Franschhoek Life Feb 2022

IMAGE COURTESY OF LEOPARD’S LEAP

F E B RU A RY | M A RC H 2 0 2 2

taste

experience

discover

Something exciting in the Winelands …

Enjoy four Jordan Estate wines perfectly paired with five locally produced artisanal chocolates from Afrikoa. A flavour experience not to be missed!

The Luna Cinema presents a romantic preValentine’s Day movie – A Star is Born, at Leopards Leap with indulgent picnic boxes to be enjoyed on the lawn against a spectacular sunset backdrop!

The Franschhoek Chamber Music Festival featuring 10 concerts with the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra taking place at the Franschhoek NG Church and La Motte Wine Estate.

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FOOD & WINE

MONNEAUX RESTAURANT AT FRANSCHHOEK COUNTRY HOUSE & VILLAS

For bookings contact us on +27(0)21 876 3386 or book online at www.monneaux.co.za

Smitten: An Enduring Affair

When Smitten opened its doors in January 2021, owners Imraan Vagar and Chris Smit knew that the stakes couldn’t be any higher for the enormous gamble they were about to take. After all, this was a time when the deathly spectre of the COVID-19 pandemic still loomed large and much of the world continued to live under paralyzing fear and lockdown restrictions. The outlook in Franschhoek, particularly in the tourism and hospitality sectors, was characterized by gloomy uncertainty and even desperation. Conventional wisdom dictated that this was the least prudent time to be opening a new restaurant, never mind one as ambitious and audacious as Smitten.

“Most people were too polite to say so, but I suspect many of them secretly thought that we were certifiable for not only opening when we did, but also for the unsparing manner with which we did.” said Imraan. “It was obvious to all that a lot of resources and emotional investment had gone into the venture, which made it seem all the more wildly at odds with the global consensus and the austere moment we were all living through.” he added.

But so confident were they that locals would come out in force to support a restaurant in Franschhoek that

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recognized and spoke to their needs – and wasn’t captive to the international tourist market – that Imraan and Chris didn’t hesitate. In fact, they pulled out all the stops.

“Smitten was inspired by our own romance and love of food, but it’s also our love letter to Franschhoek.” said Imraan. “I wanted to create a beautiful, sumptuous space to make people feel special and spoilt. Our warm and friendly servers ensure that customers always feel welcomed and valued. We’re an owner-run business so people know we care and stand by our product and service. And of course,

Chris cooks and bakes with so much love that our guests can taste it in every soul-nourishing bite!” he added.

If the rave reviews are anything to go by, it would appear that their patrons are indeed smitten! And it’s fair to say that in the space of one year since its launch Smitten has already emerged as one of Franschhoek’s legacy institutions and yet another reason for visitors to keep returning to this unique little village. www.smittencafe.co.za

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LIFESTYLE

A Celebration of Love & Life at Mon Amour Autumn is the season of harvest and the turning of leaves, and in 2022, it is the season that ushers in exciting developments happening in the heart of Franschhoek, namely the official launch of Mon Amour and Chrysalis Spa at The Yard. Part of a phased roll out plan and following on the immensely successful opening of sister company Smitten at The Yard, Mon Amour and Chrysalis Spa are now gearing up to open their doors.

Mon Amour is a subtle homage to Parisian Café Culture where everyone is invited to immerse themselves in a dimension of deliciousness that is as delightful as it is daring. The Theme at Mon Amour: An Enchanted Forest is brought to life with interior design that follows a playful narrative, taking patrons on a journey into a world of wonder. This enchanting space is elegant and tasteful, and contagiously conducive to creating incredible experiences.

The brand ethos “Imagination is Everything” is the perfect launchpad for the beautiful finishes, bespoke features and the series of vividly visual and immersive, custom-designed Wall Murals that centre around an adventure into a whimsical wonderland.

Here, everyone is invited to have fun and live their dreams, to embrace and appreciate the playful inspiration of Mother Nature, as a celebration of love and life. Mon Amour is quirky and chic. It’s allure is underpinned by gorgeous textures and rich elements of colourful florals and gold elegance.

Water, that gives life, is ever-present throughout the Wall Murals by way of watering lakes. Especially created by Cara Saven Wall Design, the Murals are an oases for a plethora of beautiful wildlife and sanctuaries for the exotic birds that reside in this dimension of dreams. As you dwell deeper into the forest of fun you can’t help but notice Noor, the beautiful Bengal Tiger. She is Mon Amour’s majestic matriarch, whose regal gaze keeps a peaceful watch over the entire forest. Aptly 2022 is The Year of the Tiger.

