IMAGE COURTESY OF LEOPARD’S LEAP
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2020
taste
experience
discover
For farm fresh goodness pop into Grande Provence Wine Estate and view the brandnew Farm Deli. Offering fresh produce and dishing up breakfasts and light lunches to be enjoyed on the sprawling estate lawns.
The La Motte Museum has some lovely new additions to the current art exhibition, Celebrating the Love of Art – a personal selection by Hanneli Rupert-Koegelenberg. Enjoy an exclusive conversation and illustrated presentation – from the comfort of your home!
Situated in the gastronomical capital of South Africa, the Corner House Guest House offers an unforgettable stay. One LUCKY couple stand a chance to WIN a 2-night complimentary stay. All you need to do to enter is subscribe to our newsletter www.lifebrands.co.za.
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www.franschhoeklife.co.za
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FOOD & LIFESTYLE
LIFESTYLE
TONS OF WINTER FUN ON THE FARM With something fun for the whole family to enjoy, there’s plenty of reasons visit beautiful Boschendal. If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a bike and head to the trails or explore the farm on horseback. For a more relaxed experience, come enjoy a hearty
New Exhibition & Virtual Tours at La Motte Museum
The La Motte Museum has some lovely new additions to the current art exhibition, Celebrating the love of art – a personal selection by Hanneli Rupert-Koegelenberg. Featuring artists such as Irma Stern, Maggie Laubscher and Käthe Kollwitz, the exhibition makes for a lovely weekend activity. While the Museum is currently only open on Saturdays and Sundays, La Motte has introduced Virtual Art and Culture experiences. Those who can’t make it to the estate, now have the option to enjoy a personal virtual tour of the Celebrating the love of art exhibition, the museum’s treasured Pierneef heritage collection, the La Motte Historic Walk or the popular Sculpture walk, presented by curator, Elzette de Beer. Book online and enjoy beautiful art with an exclusive one-on-one conversation and illustrated presentation – from the comfort of your home! www.la-motte.com/pages/virtual-museum-experiences
farm breakfast at The Deli and visit our pop-up Farm Shop for all your farm favourites. MORE INFO & BOOKINGS www.boschendal.com
THE MAGIC RETURNS The Country Kitchen at Mont Rochelle, Franschhoek, is now open on weekends for lunch. BOOK A TABLE 021 876 2770 | countrykitchen@montrochelle.virgin.com Mont Rochelle, Dassenberg Road, Franschhoek www.montrochelle.virgin.com
FOUNDED IN 1685
Artisanal Treasures
Family Fun at Leopard’s Leap Family Vineyards!
If you are looking for something extra-special, look no further than the power team that is Cindy and Stu Douglas. This formidable duo have been in the wood game in Franschhoek for 15 years.
Stu started out with bespoke cabinetry and custom furniture. Over the years this was distilled and refined, and the launch of top-end birch plywood and solid wood. DouglasBuilt cabinetry coincided with Cindy’s venturing into décor items and the inception of Coco Africa, now an established homeware and design brand. Establishing and recognizing his strengths, Stu now makes quality wood kitchens and cabinets, integrating Coco Africa lifestyle products into his pieces. With Stu’s heirloom furniture, his signature dado-rabbet joinery is evident in the contemporary classic range of Ruskin and Pierneef pieces (on display at Stil design Gallery, Reservoir Street, Franschhoek).
Popular for its relaxed family-style lunches, the Leopard’s Leap Rotisserie is open on Saturdays and Sundays. Relax in the spacious dining room, enjoy a mocktail on the stoep or soak up the winter sun outside. Chef Christiaan Visser’s menu includes anything from pizza to pork belly – now served at the table! Get some fresh air, enjoy a cup of coffee and freshly-baked treat or do some farm-style shopping. https://bit.ly/32rKftz
Cindy and her team of three talented local craftsmen: Aubrey, Michael and Eldriek design and manufacture unique, innovative, comfortable and useful everyday products from solid wood. The team focuses on the highest standards of manufacturing, joinery and finishing. The artistry results in the beautiful smooth finish, a trademark of the Coco Africa products ( which are also available online). The world class Coco Africa offering has been honed to suit online retail, shipping locally and globally. Timeless design and accentuating the organic beauty and warmth of wood is what drives the DouglasBuilt-Coco Africa collaboration.
