropist. Always an advocate for social development in the Cape, he founded one of the most successful black empowerment labels, Fairvalley Wines.

The Goatfather standing at Fairview’s legendary Goat Tower to welcome visitors to the farm

VISIT THE MUCH-LOVED FAIRVIEW ESTATE FOR A WORLD-CLASS EXPERIENCE!

FAIRVIEW WINE AND CHEESE

Suid-Agter Paarl Road, Suider-Paarl, 7646

Tel: 021 863 2450 · Email: info@fairview.co.za

Website: www.fairview.co.za/

Facebook: https://facebook.com/FairviewWineandCheese

Instagram: www.instagram.com/fairviewwineandcheese/

X: https://twitter.com/FairviewWine

Also see:

Fairview excels at the 2024 South African Dairy Championships

Issued by: POSY & JEREMY HAZELL - PR & WINE CONSULTANT5S
Pictures: SUPPLIED

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Waterblommetjie season in the Boland

A CELEBRATION OF WATERBLOMMETJIESThe annual Waterblommetjie Festival returns on Saturday 7 September.

Loxtonia Cider Kicks Off the Ultimate Adventure with their annual Cherry Trail Run

Gear up to welcome summer, in the Ceres Valley, by participating in the Loxtonia Cherry Trail Run.

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About me

Google Maps

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A CELEBRATION OF WATERBLOMMETJIES
The annual Waterblommetjie Festival returns on Saturday 7 September.