RSA R34,90
(incl. VAT) OTHER COUNTRIES:
R34,90 (Excl. tax)
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TA S T E N E V E R G O E S O U T O F S T Y L E
TIMELESS FURNITURE AND HOMEWARE AVAILABLE AT BROOKLYN, DURBANVILLE, FOURWAYS, GREEN POINT KNYSNA, KRAMERVILLE, NELSPRUIT, SANDTON CITY, UMHLANGA, WEYLANDTS.CO.ZA
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FOOD & DRINK
SOUTH AFRICA’S BLIND BARISTA 30 AN ALL-DAY FESTIVE SOIRÉE 39 CLASSIC CHRISTMAS RECIPES 88 WELTEVREDE’S PHILIP JONKER 28
HOME & DÉCOR
48 AN EXOTIC ESCAPE IN BALI 54 GIVE YOUR BATHROOM A MOROCCAN TWIST 56 MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR OUTDOOR SPACE THIS SUMMER 62 FUTURE PROOF YOUR HOME
LOCAL & INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL
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LOSE YOUR HEART TO BEAUTIFUL PAARL SEASONAL TRAVEL: WHERE TO GO WHEN DISCOVER THE CRADLE OF MANKIND IN THE SUZUKI IGNIS
ART, DESIGN & GIFTING
SA PHOTOGRAPHER STEPHEN GREEFF 16 STUDIO ROOF: A FAMILY IN THE BUSINESS OF IMAGINATION 20 YOUR ULTIMATE CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE 14
A 2-NIGHT SAFARI FOR 6
AT MHONDORO SAFARI LODGE
VALUED AT R126 000
REGULARS
08 10 12 18 80 86 90 93 97 100 104
ED’S LETTER WHAT’S IN OUR INBOX WHAT’S ON HEALTHY & HAPPY REV RAP BOTTOMS UP WINE FAQ PANEL REPORTS WINNING WINES EDITOR’S CHOICE THE LAST ROUND
ON THE
Cover
Deity, by Stephen Greeff p.14 Model: Zosia Promniska
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www.blockandchisel.co.za
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Colin Collard EDITOR Kari Collard ART DIRECTOR Lauren de Sousa GENERAL MANAGER Liza Weschta DESIGNER Chloe Damstra JUNIOR DESIGNER Lauren Beukes COPY EDITOR & WRITER Shannon Latimer KEY ACCOUNTS MANAGERS Karen Naumann Sam Van Der Westhuizen DIGITAL CONTENT PRODUCER Alex Edwards WINE TASTINGS Alicia Bento TRAFFIC Lesel Haddon ADMINISTRATOR Moxada Govan WINE BUYER/PUBLISHER Natalie Collard
SAARTJIE Single Vineyard Selection Our latest range “Saartjie” is an expression of Arno Smith’s (our Winemaker), devotion to his Jack Russell puppy of the same name.
REGULAR CONTRIBUTORS Articles—David Biggs & Irina von Holdt, Car Reviews—Stuart Johnston OTHER CONTRIBUTORS C&D Heierli, Malu Lambert, Keri Harvey, Carrie Hampton and Lorraine Lines (Consultant)
HAVE A QUESTION? HERE’S HOW TO CONTACT US:
• Advertising & Subscriptions call 021 492 4110 or email subscriptions@goodtaste.co.za. • Wine delivery or wine orders call 021 492 4100, fax 086 674 3966, or email info@wineoffers.co.za.
• Write to the Editor: Email us on editor@goodtaste.co.za or write to The Editor, Good Taste, P.O. Box 30, Constantia 7848. Send press releases via email to editor@goodtaste.co.za. All contributions are edited for space and style.
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The winners will be the first correct entries drawn after the closing date. The judges’ decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. The prize is not transferable and may not be converted into cash. If the winner has not responded to our announcement, via their contact details provided, within three months of the competition’s closing date, Good Taste will send the prize to the next available winner. Employees of Converge (Pty) Ltd, Good Taste magazine, their families, their agencies, Good Taste contributors, and any other parties associated with the competition may not enter. Entrants to regular competitions may only win once. Sms entries cost R1.00 each. Competitions are for South African residents only. Member
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Good Taste magazine is published every alternate month by Converge (Pty) Ltd, Capricorn Boulevard South, Capricorn Business Park, Muizenberg, Cape Town, 7945. © Copyright 2017. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is strictly prohibited. Liability. While every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, the publishers cannot be held responsible for the accuracy of the information herein, or any consequence arising from it. The views and opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of Converge (Pty) Ltd, the publication or the publisher.
This range comprising of a Semillon, Malbec, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc shows the true characteristics of the grape and our unique terroir. Call 021 970 5800 Email info@hillcrestfarm.co.za Web www.hillcrestfarm.co.za/ Facebook @HillcrestEstate
E DE’ D S L LE ET TT TE ER R || Kari’s Picks GT LOVES: For every gift sold, R50 will be donated to improving access to quality eye surgery in under-served communities
Beach Squad Deep V Maillot Swimsuit, R1899 from SEAFOLLY
SUMMER STARTS HERE
Verbena Fresh Shower Gel 250ml, Verbena EDT 100ml, Verbena Body Cream 150ml, R1555 from za.loccitane.com
GT LOVES: Poetry’s Summer 18 Collection
This is our official Christmas issue, so we’ve sprinkled (sorry, I couldn’t resist) our pages with festive cheer to help ease you into that sweet holiday spirit. First up, we’ve got the most delicious CHRISTMAS RECIPES — oh-so-elegantly styled in soft whites and cool natural greens. And not a shiny red or green bauble in sight. (p.39) Not sure where to start your shopping this season? Take a deep breath because we’ve got you covered with some great gift ideas and stocking fillers in the CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE on p.20. Then we head to the Stellenbosch winelands for a FESTIVEINSPIRED SOIRÉE at The Werf Restaurant in Boschendal. Under the oaks, we get tips on how to make long, lazy lunches last well into glorious summer evenings. (p.30) From Christmas to sandy flip flops, Carrie Hampton rounds up some of the top SEASONAL TRAVEL DESTINATIONS —and the best time of year to visit each. Because who wants to sip margaritas in Mauritius during the rainy season anyway? (p.73) From the dreamy tropics to somewhere a little closer, Malu Lambert discovers a handful of gems as she takes a road trip back to her beloved PAARL, on p.67. A place close to her heart, and close to some Mohawk-sporting alpacas. Winding down, we head towards Worcester where a BLIND BARISTA says that, in spite of his challenges, he believes he can do whatever he sets his mind to. (p.28) From coffee making to picture taking, we meet up with STEPHEN GREEFF, a local fashion and lifestyle photographer, making big, big waves. (p.14) All this and more, not forgetting valuable information on all the best and latest wines. Here’s to the holidays!
Portugieser Chronograph Classic Watch, POA from IWC
K ari C ollard Limited-edition ‘Secret Order’ gift pack R399, from Hendrick’s
The New Bohemians Handbook: Come Home to Good Vibes by Justina Blakeney
Flamingo Necklace, R2700 by Nach Bijoux available from Maison Mara
GIFT THE MAGIC OF PROVENCE
Provence is a generous land where lights, colors, scents and sounds are celebrated. This Holiday Season, please your loved ones with beauty treats from Provence.
za.loccitane.com
AN INTERNATIONAL SPIN I’ve noticed in the last few issues of Good Taste you make sure to include what’s happening on the international scene when it comes to food and wine. While I love being able to visit local places, I travel quite a bit and always take note of the places you mention. LEO’S OYSTER BAR (p.52 of your Oct/Nov issue) is on my list of things to do when I’m in San Fransisco next month. I’ll think of the GT Team while I sip some bubbly in The City by the Bay. —Jared, via email
What’s In Our INBOX
SELF-CARE SUNDAYS I hadn’t heard of SELF-CARE SUNDAYS until I read your last issue of Good Taste. I strategically left the mag open on that page and put it on my husband’s desk. Here’s hoping he takes the hint as I am one toddler melt down away from moving to the Maldives. With two kids under 5, I’ll take an uninterrupted 15-minute face mask if I can get it! Please do keep up the wellness content. —Sandra, via email
WIN AN Egyptain Cotton Towel Hamper
TO THE VALUE OF R1500 TO ENTER GO TO WWW.GOODTASTE.CO.ZA & SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER
Bath time is more luxurious with towels made from high-end Egyptian cotton fibres. To enter the competition, simply like our Facebook Page and comment on why you deserve to win the hamper www. facebook.com/vencasa2017 Competition ends 26 November 2017. T’s and C’s apply, available on www.facebook.com/vencasa2017
A(MUSE)ING I really enjoyed your article ‘A FLOWER BOY & HIS MUSE’ on local florist BLOMBOY and artist Ana Kuni. I’ve always found the idea of a muse a rather fascinating one. How one person can unlock something sort of magical in another. It got me thinking about artists and their famous muses through the ages: Edie Sedgwick and Andy Warhol, Yoko Ono and John Lennon, Marie-Thérèse Walter and Picasso, and so on. I met my ‘Yoko’ back in Kimberley in the summer of ’79. Although I didn’t turn out to be a John Lennon, she made me see the world in a different way. And for that I am forever grateful. —Wannabe Rock Star, Kimberley
CAPE TOWN FESTIVAL OF BEER, 1-3 DECEMBER
Gather round for the Southern Hemisphere’s largest annual gathering of BEER ENTHUSIASTS and connoisseurs. This festival takes place at Hamilton’s Rugby Club and will celebrate the heritage of brewing in all its forms, featuring over 200 beers, 60 breweries, food stalls, music, live rugby and more. Tickets from R60, under 12s free. www.capetownfestivalofbeer.co.za
RED CARPET FASHION SHOW 2017, 2 DECEMBER If you go gaga over the latest fashion trends, make your way down to THE RED CARPET FASHION SHOW where leading local and international designers will
be showcasing their finest pieces. This year’s event takes place at Cocoon, a luxurious setting where you’ll be seated in lounge settees, served complimentary cocktails and canapés—all with mountain and harbour views to die for. And yes, there’s live entertainment throughout the evening and the venue will transform into two dance floors after the show—so bring your dancing shoes. Tickets from R450. www.redcarpetconcepts.co.za
W H AT ’ S O N
Things to do in NOVEMBER & DECEMBER
THE GAUTENG SANSUI SUMMER CUP, 25 NOVEMBER THE SANSUI SUMMER CUP is Joburg’s oldest and most
GIN & TONIC FESTIVAL, 26 NOVEMBER
Watch out Jozi, it’s your turn to swoon over the latest craft gins— at the GIN & TONIC FESTIVAL . Promising a wide range of SA’s most celebrated craft gin distilleries and some international favourites, the festival is a great place to find your personal favourite. Of course, there’s also live music by local bands, food trucks and a view of Braamfontein’s street life from the Neighbourgoods’ rooftop. Tickets from R200. @ginandtonicfestival on Facebook.
respected first-grade horse race, taking place at Turffontein Racecourse. Like any good horse race it’s as much about the fashion as it is about the ponies. Here’s your chance to dress up good and proper for a change, and drool over your favourite celebrities in person. There are 12 races as well as live music performances. Tickets from R75. www.sansuisummercup.co.za ‘The generous locals open their gardens and homes for the event’
MAKHELWANE FESTIVAL, 16-17 DECEMBER
Looking for a community event, why not join the MAKHELWANE FESTIVAL taking place in and around the streets of Mzimhlophe in Soweto. The generous locals open their gardens and homes for the event, offering food stalls, live music, DJs and art exhibitions as well as cookery classes. Makhelwane is a Zulu term meaning neighbour, but in African culture refers to community. Tickets from R100. www.makhelwanefestival.co.za 1 2
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A N EV ER-CH A NGI NG PORT FOL IO We chat to designer, Zainub Dawood, of U&G Fabrics TELL US HOW U&G BEGAN, FROM MODEST BEGINNINGS? Sol Danka—father to the current CEO’s AB and Farouk Danka—established U&G Fabrics in 1980. From humble beginnings as a supplier of small quantities of fabric to the décor industry, the Durban-based, family-run business has grown into a leading fabric and décor brand with a national and international presence. VERGENOEGD LÖW WINE ESTATE presents its second
season of LIVE SUMMER SUNDAY CONCERTS, featuring some of South Africa’s top local musicians. A festive food market will be set up on the estate’s lawns with a variety of delicious food options and fine wines to enjoy. Live music by Kahn Morbee, Watershed, Matthew Mole, Desmond and the Tutus, Arno Carstens and Goodluck are set to turn up the beats. The dedicated children’s village will keep the little ones entertained, giving parents time to relax and enjoy the celebrations. For more information on Vergenoegd Löw Wine Estate’s Live Summer Sunday Concerts, contact 021 843 3248 or visit www.vergenoegd.co.za
TELL US ABOUT YOUR LATEST COLLECTION? I’m delighted with our new designer’s choice collection. We will be introducing the first three ranges in February 2018. The collection boasts intricate details, unique palettes and beautiful designs. That’s all I can say. Keep your eyes peeled! ANY TRENDS YOU PREDICT? It is going to be an exciting year for décor. Hues with tones of blue and green will continue well into 2018. However, we’re also set to see an abundance of warm, earthy colours from shades of sienna, tan and terracotta through to rusts and russets. Popular accent colours will include emerald green and watermelon red. Designs will be inspired by artisanal angles and organic geometrics, and there’s a Scandinavian influence too. Go to www.ugfabrics.com to find out more.
GT LOVES: U&G’s latest fabric and wallpaper collection
FESTIVAL OF WHITE LIGHTS, 8 DECEMBER
’Tis the season for magic and sparkle, and Spier celebrates this with their annual FESTIVAL OF WHITE LIGHTS. Expect sculptures and light installations revealing a diverse collection of artistic performances choreographed by Jay Pather. And just as important as the art, is enjoying a complimentary glass of wine from Spier’s acclaimed Creative Block range. Tickets from R65. www.spier.co.za
‘Designs will be inspired by artisanal angles and organic geometrics, and there’s a Scandinavian inf luence too’
We sit down with fashion and lifestyle photographer STEPHEN GREEFF WHERE DID YOU GROW UP? I grew up underneath the Table Mountain pass in the Cape Town suburb of Camps Bay. The youngest of four, I spent most of my time roaming the mountains on my BMX with my dog chasing at my heels. Being the youngest allowed me a little more freedom than my siblings—this gave me wings to be adventurous and independent. HOW DID YOU GET INTO PHOTOGRAPHY? I guess I just followed my own instinctive path and eventually found my way here. It was about opportunity and drive—and never accepting that the fight is over.
Good Taste’s cover girl, Zosia Prominska
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT IT? Photography enables me to speak through imagery. For me, it’s a place where fantasy and reality meet.
YOU’VE SAID SEEING PERSONALITY COMING THROUGH IN A PICTURE IS THE MOST REWARDING PART. HOW DO YOU MAKE THAT HAPPEN? Each person is different and needs special attention. It’s about being sensitive to each person and guiding the process. Then, when I’m ready, I pull them away from their thoughts. AND THEN WHAT? It is the moment I cannot miss. The shot generally happens then. An unexpected moment—when their façade is down and their soul is exposed. WHAT’S THE BEST PART OF YOUR JOB? The freedom. I get to travel the world and meet the most interesting people. AND THE HARDEST PART? Having great ideas watered down after so much time, energy and love has been spent on them.