Breakfast Under the Trees at Café BonBon
www.douglasbuilt.co.za | www.cocoafrica.co.za
The beloved Café BonBon on the La Petite Dauphine Estate, is an institution in Franschhoek. Locals and Visitors alike, have eagerly awaited for the doors to re-open and they finally have!! Welcoming new Chef Reino Deetlefs, hailing from the City of Gold, Reino and his team offer a simple but delicious menu with old favourites and a few new twists too! The multiple eating areas, including the Front Patio, shaded Courtyard and exclusive dining area under a 200yr old Oak tree are all perfect spots for guests to indulge in the renowned breakfasts and lunch options, overlooking the manicured gardens. If you are lucky, you will catch a sighting of the resident spotted pairing owls that call Café BonBon home! A converted fruit packing shed – The Studio, boasts a beautiful collection of paintings from local artists and makes is a perfect fit for a romantic dining experience. Gather your family, friends and even your well behaved furry children to enjoy the surroundings at Café BonBon. Open Monday to Sunday 08h00-17h00 for Breakfast, Lunch & Cake with Coffee & Tea. www.lapetite.co.za
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FOOD & LIFESTYLE
FOOD & LIFESTYLE
Cheers to Choice!
The Natura De-alcoholised Classic White and Red from Leopard’s Leap give wine lovers a delightful alternative for adding quality to life during those occasions or in those moments where alcohol can or should not be consumed – and of course when Covid-regulations prevent you from buying any wine! Versatile, health-conscious and delicious, Natura is ideal for a responsible, everyday quality lifestyle. Being de-alcoholised, the Natura is made from a traditional alcoholic wine from which the alcohol has been extracted to leave no more than 0.5% abv.
HOLDEN MANZ WINE ESTATE
The Natura Classic White (R60) is a blend of Chenin Blanc and Muscat. Crisp and refreshing with tropical fruit flavours on the nose, the palate is juicy and beautifully integrated. Delightful on its own as an aperitif, it is also a lovely partner to delicate soups and all kinds of salads and seafood. A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cinsaut, the Natura Classic Red (R60) intrigues with ripe red berries and sweet spice on the nose while the palate follows through with a smooth mouthfeel and lingering aftertaste. Delightful on its own and an outstanding and versatile partner on the dinner table.
The Franschhoek Life is Waiting for You!
Get them from leading retailers, Leopard’s Leap Family Vineyards (Saturdays and Sundays, 09h00-16h00) or online. BIG DOG CAFÉ
leopardsleap.co.za/collections/natura#wine-collection
Despite the current very frustrating setbacks – our Valley is opening up again, and we are proud that Franschhoek is doing its bit to become a globally recognised Covid-Safe destination! You are invited to spend time in the beautiful Franschhoek Valley and indulge in the multitude of experiences on offer. Things may be different for now but the world class offerings that you have come to expect from Franschhoek, remain the same.
In a time when we can all do with some reassurance and care, Chef Eric Bulpitt has introduced a new menu at Pierneef à La Motte Restaurant. Expect comfort food, hearty winter fare and yes, pizza – but pizza on a whole new level.
FOLIAGE
BOSCHENDAL THE GALLERY AT GRAND PROVENCE
DISCOVER OUR WORLD CLASS GALLERIES Our galleries are open for your viewing pleasure … take your time to browse through the many talented and varied exhibitions that are on display. ManZart | Everard Read Franschhoek | The Gallery at Grand Provence | Art in the Yard | Opperman Gallery | Stil design gallery and more, have all opened their doors. You can even enjoy an exclusive one-on-one conversation and illustrated presentation with the La Motte Museum – from the comfort of your home!