Also by Mon Amour is a little shop, called The Rose Room. Here one will find stunning fresh Roses and only Roses for sale, biologically grown by Cosmafolia. The Rose Room is a well considered space that will be great to stop by for a glass of bubbly and to pick up some Roses for your partner or dinner host.

Chrysalis Spa by Mon Amour is a celebration of being beautiful, providing a number of world-class treatments and state-of-the-art beauty technologies, with the Chrysalis Champagne Bar ensuring that the bubbles are always chilled and ready to be served, whilst the pampering ensues.

The Team at Chrysalis Spa and Mon Amour look forward to welcoming you in March this year at The Yard, 38 Huguenot Street, Franschhoek.

“Imagination is beautiful because there are no rules to play by when we’re imagining.”­

Celebrate Love 14 February 2022

5 course dinner @ R1 200 per couple Starter

Venison, pickled mustard, raisin puree, horseradish, pickled onion, fig, phyllo tuille, jus gras

Intermediate

Rainbow Cured Trout, baby gem, pommegranate, smoked pepper, fennel, scallion, lemon caper dressing

26 February 2022 gather your friends to celebrate our harvest from 15:00 to 19:00 Grape Picking & Stomping Guided Wine Blending in our Tank Room Sunset Harvest Table Book a table of 6 @ R4 200 (R800 pp) 8 @ R5 200 (R750 pp) 10 @ R6 000 (R700 pp)

Main

Children's Mini Fest: Supervised grape stomping, lawn games, painting tables, jumping castle & picnic @ R250 per child

Dessert

Tables are limited Please contact us to make your reservation events@grandeprovence.co.za

Beef, broccollini, remoulade, buttered beets, purple cauliflower, pomme, berry jus Three Way Berry, berry and rosewater spheres, berry foam, strawberry cremeaux, white chocolate pearls, meringue, red velvet ice cream

Cheese Plate

Bookings are essential, contact events@grandeprovence.co.za www.lifebrands.co.za

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CALENDAR

Treat that special someone to an afternoon of al fresco dining, lounging on the iconic Werf lawns with a basket full of delicious farm treats. Guests will also receive a welcome glass of bubbles. Live music by Brandon Lee Hunt between 13h00-15h00, will set the mood for a fabulous day in the sun. R620 for a basket for two including welcome drink and live music.

THE WERF RESTAURANT AT BOSCHENDAL

Framed by the Drakenstein mountains, and overlooking the werf food garden, the Werf restaurant celebrates the quintessential soil to fork philosophy that is at the heart of Boschendal. From sumptuous breakfasts, languid lunches and special dinners, this venue housed in the original cellar, is the perfect venue for any occasion. Open daily for breakfast and lunch and from Thursday to Saturday for dinner.

JORDAN & AFRIKOA FLAVOUR EXPERIENCE

AT AITY GALLERY FRANSCHHOEK

Witness the joining of two artisanal forces to celebrate Africa and her sun-ripened, deeply flavoured local produce. Indulge in our new Jordan & Afrikoa flavour experience! Enjoy four Jordan Estate wines perfectly paired with five locally produced artisanal chocolates from Afrikoa. Sit back and enjoy the majestic views of the Stellenbosch valley as our knowledgeable wine advisors delve into the flavour profiles.

WAVEWORKS – Durban based artist, Corné Eksteen dissects the visual world through a scientific lens and presents a new body of work exploring the vibrational nature of matter through traditional genres like still life and portraiture.

From 29.01.2022 to 21.02.2022.

INFO www.artintheyard.co.za

INFO www.jordanwines.com

MARCH LA MOTTE HARVEST EXPERIENCE

The La Motte team invites you to join the La Motte Harvest Experience. Share in the excitement of harvest-time in the Winelands with a vineyard and cellar tour, wine tasting and harvest-inspired alfresco lunch. R120 per person with optional lunch at R220. Tues-Sun 09h00-16h00.

Reservations are recommended.

BOOKINGS 021 876 8820

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A four-day celebration of chamber music, haute cuisine, world-class MCC, and fine art featuring 10 concerts performed by the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra with works by Bach, Beethoven, Bizet, Brahms, Elgar, Mendelssohn, Mozart, Tchaikovsky and more. Concert venues: Franschhoek NG Church, La Motte Wine Estate.