‘LUST’ from the 7 SINS series
IF YOU COULD PHOTOGRAPH ANYONE WHO WOULD IT BE? I would love the opportunity to do a portrait of the amazing and charismatic Desmond Tutu.
aBOUt OUR COVeR GiRL a Polish native, Zosia Prominska, is a european-based freelance photographer who began working in the fashion industry in 2000, as a model. During her 15-year modelling career Zosia learnt from the best photographers while travelling to numerous places around the world. Drawing inspiration from the countries she’s visited, Zosia draws inspiration from each place’s art and culture— and combines it with her own individual creativity. For more inFormation go to www.zosiaprominska.com
‘heR PeRSOnaLity anD StRenGth iGniteD thROUGh my LenS’
Talk us Through Deity—our cover image? i shot this just after New Year’s Day and the girl in the photograph is Zosia Promniska. at the time she was struggling, as her career as a fashion model was coming to an end. i used this information to mould the shoot and when you tap into something like that the picture begins to take shape. as soon as she transformed from unsure to sure, her personality and strength ignited through my lens—her transformation was almost instant. Where is Zosia NoW? Today she is making great success for herself in europe as a fashion photographer. i like to think that this image i caught of her represents a symbolic moment in her life. When i asked her if i could use this image for the cover of gT her response was, “i would be honoured; it’s my favourite photo anybody has ever taken of me.” and she’s been photographed by some of the best in the world. www.stephengreeFF.com
this image shows a european explorer undergoing a tribal ritual
Shot from the series ‘aWakeNiNg’ goodtaste.co.za
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G T D E S I G N | Studio Roof
dragonfly Recycled cardboard inspired by nature and poetry
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ogether with their three children, Romy and Ilya started Studio ROOF in 2005. Based in Amsterdam the family create toys and objects inspired by nature and poetry. The company launched with a cardboard playhouse—which soon followed with doll’s houses, horses, dogs, dragonflies and trees. More than 10 years down the line, Studio ROOF’s creations are sold all around the world. Apart from making unique items for both small and big kids, Studio ROOF’s products are made of recycled cardboard and printed with vegetable inks. The company also donates 5 per cent of the proceeds of their People of the World to the NGO Karm Marg—a charity that supports a home for children in India.
‘The imagination is always the motive behind our collection, and we believe that imagination is not bound by age. Our products are creations for all ages, to inspire and to be inspired.’ —Romy and Ilya
Studio ROOF’s Motto: Run through the forests, gallop through the fields. Set your imagination free and play!
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BUBBLES ARE THEIR BUSINESS HAPPY CULTURE will not only offer you delicious,
unique Kombucha flavours, but they promise “fresh, elegant and beautifully harmonious green teas with bubble perfection”. Owners Mark and Manon come from a MCC and champagne background, so you know they’re putting great expertise behind their sparkling kombuchas. The kombuchas are handcrafted using natural raw ingredients and authentic techniques. Why kombucha? It’s full of beneficial properties including antioxidants, organic acids, B & C Vitamins, probiotics and digestive enzymes. www.happyculture.co.za GT LOVES: Happy Culture’s Blueberry & Basil flavour kombucha
HEALTHY & HAPPY Healthy body, healthy mind FUGLY FRUIT
TEA TO KEEP YOU SLIM?
We’re fans of all things beautiful, that’s clear, but when it comes to picture perfect fruit and veg apparently ‘ugly’ produce may be better for our health. According to Hannah Grant, the first female chef of the Grand Tour Cycling Race, and author of The Grand Tour Cookbook, “Eating ugly is an EASY AND SUSTAINABLE way to pack in a little extra nutrition with every meal, avoid GMOs, and support small-scale producers with responsible practices.” So next time you’re looking for perfectly rounded apples, perhaps rather reach for the wonky ones.
START WITH STRAWS Did you know that PLASTIC STRAWS are the fifth most common litter found on beaches, that they contribute 8,5 metric tons of plastic debris to our oceans each year? Not only do we use them without thinking, they aren’t even necessary— who can’t sip without a straw? Drinking straight from a glass or bottle is easily done at home, but when visiting restaurants we often just use the straw that’s brought to us, without even thinking about it. So try not reaching for the plastic straw, and perhaps even ask the restaurant to consider a ‘straws upon request’ policy, if not getting rid of them entirely. For more on the subject, have a look at STRAWS, a short documentary on changing the sea one straw at a time.
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‘Plastic straws are a habit, and when you do kind of stop to mull it over, you realise you don’t need them’ —Linda Booker, STRAWS director
Yes, we’ve heard the experts say you can sip your way to weight loss. Teas have been known to be great for overall health, and since it helps us stay hydrated, it supports weight loss. Here are our top three for keeping the padding at bay. GREEN TEA AND MATCHA: Known for increasing your metabolism, it’s said that green tea promotes fat oxidation beyond its caffeine content. And apparently matcha can stop the growth of new fat cells because of its antioxidant catechins, and can help speed up the liver’s ability to turn fat into energy. OOLONG: Another of our favourites that’s been proven to be effective in helping obese patients lose weight—it’s great for a metabolism boost. WHITE TEA: According to the journal Nutrition & Metabolism white tea, too, can stop new fat cells from forming. Is that the kettle we hear boiling?
THE ELEGANT CHOICE FOR YOUR KITCHEN. T’s & C’s apply.
Defy appliances have always offered you the comfort of modern technology and renowned quality while being particularly gentle on your pocket. With our award-winning heritage, defy aims to bring you kitchen solutions which match both your lifestyle and your aspirations.
Introducing Defy’s new, satin metallic range of refrigerators! Offering the perfect partnership of sophistication and modern design, this new range has a brushed-look exterior finish, complete with a laminate coating, giving your fridge a premium appeal. Our lustrous, satin metallic range replaces Defy’s long-standing metallic steel and can be found across all refrigeration models, offering you uncompromised aesthetics, even on Defy’s entry level refrigerators.The satin metallic range aims to be the signature addition to your everyday kitchen, sealed with Defy’s promise of a 5-year guarantee across the cooling range.
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Old School Cool Protect your precious Instax from any wear and tear with this stylish PROTECTION CASE. Made from PU, the case has a magnetic closure as well as a luxurious microfibre interior.
Spoil your loved ones with these thoughtful finds
GT LOVES: The Tropical Vacay Cold Shoulder Bandeau, R1899 from www.seafolly.co.za
Instax mini 8 case, R499 from Superbalist Coconut Milk Chocolate from Country Road
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ake the stress out of finding gifts for the special folk in your life and have a little look through our tailor-made gift guide. You’ll find there’s something for everyone—even weird Uncle Al.
Make Someone’s Year For some serious spoiling of epic proportions why not treat your loved one to a once-in-a-lifetime getaway? For a true luxury travel experience look no further than LUX*. They are in the business of helping people celebrate life and enjoy a lighter, brighter holiday experience and have resorts in Mauritius, Maldives, Reunion, China, Turkey, U.A.E & Vietnam. To book go to www.luxresorts.com.
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For the Prosecco Lovers So great was the popularity of Prosecco in 2016 that there was a global shortage! Best you fill some stockings with DA LUCA ITALIAN SPARKLING WINE
for a R119. For more info go to www.daluca.com.sg
Locally Made Skincare for Him & For Her What do we love most about Eco Diva’s skincare range? Well, where do we begin…For starters their range is completely cruelty-free, non-toxic and vegan. On top of this Eco Diva has everything you’ll ever need with an extensive collection of face and body products including body mists, facial serums, foot masques, body butters, lip balms and more. Looking for a must-have stocking filler? Spoil your loved one with DOUBLE DIVA GLOW BY ECO DIVA . Their anti-aging Face Serum and anti-aging Face Cream work together to create a rich, even-toned skin resulting in a super healthy glow. Double Diva Glow by Eco Diva Special Gifting Price: R660 Shop online at www.ecodiva.co.za
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For The Fashionista This powerful talisman was designed to mimic the form of a the ancient Egyptian symbol of the scarab.
For Someone in Need of a Little Pampering TheraVine™ is a scientifically advanced range of resultdriven health and skincare products. Active ingredients, grape derivatives and botanical extracts are fused to formulate skin care that gives you perfectly balanced and radiant skin. Can Santa send us some too?
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A soft fragrance with notes of apple, grapefruit, Bulgarian rose and white amber— perfect for daytime wear all year round. Rosa della Vita R950 from www.jennaclifford.com
Scarab Necklace R1495 from www.weylandts.co.za
Shop online at www.theravine.co.za
Because Everbody Loves Bubbly Recognised worldwide for its consistent quality, this delicate blend of 40% Chardonnay and 60% Pinot Noir, make TAITTINGER BRUT RÉSERVE one of the best in the business. Tattinger Brut Réserve is available from www.taittinger.com
GT LOVES: The Marble & Brass Inlay Board, R299 from Poetry
A Real, Real Treat The oh-so-lovely LE FRANSCHHOEK has got all the little intricacies covered when it comes to a complete retreat from suburban stresses. Aside from the luxury accommodation and out of this world dining opportunities, the onsite Franschhoek spa is equipped to cater to guests’ every whim. www.lefranschhoek.co.za Order ClemenGold R350 from www.citrusgin.co.za
A Citrus Twist Know anyone who likes gin and likes mandarins? The sweet and sunripened essence of CLEMENGOLD, treats gin lovers to a classic Cape Dry style gin with subtle hints of... you guessed it...citrus.
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Put a Pinotage Under the Tree Making lip-smackingly good wines for the longest time, FLAGSTONE’S WRITER’S BLOCK 2015 is full of
concentrated aromas of wild blueberry, mulberry and ripe cherry supported by smoky, spicy dark chocolate undertones. Followed by wild black berry, preserved plum and youngberry. Writer’s Block R250 from flagstonewines.com
A Great Gift for Teetotallers THE DUCHESS is a non-alcoholic gin
& tonic crafted with aromatic botanical extracts to create an elegant, sugar-free alternative to alcohol. More info at www.theduchess.co.za.
For The Wine Lover GT LOVES: This modern Ice Bucket from www.home.co.za
For The Foodie in The Family Some of SA’s finest—a bottle of WILLOW CREEK makes for a great gift idea for those who love a salad dressed in the very best. For more information go to www.willowcreek.co.za
Something Saucy This AMC 0.9 litre saucepan is an essential gift for anyone who loves to cook. Use this stylish-looking saucepan to fulfill almost all your cooking needs, from boiling eggs to cooking rice. And how about that funky blue top? Saucepan, R2189 from www.amcsa.co.za
NutriBullet 600W, R1995 www.nutribullet.co.za GT LOVES: Directors’ Reserve Extra Virgin Olive Oil
For the Health Nut A green juice drinkers dream, the magic NUTRIBULLET is a must-have for anyone who takes their health seriously. This super extractor transforms ordinary food into super food using powerful extractor blades. Make everything from smoothies, nut butters and sauces and soups that are packed full of nutrients. Best of all it’s so convenient to use and easy to clean. Can someone pass the kale?
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A Little Something from Babylonstoren You may be unable to visit their brick-and-mortar farm shop, but you can still surround yourself with the best their winemakers, chefs and designers have to offer. Search their selection of exclusive products at www.babylonstoren.com.
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For Serious Wine Lovers MIELE’S KWT 6834 WINE CONDITIONING UNIT boasts a built-in Sommelier Set that enables
you to prepare fine wines professionally for decanting. The unit also alows you to enjoy champagne and white wine from chilled glasses and drink perfectly conditioned wine, even from opened bottles. For more info go to www.miele.co.za.
GT LOVES: The Potted Platyceruim, R320 from www.weylandts.co.za For Fruity Beer Lovers The Belgian Beer Company is tapping into the growing demand for fruit-infused beers with the launch of Liefmans Yell’Oh. Maybe leave some for Santa with a few cookies? www.belgianbeercompany.co.za
Can You Dig It? Another perfect gift for a keen gardener. JEDA GARDEN TOOLS are crafted in polished stainless steel with timber handles, the set come with a shovel, fork and canvas wrap for storage. GT LOVES: Jeda Garden Tools from www.countryroad.com
A Little Adventure Located in Elgin, the coolest wine growing region in SA, ALMENKERK WINE ESTATE is a true family estate. Treat a loved one to a visit, or a little wine tasting on the 100-hectare farm surrounded by pristine fynbos and fairy-tale ravines. www.almenkerk.co.za
A Christmas Kombucha THEONISTA is all-natural, low sugar, and naturally
caffeine-free tipple, making it oh-so-versatile and the perfect stocking filler or Christmas cocktail mixer. For more info go to www.theonistaproducts.com.
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G T I N S P I R A T I O N | Gift Guide
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Visit The Cellar Door Of Kwv Brands With their world-renowned Cathedral Cellar, amazing history, cutting-edge technology and superb wines and brandies, they will provide you with a lasting memory of the friendly people, stories and wines. For more info go to www.kwv.co.za
For The Modern Man Chanel Bleu de Chanel is a fresh, clean fragrance with a striking balance of citrus, wood scents. Toast Game Strong Defy’s metalic red toaster is the best gift for those who take their toast seriously. GT LOVES: Red Sense Toaster, R599 from www.defy.co.za
For the Designated Braaier Whether you are the king of the grill or a passionate chef of the house, WITLOFT’s multifunctional aprons suit professionals and amateurs alike with a passion for cooking in handcrafted, artisanal style. Leather Apron, R2499 from wit-loft.com Something Really, Really Special. The Classic Cornwall is now available with a white dial. A new look for their popular bestseller. Buy online at www.danielwellington.com/za/ Take a Trip Visit one of South Africa’s most awarded boutique wine estates that lies in a scenic valley, just an hour and a half from Cape Town, called Hemel-en-Aarde or Heaven-and-Earth. For more info go to www.bouchardfinlayson.co.za What’s Better Than a Weekend Away? Nestled in the Agterkliphoogte Valley lies WINDFALL , a small boutique wine farm and one of South Africa’s best kept secrets. Suprise your sweet with a mini break for the books at this boutique wine farm in Robertson. To find out more and to book go to www.windfallwine.co.za.
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Bleu de Chanel R2250, from Red Square
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sa MsU
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For Binge Watchers For those who like to binge watch series in style, Samsung’s newest innovation is just the gift for them. Enter ThE FramE TV. In regular TV mode, this device is a 4K UHD TV, but turn it off and it enters Art Mode and becomes a beautiful picture frame for gallery-quality art and showcases great family moments through a collection of your personal artwork and photographs. From R32 999
Capture Everything Create some pretty beautiful memories to look back on with ThE GEar 360 CamEra . From R3699
For the one That’s always on their Phone: Samsung Galaxy S8 The Infinity Display has an amazing endto-end screen that spills over the phone’s sides. And don’t get us started on the selfie capabilities. From R14 999
For the adventurer Built for a pioneering spirit the GEar S3 FronTiEr | ClaSSiC has the aesthetics of a truly premium watch with advanced features built right into the watch design. From R5 999
For TV lovers The SamSunG QlEd TV with its slick design and no gap wall-mount Samsung’s curved QLED television allows for television sit flush against the wall. From R33 000
GT loVES: Samsung’s Gear VR mobile virtual reality headset From R1999
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MW7000K IN A FLASH If like celebrity chef and Samsung brand ambassador, Reuben Riffel, your schedule is jam-packed, having time-saving technology at hand during dinner time can be an absolute lifesaver. Even a famous chef can feel pushed for time, especially when he’s busy running several successful restaurants, writing a new cookbook, keeping on top of his ever-expanding empire and cooking for a family. Quite frankly, most working individuals can relate, even without a bestselling book or a string of businesses to worry about. Juggling school drop-offs, extramurals, busy jobs and healthy meals can leave even the most organised person frazzled. While many people want to eat delicious, nutritious meals every night, they struggle to find the time to cook quickand-easy recipes. Even the tastiest takeaways can’t replace a lovingly prepared home-cooked meal. Fortunately, help is at hand. The new Samsung MW7000K 32-litre convection microwave oven with HotBlastTM technology is a lifesaver for time-strapped parents, lazy bachelors and busy chefs. HotBlastTM technology reduces cooking times by blowing powerful hot air through multiple air holes directly onto food so it’s evenly cooked, staying juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside. Preparing an entire family meal using a microwave doesn’t sound like the norm, but the new wider grill enables Reuben to brown food more evenly, while the oven’s large turntable accommodates bigger plates – so that even a pizza fits into the
oven. If he finds himself short on ideas after a hectic day at work, there are 15 preprogrammed Cook with Ease menus to choose from, covering everything from creamy casseroles to brown rice and salmon fillets.
The SlimFry™ technology combines a grill with warm air circulation, so he barely needs any oil – ideal for health-conscious cooks and weight watchers alike. As healthy eating is a priority for Reuben, the Fermentation Function uses advanced fermentation technology for proofing dough or making his own natural yoghurt without the need for yet another underutilised appliance gathering dust on his countertops – proving its worth as an optimal multitasker. Best of all, for anyone who has a small kitchen or who lives in a townhouse, cluster or apartment, the compact size microwave means you get to eat a great variety of truly delicious dishes regardless of the size of your kitchen. Even Reuben is impressed by what the MW7000K can achieve!