MONT ROCHELLE NATURE RESERVE
WHATEVER THE PROBLEM-NATURE IS THE CURE! There is no better therapy than Vitamin D and the great outdoors are beckoning. Hiking, trail running, walking and cycling are just a few of the activities right on our doorstep. Hike up Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve | Mountain biking, running trails and horse riding at Boschendal or book a customized experience with Franschhoek Adventures.
OUR RESTAURANTS ARE OPEN! We may not be able to enjoy a glass of wine with our meals (just yet) but enticing cuisine synonymous with our valley, is in abundance. The Franschhoek Valley has it all and more! Deli’s are on the map – The Heritage Garden at Grande Provence, Le Petite Manoir, Foliage and Boschendal are serving some delicious light fare with plenty of home-made goodies to take home. The perfect brew awaits at Big Dog Café | decadent breakfasts under the trees at Café BonBon | French flair at Le Lude or the pop up restaurant at Plaisir de Merle. Bistro-style at Old Road Wine Co.| Alfresco-style at The Country Kitchen at Mont Rochelle and Pierneef à La Motte’s new casual dining menu; Burgers at Bovine| Fish & Chips from Off the Hoek |Rotisserie pork roast at Leopards Leap Family Vineyards or the famous tapas from Chefs Warehouse at Maison. Sunny days call for picnics on the sprawling lawns at Grande Provence (offering a real South African braai option too) and dinner at Foliage or La Petite Colombe are a MUST!!!
LA PETITE COLOMBE
The Art of Pizza at Pierneef à La Motte Restaurant
Pierneef’s pizzas are based on what is known as Neopolitan-style. While the authentic version only allows raw tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil and olive oil as a topping, it really is the crust that sets this version apart from other pizzas. Chef Eric makes his with sourdough that proofs for 48 hours! The result is a thin, but soft crust. The pizzas are also cooked at a very high temperature resulting in what Chef Eric calls a “leopard print” – charred spots on the crust. Putting a chef’s spin on the pizzas, a variety of toppings using seasonal farm produce are available. Expect interesting combinations such as Stinging nettle, confit garlic and boerenkaas, Sour cream, smoked pork and spring onions or Orange winter pumpkin, pumpkin seeds and Gorgonzola. Pierneef à La Motte Restaurant is open on Saturdays and Sundays from 09h00-16h00. Read more www.la-motte.com/blogs/news/pizza-at-pierneef
LUXURY STAYS
UNLOCK IN STYLE
WINE CLUB
Experience the luxury of the countryside! Views of the vineyards and mountains, ample space and nature on your doorstep...
Plan the perfect wedding in the winelands at Rickety Bridge. Contact us for special rates.
Join the Rickety Bridge Wine Club on a no cost, no obligation basis before the lockdown regulations are lifted, and shop Rickety Bridge's entire range for 20% off regular prices.
Book a room at our 5-star Rickety Bridge Manor House, or 4-star guest house Basse Provence, and bask in countryside comfort. Find out more on www.ricketybridge.com/rates
Purchase a Paulina's restaurant or luxury accommodation voucher with complimentary add-ons, and enjoy later. Get active on Rickety Bridge's 5km walking / running trail. info@ricketybridge.com | www.ricketybridge.com |
Kindly note: Delivery will only take place once the sale of alcohol is permitted. Sign & stock up on shop.ricketybridge.com
@ricketybwinery
THE CORNER HOUSE
SANTÉ WELLNESS RETREAT
PAMPER & DE-STRESS Franschhoek boasts a variety of spas and salons ready and waiting for your indulgence! Santé Wellness Retreat is the ultimate sanctuary to re-energize, rejuvenate and revitalize. And a new hair cut equals a new you, Salon Dolce Vita VI will ensure your transformation is complete!