BOOKINGS Quicket

SOLO EXHIBITION

BY CORNÉ EKSTEEN

TUES-SUN

BOOK reservations@boschendal.co.za

THE FRANSHHOEK CHAMBER MUSIC FESTIVAL

For more information about the festival visit fcmf.co.za or info@fcmf.co.za

INFO www.boschendal.com

DAILY

DAILY

BOOKINGS www.webtickets.co.za

AT BOSCHENDAL

F E B R U A RY

Join Leopards Leap for a romantic preValentine’s Day movie, including a special Valentine’s Day picnic boxe bursting with delicious treats. Arrive early and enjoy the beautiful sunset scenery before settling in for the movie. Gates open at 18h30. Movie starts once the sun has set – around 20h00.

R595 per couple; includes two movie tickets and a picnic box for two. No BYO. No dogs.

A cash bar will be available.

VALENTINE’S DAY PICNIC

24-27 DAILY

THE LUNA CINEMA PRESENTS “A STAR IS BORN”

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EVENTS.EXPERIENCES. LIFESTYLE.

MARCH MAGIC AT THE TREE HOUSE AT BOSCHENDAL

For all advertising and editorial enquiries

21, 22, 23, 24, 28, 29, 30 and 31 March

CONTACT 083 263 6997 info@lifebrands.co.za www.lifebrands.co.za

March holidays are around the corner (can you believe it!) and Boschendal has curated a wonderful program for free range kids to explore everything this magnificent working farm has to offer. From laughing yoga in the forest to being a farmer for the day.

Cost: R400 per child per day.

BOOK reservations1@boschendal.co.za www.lifebrands.co.za

FOOD & WINE

Take a Bite Out of the Best of Boschendal All Year

Since it was first founded in 1685, Boschendal Farm in has become world-famous for its food, wine, farm produce and generous country hospitality. After a decade of rejuvenation, reinvention and refinement, this iconic Cape farm has evolved into a landmark winelands destination, offering a diversity of food, wine and outdoor experiences united by a common ethos of sustainability.

Boschendal Farm takes pride in celebrating its three centuries of history as a humble working farm. Across the property you’ll find the agricultural heritage of this storied estate woven into every aspect of the guest experience.

The abundant Food Garden is the thread running through each aspect of the Boschendal Farm experience. Together with the free-range chickens, and herds of pasture-reared Angus Beef, it provides fresh produce for The Werf restaurant, The Deli and the Farm Shop & Butchery.

The chefs at Boschendal are truly inspired, and guided, by the seasons. When crafting menus, Executive Chef Allistair Lawrence looks first to what this remarkable open-air pantry has provided before creating the diversity of culinary offerings on the estate, from contemporary dining at the Werf restaurant with ever evolving dishes to the generous bistro style and ever-

popular farm breakfasts at The Deli. In the summer, generous picnic baskets can be enjoyed at tables laid out on the lawns surrounding the historic Rhone Homestead.

For visitors looking to take home a taste of Boschendal, the shelves of the Farm Shop & Butchery are piled high with fresh vegetables from the Food Garden, farm salads, handcrafted estate products and artisan breads baked on site each day while The Boschendal online shopping experience allows lovers of fine food and décor to seamlessly access the array of produce and products grown, crafted and created on the estate, and in the surrounding winelands. Whether you’re craving homemade jams from farm-fresh fruit, or the flaky pasteis de nata, the online portal puts some of the Cape’s finest fresh produce a few clicks away! www.boschendal.com

Atlas Swift – HOME TO SUPERLATIVE CHARDONNAYS

Unprecedented times didn’t subdue the tenacity of winemakers who believed the time was right to follow their dreams.

Atlas Swift rose above as challenging two years, bringing consumers an authentic space to enjoy superlative Chardonnay.

Serendipity brought Welma and her husband Martin Smith together, both who pursued careers in agriculture before establishing their family brand. As sole proprietors, their lifestyle highlights the importance of family in an environment where their children can run free while moulding an heirloom for them with every wine made, bottled and shared here. Martin, a third-generation winemaker and Welma, a qualified Sommelier, possess a unique skill set that highlights the innate essence of wines from different regions.

Winemaking represents a responsibility to nature, the name paying homage to Atlas, the Titan of perseverance and Swift references a fast, aerial family of birds called Apodidae as both vow to constantly stay on the wing, exploring the atlases of the Cape Winelands.

10118 FHC Joburg Life 263 x 183mm.pdf

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Celebrating diversity in four individual Chardonnays from Wellington, Robertson, Cape South Coast, and Cederberg, Ukrainian artist Ana Kuni was commissioned to illustrate labels depicting a female warrior 2021/11/25 10:52 AM

representing the terroir of each wine. Guests are invited to revel in the beauty of synesthesia, connecting with each wine through a personal sense of taste, smell, touch, and sound.