G t p r o f i l e | Joseph Matheatau
Sixth Sense South AfricA’S firSt blind bAriStA, JoSeph MAtheAtAu iS living hiS bliSS. trained by the world’s best coffee shop — truth coffee in cape town — Joseph is even more inspiring than the excellent coffee he brews. By Keri Harvey
T
he only clue that Joseph Matheatau is blind is his white cane. When he’s being ‘Joseph the Barista’ there is no evidence at all. He glides between grinding beans, frothing milk and then presents a final perfect cuppa, with senses so finely tuned he knows the sound of perfectly frothed milk. “It’s the sound of paper tearing,” he says, “a gentle sound. Never a disturbing sound, like iron grinding. That is not good froth at all.” Softly spoken and genteel, Joseph cuts a dashing image and has a deep calmness about him. He’s a rare mix of ambition and grace, resilience and gentleness, humility and strength. His presence is quite disarming and a meeting with Joseph is one you won’t forget, for all the right reasons. Joseph takes a break from coffee 2 8
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making, and explains that he was born sighted. “When I was four or five years old, I started losing my sight and was diagnosed with glaucoma. The doctor gave me eye drops and I was sent to a mainstream school, but it was extremely difficulty for me. I remember sitting in the front row in class, but I still couldn’t see. The doctors didn’t know what was wrong with my eyes and the teachers actually made fun of me. They told me to wear thick, bottle bottom glasses so I could read what was written on the blackboard. Still, I really loved school and just wanted to learn.” Born in a rural area near Welkom in the Free State, Joseph didn’t have the option of attending a specialised school for the blind. Instead, he says: “The teachers thought I was lazy because I played with the other children, yet I
struggled so much with my schoolwork because I couldn’t see. I would strain my eyes and take a lot of time to read just a few lines, but I believe it also made me strong and I finished school. Even though people made fun of me, I know I am unique and that’s what I focus on. All these experiences have made me who I am today.” Joseph says that, as a child, people joked and said he was like an old man because he was always drinking hot beverages regardless of the weather. “My mom said nobody could make tea and coffee like I did, that it tasted different. She said I added magic, and so I enjoyed making beverages even more.” After losing his sight completely in 2010, Joseph moved to Worcester in 2014, because of the uniquely tailored facilities the town offers the blind. He started learning Braille and quickly mastered it, and also became adept on a computer using audio software. Then a life changing opportunity presented itself when two years ago Truth Coffee wanted to train a blind barista for the new Kaleidoscope Coffee Shop in Worcester. “I was so happy to be chosen,” beams Joseph. “When I phoned my mom and told her she just couldn’t believe it.” Trained by top Truth baristas José Vilandy and Thomas Boroma, Joseph says the experience was a privilege. “It was a personal challenge because the machines are extremely hot. I was wondering how I would manage not to burn myself with the boiling water and I was also concerned about breaking cups. But they were so patient with me and I thought back on the challenges I had already overcome, and realised I could do whatever I set my mind to. I have a perfect sense of smell and hearing and taste, so I really had nothing to fear.” Because Joseph couldn’t see if milk was frothed just right, he listened instead. “Perfectly frothed milk is a ts-ts-ts sound. It’s a pleasant sound, never harsh.” The course had plenty of theory about the history of coffee, its correct storage, temperature control and freshness. Joseph passed all this easily. The practical took him a little longer to master, because using the potentially dangerous machinery was by feel and sound. But that’s all done
Vist www.kaleidoscopesa.org to order Blindiana coffee Blindiana Coffee Shop, 134 Church Street, Worcester Tel: 023 342 5020 Facebook: Blindiana Barista Contact: josephmbarista@gmail.com
now and without any burns or broken cups to report. Since qualifying, Joseph has already trained another blind barista and plans to train more in the near future. He also has his very own coffee blend, which he personally created—and it tastes extraordinary, smooth and light. “It’s a medium roast called Blindiana,” he says, “and although good coffee is a personal preference, Blindiana is definitely well-balanced.” Now, as a barista at Blindiana Coffee Shop in Church Street, Worcester, Joseph is living his dream. “There is a unique energy around coffee making and I can tell when clients are f locking into the shop—it’s a special feeling, a beautiful feeling. When I meet people my instinct is strong. I can feel energy and I know how many people are around me, many or just one. I can also feel it when people look at me. Sometimes people are shocked and surprised at my acute senses. I can feel the seasons too and I know when it’s spring. One thing I do wish to see is the spring f lowers, because they are so beautiful.” Still, bad winter weather is Joseph’s favourite. “Feeling the mist or rain on my face energises me. I love to walk in the rain. If I could see I would be running.” Since moving to Worcester, Joseph has learnt to walk independently with his cane. “I count my steps and then I
know where I am going. If I have been anywhere, I will be able to go back. You just need to focus and concentrate and have a good memory. The community here is amazing though, so patient and kind and the drivers are really incredible. Worcester is the best place in the world for blind people. I didn’t really plan to come to Worcester and I didn’t know what it had in store for me. But I am happy to be here, go with the f low and things will unfold as they are meant to.” “I know my wardrobe from how the fabric feels and where the buttons on shirts and pants and jackets are. I remember colours from when I could see, so I memorise my clothing styles and colours and I know which clothes go together.” When Joseph steps out he’s always elegant and impeccable, and yes, he does drink plenty of coffee too. Joseph’s personal favourite is a medium roast, double shot, cappuccino. “Single shots are too weak for me to taste well, especially with added milk,” he explains. “But with a double, I can tell if it’s balanced or not. I believe every person adds their own magic to the coffee they make, so the coffee I make is as unique as I am. Joseph says that one day he plans to have his very own coffee shop. In preparation he has already completed courses in marketing, sales
management and entrepreneurship and will be studying Industrial Psychology part time through UNISA next year. “I believe I will do well because my inner voice guides me. Sure, I will have challenges along the way, but I am strong and I will overcome them to reach my goal. I always wanted to be a businessman and that is still my goal. I didn’t apply to be blind and for a long time I prayed not to be, but now I am grateful for all I have.” Would he change his life if he could? “I am quite content and believe this is my purpose. I don’t want prayers anymore for my sight to be restored. I had the opportunity to see when I was younger, and now at 38 I am really happy the way I am. When you go through a tough time you become an example. I believe I can touch people’s lives and this is my real purpose. If I can change people’s perceptions for the better or inspire or revitalise people, that is what truly fulfils me. I enjoy my blindness and I believe this is where I am destined to be. I am on a different planet now. goodtaste.co.za
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G T I N S P I R A T I O N | A Festive Affair
Let’s CELEBR ATE ! How to plan an all-day soirée this festive season
Photography by Richard Keppel Smith Shot on location at The Werf Restaurant at Boschendal Models dressed by Pringle of Scotland, OVER THE MOON and CLOTH & LABEL Models: Nelly Galada, Abigail Siverten, Bart Geldenhuys and Mhlengi Zondi, Make up: Jacqueline Lupton
G t i n s p i r a t i o n | A Festive Affair
T All food and wine supplied by The Werf Restaurant at Boschendal
he nights are warm, flowers are in full bloom and Christmas beetles are abuzz. All of this can mean only one thing. Summer is here and it’s time for some serious outdoor entertaining. It’s finally time to wind down and relax with friends over some good food and a little vino. Here, we’ve put together some tips and tricks to inspire your next fun, festive affair—all the while encouraging your guests to linger a little longer…
TIP: It’s the little touches that go a long way—make use of quality linen napkins, scented candles and prettylooking table décor
take centre Stage
GT LOVES: @home’s range of natural looking tableware and neutral shades of linen napkins for festive table décor
Instead of your usual vase of flowers, why not try your hand at a fresh, natural centre piece? We know few of us are florists, but watch a couple tutorials online and you’ll be able to have a little fun putting something together. Think along the lines of leek bulbs and big artichoke flowers in amongst your greens, herbs and florals. This will give your centre piece a ‘fresh from the earth’ feel that can set the tone for your menu.
Set the Mood With Food
Serving your guests a selection of platters is always a good idea. Not only are they quick and easy to put together but they also create a sort of social feel to an outdoor luncheon. Beautifully laid out cheese and cured meat boards, and freshly-baked breads slathered in farmstyle butter are top of our list when it comes to easy outdoor dish ideas.
TIP: Place bowls of fresh cherries and raspberries on your table for inbetween snacks. Guests can also drop these into their glasses of bubbly too
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GT LOVES: How Boschendal Chardonnay Pinot Noir is full of summer flavours and hints of strawberry preserve
Pringle of Scotland Margot Sun Hat, R999
GT LOVES: CLOTH & LABEL Santander Ivory Dress, R2995 and OVER THE MOON, Navy Floral Lyra Dress, R2300
IT’S NOT JUST AN ICE BUCKET
An ice bucket doesn’t need to be just an average well, bucket, it can also be a bit of statement piece at your summer shindig. Go all out and dress it up with a wreath, or pop in a few long-stem fresh flowers— or simply fill it with floral ice cubes. You’ll never be able to look at your naked ice bucket the same way again.
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A sure way to make your guests stay till after the sun goes down is to stock up with all their favourite tipples. Start off with Boschendal’s Brut Rosé bubbly, followed by Boschendal Chardonnay Pinot Noir to enjoy with your platters and then, depending on your main course serve it with one of Boschendal’s 1685 White or Red Series.
BART WEARS Brown Garreth Belt R599, Navy Eric Straight Leg Trouser, R1200 and Cloud Blue Niall Styled Shirt, R1250 from Pringle of Scotland MHENGLI WEARS Tann Adam Belt, R649, Fawn Macintosh F/F Trouser, R1300 and White Dell Tailored Shirt, R1250 from Pringle of Scotland
A LITTLE VINO
G t i n s p i r a t i o n | A Festive Affair Dress the Part
Nothing ups the ante of a luncheon than when your guests get out their Sunday best. And who doesn’t love an excuse to dress up, eh? Ask your guests to wear something a little on the chic side and you’ll take your luncheon from ordinary to oh-so-special. Ladies, you can’t go wrong with floral summer dresses, high heels and classic-style hats. For the boys, crisp shirts and straight cut slacks exude that summer style and necessary comfort.
Navy dress Over THe MOON, Navy Portia dress, r2900 Lace dress Pringle of scotland, White sheree dress, r3999
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WITH SPECIAL THANKS TO... OUR VENUE PARTNER: BEAUTIFUL BOSCHENDAL
Situated within the Cape Floral Kingdom, Boschendal boasts one of the most diverse ecosystems in the world. Historical Boschendal is just a 45-minute drive from Cape Town, and is one of the most idyllic places to go for lunch, wine tasting, picnics, mountain bike trails or a weekend away. The Werf Restaurant is renowned for their farm-to-table dining situated in the farm’s beautifully revamped original cellar of the Manor House. Here, Chef Christiaan Campbell creates a selection of delicious dishes made from the best local, seasonal and ethically-sourced ingredients. Boschendal is also one of the most popular picnic spots with green lawns and shady trees aplenty. Picnic baskets are full of locally-made artisanal goods—ensuring guests receive a basket filled with delicious, healthy and wholesome food. For more info go to ww.boschendal.com
MODELS ARE WEARING: Pringle of Scotland: 011 444 2270 OVER THE MOON: 011 444 2270 CLOTH & LABEL: 011 883 3215 / 011 326 5702
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I M A G I N E
M O R E
FAMILY FEASTS SERVED WITH WONDER AND JOY SET YOUR TABLE FOR A CELEBRATION With beautiful crockery, glassware and table décor from @home, your guests can expect an epic celebration full of festive joy. Be ready with extra drinks and lots of dessert, everyone is going to want to stay on for more.
SHOP IN-STORE OR ONLINE WWW.HOME.CO.ZA
A TASTE TO REMEMBER In possibly one of the most conveniently situated spots in Sandton, the Parc Ferme is the ideal eatery for visitors to the Sandton Convention Centre as well as office dwellers waiting out the traffic before heading home. Parc Ferme has recently received an ethnic transformation – leaving behind haute cuisine for a more eclectic and exciting Afro-Fusion menu – the restaurant has a completely new appeal to delight its customers. With a fresh look, and an African inspired menu, here you can enjoy a new vibe, one completely local in nature but with the same class and elegance you have come to expect from the team at Parc Ferme. Not only has the menu received a complete facelift, but now you can enjoy a new look and feel with artistic works from local artists, and exotic dishes such as Red-Red Tilapia, pepper soup with goat meat and pap, and Nigerian beef stew to name a few. Come and experience the buzz! FOR BOOKINGS
Tel: +27 11 245 4846 Email: parcferme@parcferme.co.za www.parcferme.co.za
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GT LOVES: Parc Ferme’s choice of unique Afro-Fusion inspired dishes
W&Y1187_23
THERE’S NO TASTE LIKE HOME The range of premium appliances brings exquisite design and state-of-the-art German technology into stylish homes everywhere, with one goal in mind... making people’s lives better. Through a combination of cutting-edge innovation and beautifully simplistic usability, GRUNDIG ensures that your modern home is now the best place to be.
southafrica.grundig.com
G t g r e e n l i v i n g | Ways to Green your Life
Christmas Food for the Soul DeLicious festive recipes Recipes by Diane HeieRli i pHotogRapHy by c&D HeieRli FooD assistant claiRe-ellen Van Rooyen
Delicious Fruity
Christmas Cake Recipe on pg.43
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Parmesan and Gru�ère
Cauliflower Cheese Gratin CRISPY THIN POTATO AND OREGANO BAKE
Serves 8-10 5.5kg large Mediterranean potatoes, peeled 320g duck fat, melted 1 tsp maldon salt 1 tsp cracked black pepper 1. Preheat the oven to 200°C. 2. Peel the potatoes and use a mandolin to slice the potatoes thinly. 3. Place the potatoes in a large bowl and pour the melted duck fat over them coating them well. 4. Sprinkle with salt and pepper and toss to combine. 5. Arrange the potatoes lengthways in a 37cm x 24 cm ovenproof dish. Repeat with the remaining potatoes until the dish is full. 6. Roast the potatoes for 1 hour 20 mins or until they are golden in colour. OREGANO SALT:
¼ cup oregano leaves, washed and dried 2 tbsp Maldon salt 1. Combine the Maldon salt and the oregano leaves in a small food processor and blend until fine. 2. Sprinkle over the potato bake just prior to serving.
PARMESAN AND GRUYÈRE CAULIFLOWER CHEESE GRATIN
Serves 8-10 1.5kg cauliflower, trimmed and cut into florets 450ml pouring cream 125g Gruyère cheese, grated 125g Parmesan cheese, grated salt and pepper sage leaves, to serve 30ml canola oil 1. Preheat the oven to 180°C. 2. Brush a 30cm ovenproof dish with butter. Cut the cauliflower into chunky florets and arrange in the dish, season with the salt and pepper, pour over the cream and top with both cheeses. 3. Bake for 30-45 min until the cheese is melted and golden brown. 4. Heat 2 tbsp of canola oil in small frying pan. Fry the sage leaves a few at a time, drain on paper towel and scatter over the cauliflower cheese just before serving.
Crispy Thin Potato
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TIP: Use a mandolin to slice the potatoes thinly
Buffalo Mozzarella and Rocket Salad
(Serves 8-10 as a side dish)
8 baby buffalo mozzarella balls, torn in half 1 packet wild rocket, washed 50g pine nuts, toasted 4 ripe nectarines olive oil juice of one lemon small handful of mint leaves, to garnish sorrel leaves, to garnish salt and pepper, to taste GT LOVES: The typical summer flavours of stone fruit and mint in this fresh salad
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1. Cut the nectarines in half and remove the stone. Tear into quarters. 2. Combine all the salad ingredients, season and dress with olive oil and freshly-squeezed lemon juice.