SALON DOLCE VITA
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LEISURE & PLEASURE Finally you can take that much needed break. With provinicial travel now open, be sure to make it count by booking your overnight stay at one of the many guesthouses and accommodation establishments. Sleep easy choosing one that has been Guest Assured accredited to ensure your comfort and safety come first! From selfcatering options at Franschhoek Country Cottages or stepping it up with some of the fantastic specials on offer at Boschendal, Grand Provence, La Cotte, Holden Manz Estate and The Corner Guest House to name a few! PLAN FOR YOUR SPECIAL OCCASION There is no better time to visit the many spectacular venues to plan your perfect occasion. Think breath-taking views at Rickety Bridge | Franschhoek Cellar | Boschendal and Holden Manz and picture-perfect settings at La Residence | Mont Rochelle and Grande Provence … with so many more superlative options at your finger-tips, your dream celebration awaits you!
RICKETY BRIDGE
WELL-DESERVED RETAIL THERAPY Spend the afternoon strolling down the main street and discover some tucked away gems. For high fashion statement pieces, you will be spoiled for choice at Indian Summer, Desray and some of the finest exclusive clothing boutiques in the Cape. Men will be equally impressed with the selection at Peacock Blue. Exquisite decor and interiors at La Plantation luxurylifestyle keepsakes at ManZart Plus and antique treasures at Franschhoek Institution The Old Corkscrew are waiting for you. Franschhoek is home to a variety of one of a kind stores brimming with unique mementos! To find out more visit www.franschhoeklife.co.za Guest Assured – your safety is our priority. www.franschhoeklife.co.za
www.franschhoeklife.co.za
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Holden Manz Wine Estate Proprietors’ Red Blend 2015
LIFESTYLE
AWARDED DOUBLE PLATINUM /TOP 100 NATIONAL WINE CHALLENGE
Holden Manz Wine Estate is delighted to announce that its Proprietors’ Red Blend 2015 has been awarded Top 100 and Double Platinum in the 2020 National Wine Challenge. “2015 was an exceptional vintage and this is an exceptional blend made from grapes grown on the estate in Franschhoek,” says Gerard Holden, Co-Owner of Holden Manz Wine Estate. “This is the inaugural release of our Proprietors’ Red Blend and we are delighted it has been recognized in this way” Holden added. The Proprietors’ Red Blend consists mainly of Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah and was developed in conjunction with Cellar Master Thierry Haberer who commented that “the 2015 harvest was low in tonnes but super high in quality making these grapes perfect for wild fermentation and vinification which extracted loads of colour and flavour.”
Readers can treat themselves to this awardwinning wine with a 20% discount off site wide until 31 August 2020. Discount code is AUGUST20 *Wine to be delivered when allowed by government. holdenmanz.com/buy-wines/
TRAVEL
Together Franschhoek – FOR THE COMMUNITY BY THE COMMUNITY
The amazing Franschhoek chefs stepped up to the “cooking frontline” by donating their time throughout the relief process which still forges on. Under the guidance of Foliage Restaurant’s Executive Chef, Chris Erasmus and Franschhoek chef extraordinaire Margot Janse, kitchens and hearts were opened. Since lockdown, The Together Franschhoek team has continued to assist those in need within the Franschhoek community. Soup kitchens have been established; handwashing stations installed; education around covid-safe protocols; mask distribution etc. In addition, a partnership with the Barn Foundation has been forged to ensure food security. Food relief remains a primary focus among many other heartfelt projects. To date, Together Franschhoek has assisted with: 97 880 kilograms of food and fruit processed so far | 67 900 the total of volunteer hours to date| 125 000 meals produced so far | 1507 generous donations in cash or kind, from locals and world wide supporters | installation of 19 hand-washing/ sanitising stations | 14 community soup kitchens supplied with fresh produce and dry goods donations, assisted by local volunteers. This mammoth operation has been made possible through the generosity and support of people like you! But as the pandemic rages on, relief efforts rely on continued support in order to be sustainable – every donation helps to make a difference! To find out more or to donate visit www.togetherfranschhoek.org Or follow on Facebook at web.facebook.com/FHKDM/ IMAGE COURTESY OF JEREMY ASTFALCK
Remember its all in the TASTE
CORONA
TRY IT…YOU’LL LOVE IT
COMPLIANT
WIN a 2-Night Getaway with The Corner House, Franschhoek
The Franschhoek community is renowned for coming together to help those in need during times of crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic has proven to be no different. Co-ordinated by Ashley Bauer, supported by local NPO partners (Lions of Franschhoek/FRANCO/Isabelo), residents, community leaders and volunteers from the village and the informal settlements, Together Franschhoek was born!