The Chardonnay from the Cape South Coast takes flight to the cool, salt-laden maritime air of the Onder-Duiwenhoksriver region at 100m above sea level while the wine of origin Cederberg Chardonnay, soars at 1000m above sea level. Wine of origin Robertson, sunshine induced a fruit richness and cool nights shaped a bright acidity and the fourth Chardonnay in this range hails from Wellington, producing purity and power despite the harsh conditions.

While the plan is to have Cabernet Sauvignon joining the ranks of these fierce warriors, the also popular Shelter range celebrates a blend of these regions, including a Chardonnay and a malbecdriven red blend. Hats off to a power couple who chose to follow their dream in full flight! www.atlasswift.co.za

DISCOVER EXQUISITE WINES AND VIEWS Scan the code to discover more.

You can expect more than just exquisite wines at Franschhoek Cellar, a place that combines the charms of leisurely country life with the elegance of a world-class venue.

Dine alfresco in our fabulous garden, sip wine while you enjoy the view, or taste artisanal beer in our bistro & beer garden. If you’re looking to host the most memorable occasion, we also have a selection of unique event venues to choose from. www.franschhoekcellar.co.za.

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ON OUR RADAR

WEAR SUNSCREEN!

Dermatologists consider unprotected sun exposure responsible for 90% of premature ageing. Helase 50+ is the superior choice. Not only does it protect you from the full spectrum of light, it also repairs any damage that’s already done, addressing all the “by-products” of unprotected sun exposure – inflammation, freeradicals and even damage to your DNA. This way, you can rest assured you’re always getting the very best protection under the sun.

INTRODUCING SILVER NOVA Named after the Latin for new, Silver Nova personifies Silversea’s new direction of sustainable, ultra-luxury sea travel. Her revolutionary design redefines traditional standards of cruising, while personalised experiences fuse onboard indulgence with deep destination authenticity. To say she is spectacular is an understatement.

Book your spot with Cruise Vacations-the leading experts in luxury and expedition cruise travel to the Southern African market.

More info info@cruise-vacations.co.za

For stockists www.lamelle.co.za

STELLENBOSCH’S STREET SOIRÉES Be enchanted by Stellenbosch’s Street Soirées. A series of relaxed foodand-wine tastings in a social, openair setting! The popular events have become a calendar highlight as the perfect way to see in the new year and enjoy balmy evenings.

Presented by Stellenbosch Wine Routes and featuring an array of participating restaurants and wineries – each Soirée is unique, giving you the chance to experience more than a few, and to keep the good vibes going.

R150 (includes a tasting glass and 10 tokens).

Dates to diaries 9 & 23 February, and 9 & 23 March.

Book via www.plankton.mobi (http://bit. do/BuyStreetSoireeTickets) or pay with cash or Snapscan at the entrance.

KEEP THE NEW YEAR SPARKLE GOING Having already bagged two Gold medals, “Lean on Me” Glitter Gin with edible glitter, is the ideal way to celebrate life!

A perfectly rounded Cape Dry Gin, with refreshing undertones of citrus peel, cape fynbos and juniper. Top notes of hibiscus, rose geranium and a hint of buchu make this floral-driven gin, uniquely South African.

GET YOUR ART ON!

New Exhibition at Norval Foundation: When Rain Clouds Gather: Black South African Women Artists, 1940 – 2000 9 February 2022 – 9 January 2023 A Black African feminist exhibition featuring works by over 37 Black women artists from South Africa. It reflects on historic Black South African women’s artistic practices in the period between 1940 and 2000.

This constellation of works begins to make visible the impact and the intellectual contributions that Black women have made in South Africa’s art history in the past century. www.norvalfoundation.org

“Shake it up and watch it sparkle!” www.kindredspirits.co.za

LOOKING FOR A UNIQUE GIFT FOR YOUR LOVED ONE THIS VALENTINE’S DAY? The Local Edit app has you covered with something special for her or him!

From jewellery to beauty and handmade keepsakes, discover and shop from over 120 of the best South African brands, all in one place. www.thelocaledit.com

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LIFESTYLE

Introducing Timepiece by Jordan

Timepiece is a new and innovative range from Jordan Wine Estate, Stellenbosch, celebrating the Jordan family heritage.

These are unique bottlings of single-vineyard, old vine wines from their vineyards older than 35 years which have been certified as heritage vineyards by the Old Vine Project.

“We are very excited to be releasing the Timepiece 2019 Chenin Blanc and 2020 Sauvignon Blanc, the first two wines in the Timepiece range, made from our oldest vineyards, planted in 1983 on Jordan Wine Estate by Ted Jordan,” states Kathy Jordan.