DELICIOUS FRUITY CHRISTMAS CAKE
(Serves 12)
FOR THE CAKE:
225g raisins 225g currants 95g dried figs, chopped 140g slivered almonds 150g assorted mix nuts, roughly chopped 170g Granny Smith apples, grated 500g frozen blueberries 2 tbsp light brown sugar, for the blueberries 100g glace cherries 310ml sherry 300g salted butter, softened 220g light brown sugar 2 vanilla pods, scraped 4 free-range eggs 375g cake flour, sifted ¼ tsp bicarbonate of soda, sifted 1-½ tsp ground cinnamon 1 tsp ground all spice 60ml sherry extra 1. Place the blueberries and 2 tbsp of sugar in a pot and bring to the boil, reduce the heat and allow to simmer, until the liquid is a syrupy consistency. 2. In a large bowl mix raisins, currants, figs, almonds, mixed nuts, apple, blueberry compote, cherries and sherry. Cover the mix and allow it to sit in a dark, dry place for 24 hours. 3. Preheat the oven to 140°C. Grease a 20cm round or square cake tin. 4. Cream the butter, sugar and vanilla seeds with an electric mixer until pale and creamy. 5. Add the eggs gradually, beating well after each addition. 6. Add the drunken fruit mix, followed by the sifted dry ingredients and mix well. Make sure all the fruit is coated. 7. Spoon the mixture into your prepared cake tin and smooth the surface. Bake for 2 hours 25 mins or until an inserted skewer comes out clean. 8. While the cake is still warm spoon over the extra sherry and allow the cake to cool. Remove from the tin and store in a sealed container. (You can add extra sherry to the cake if you are making well ahead of time.) FOR THE ICING:
225g icing sugar, sifted 1 vanilla pod, seeds scraped 2-3 tbsp boiling water 1. Place the icing sugar and vanilla seeds in a bowl and slowly mix in the water until you have a smooth paste, like consistency that is still a little runny. 2. Set aside until cake has cooled. 3. Place in a piping bag and pipe around the centre of the cake allowing the icing to run off the sides and drip over. Work your way to the middle of the cake so that a thin layer is achieved.
Ginger Bread Biscuit Garland
Makes 50-60 biscuits, 6cm in height 125g salted butter, softened 90g light brown sugar 230g golden syrup 375g cake flour, sifted 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda, sifted 2 tsp ground ginger 1 tsp mixed spice
1. Place the softened butter and sugar in the bowl of a mixer fitted with a paddle attachment and cream until light in colour and double in volume. 2. Combine the syrup and sifted, dry ingredients and mix together to make a smooth dough. 3. Wrap the dough in cling wrap and allow to rest for a few hours or over night. 4. Preheat the oven to 180°C. 5. On a lightly-floured work surface, roll out the dough to about half a cm in thickness. Using a heart shape cookie cutter cut out the cookies. 6. Using a skewer insert holes at the top of the heart. Place on a greased sheet pan and rest in the fridge until hard. Repeat with the remaining dough. 7. Once the biscuits have cooled, re-insert the skewer to widen the holes, if required. goodtaste.co.za
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G T G R E E N L I V I N G | Ways to Green your Life
Basil and Lime
Hendrick’s Gin Cocktail (Makes 2) 50ml Hendrick’s Gin 25ml lime juice, freshly squeezed 12.5ml sugar syrup handful of torn fresh basil leaves 1. Place the basil in a cocktail shaker and muddle gently. 2. Add the rest of the ingredients and shake well over ice. 3. Strain over ice filled tumblers and garnish with fresh lime wedges and basil leaves. GT LOVES: Hendrick's Gin in our cocktails. Hendrick’s Gin is infused with essences of rose and cucumber and no less than 11 botanicals from the four corners of the world. This whimsical concoction produces a wonderfully refreshing gin with a delightfully floral aroma
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GT LOVES: How the range’s flat lids allows you to easily stack pans to maximise space
The Best Just Got
BETTER A closer look at AGA’s Stainless Steel Cookware Range
R
ecognised as the world’s best cooking appliance, the AGA oven is deemed the number one luxury appliance brand and is revered as one of the top three design icons of the century. It’s the kitchen centre piece of celebrities, professional chefs, royalty and discerning homeowners across the globe. Now, designed exclusively for the AGA (yet still ideal for all other types of ovens), the versatile AGA STAINLESS STEEL COOKWARE features an impact bonded base with a high conductivity aluminium disc—allowing the heat to extend the full radius of the pan or pot, which also provides outstanding energy efficiency. For more information visit www.agaliving.co.za
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G T H O M E | Bali Escape
A Space
INSPIRED
GT HOME |
Bali Escape
O
ne warm night in Sydney, Rosie Iffla and Christine Tang’s paths crossed through a mutual friend. After connecting, the two decided they should create something together. Fast forward a few months, and with a mix of definitive skill sets in art, fashion, PR and sales—the two launched F E L L A Swimwear. After much success, their booming brand eventually evolved into F E L L A Villas— a beautiful villa with South American and East Asian influences. Collaborating with their favourite artists, photographers and homewares, the two created one of the most sought after escapes in Canggu, Bali.
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Gt home |
Bali Escape
Tell us abouT F e l l a swimwear? When we started five years ago, there was a gap in the swimwear market. There was nothing simplistic and minimal. Everything was floral, frilly and fussy. We wanted to make swimwear you could wear as a bra under a shirt after the beach. We also wanted quality and good construction. So we sourced our fabrics from Europe, digitally printed them in Australia and made the swimwear in our private factory in Bali. so how did F e l l a swimwear evolve inTo F e l l a villas? The villas happened by chance. We were sourcing a house to live in for the time we had to be in Bali—about three months of the year. Our friends told us about this rundown, but amazing villa next door to their house. The landlord said we needed to commit to a minimum of a five-year lease. That got us thinking. If we are going to be spending all this money on building a whole new villa, we may as well make it amazing and rent it out. We extended the lease to ten years, and it has become a complete love project and an extension of our brand’s vision.
The main bedrooms adjoin an art-filled living area with folding doors that can be closed or opened up onto the balcony and entrance
how much Time do you spend There? Basically never. It’s always booked out so we always end up staying at friends’ houses. The irony of it!
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Gt home |
Bali Escape
Can you explain your ‘live art gallery’ feel? We wanted the Villas to be a live art gallery where we feature our friends’ artworks and designs—and change these regularly to keep it fresh for our customers. That means the villa is always evolving, and it keeps us inspired. What design style Would you desCribe it as? Modern and clean, with Asian and Middle Eastern touches.
‘Romantic, peaceful, inspiRing. it has become a complete love pRoject’
What do you Want people to feel When they stay at f e l l a villas? Relaxed, comfortable and inspired. Where is your best spot at the villa? Outside in the sunken lounges, in between the kitchen and pool, and lying on our big Middle Eastern cushions.
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The open plan kitchen with a sunken lounge faces onto the swimming pool and beautiful Mexican garden—this modern villa is both simplistic and full of natural light
The light-filled lounge area can be opened up onto the balcony. Featuring polished concrete floors, ceiling fans, custom made Scandinavian couches and cushions for days
F E L L A Villa can be found in Canggu, in a quiet road down off Jalan Nelyan just five minutes from Canggu beach. To find out more, or to book a stay, go to www. fellavillas.com.
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A private garden filled with cacti, succulents and draping vines surrounds the outdoor living space. Here you can eat your breakfast poolside, soak up some sun on the daybed or have a snooze in the hammock
styling Studiopepe / photography Andrea Ferrari / ad Designwork
bathtub Ottocento, tap Square, extras Stairs design Benedini Associati e-mail: info@agapedesign.it www.agapedesign.it
TIME OFF
LAVO Bathroom Concepts, The District, 41 Sir Lowry Road, Woodstock, Cape Town. Telephone 021 461 0180 / Email sales@lavo.co.za / Website www.lavo.co.za
MASSUCCO WARNER MILLER PHOTOGRAPH BY GREY CRAWFORD
GT LOVES:Justina Blakeney’s Moroccaninspired bathroom, as featured in her new book, The New Bohemians Handbook: Come Home to Good Vibes GT LOVES: Créma Designs’ range of Middle Eastern-style lighting
GT LOVES: This Moroccan-inspired bathroom design by Massucco Warner Miller, www.mwmid.com GT LOVES: Angela Bay and Monet Magic Paints from Plascon
HOW TO CREATE A MOROCCAN-INSPIRED BATHROOM Create a beautiful bathroom escape, with these MOROCCAN-INSPIRED ideas
GT LOVES: Mountain Blue Crystal Senses Tiles, R3315 per m2 and Azul Victoria, R450 per m2 from Douglas Jones
GT LOVES: Gold and mosaic finishes on taps and handles Gold Wave Basin Mixer, R8025 from Lavo and Marrakesh Tap, POA from Kohler 5 4
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TIP: Add a touch of vibrant paint to your bathroom walls
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ERIC STRIFFLER AS DESIGNED BY KYLE TIMOTHY BLOOD FOR KYLE TIMOTHY HOME
Marmo L Basin Mixer in Chrome, Rose Gold and Gold, R4336, from Lavo
There is no gentler way to awaken your senses. Nothing against a radio alarm but let something even better wash over you in the morning: our revitalising shower systems. hansgrohe. Meet the beauty of water.
hansgrohe.co.za
BEAUTIFUL
LIVING The new lounge collections from Mobelli bring modern, easy living home. Curated by Sam Lurie from Sprout Design, these new collections express attainable beauty and comfort. Available in a range of design styles and soft hues to complement your home.
Find us on... Paarden Eiland | Sea Point | Illovo Fourways | Umhlanga | Menlyn Plazza
mobelli.co.za
OUTDOOR DRINKING Since you’ve now set up a nice outdoor kitchen, it’s only natural that things progress to your own OUTDOOR BAR. There are many designs to choose from, just make sure it blends well with your landscape and preference. Take décor cues from your favourite bars and come up with your own design and personal touches. Stock up on glassware that will suit the outdoors; melamine or plastic is fine for casual gatherings. Old enamel buckets or galvanized bins, even clean flowerpots, can make creative ice buckets too—just make sure they’re watertight.
Priene Folding Chair, R1295 from Block & Chisel
The Great
Outdoors
SUMMER IS IN FULL SWING — and it is time to create your most beautiful outdoor space yet
Eudora Serving Trolley, R3895 from Block & Chisel
Tip: If you don’t have the space for a fully kitted out bar, you can create a smaller mobile bar cart instead
Lolah Armchair Whitewash, R49 995 from Weylandts Corner Hercules, POA from Sevens
GET FURNITURE THAT FITS First off, decide what you’ll primarily be using your outdoor area for. Will it be a boho-inspired reading nook, a kitted-out dining area, or casual seating for those G&Ts? Once you’ve made this decision—the rest will tend to sort itself out. When choosing FURNITURE make sure it’s easy to care for stuff that can take a beating from the African sun. It’s also good to remember that you get what you pay for, and in many cases investing in quality pieces is the better choice. Another key tip is to make your furniture work double time—so, for example, ottomans can be used as extra seating, and benches as extra tables. Take time to think of the myriad options for your space. goodtaste.co.za
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Tip: Place the longest piece of furniture along the longest wall, facing the main area
Powerbrella, R12 999 from Mobelli
COVERING UP Covering up these days isn’t a choice, it’s essential for staying out of the sun—especially at midday. This doesn’t have to be a bummer, though. From backyard pavilions with nice sheer, flowing fabrics to pergolas and large umbrellas, there are lots of SHADE OPTIONS for your outdoor area. If you’ve got an old-school awning, why not recover it with a modern outdoor fabric to add a look of luxury. A backyard teepee is a fun way to create shade for kids, as is covering your trampoline net with fabric and throwing in some cushions. Overlapping shade sails is another good and affordable option, and you can position them for maximum shade coverage.
Wool Kilim Pouffe, R1995 and Chenille Pouffe, R1595 both from Weylandts
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Jute Storage Basket, R229 from H&M
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MAKE IT REAL COMFY Not sure how to arrange your new patio furniture? Here are a few tips. Firstly, create a focal point, which will serve as the main GATHERING POINT for your patio. The rest of your seating and furniture will build around this area. You can also then add on separate, cozier sections, depending on the space available. Next, choose between a more formal arrangement of, say, a symmetrical furniture placing or more cozy, casual pockets. Make sure there is a good flow through the space, so there’s no congestion in places or an obstructed path to, say, the food table. Lastly, make it feel as comfy as your inside areas by using side tables, ottomans, carpets and cushions. And remember, of course, you can always rearrange things if it’s not working.
Rent these gorgeous villa’s through Cape Concierge, www.capeconcierge.co.za
The Mantis Upright Lounger, POA from Vogel Design
Luna Pod with Stand, R8399 from Mobelli
Kai Pod Chair, R8995 from Weylandts Dedon Swing Us 2 Seater, R59 000 from Cane Time SWINGING STRESS RELIEVERS Outdoor spaces are not just for social gatherings, but for some much needed R&R too. A hammock or swing bed or seat is just the thing to create this space. They are a great way to RELIEVE STRESS and will add a statement piece to your outdoor area, as well as a calm zone. The perfect spot? Always great under or near a big tree, or any other shady spot for that matter—you don’t want to get too much sun, especially if you’ve fallen asleep or just can’t put your book down. Luckily these are pretty popular at the moment so there is a huge variety of styles and materials being used—from weave, canvas and mesh chairs and swings to beach hammocks made of rope and natural fabric. This will surely be your new favourite spot?
Q3200 Gas Braai R10 299, from Weber
Large Big Green Egg in Nest, R19 682, from Patio Warehouse
FIRE IT UP It seems, in the last couple of years, outdoor living spaces have developed from simple backyard braai areas to what decorators now term OUTDOOR KITCHENS. Complete with all you need to serve your guests and even finish the cooking. That includes adding things such as fridges, cabinets, pizza ovens, countertops, etc. to your outdoor area. A popular choice at the moment are the Kamado-style grills, such as the Big Green Egg. They are versatile and, being ceramic, they can be used as a smoker, grill and even pizza oven—and they allow for a range of cooking temperatures. Fire pits were reportedly one of the biggest trends of 2016 and offer a cozy place to sit around, and you can even cook a ’mallow or too over the open flame. Your evenings can last longer, as the warmth of the fire can carry you through the night.
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Fourways : 011-691 7700
Silver Lakes : 012-809 3519
Umhlanga : 031-566 6777
G T W E A L T H | Putting your future first
GT LOVES: How AVIEW is making our homes safer, greener and warmer
FUTURE PROOFING YOUR HOME... WYTHAM ESTATE, a new development in Kenilworth, is putting your FUTURE FIRST
E
lon Musk just made the roof tile cool. We don’t think many people saw that coming? Although... now it seems like a rather obvious idea. The future is here and a better way of thinking is becoming more prevalent every day. But what can we do right now? Gus van der Spek, owner of Cape Town property development company AVIEW, talks to us about some of the features they’re building into their new development at WYTHAM ESTATE IN KENILWORTH, CAPE TOWN.
“We’re living in a time where technology has not only caught up with us, but has sped right past our wildest imagination. A giant leap has been taken and we’re now faced with a number of lifechanging adaptations that are available to make our homes safer, greener and warmer,” says Gus. Given the past energy crisis, the current water restrictions and safety issues we face in South Africa, we at AVIEW are extensively researching products that help resolve some of these issues. SOME OF AVIEW’S INNOVATIVE FEATURES:
• By taking most of the estate’s roads and parking underground, the surface layer is available for beautiful gardens (which are surrounded by perimeter security) creating a communal sanctuary in the middle of the popular Cape Town suburb. • Electricity will be powered by a solar PV carport installation— so all communal requirements like lighting, security, access control and water pumps will run off the grid. Homes also have the option of Tesla batteries & PV panels—making their draw off the council grid almost zero. • AVIEW has designed houses with a solar hot-water heating
system that automatically switches to a gas heater, should the solar heating not be available. No electricity will be used for water heating. • AVIEW is installing a German-made grey water system— capable of producing 10KL of water per day—more than enough to feed the estate’s Franchesca Watson designed gardens. Not one drop of precious potable water will ever be required to keep the gardens alive. • Working closely with Sentian 3i , a state-of-the art security company, AVIEW will offer full estate security control. This includes CCTV cameras and home automation—where the entire system is controlled off an app on your smart phone. Allowing you access your home’s security from anywhere in the world.
TEL:(+27) 071 111 6963 | EMAIL: gus@aview.properties
www.aview.properties
G T P R O P E R T Y I Future Proof Your Home 1. SMARTEN UP YOUR HOME A fast-growing trend is home renovation with smart technology. Through SMART TECHNOLOGY, homeowners can control such things as lighting, heating and AC, locks, alarm systems, and even appliances remotely via a smartphone or tablet computer. The purchase and installation of these gadgets doesn’t have to be hugely expensive, and it will definitely add value and livability to your home.