Situated in the gastronomical capital of South Africa, only 80 kilometers from Cape Town, the Corner House Guest House offers genuine South African hospitality and an unforgettable stay in the Franschhoek Valley with its 80 wine estates and award-winning restaurants. Working together with Guest Assured, specific measures are in place to ensure the safety of employees and guests to ensure the latest guidance on hygiene and cleaning are met.
Treat yourself and someone special to The Corner House Getaway Special: Self-Catering R1400/night and Wine & Dine-In options available from R1400/night. Offer includes: Welcome bottle of Franschhoek Wine | Breakfast Voucher at Foliage Restaurant | Surprise Dinner Box. Book Now – Stay Now or Valid until 30th September www.thecornerhouse.co.za | 021 876 2079 | www.facebook.com/thecornerhouse.co.za To find out more about the Franschhoek Hospitality Academy www.franschhoekhospitalityacademy.co.za
The Corner House Guest House has eight spotless rooms, located within a short 5-minute stroll from Franschhoek’s main road and attractions, WiFi to stay in contact with your family or business. Guests can enjoy the well-manicured garden and sparkling pool in summer or a crackling fireplace in winter. When owner Michaela Julian is not busy with all things guest house related, you will find her spear-heading her way around her passion project – The Franschhoek Hospitality Academy & Learning Centre. As one of the founders, the academy was established to afford those less fortunate, the opportunity of basic training, skills development and hospitality education within the tourism industry.
One LUCKY couple stand a chance to WIN a 2-night complimentary stay with dinner for two in front of the cozy fireplace and a bottle of Franschhoek Wine. All you need to do to enter is subscribe to our newsletter www.lifebrands.co.za follow us on social media for details franschhoeklife
Franschhoeklife
Tintswalo Atlantic Opens New Restaurant
TheTintswalo Kitchen welcomes both resident guests, as well as casual diners with bookings taken for lunch and dinner from Tuesday to Saturday, as well as Sunday family lunch. With an experienced, newly appointed kitchen team at the helm, the dining concept will feature fresh, seasonal cuisine, presented as Small Plates. The fixed-price menu of R650 per person offers diners their choice of five items selected from the menu that will list a variety of Small Plates, including seafood, vegetarian and vegan options, as well as desserts. The Tintswalo Kitchen experience can be enjoyed in a relaxed seaside environment with a choice of cosy fireside dining, or outdoor seating on the deck above the crashing waves. The Tintswalo Atlantic boutique hotel is uniquely situated on a pebbled beach below Chapmans Peak Drive in Cape Town. It is renowned as one of the city’s most precious hidden gems and is lauded for its romantic setting and spectacular sunsets. The current hotel dining area will be more than doubled in size for the new restaurant, incorporating the generous space that is currently the hotel lounge and bar area. Two of the guest rooms are being converted into a private bar and lounge area for in-house guests only. Resident guests can make the most of the breathtaking sea views, overlooking the hotel swimming pool, deck and private beach. Coinciding with the launch of the new restaurant concept, a special 50% discount offer on accommodation is available to South Africans residents when booking a luxurious two-night Staycation. Reservations are essential, via Dineplan. Visit tintswalo.com/atlantic/
Escape to Franschhoek Country Cottages
“It’s Best On Our Big Screen!” Screening in August: 1917 - 19 & 30 Aug Parasite - 2 & 22 Aug Little Women - 8 & 14 Aug Military Wives - 12 & 29 Aug The Gentlemen - 15 & 27 Aug Also classic lms, operas & rock-u-mentaries. Sign up for our newsletter and book online at www.franschhoektheatre.co.za