The newly released wines were fermented and matured in a combination of older French oak barrels and clay amphorae for a total of 8 months, accentuating the complexity of flavours from their older vineyards. Amphorae are traditional clay pots that have been used in old-world wine regions for thousands of years for the fermentation and maturation of white and red wines.

“Using amphorae in the maturation process for both the old vine Chenin Blanc & Sauvignon Blanc, captures the unique integrity of the sites. The use of oak barrels gives body and structure to complete the wine”, says Sjaak Nelson, winemaker at Jordan for almost 24 years.

The Timepiece Chenin Blanc has a crystalline palate; supported by a bright acidity and a savoury finish from the fermentation in older oak, with charming aromas of angelica, quince and orchard fruits. The 2020 Sauvignon Blanc flavours are vibrant, in an old-world style, with a long, leesy, yet delicate finish, and hints of elderflower and honeydew melon.

“Throughout the next decade, the Timepiece range will grow and be made from maturing vineyards which have already been identified on Jordan Wine Estate. Vineyards

will include, but are not limited to: Riesling, Chardonnay, and Cabernet Sauvignon alongside the first release of Chenin Blanc and Sauvignon Blanc” explains Jacques Steyn, General Manager of Jordan Wine Estate.

The four cardinal points depicted on the packaging, are found at varying altitudes on the hillside slopes at Jordan, enabling the planting of specially selected grape varieties on the ancient soils to ensure vineyard longevity and varietal clarity. This highlights the positive effects of the different meso-climates on the old vineyards, uniquely located at the upper end of Stellenbosch Kloof.

To acknowledge the Jordan heritage and the impact that founder Ted Jordan had on the vineyards, from the first plantings in 1983, the Timepiece logo is penned in his own hand and will, in perpetuity, connect his influence at Jordan Estate with the future generations who continue to farm these ancient soils – a true ancestral timepiece.

“Much of my life has been spent nurturing these gnarly old vines planted by my Dad, Ted many decades ago.

I am confident that my son, Alex, will continue to cherish them too. These limited-release, heritage-certified, single vineyard wines ensure that our guests and customers are able to collect and enjoy our life’s work from our special estate in Stellenbosch” – Gary Jordan.

Contact info@jordanwines.com | 021 881 3441 www.jordanwines.com

Roxton is Brampton Wines’ award-winning flagship wine series. It’s a range of full-bodied, serious, fine wines with rich textures and long finishes.

Shop Roxton Red and Roxton Black online.

Visit www.brampton.co.za or scan the QR code.

28260 DGB Brampton Roxton Quarter Page FA.indd 1

2022/01/20 11:54

An Exciting New Season Beckons at Graham Beck

Graham Beck, pioneering leader in the production of award-winning Cap Classique, has appointed Pierre de Klerk as Cellar Master and succeeds industry icon Pieter ‘Bubbles’ Ferreira who is transitioning into his new position as Graham Beck’s Chief Operating Officer (COO) after 32 years at the helm of the cellar.

De Klerk joined the Graham Beck team in 2010 as Winemaker with an impressive track record under his belt, having gained invaluable experience internationally and in Cape cellars.

Working under the mentorship of Ferreira as well as the rest of the Graham Beck ‘A-team’, for 12 years, embracing their passionate pursuit of the perfect bubble. De Klerk will be responsible for managing the cellar team and the annual Cap Classique production, as well as maintaining the style and consistency for which Graham Beck stands for.

In a ceremonial moment that marked the start of the 32nd annual harvest on the Robertson-based Madeba farm, Ferreira officially passed the baton and presented De Klerk with a bottle of Blanc de Blancs 1991: the maiden Graham Beck vintage. He christened this bottle ‘The Perpetual.’

According to Ferreira, “The perpetual reserve is used from www.lifebrands.co.za

year to year to form a consistent base wine to achieve our house style. It signifies the concept that the art of winemaking is a never-ending, timeless and uninterrupted quest!”

For Ferreira, his next adventure may be his greatest. As the new COO of Graham Beck, he will be managing the company’s operations, focus on furthering research and development in Cap Classique production and engage widely on an industry level, as well as with customers and consumers.

Following Ferreira’s mantra of consistently raising the bar in terms of quality and distinction, Pierre will endeavour to uphold Graham Beck’s unwavering dedication to producing Cap Classique which consistently ranks amongst the best in the world. grahambeck.com

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Winemakers Dinner Series 3 February | 3 March | 7 April | 28 April R590 per person

BOOKINGS | WWW.BOSCHENDAL.COM