TIP: Replacing single-paned windows with doublepaned, energy-efficient windows is always a good move, since these windows are now mandatory in all new homes
2. MAKE ENERGY-EFFICIENT IMPROVEMENTS Replacing outdated appliances with more ENERGY-EFFICIENT MODELS may cost more up front, but it will prove to be very cost-effective in the long term. Aside from the monthly savings, newer high-end appliances are built to last longer. Other ways to future-proof your home would be to replace old toilets with new low-flow models, and swap out outmoded tank-style water heaters with energyefficient, tank-less versions.
HOW TO FUTURE PROOF
YOUR HOME 5 easy-to-follow tips
3. MAKE ROOM FOR THE OLD FOLKS As the baby boomer generation continues to age, future-proofing homes to accommodate the needs of SENIOR OCCUPANTS is a super hot trend these days. When remodelling or doing a room addition, it’s important to consider not just how the extra space will be utilized now, but how it might be used a decade or two down the road. Homes that have adaptable living spaces to accommodate changes in lifestyles, and meet the demands of multigenerational occupants, are rapidly gaining in popularity. 4. INVEST IN ESTATE LIVING Looking to buy in a security estate? Choose one that thinks about the environment. Many FORWARD-THINKING DEVELOPERS are only choosing to use sustainable materials and practices when it comes to building an estate. Products such as energy saving devices are fitted to each home—that vastly reduce electricity costs and ensuring your home has no power outages. Some estates are going even further and drilling bore holes, fitting homes with LED lights and kitting out kitchens with gas stoves.
5. UP THE ECO-FRIENDLY Homes that have undergone ECOFRIENDLY RENOVATIONS to reduce their carbon footprint and overall impact on the environment are rapidly gaining in popularity. When remodelling, you should make use of recycled and reclaimed materials as much as possible, and with rising concerns over the use of formaldehyde in kitchen cabinets, going formaldehyde-free when updating your kitchen would be a smart move. It’s also recommended that you use 100% acrylic, low VOC paints as they are ecofriendly, odorless, and far less toxic to home occupants. The installation of a solar energy system is also one of the best eco-friendly steps you can take to future proof your home.
4-Tier Security System
24-Hour Call4Care Services
5 Days Recuperative Care
Patronage Card
Daily Meals
Laundry Services
Housekeeping Services
Medical Assistance
WIN A 2-NIGHT SAFARI GETAWAY FOR 6 PEOPLE Sharing the luxurious private Villa at
Mhondoro Safari Lodge to the VALUE OF R126 000
GT LOVES: Mhondoro Villa’s private, fully-equipped gym and yoga room
THE VILLA AT MHONDORO SAFARI LODGE: AN EXCLUSIVE ‘HOME-AWAY-FROM-HOME’ Dutch-owned, Mhondoro Safari Lodge is a fusion of African chic and edgy European influences within the 35 000 hectare, malaria-free Welgevonden Game Reserve in the Waterberg. Guests can expect varied terrain and a diverse natural habitat featuring the ‘Big 5’, including a large white rhino population. Guided walks tracking endangered white rhino are very popular, as is watching the ‘resident’ herd of elephants who visit the lodge’s waterhole frequently. Mhondoro is the ultimate big sky destination, with stunning unimpeded sunrises and sunsets over the Waterberg mountains and valleys. The wildlife experience is complemented by Mhondoro’s luxurious accommodation, indulgent spa treatments, fine cuisine and passionate service. Mhondoro Villa is ideal for groups of friends or families travelling together, providing a luxurious yet comfortable homeaway-from-home. The Villa sleeps six people and welcomes children of all ages, but for bigger groups it can dine up to 10 when the rest of the party book rooms/suites in the main lodge. 6 4
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A statement in intimate architecture and interior design, Mhondoro welcomes guests with a unique sense of comfort in rugged territory and is designed to give guests a seamless experience of luxury interiors and bushveld landscapes. Unique features at Mhondoro include a star deck, as well as a waterhole with underground hide that is connected with the main lodge by a tunnel, providing excellent photographic opportunities. The Villa is a completely private and exclusive lodge on its own, but if needed, access to all the facilities of the Main Lodge, are within short walking distance. The ultimate in luxury and privacy, it has been furnished in warm, earthy colours, mixing European elegance with an understated, vibrant African flair. Exclusive use of Mhondoro Villa includes a game-viewing safari vehicle with personal ranger and the services of a butler and housekeeping staff. A private chef is on hand to fulfil all culinary wishes and requirements – best observed from the convenient open-plan kitchen/ bar area. Also included in the rates are all meals, teas and coffees, soft drinks, local branded beers and hand-selected house wines. BOOKING DETAILS Tel: (+27) 87 150 2314 Email: res@mhondoro.com WWW.MHONDORO.COM
PRIZE VALUE: R126 000 PRIZE DESCRIPTION: 2-Nights in the Mhondoro Private Villa for a maximum of 6 people sharing. THIS INCLUDES: • Luxury accommodation including all meals, soft drinks and house wines, house beers & house spirits (valued R126 000) • Welgevonden Game Reserve entry and conservation fees • Return scheduled transfers from Welgevonden Game Reserve Main Gate to Mhondoro Safari Lodge (departing from the gate between 12h30 – 13h00) • Twice daily safari activities (game drives or guided walks) The Villa’s magnificent Master Suite has a spacious bathroom with both indoor and outdoor showers, and a separate private lounge and study that offers a calm sanctuary in which to catch up on work or enjoy a book. There are another two bedrooms, which both come with en-suite bathrooms, and wooden decks with views of the lodge waterhole and the wilderness beyond.
HOW TO ENTER
To enter go to www.goodtaste.co.za/competition and enter your details for a chance to WIN! The prize is valid until 31 December 2018, subject to availability, and excludes weekends and black-out periods such as peak season (14 December to 10 January) and Easter (23 March 2018 - 08 April 2018). The prize excludes transport and other transfers, gratuities, premium brand alcoholic drinks, spa treatments and all other extras, as well as gate transfers to/from the lodge outside of the scheduled times. The voucher is not transferable, re-saleable or refunded for cash. Right of admission is reserved - Mhondoro is a 5-star establishment and winners and their companions agree to conduct themselves accordingly.
DID YOU KNOW? Mhondoro Safari Lodge is one of only a select few South African game lodges to have received the coveted 2017 Diners Club Platinum Winelist Award. goodtaste.co.za
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DO GOOD FEEL GOOD The Grier family of Villiera are environmentally responsible producers of award winning Cap Classique sparkling wines. Solar Powered
www.villiera.com
Not for Sale to Persons Under the Age of 18. Enjoy Responsibly
a concept from Anthony Lane
FIZZYTHERAPY
G T T R A V E L | Paarl
PAARL,
UNDISCOVERED How Malu Lambert lost her heart to Paarl— and why you should too
Paarl has been the setting for many important stories in my life. I was a kid here in boarding school for a couple of years, and on our afternoons off we’d wander down the Main Street—the longest in South Africa at 12 kilometres. With its Cape Dutch, Victorian, Edwardian and Art Deco architecture and towering oaks, sometimes the streets would be patterned with purple Jacaranda, other times with fiery autumn leaves. I fell in love with my husband here; with walks in Paarl Mountain and picnics atop granite boulders. I fell in love, too, with wine and, with my husband-to-be, we’d go from estate to estate tasting wine, sitting under the oaks, devouring cheese platters and taking in the eye-popping views. Glorious summer days always ended in balmy nights, cicadas and curtains of stars. I’ve spent a lot of time discovering Paarl, yet there’s so much still undiscovered. Here are places you shouldn’t miss…
DON’T SQUEEZE ME This is no ordinary sit-down-and-tastewine scenario—all bookings are by appointment. And for good reason, as the winemaker or owner of DRUK MY NIET will personally guide you through the tasting that will first see you exploring the vineyards and cellars. This boutique estate is set amongst endangered fynbos and several species of proteas. Here they make site-specific wines in an environmentally-friendly, sustainable way. The farm dates back to 1692 and the phrase ‘Druk My Niet’ stems from the old Dutch meaning ‘don’t squeeze me’, and refers to a business deal in the days gone by. DISCOVER: Druk My Niet Fine Cheeses
with your wine tasting. Their sister farm in Tulbagh of the same name offers a boutique cheesery and the wares can be sampled here. FIND: www.dmnwines.co.za Bodal Road Daljosafat, 082 758 4106 CRAFT BEER ON THE BERG On the banks of the Berg River—a 294km long river that cuts through the town on its way to the coast—is an industrial-cool craft brewery, Berg River Brewery, with wide opening doors that allow beer drinkers to spill out onto the grassed river embankments. The brewery is a culmination of Glen’s (a cabinet maker by trade) love for design and interest in beer. Under the guidance of brewmaster Jörg Finkeldy they brew a Helles Lager and a Pale Ale, a Crystal Weiss and a Blonde Ale—all of these can be enjoyed in The Taproom. The brewery offers live music on most Saturdays, and is in the process of building a music venue. Watch this space DISCOVER: Steampunk t-shirts and other branded merchandise. FIND: www.bergriverbrewery.co.za. 34-36 Westhoven Street, 021 871 1390. goodtaste.co.za
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G T T R A V E L | Paarl
Paardeberg Mountain is named after the scores of Cape Mountain Zebra that once roamed its slopes THE MAGIC OF DRY-LAND WINEMAKING Just out of town, at the foot of the Paardeberg Mountain (named after the scores of Cape Mountain Zebra that once roamed its slopes), PERDEBERG CELLAR is a wine and food lovers’ hot spot. Head to the tasting room for wine (or craft beer) and food pairing; or even a light bistro meal with some of the estate’s award-winning wines. The little ones are taken care of too—with fun pairings for them, too, featuring things such as marshmallows and flavoured milk. In the summer months enjoy tapas picnics outside, while the kids play on the jungle gym.
DISCOVER: The magic of dry-land
winemaking. Perdeberg’s Dry Land Collection wines are made from bush vines grown under dry land conditions, which create intensely flavoured wines. FIND: www.perdeberg.co.za. Vryguns Farm, Windmeul, 021 869 8244Vryguns Farm, Windmeul, 021 869 8244
PAARL HISTORICAL WALK & TOURS Bring your walking shoes for this. The PAARL HISTORICAL WALK & TOUR starts at Het Gesticht Museum, the fourth oldest church building in South Africa, where you’ll meet your guide, the knowledgable Hybré van Niekerk. Start with a guided tour of this old slave church, built in 1813, followed by a guided walk of 1km along the Main Street, focusing on the history, architecture and hidden stories lying beneath the manor houses and buildings. DISCOVER: What it’s like to walk down a
real-life memory lane. FIND: info@paarlhistoricaltours.co.za
PEACE AND QUIET IN A ROMANESQUE SETTING The clue is in the name. Tucked against the side of the Klein Drakenstein Mountains the CASCADE COUNTRY MANOR HOUSE AND SPA is like nothing else Paarl has to offer. Deeply mysterious, the curved green lawns welcome you to a sparkling blue pool with mountain views. Situated on 23 hectares amongst olive orchards, vineyards, and buchuland, the manor house was originally built by the Duke of Bedford. It is Romanesque in its architecture, complete with white pillars and an original cobblestone courtyard. There’s a stream that meanders through the estate, running off from a waterfall that’s a short, peaceful walk away. Cascade Country Manor has fifteen double rooms, a spa, a day restaurant—and absolute peace of mind. DISCOVER: Enjoy a massage treatment at the
foot of a rushing waterfall. Day guests are welcome too. FIND: www.cascademanor.co.za. Waterval Road, 021 868 0227
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G T T R A V E L | Paarl
A COMBO COFFEE SHOP AND WEAVING STUDIO Any idea what the difference between lamas and alpacas are? It must be that the former have the cooler haircuts (and they’re kind of smaller too). At THE ALPACA LOOM COFFEE SHOP AND WEAVING STUDIO, there are 320 of these long-
necked, shaggy-haired camelids. While most cars only get as far as Fairview or Spice Route on the Suid-Agter-Paarl Road, it would be worth your while to go a little further and pay this coffee shop a visit. Boasting that same stupendous view over the valley, with the mountain framed in the distance, the timber dwelling—hand-built by owners Dietmar Keil and Kerstin Heisterkamp—doubles as a coffee shop and weaving studio. Settle in here with a slice of cake and enjoy the hypnotic work of weaving. Outside the kids can feed the alpacas, take part in an agility course with the gentle animals, and clamber happily all over the playpark.
DISCOVER: Luxurious, hand-woven
garments to take home made from a variety of textured alpaca wool—it’s the cashmere of Paarl. FIND: www.alpacas.co.za. Suid-AgterPaarl Rd, Southern Paarl, 084 793 3666
EATERY WITH A KAROO TWIST What happens when two sisters from the Karoo decide to set up an eatery in Paarl? Sheer hospitality is what. ‘Knus’ is an Afrikaans word that loosely means ‘cosy’—and KNUS KAROO KOMBUIS has that feeling in spades. Set on a private piece of land surrounded by tranquil nature the interior of this beautiful little eatery is tastefully chic, with a Karoo twist. A must-see is the acacia thorn roof in the bar area (the thorns were brought all the way over from the sisters’ hometown). There are plenty of Karoo items to take home with you too—from embroidered pillows and the like, to eats and treats. The interior leads to a back terrace— where roosterkoeks are baked over the fire—and garden area with outside tables. DISCOVER: The Karoo version of eggs benedict, served with biltong instead of ham. FIND: www.knus.co.za
‘Settle in here with a slice of cake and enjoy the hypnotic work of weaving’
Mellasat Vineyards is a boutique winery located just under the dramatic Klein Drakenstein Mountains TASTE THE WORLD’S FIRST WHITE PINOTAGE Off the beaten track, Mellasat Vineyards is a boutique winery located just under the dramatic Klein Drakenstein Mountains. In the right season the driveway will smell like guavas, and will lead you to a quaint tasting room with a Victorian manor house set off to one side. Mellasat is an anagram of the Richardson family’s names, who came to live on the farm in 1996. Enjoy a wine tasting of their small-batch wines, including the world’s first white Pinotage. In the summer months, relax with a picnic in the grounds.
DISCOVER: The Cemetery of Forgotten Wines in their underground cellar: a collection of both South African and international museum wines. Look for the vintage with your birth year. FIND: www.mellasat.com. Keerweder Road, 021 862 4525
HOMAGE TO CAPE BRANDY Housed in an old distillery, THE HOUSE OF FIRE has three floors of copper pot stills. On the ground floor a guide will take you through the history and making of brandy. You’ll then head to the next floor to do a brandy and chocolate tasting, at a table overlooking the copper sea of industry. Another floor up from that is a private lounge, for hosting events as well as where the VIP blending sessions take place with KWV’s Brandy Master. DISCOVER: A new appreciation for the art of
South African brandy. FIND: www.kwvwineemporium.co.za
Kohler Street, Southern Paarl. 021 807 3007
GLASS IN THE MAKING Learn the art of glass. What started out as a hobby for two sisters, Janette and Ronel, who worked out of their garage, grew exponentially in just a few years to the fullyfledged FANGLASSTIC. Ronel took over the reigns and garnered awards along the way to boot. It’s a family affair; Ronel works here with her husband Willem, who’s in charge of the admin side, and the pair employs their son and his long-time girlfriend as glass artists extraordinaire. Watch the handcrafted, functional glass art being made, browse the shop or join in for one of the regular workshops, which will see you making your own fantastic glass. DISCOVER: Each of the glass kilns have their own
names, and stories too. FIND: www.fanglasstic.co.za
Zandwyk Park, Old Paarl Road, 083 222 9823
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DeMorgenzon Wine Estate
-wines rooted in nature and crafted in excellencewww.demorgenzon.com | info@demorgenzon.com | 021 881 3030 Stellenboschkloof Road, Stellenbosch
Introducing our new Destination P OMENE, Mozambique’s hidden jewel!
POME N E
Pomene, 605km north of Maputo and 170km south of Vilanculos, is arguablyone of the most picturesque destinations in Mozambique. The azure colours ofthe Indian Ocean lap onto the powdery white sand of this peninsula’s palm-lined beaches on one side, while the other side is framed by the clear waters of a spectacular mangrove estuary.