at Franschhoek High School, 15 Akademie Street E: hello@franschhoektheatre.co.za | C: 067 3144 059 – after 16h00 Franschhoek Theatre supports Franschhoek High School
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Woman’s Day on Sunday 9 August gives us the chance to spoil those AWESOME WOMEN in our lives! Choose RIO LARGO on TAP to make her feel appreciated
www.franschhoeklife.co.za
The no-fuss cottages invite you to de-stress, decompress and re-acquaint yourself with nature. Enjoy the breathtaking scenery of the Franschhoek Valley with mountain slopes covered in spectacular vineyards while viewing the various species of wildlife that stroll past your own private verandah. The Franschhoek Valley is seeped in a rich history centered around the picturesque village of friendly, welcoming people. In the village you will find wonderful crafts, art and antique shops and galleries. Stroll down the main street that is lined with coffee shops and restaurants and discover something new!
www.riolargo.co.za | 082 340 6762 visit our online shop – oliodesignandco.co.za/shop or the deli at Grande Provence
The comfortable, self-catering cottages are situated in a wildlife reserve in Franschhoek at the foot of the Franschhoek Mountain range, in the heart of the gourmet capital of the Cape Winelands.
Franschhoek Country Cottages and Wildlife Reserve is the city escape you have been dreaming of! www.franschhoeklife.co.za
Only 45 minutes from Cape Town, Franschhoek is the ideal base while you explore the Cape Winelands. The team at Franschhoek Cottages adhere to strict Covid-Safe protocols so you can sleep soundly to the sounds of nature! www.franschhoekcountrycottages.co.za
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Take Advantage of All the Winter Offerings at Grande Provence
Sitting in the magnificent Franschhoek Valley in South Africa’s Western Cape, Grande Provence has a 325-year history. Lush vines are spread across the Estates 47-acres with the rugged mountains beyond … This is heartland South African wine country at its very finest.
HERITAGE GARDEN FARM DELI
WEEKENDS
PICNICS
LEISURE TRAVEL
THE GALLERY AT GRANDE PROVENCE
The brand new Heritage Garden Farm Deli is the hero of lockdown! Bursting with farm fresh goodies to take home and delicious delights. The Heritage Garden Deli dishes up breakfasts, light lunches and decadent treats daily.
For a real “South African” experience, you will find the best of local here. With authentic “braaivleis” and traditional Sunday Roasts with all the trimmings.
The Grande Provence picnics need no introduction. Grab a blanket, family and friends – lunch is sorted! Baskets for two @R375 per double incl: salmon pate cheeses | olives & preserves cold meats | chocolate brownie and water.
The Estate is offering irresistible rates for leisure travel during the level three lockdown period from only R1800 per room. Rates include bed and breakfast pack daily. Complimentary amenities, wi-fi and secure parking with 24hr security.
The Gallery at Grande Provence is one of the most highly regarded galleries in the Cape. Regular exhibitions are held throughout the year, showcasing both local and international artists. The impressive Sculpture Garden has a continually evolving collection of monumental works.
Estate opening times: Monday to Saturday: 09h00-17h00 (kitchen closes 16h00), Sundays: 09h00-16h00 (kitchen closes 15h00) To book any of these experiences reservations@grandeprovence.co.za www.grandeprovence.co.za ***Saturday Braais and Picnics are weather dependent ***Grande Province follows strict Covid-Safe protocols to ensure safety of visitors and staff