Contact your nearest ASATA Agent or 087 075 0852
MSCCRU ISES.CO.Z A
G T T R A V E L | Where to Travel in 2018
2018
SUMMER HOT SPOTS
SEASONAL 1. A LITTLE FURTHER TO THE MALDIVES It’s summer all year around in the Maldives. Hovering just above the Equator the temperature rarely falls below 25°C and there are 12 hours of glorious sunlight every day. Resorts on this chain of dreamy islands lying to the west of Sri Lanka, seem to barely float above the surface of the ridiculously clear Indian Ocean water. Travel in November, March or April and avoid the monsoons as well as summer prices, which peak in December, January and February. But if you are going specifically for diving, then choose December to March for excellent visibility and calm water.
TRAVEL
WHERE TO TRAVEL IN 2018 Start planning your 2018 holiday—with some of the best places to visit ALL YEAR ROUND BY CARRIE HAMPTON
WHERE TO STAY: Soneva Jani, Maldives
Inspired by a word that means ‘wisdom’ in Sanskrit, Soneva Jani encompasses a collection of Water Villas and Island Sanctuaries set within a lagoon of crystal clear waters. 2. A HOP SKIP AND A JUMP TO MAURITIUS You are in for a hot and steamy tropical summer holiday in Mauritius if you go from December to March, when the sea and the air temperature are just a few degrees apart at around 27-31°C. Mauritius gives you absolutely everything you want in a beach holiday, where you don’t have to think for yourself because your resort does it all for you. Sure, you can jump on a scooter and explore the coastline, leap on a board and go kitesurfing, or pop along to Port Louis market, but if you want to do absolutely nothing, then Mauritius is the place to do it. WHERE TO STAY: One&Only Le Saint Géran Having recently undergone a total transformation, with beach-inspired interiors, state-ofthe-art sports facilities and a rustic feet-in-sand dining…all for you to enjoy.
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2018
AUTUMN HOT SPOTS
3. MOROCCO: A GREAT VALUEFOR-MONEY DESTINATION The European school holidays finish in early September and that makes autumn in Morocco a great time to take advantage of one of the best-value destinations in the world today. You’ll have the best choice of accommodation in the fascinating old port of Essaouira on Morocco’s Atlantic coast and exotic Marrakesh. You’ll never be the same after experiencing the organised chaos of Marrakesh’s main square, Jemaa el-Fna, which, come late afternoon/ evening, grows a carnival atmosphere of storytellers, entertainers and food stalls. In autumn, you will miss the stifling summer heat and instead enjoy milder temperatures from 20-30°C and nights cool enough to sleep soundly. WHERE TO STAY: Riad Yasmine Marrakech Throughout your stay in the red city, the Riad Yasmine will be your safe haven of peace, a timeless nest preserved from the bustle of the medina.
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Escape the heat and vibrancy of Marrakech in probably the most Instagrammed pool in Morroco
G t g r e e n l i v i n g | Ways to Green your Life G T T R A V E L | Where to Travel in 2018
Christmas Food for the Soul DeLicious festive recipes 5. A WINTER WONDERLAND IN Recipes by Diane HeieRli i pHotogRapHy by c&D HeieRli FooD assistant claiRe-ellen Van Rooyen FINLAND There’s something especially magical about a glistening snow scene where pine branches are laden with white powder and intrepid travellers etch tracks across the landscape with skis and sleds. It’s a clear winter’s night and the Aurora Borealis is dancing blues and purples across the sky. If you can you see yourself in this picture, then Lapland’s Northern Lights should be your goal for 2018. It is home to Santa Claus, reindeers and kalsarikannit (the Finnish art of being cosy). Having made the effort to get here, get yourself booked into an ice hotel, try some ice fishing, and experience a spot of gentle self-flagellation to make your skin tingle in a wood-fired sauna. GT LOVES: How Havana streets are WHERE TO STAY: Artic Tree House Hotel lined with pastel Offering guests a brand new way to 6. GET READY FOR CUBA houses, 1950s-era cars experience the Arctic Circle and the beauty Croatia and Portugal have been the ‘in’ and Spanish-colonial of the Northern Lights in the nest like places for South Africans to visit lately, architecture atmosphere of their thoughtfully designed but they can step aside in a huff and suites. make way for Cuba to take the limelight. There’s a sense of urgency to see Cuba before it changes forever, making it our pick of 2018. Cuba is ‘authentic’ in ways that few places still are, but is Cuba ready for selfie-stick tourists and their expectations? It’s in a dignified but dilapidated time warp, riddled with genuine shabby chic and warm people, that should outweigh inconveniences such as broken lifts and terrible WiFi. Isolated in its sovereign patch of beautiful blue Caribbean, Cuba is best to visit during the Caribbean winter and spring, from December to May, when it’s sunny and dry with no hurricanes in sight.
2018
WINTER HOT SPOTS
WHERE TO STAY: Saratoga Hotel Across from the grand National Capitol Building, this stately hotel with a vintage vibe is an 18-minute walk from the Malecón esplanade.
Delicious Fruity
Christmas Cake Recipe on pg.43
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2018
SPRING HOT SPOTS 7. REUNION IS JUST AROUND THE CORNER Reunion is a concentrated dose of ‘Frenchness’ in a tropical Indian Ocean island, just 220km west of Mauritius. It’s more French than its neighbour and remains to this day a regional outpost of France. Genuine French cheeses such as Camembert and Roquefort have clocked up considerable air miles to get there but, Mon Dieu, they would eat nothing less. And as for the patisseries, offering croissants, macaroons, ooh la la your tastebuds will be burning with desire. There are beaches, coral reefs and surf, but go to Reunion for adventure amongst jagged volcanic peaks and dramatic scenery; hiking, climbing, mountain biking, canyoning and white water rafting. Go in spring before the summer rains make climbing and hiking hot, humid and slippery. WHERE TO STAY: LUX* Saint Giles
The only five-star hotel on Reunion Island, located on the western coast of this lush volcanic island, the resort faces a shimmering expanse of aqua-blue waters
8. TROPICS+CULTURE=THAILAND At over 1600km north to south, Thailand, like South Africa, cannot be justly described in a few words. It lies pretty much equidistant between the Tropic of Cancer and the Equator and seasons therefore are determined more by rain than shine. We suggest a visit during the dry season between November and early April. You’ll be able to enjoy the cultural treks in the north and cooler nights in these highlands, but still find enough tropical heat to bask on southern sandy beaches and idyllic islands. WHERE TO STAY: Four Seasons Koh Samui Set on a tropical, palm-tree-covered cliff, with a private stretch of pristine, white sand, the Four Seasons Koh Samui seamlessly blends in with breathtaking natural environment.
9. DID SOMEONE SAY SEYCHELLES? Who needs a bath when the water of the tropical Indian Ocean around the Seychelles in October and November is likely to be 29°C, with underwater visibility of 30m? Blessed with one of the world’s healthiest, malariafree climates and 115 mostly uninhabited islands, Seychelles is truly the coconut palm beach paradise you’ve been dreaming of. Only 16 islands offer accommodation and resorts, so get in the mood for a laid-back, island-hopping holiday fit for royalty (Prince William and Kate had their honeymoon on North Island). WHERE TO STAY: Alphonse Island Bungalow Escape for an action-packed holiday, romantic sojourn, or an idyllic beach break—your Alphonse Island experience can be as exhilarating or relaxing as you wish.
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G T T R A V E L | Where to Travel in 2018
10. MAGICAL MOZAMBIQUE Just up the road is one of Africa’s most beautiful unpolished gems—Mozambique. It’s unspoiled, undeveloped and fast becoming popular for international visitors too. If you enjoy miles of coastline with coral reefs to explore, this is the place for you. The reefs of the Bazaruto Archipelago alone are home to over 1200 species of marine life. And if you’re looking for a true wilderness experience, the Gorongosa National Park is wild and unspoilt, and needs to be added to your bucket list. Maputo offers an Art Deco-inspired feel and exclusive private islands are on offer for those who prefer their gems polished. If you’re after cooler temperatures, go May to November; December to April is the wet summer season. WHY NOT TRY: Cruising to Mozambique with MSC’s New Pomene Cruise. One of the
most picturesque sites is the lagoon that protects this beautiful bay, set between the blue Indian Ocean and the waters where the mangroves grow – these extraordinary plants appear SS1006 - Seyunique_GoodTasteMag Advert (HalfPage - 190x125mm).pdf 1 2017/10/26 8:38 to float on the surface of the water, like a forest in a fairy tale.
DESTINATIONSEYCHELLES
Summer Lovin’
AM
BERJAYA BEAU VALLON 7 Nights - Bed & Breakfast - Mahé Island Air Seychelles from
Ethiopian Airlines from
R13 930 R11 903 pps
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Early Bird Special - Book 60 days in advance
PARADISE SUN HOTEL
C
7 Nights - Dinner, Bed & Breakfast - Praslin Island Air Seychelles from
M
Ethiopian Airlines from
R27 540 R26 371
Y
pps
CM
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MY
KEMPINSKI RESORT SEYCHELLES
CY
7 Nights - Dinner, Bed & Breakfast - Mahé Island
CMY
K
Air Seychelles from
Uniquely Seychelles
IN PROUD PARTNERSHIP WITH
Ethiopian Airlines from
R27 919 R25 891 pps
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Early Bird Special - Book 90 days in advance
Prices include return flights on Air Seychelles Economy and Ethiopian Airlines, together with Mahé/Praslin flights for Praslin hotels. Domestic flights ex Cape Town, Durban, Port Elizabeth and East London are also available. All prices based on lowest season rates and are therefore subject to seasonal surcharges for accommodation and airfare. All prices include current airline taxes, surcharges and levies and are based on current rates of exchange and subject to adjustment for any changes. For full terms and conditions please visit www.seyunique.co.za. E&OE. The above prices are correct at the date of issue - 26 October 2017.
www.seyunique.co.za
+27 (0)11 453 2933 | reservations@seyunique.co.za
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www.seychelles.travel
G T C A R S | Toyota
The
New C-HR A Chunky Jewel in Toyota’s Crown
Using an innovative “diamond facet” styling theme, the Toyota C-hR manages to be red-carpet svelte and chunkily sold, no matter which facet you are looking at. Powered by a 1.2l turbo engine, the Toyota C-hR is one of those rare production cars that made it through from a jaw-dropping design concept to the sales floor with all the drama intact. This C-hR, a small cross-over SUV with coupe-like looks, has been hailed by many across the globe as the best-looking Toyota since the famous 2000 GT sports car. The style of the C-hR is funky and practical, and therein lies its charm. For more information go to Toyota.co.za
What’s new
IN MOTORING BY STUART JOHNSTON
Prices range from R919 500 for the 220d to R1 134 500 for the 400 4MATIC model THOUGHTFUL CABRIOLET-SPECIFIC FEATURES
Not only is it one of the most elegant cars on the planet right now, but the new MERCEDES-BENZ E-CLASS CABRIOLET is packed with thoughtful cabrio-specific features to take full advantage of fresh summer evenings, without any of the hassles often associated with topless cars. First on the list here is the ‘Airscarf’ system which directs warm air onto the neck of the occupants, handy when a sudden cold front or stiff breeze suddenly spoils that sunset cruise. Another feature on the new E-Class Cab is a climate control system that automatically adjusts itself, depending on whether the multilayered fabric top is raised or lowered. Then there is the automatic draughtstop system which deploys at a touch of a button, raising a see-through panel behind the rear seats that stops the
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reverse-draughts often present when travelling fast in a cabriolet, due to a tumbling effect of air as it rushes over the front windscreen. It’s this kind of thoughtfulness that you will appreciate in the new E-Class
Cabriolet. Engine-wise, you can choose between a smaller diesel, a morepowerful petrol turbo four-cylinder, or a potent 245kW six-cylinder motor fitted to the top model, which also includes allwheel-drive transmission.
G T M O T 0 R I N G | Rev Rap HOT HATCH WOWS FRANKFURT The new SUZUKI SWIFT SPORT hot
hatch drew lots of favourable comment at the 2017 Frankfurt Motor Show—the world’s biggest motoring event that draws upwards of 1-million visitors each year. The new Sport uses a 1.4 turbocharged engine known as the ‘Boosterjet’, which develops 103kW and 230NM. Weighing well under 1000kg, the new Swift Sport should be plenty quick enough when it arrives here, possibly later in 2018. Suzuki South Africa will neither confirm nor deny that they’ll be bringing it in, also pointing out that all their models sold here are naturally-aspirated and not turbocharged. But previous renditions of the Swift Sport have been received extremely favourably here, so our prediction is it’s going to be another addition to this excellent brand.
Price is R895 500, some R30 000 cheaper than the RS 3 sedan equivalent
Michelin Pilot rubber, and bespoke suspension components make this a track machine to relish, although it is still docile enough to use as a road vehicle. SEXY SPORTBACK
The price is a notinconsiderable R1 838 500!
FANATICAL CROWD AT KYALAMI LAUNCH
In late October, BMW launched its new M4 CS COUPE to a crowd of over 20 000 fanatical BMW fans at the first-ever ‘M’ Festival. Good Taste’s motoring scribe was at the track on the preview day and enjoyed a few hot laps in this new lightweight version of the M4 Coupe. It has been completely re-engineered for the sporting driver, who fancies track days as an added fillip to the pleasures of owning a
BMW M series machine. The bonnet and boot of this car are made in carbon-reinforced plastic, and there are subtle go-faster clues to the design, including a so-called Gurney Tab on the boot to increase aerodynamic downforce at high speed. And high speed is going to be a given, in regards to the BMW M4 CS. It can accelerate to 100km/h from standstill in less than four seconds and run flat out to a top speed of 280km/h. M-compound brake pads, ultra-wide rims with special
For many enthusiasts there is nothing sexier than an ‘Avant’ or Sportback version of an Audi RS model. While South Africans have generally eschewed the traditional ‘station wagon’ or estate car format in favour of bulkier SUV variants, in Europe hot estate cars are still the rage. And it is gratifying to see Audi South Africa is offering a Sportback version of its new RS 3, along with a sedan variant. Once seen as a ‘fuddy-duddy’ conveyance preferred by travelling salesmen, Audi’s interpretation of the theme has seen these cars become the hottest ticket in fast-but-practical motoring in Germany. The RS 3 Sportback also enjoys the unique five-cylinder howl that traditionally positioned Audi as a performance icon with its original Quattro models. This latest hot five-cylinder RS uses a 2.5-litre turbocharged motor that produces 294kW, an increase of 24kW over the previous RS 3 motor. It hauls the practical mini-wagon from standstill to 100km/h in just 4,1 seconds.
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G T T R A V E L | The Cradle of Humankind
THE FROG
Whisperer Stuart Johnston heads to the Cradle of Humankind in the SUZUKI IGNIS WRITTEN BY STUART JOHNSTON
T
here is something primordial about the sound of bullfrogs croaking out their mating call as darkness descends over the African bush. And here in the Cradle of Humankind, where our ancestors roamed about two million years ago, it is sobering to think that frogs pre-date hominids by a hundred million years or more. Perhaps ‘sobering’ is not quite the right term to use, out there on the deck of Roots Restaurant, the eatery that is pivotal to the remarkable Forum Homini Hotel complex. With each of the six courses served at the set-menu evening meal at Roots, a generous tasting of wine is poured, in the ritual known as ‘wine-pairing’. As consequence of this, mellow is the mood, as we gaze out over the small man-made lake, listening to the amphibian chorus and wondering, only in passing, if indeed there are rhinos too out there somewhere, as some of the smiling Roots staff have led us to believe. The whole Cradle experience is not really about rhinos, or giraffes, or lions, or elephants, ticking off little blocks on a bucket list. It’s more contemplative, about quietly celebrating the mark made by mankind upon the earth. And wondering: What
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was it like to live here in the days when stones were our tools for hunting and foraging, the days even before fire was harnessed as a major step forward in our evolution? ‘Fire’ is a word associated with the little car that has transported us to The Cradle, the Suzuki Ignis. Until I learned about its connotations with the Latin word for fire, I thought the name Ignis was perhaps a little too close to the name of one of my maiden aunt’s best friends. But I have to say, there is little evidence of a ‘Driving Miss Agnes’ pedestrianism in the Ignis DNA. Does the car justify its fiery billing? For a little city-slicker— most definitely. Although its engine sizing measures just 1,2 litres, there is an impressive amount of giddy-up on tap, from the moment you select first gear and aim for a gap in the traffic, the amount of thrust on offer is impressive indeed. One of the reasons for this is the intelligent selection of gear ratios, perfectly matched to the engine’s torque and power characteristics—even though maximum power is rated at just 61kW. It should be noted that the entire car weighs just 850kg, which is a good 15 to 20 per cent lighter than many of its
G T T R A V E L | The Cradle of Humankind
competitors. That light body weight, though, doesn’t come at the expense of solidity: the Ignis feels just as well-built as moreexpensive Suzukis in the range. It is wonderful that Suzuki has managed this with a very rigid body shell and yet endowed the Ignis with equipment that includes dual airbags, ABS, electric windows and the like. Despite our tagging the Ignis as a ‘city slicker’ earlier, the Ignis is in fact a mini compact cross-over SUV, in other words a hatch that has been pumped up in height, width and, importantly for South Africa’s deteriorating roads, ground clearance. There is some 180mm of clearance on the Ignis, and this is a factor if you are dodging potholes and arrive upon speed bumps with all the white hazard markings washed away—as, most speed bumps in Gauteng are, at any rate. Performance is fine in terms of acceleration—a claimed 11,9 seconds to 100, while the top speed is an acceptable, if not remarkable, 155km/h. In fact, if you accept that this is a small, fun car, the Ignis has engaging performance from its sporty-sounding engine and five-speed ’box, and the handling on both tar and rough dirt is impressive. This is thanks to the distinct wheel-at-each corner design with a wide track. The interior is smart and funky even if the plastics are hard, rather than soft-touch. And the boot is … hmm … okay, not great at 260 litres, but almost par for the class. And you get much more space if you fold down the rear seat-back. Talking of litres, the fuel consumption on this little car is extremely impressive. We managed 5,7 litres/100km without trying to be economical at all, and this figure included some urban hard-driving as well as a contemplative tootle out to The Cradle. The Ignis is reasonably priced at R169 900 for the base GL, while the GLX is a bit of a jump at R189 900. There’s also a manual-with-auto-clutch model available at R204 900. Importantly in this market niche, the Ignis looks the part and, if outright speed is incidental to you, delivers on all counts. We love the metallic blue colouring on ‘our’ test car as we head off the N14 road to Ventersdorp, then turning right onto
‘All the rooftops of the guest chalets are in fact covered with growing grass, and each chalet has been set into the ground so unobtrusively that from the air the whole complex would be perfectly camouflaged’
‘It’s about quietly celebrating the mark made by mankind upon the earth’
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G T T R A V E L | The Cradle of Humankind
‘With each of the six courses served at the set-menu evening meal at Roots, a generous tasting of wine is poured, in the ritual known as “wine-pairing” ’ GT LOVES: Roots restaurant for a sunset sundowner and some food to make the mouth water
‘In this Kromdraai area there have been fossils discovered of sabre-toothed tigers and hyenas four times the size of the hyenas we are familiar with today’
the R540 towards Kromdraai, in search of the Forum Homini entrance gate. The Forum is actually located in the midst of a private estate cum game farm—hence those references we hear to rhino and the like—and to get to the hotel you have to traverse a short sector of dirt road, where the extra ground clearance of the Ignis is appreciated. What isn’t appreciated is how much dust seems to settle on the little Suzy, even though we are driving in Miss Daisy style, but a quick hose-off by one of the Homini car guards the car returns to its bright-and-brash splendour. On first viewing, the Forum Homini is a bit of a shock because there is no sign that it is actually there. It seems to have risen of its own accord out of ancient African rock. All the rooftops of the guest chalets are in fact covered with growing grass, and each chalet has been set into the ground so unobtrusively that from the air the whole complex would be perfectly camouflaged. “We actually refer to our chalets as ‘caves’, as they are sunken into the ground,” says Jaco Minnaar, General Manager of Forum Homini and Roots Restaurant. “We carried this cave theme further with regards to the colours used on the walls, which become darker, the further you enter into the ‘cave’. We also gave the décor a subtle African theme, with regards the designs on the furniture and throw rugs,” says Jaco. And as far as the set meals in Roots? Jaco tells us more about what’s on offer, “We offer a six-course set-menu, known as a degustation menu, with a wine pairing to complement the courses. The whole idea of this, with each course introduced by our waitering staff, is to direct focus on the food, The Cradle experience, and to ignite conversation.
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It is wonderful that SUZUKI has managed this with a very rigid body shell and yet endowed the Ignis with equipment that includes dual airbags, ABS, electric windows and the like
One of the beautiful metal sculptures by the famous MARCO CIANFINELLI
“We have been in operation for 13 years now, and are very proud of our Top Ten Eat-Out rating.” We’ve heard about the area being fossil rich, Jaco explains further, “In this Kromdraai area there have been fossils discovered of sabre-toothed tigers and hyenas four times the size of the hyenas we are familiar with today. “The area is also known for early evidence of mankind’s use of fire, hence our fire cradle outside the reception area. Our venue is decorated by some top artists in South Africa, notably Peter Mthombeni, the top ceramic artist, and the metal sculptures are by the famous Marco Cianfinelli, who did the fire cradle and the famous ‘Sum of Us’ sculpture that symbolises the development of the human brain and consciousness.” All this we contemplate, as we take in the night air after our special meal that includes some intriguing combinations of tastes and textures that we have never experienced before. It is somehow humbling to be in The Cradle, despite the so-called progress made by mankind in the past few million years. Even more humbling to realise that frogs have survived for hundreds of millions years, and reassuring to hear them give voice to their presence as midnight approaches. The only question is whether they’ll keep us awake, so strident is their evening song. Then the shadowy figure of a man walks out onto the deck and moves to the far end, lighting a cigarette, and it seems as if he is somehow making clicking and clucking sounds, communicating with the amphibious night life. And all of a sudden, the hundreds of frogs out there in the reeds stop croaking. I turn to my partner and say softly in her ear: “That must be the Frog Whisperer.”
DeTaIlS The Forum homini hoTel & rooTs resTauranT
Letamo Game Estate, Kromdraai, R540 (Off N14), Mogale City, Gauteng, 1732 www.forumhomini.com
To test drive the Suzuki Ignis please go to www.suzukiauto.co.za.
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BEST BARS IN THE WORLD The AMERICAN BAR at the SAVOY HOTEL in London was named the best bar in the world at THE WORLD’S 50 BEST BARS awards ceremony held recently in London. The American Bar takes the title from THE DEAD RABBIT in New York. Second place went to London’s DANDELYON, while THE NOMAD in New York took third. London leads the city rankings with a total of eight bars listed, four of which are in the top 10, while the US is home to the most bars on the list. Sounds like a good time for an overseas visit. Will travel for bars.
BOTTOMS UP
ALL THAT GLITTERS If the unicorn coffee trend wasn’t enough, edible glitter now comes sprinkled on your favourite hot beverage too. It’s been called the DIAMOND or GOLD CAPPUCCINO and was created by Coffee By Di Bella in India. Prepared as a normal cappuccino, a small spoonful of edible rainbow glitter is then spread over the top to give it shine. It’s probably a good idea to check in the mirror after imbibing, lest you end up with a dazzling smile.
Wine, beer & drinks
MOVE OVER GIN, IT’S TEQUILA’S TURN FORTALEZA TEQUILA has washed up on South African
shores, brought to us by Truman & Orange. In a market over-saturated by gin, craft-spirit lovers are looking for new products to try. Enter Fortaleza, which is made by fifth-generation tequilero Guillermo Sauza in the heartland of Mexico. This handcrafted tequila—hailed by many as the best in the world—is made the same way that it was 150 years ago. Redolent of citrus, caramel, butter, cooked agave and sage. The finish is long and rich and it has an oily-rich texture on the palate. It’s recommended both for drinking neat as well as in cocktails. Added to all that, the bottles are hand blown, making each one unique. Pass the lime.
GT LOVES: Fortaleza’s mix of citrus and caramel flavours
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SIXTY IS THE NEW THIRTY Hermitage Cognac has released a 60-year-old Grande Champagne Cognac dubbed ‘MARIE LOUISE’. Only 50 decanters of this retirement age spirit will be available for purchase—bottled in 1-litre decanters made by Cumbria Crystal. According to Hermitage Cognac’s managing director, David Baker, the cognac comes from one of the region’s top artisan producers. And how does it taste? “Like lining your mouth with velvet, with a full and refined aroma of muscat grape, nutmeg, baked apple, toast and walnut. It has a complex taste of sultanas, truffle, toffee brittle, coffee, dried fig cinnamon, clove and hazelnut all wrapped up in an intensely rich rancio, found only in the rarest of cognacs.” And the price? £1,650 (around R30 500) per decanter. Shoo! Wonder if one can buy a sip instead.
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THE ART OF CRAFT At The Balvenie, we have always stayed true to our Five Rare Crafts, making whisky the way it should be made: the old-fashioned way, the right way, the handcrafted way. For purchases, please email: cheers@wineofthemonth.co.za or call 021 492 4210.
Not for Sale to Persons Under the Age of 18. Drink Responsibly.
A Master
OF MCC We chat to PHILIP JONKER, fourth generation winemaker of WELTEVREDE WINE ESTATE, about love and MCC
AS A FOURTH GENERATION CUSTODIAN OF YOUR FAMILY FARM, HOW DO YOU PLAN TO STEER IT INTO THE FUTURE? As a family we have been
blessed with Weltevrede for more than 100 years. My aim is to make Weltevrede count—to make sure that what we do matters. Apart from providing the world with delicious wines, I believe we should make an impact on the world around us for the better. WHAT IS IT ABOUT THE ROBERTSON/ BONNIEVALE AREA THAT MAKES IT SO WELL SUITED FOR THE PRODUCTION OF MCC? Chardonnay
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plays such a major role in MCC making, and the Chardonnay grape just loves the Bonnievale/Robertson area. This has to do with both the climate as well as the geology: from the high limestone content in our soils we get beautiful flavour expression, as well as minerality from the rocky soils. The minerality, the elegance and the vibrancy of the shale rock lends itself to great base wines and that is what you need in a Cap Classique: freshness and liveliness. TELL US ABOUT THE ENTHEOS.
The Entheos is our all-occasion Cap Classique. This is the one to fill up
G T P R O F I L E | Weltevrede Wine Estate
PHILIP JONKER’S MCC SELECTION
Visitors learning how to make their own MCC at Weltevrede
MCC bottles on the lees in their underground cellar
WHAT WERE YOUR MOST MEMORABLE VINTAGES OF THE RING? The 1994 was significant because
it was the first vintage. The 1995 was also special—in fact, I think that was a better vintage. 1998 was also a very good one. More recently I would say the 2009 was really good. It collected all the awards; the bottle looked like a Christmas tree. HOW HAS THE MCC EVOLVED OVER TIME? The first 10 years we
the fridge with, to find something to celebrate every day. Entheos comes from the word enthusiasm, our belief in positivity, and finding reasons to be enthusiastic about life. And when you open a bottle of Entheos and hear that cork go ‘pop’…
experimented with different styles. But after the first decade, we found our style. There is greater consistency now: bright, lemony flavours combined with some autolytic characteristics. Our main focus is on minerality and tightness: the classic blanc de blanc.
WE HEAR THERE IS A ROMANTIC STORY BEHIND THE RING…
The making of The Ring started in 1994. I was still studying to become a winemaker. For the summer holidays I was back on the farm and I got my hands dirty harvesting the first grapes for our first vintage of Cap Classique. I took it through the primary fermentation. The holiday came to an end and I had to go back to university for another three years. The MCC also needed another three years in the underground cellar. During those three years I met Lindelize, and by the end of them I was ready to get married to her. So, under an old oak tree on her family farm in the Karoo, we popped the corks of the first wine that I ever made with my barefoot bride. We called this wine The Ring to celebrate our bond of love.
BRUT ENTHEOS Chardonnay - Pinot Noir A pale coloured Cap Classique with a slight green tinge and a delicate stream of bubbles gliding to the surface. The nose is creamy and biscuity with hints of green pear and lemon. This follows through on the palate with flavours of winter melon and a slight smokiness on the finish. Best on its own, but can also be enjoyed with oysters or sushi. Drink now or keep for up to 3 years. BRUT The Ring 2010 Blanc de Blancs
‘We popped the corks of the first wine that I ever made with my barefoot bride’
A golden colour with a green tinge and a delicate stream of bubbles gliding to the surface . Lemon grass, fynbos-honey, cucumber, melon and mint leaves makes for a complex nose. The palate is crisp and focussed with flavours of green apple, citrus and mint leaves. A tight and minerally style of Blanc de Blanc. Enjoy on its own or with fresh seafood dishes. Drink now or keep for 8 years.
Philip, Lindelize and their two children live on Weltevrede in Bonnievale Tel: 023 616 2141 Web: Weltevrede.com Email: info@weltevrede.com
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I AM VERY FOND OF MUSCADELS AND JEREPIGOS, BUT NOT SURE WHEN IT IS ACCEPTABLE TO SERVE THEM TO GUESTS. SHOULD THEY BE PAIRED WITH PUDDINGS AT THE END OF A MEAL OR SERVED AS A WELCOMING DRINK AT THE BEGINNING OF A MEAL OR WHAT?
Both your suggestions are perfectly acceptable. South African sweet fortified wines are extremely versatile and are often served with a ripe Camembert, or any full flavoured cheese at the end of a meal, or with the soup at the beginning. Try them also as a tall summer drink served over crushed ice. Whipped into a scoop of soft ice cream they create an instant, delicious Dom Pedro dessert. You can also use Muscadel as the sweet component in a cocktail. Try a splash of Muscadels, an equal part of vodka and top with soda water to create a ‘muscatini’. A twist of lemon completes the cocktail.
WITH CHRISTMAS APPROACHING AND FAMILY COMING FROM ENGLAND, I PLAN TO SERVE A TRADITIONAL ENGLISH FESTIVE DINNER, COMPLETE WITH A FLAMING CHRISTMAS PLUM PUDDING. WHAT KIND OF SPIRITS SHOULD I USE TO SET THE PUDDING ALIGHT? AFTER THE HARD WORK OF MAKING THE PUDDING I WOULD NOT LIKE TO SPOIL IT BY USING AN INFERIOR BRANDY.
Your Wine
FAQ S
This is one occasion on which cheap brandy will work better than an expensive 20-year-old pot still brandy. There’s a good reason for this. Pot still brandies are made to be sipped on their own, so they usually contain 38% alcohol for smoothness. Cheaper brandies are meant to be drunk as long drinks, mixed with cola or ginger ale so they are made with 42% alcohol. The higher alcohol content makes the cheaper liquor more volatile and easier to light. Of course you could also substitute a flaming South African pudding to show them how we do things over here. Have you thought of serving a sticky Cape malva pudding splashed with brandy and presented aflame? We don’t always have to follow English traditions at Christmas. Gluhwein spices are rather like tea bags. Many wine shops stock them.
Do you have a WINE RELATED QUESTION? Write to editor@goodtaste.co.za
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WHAT KIND OF SPIRITS SHOULD I USE TO SET A PUDDING ALIGHT? How do I serve Muscadels and Jerepigos? What’s a good punch to be served by the pool? WE WILL BE ENTERTAINING RELATIVES OVER THE FESTIVE SEASON AND WOULD LIKE TO OFFER THEM A CHILLED PUNCH TO ENJOY BESIDE THE POOL. CAN YOU OFFER A SUITABLE RECIPE? PREFERABLY ONE MADE WITH CAPE WINE OR BRANDY, AS WE LOVE TO SHOW OFF OUR LOCAL PRODUCTS.
Yes indeed. Try this one (alter proportions to suit your individual taste buds). The original version is called an Iced Bishop’s Punch. Into a large glass or stainless steel punch bowl (a salad bowl or soup tureen is fine) place a generous block or a large scoop of ice. Pour a cup of cold lemon tea over it, add half a cup of Cape brandy, a cup of sweet white Muscadel, a bottle of dry sparkling wine, and some chunks of peeled and sliced orange and lemon. Just before serving add a bottle of sparkling mineral water and stir gently to combine the ingredients without losing the bubbles.
At Meerlust, it is our philosophy to capture the intrinsic character of our vineyards, the diversity and complexity of our soils, the unique coastal macro climate and our viticultural history in the character of the wine
CELEBRATE THE NEW YEAR WITH LABORIE MCC’S!
Laborie, a wine made for sharing. A wine made for the warmth of human connection and the joy of shared moments amongst friends. Laborie is a toast to the kind of memories that don’t need an occasion to be worth treasuring, but simply the company of those close to you. Laborie’s finest selection of Méthode Cap Classique is the perfect accompaniment to your festive season! www.instagram.com/laboriewines/ www.facebook.com/LaborieWines/ twitter.com/laboriewines/
VISIT US AT WWW.LABORIEWINES.CO.ZA TO FIND OUT MORE
G T W I N E | Panel Reports
Going Out
WITH A BANG Our panel looks at the most festive of wines, Méthode Cap Classique, to wave a final farewell to 2017 By Irina von Holdt (CWM)
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his year you’ve worked hard, even very hard, and now it’s time to sit back and relax. Maybe you’re thinking of a party with noisy colleagues, or perhaps a more sedate gathering with family and friends, but whatever your choice—let’s add a reward. Nothing big (not a year for extravagant gestures!) but smaller luxuries, what the French would call petits luxes—like a bottle of the best bubbly. Pour a tall flute and watch it miraculously frost the glass while the weaving ribbons of tiny bubbles slowly mesmerise you. Definitely a petit luxe! Napoleon, soldier genius and self-styled Emperor of France, who understood these things, said of champagne, “In victory I deserve it, in defeat I need it.” We’re not talking everyday sparkling wines here, those R49,99 bottles that offer a glassful of fun at less than the cost of a beer—although they are good and great value. No, we’re talking Méthode Cap Classique or MCC, made over a period of not less than 18 months but more likely three to four years or more. The panel needed two tastings to assess the record 85 wines entered. The first tasting featured Blanc de Blanc and Rosé and the second the blends. Here’s the good news. Our picky panel was full of praise for our local bubblies.
The haul included a few damp squibs (very few), but a lot of good workmanlike Cap Classiques, with many classy wines and a whole clutch of stellar wines—far more than we expected. The big surprise is the quality among the Blancs de Blanc—that is, those made of 100 per cent Chardonnay. No longer a pale relative, this group stands regally head and shoulders above the rest. “These are clearly Blancs de Blanc, from the creaminess and the lemon and lime flavours, the beautiful fine bubbles,” sighs Winnie. Colin agrees: “Very good indeed.” “I think these are actually more difficult to make,” says Irina. “There’s far less wiggle room than with a blend. You have to be very precise, starting with a particular vineyard, the right grapes harvested at the right time, and so on. You have to know exactly where you’re headed.” “There are some stunners here,” says Clive. He should know, he’s made a few in his time. We move on to the Rosés and we agree they don’t measure up to the Blancs de Blanc. There’s generally a lack of intensity, lack of balance and, worst of all, some rather coarse bubbles. “The strawberry element, that’s what I’m looking for,” says Clive.
“These fall into two broad styles—a fresh, fruity and frivolous style and then a more serious, richer and fuller style that is crying out for some pink-roasted lamb,” from Irina. “Not too many of those,” mutters Winnie. “I think these are actually not meant to be serious and statementmaking, that’s for the Blancs de Blanc.” “But the price can be very serious...,” says Buks suddenly rather narrow-eyed. He’s also made some bubblies of his own, so knows their true value. Colin has a suggestion. “Use Chardonnay as the base wine,” he says, “and add a bit of Pinot Noir for the colour. Of course, the wine’s character will depend on the quality of the Chardonnay.” An important factor for high scores among the Blancs de Blanc is their ageworthiness. We taste wines right back to 2007 and one of our Reserve wines is from 2010. So if you like your MCCs mature, then cellar Blancs de Blanc and you will almost certainly be rewarded. So why do these MCCs last so well? For example, if you look at still white wines from the 2007 vintage, very few will still be in good shape and show the vigour of the MCCs. The reason is there is probably a very small amount of yeast still in each bottle, as the disgorging process will not
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G T W I N E | Panel Reports remove every last yeast cell. Even a tiny number of live cells might be sufficient to absorb oxygen slowly and continuously and keep the wine fresh. Those incredible yeast cells can remain alive for many years and must continue to breathe. Naturally, this will happen to all styles of MCC. We move on to the classic white and black grape blend, which is Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, and these days more often Pinot Meunier. Again, we are thrilled by the quality and it is good to see wines going back to 2007 with two from the 2009 vintage and more from 2011 and 2012, almost all in very good condition. “Much better than I expected. Winemakers must use only Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Don’t even think of using anything else; it’s a waste of time,” says Christine firmly. “I love them, I gave 26 out of 45 Reserve scores, and I especially like the older wines,” smiles Buks. “My high scores are across all vintages,” adds Christine. “Although some have too much bottle age, many are still fresh.” “You can tell which are the experienced hands here,” says Irina. “The balance is so much better. There’s a polish to their wines that shows. They’re so well finished. Some quite amateurish efforts, too, but that’s okay because they’re learning and they’ll get there in time.” “Lovely category, the only disappointment is the colour, which is often too deep because of the black grapes. Winemakers must always try to get the proper champagne colour,” says Colin. “Yes, that’s true, there are a couple that could pass as Rosés,” says Irina. Buks makes an interesting statement:
“The wooded wines have not aged too well.” True, those extra processes involved in oaking expose the wine to more oxygen, which always takes away freshness. What you gain in weight and complexity can be lost in freshness. Always drink the oaked versions of MCC earlier. We see Pinotage and Chenin Blanc as useful partners, then we find some bubblies made from unusual varieties like Grenache or Merlot. Colin has some firm ideas about these. “Why waste the involved MCC process on a lot of frivolous varieties. If you want to turn those wines into sparklers just use a Soda Stream.” “I hate to tell you this, but of that lot the only one I liked was the Grenache,”
W IN E TA S T E D B Y T H E JU D GIN G PA N E L Shiraz
WINE-OF-THE MONTH CLUB: Rust en Vrede Estate Vineyard Syrah 2012. ALSO LIKED: Boschendal 1685 Shiraz 2014, Cirrus Syrah 2012, Guardian Peak Shiraz 2014, Thelema Shiraz 2012. WINES LISTED IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER: Almenkerk Syrah 2012, Balance Winemakers’ Selection Shiraz 2014, Bonnievale Shiraz 2013, Cape Point Splattered Toad Shiraz 2014, Delheim Shiraz 2013, Havana Hills My Darling Shiraz 2012, Kanu Shiraz 2010, Leopards’ Leap Shiraz 2014, Montpellier Shiraz 2011, Radford Dale Syrah 2013, Spencer Bay Shiraz 2011, Spice Box Shiraz 2014, Stellenrust Shiraz 2014, Thelema Sutherland Syrah 2010, Tokara Shiraz 2012.
White Blends
WINE-OF THE- MONTH CLUB: Vuurberg White 2013. ALSO LIKED: Alvi’s Drift CVC 2013, Leeuwenkuil Family Reserve White 2012, Kanu The White Blend 2014, Flagstone Treaty Tree White 2015. WINES LISTED IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER: Allée Bleue Isabeau 2014, Bon Courage Estate Blend 2015, Cremello White 2014, Flagstone Noon Gun White 2015, Gabrielskloof Semillon Sauvignon Blanc 2014, Kanu Rifle Range White NV, Kumala Zenith White 2014, Org de Rac Le Piquet Blanc 2015, Miss Molly Hoity Toity 2014, Oaklane Chenin Blanc Sauvignon Blanc 2015, Opstal Sixpence Sauvignon Blanc Semillon 2015, Rhebokskloof Hillside White 2014, Stony Brook The J 2014, Villiera Down to Earth White 2015, Whalehaven Abalone White 2014.
Pinotage
WINE-OF-THE-MONTH CLUB: Lyngrove Collection Pinotage 2014. ALSO LIKED: Dornier Pinotage 2013, Flagstone Writer’s Block Pinotage 2013, Painted Wolf Peleton Pinotage 2012, L’Avenir Provenance Pinotage 2014. WINES LISTED IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER: Cloof Pinotage 2011, Clos Malverne Le Café Pinotage 2013,
laughs Winnie. We’ve found wines for every occasion. Fresh and lively pinks to drink out of an actresses’ satin slipper (if you must!), ethereal Blancs de Blanc for apéritifs or sushi, mature Blancs de Blanc for fish or poultry, and beautiful rich and lively MCCs that can take on anything and leave you smiling. Or a mature MCC to drink on its own—just for the sheer pleasure of it. Oh, and about that bang. Try not to pop the cork; it shocks the wine as well as the guests, and it is not good form, anyway. One last thing—never chink the glasses when you toast, it knocks the bubbles and is incorrect etiquette. But if you want to pop and chink, go ahead— you’ve earned it! Clos Malverne Reserve Pinotage 2013, De Waal Pinotage 2012, Deetlefs Stonecross Pinotage 2013, Jackson Pinotage 2013, Kleine Zalze Cellar Select Pinotage 2014, Middlevlei Free Run Pinotage 2014, Môreson The Widow Maker Pinotage 2013, Painted Wolf ‘The Den’ Pinotage 2014, Stellekaya Pinotage 2010, Stellenrust Cornerstone Pinotage 2013, The Winery of Good Hope Pinotage 2015, Warwick Old Bush Vine Pinotage 2014, Whalehaven Pinotage 2013.
Chardonnay
WINE-OF-THE MONTH CLUB: Simonsig Chardonnay 2014. ALSO LIKED: Alvi’s Drift Reserve Chardonnay 2014, Radford Dale Chardonnay 2014, Glenwood Vigneron’s Selection Chardonnay 2014, Rietvallei JMB Chardonnay 2015. WINES LISTED IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER: Avontuur Luna De Miel Chardonnay 2014, Bon Courage Unwooded Chardonnay 2015, Bonnievale Skinnybeaatch Citrus Chardonnay 2015, Bouchard Finlayson Missionvale Chardonnay 2013, Brampton Chardonnay 2015, Cape of Good Hope Chardonnay 2014, De Meye Myburgh & Milner Unwooded Chardonnay 2015, Francshhoek Cellar O.T.H Chardonnay 2015, Holden Manz Barrel Fermented Chardonnay 2014, Kumala Chardonnay 2014, Man Family Padstal Chardonnay 2015, Marklew Chardonnay 2013, Marklew Chardonnay 2014, Môreson Dr Reason Why Chardonnay 2013, Rietvallei Classic Chardonnay 2015.
Bordeaux Blends
WINE-OF-THE-MONTH CLUB: La Couronne Portside Red 2013. ALSO LIKED: Napier Red Medallion 2011, Idiom Bordeaux Blend 2011, Simonsig Tiara 2011, Ernst Gouws & Co Family Reserve 2014. WINES LISTED IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER: Akkerdal Petit Noir 2010, Avontuur Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot 2013, Beyerskloof Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot 2013, Bonnievale Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot 2014, Jakob’s Bordeaux Blend 2009, Jakob’s Bordeaux Blend 2007, La Motte Millenium 2013, Leopard’s Leap Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot 2014, Marklew Capensis 2013, Meerlust Rubicon 2010, Meinert La Barry Red 2011, Morgenhof Merlot Cabernet Franc 2011, Nitida Calligraphy 2013, Stellenbosch Family Wines ‘Family Blend’ 2013, Villiera Monro 2007.
Masters Of Malbec
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A must visit... info@lourensford.co.za | Tel: (+27) 21 847 2333 | www.lourensford.co.za | Lourensford Avenue, Somerset West
Two world class products, one iconic brand “Where there is quality, there is no compromise� Giulio Bertrand
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TheWine African Pairing
Visit us: www.stellenrust.co.za Email: stipp@stellenrust.co.za Tel: 021 880 2283 @stellenrust
B E S T W I N E S | Our Panel’s Selection
DID YOU KNOW? We have 11 TOP wine experts who blind taste our wine, only to select the best for you
SA’S TOP wine picks
Our panel’s TOP PICKS this month and a listing of the club selections EIKENDAL MERLOT 2015 An attractive nose that reminds one of forest floor, violets, plums, black berries, cherries and peppery spices. On the palate the wine is full and rounded, with soft tannins. Enjoy with crispy duck or spaghetti Puttanesca. HERMANUSPIETERSFONTEIN SKOONMA SHIRAZ 2014 A Shiraz-driven blend showing sweet spice nuances and black olive; elegant structure and persistent finish. Aromas of spice, violets, black olive, dark chocolate and purple fruit. Enjoy with sirloin strips and grilled baby fennel bulbs. ALLÉE BLEUE CHENIN BLANC 2016 Intense aromas of tropical fruit are well supported by an elegant vanilla and nutty bouquet. The palate is rich and vibrant with layers of sundried fruits, nougat and a lemony aftertaste. Enjoy with rich seafood dishes such as seared tuna with balsamic reduction.
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B E S T W I N E S | Our Panel’s Selection
WINENEWS
THIS MONTH'S SELECTIONS (TASTED OUT OF 20 WINES)
What’s New in Wine
Best Value Club
• Ernst Gouws & Co Chardonnay 2016
• Allée Bleue Chenin Blanc 2016 R79.99
R99.99
WHAT KIND OF WINE DRINKER ARE YOU?
• Stellenrust Pinotage 2016 R88.99
• Arra Natural Sweet Viognier 2013 R74.99
• Oude Compagnies Wijn Merlot 2016 R99.99
• La Capra Bouquet Fair 2016 R64.99
• Roan Ranger 2015 R82.99
• Villiera Jasmine 2017R58.99
THIS JUST IN: Wine
• Org de Rac Le Piquet Cabernet Merlot
drinkers are said to fit into four different preference categories, according to author and Master of Wine, Tim Hanni. Hanni avers that wine preferences are determined by genetics, and that people can usually be grouped into one of four ‘vinotypes’: sweet, hypersensitive, sensitive and tolerant: SWEET: Picky wine drinkers that have a preference for light and delicate sweet wines. They tend to find other types of wine too harsh in alcohol or strong in flavour. HYPERSENSITIVE: More adventurous than sweet types, these vinotypes like to explore new wines, but prefer clean styles that aren’t too loud on the flavour front. SENSITIVE: These wine-drinkers are described as flexible, freespirited, adaptable and adventurous and enjoy a wide range of wine styles. The majority of wine drinkers fall into this category. TOLERANT: Winos who like intensity and powerful flavours and can’t understand why others drink ‘wimpy’ wines. They have a preference for rich, full-bodied wines.
David Biggs
Margaret Fundira
Winnie Bowman
Colin Collard
Claude Felbert
• La Capra Bouquet Fair 2016 R64.99
The Reserve Club • Hermanuspietersfontein Skoonma Shiraz 2014 R169.00 • Flagstone Music Room Cabernet Sauvignon 2014 R269.95 • Hillcrest Hornfels 2013 R389.00 • Lourensford Estate Cabernet Sauvignon
• Villiera Jasmine 2017 R58.99
2014 R139.00
2015 R89.99 • Villiera Sauvignon Blanc 2016 R79.95 • Waverley Hills Pinot Grigio 2017 R77.99 • Bonfire Hill White 2015 R69.99 • Arra Natural Sweet Viognier 2013 R74.99
• Marianne Sauvignon Blanc 2016 R205.99 • Sijnn White 2015 R245.00
Wine-of-the-Month Club • Oude Compagnies Cabernet Sauvignon 2015 R152.99
The Platinum Club
• Niel Joubert Patrysbult Pinotage 2015
• Glenelly Lady May 2011 R398.00
R119.99
• Moveable Feast 2014 R399.99
• Eikendal Merlot 2015 R159.95
• Anthonij Rupert Cabernet Franc 2010
• Stellekaya Hercules 2012 R119.00
R639.00
• Sentinel Chenin Blanc /Sauvignon Blanc
• Flagstone Writer’s Block Pinotage 2014
2016 R89.00
R229.00
• Waterkloof Circle of Life White 2014
• Lourensford Limited Release Chardonnay
R145.95
2015 R205.00
• Ken Forrester Reserve Sauvignon Blanc
• David & Nadia Aristargos 2015 R399.00
2016 R82.50
PJ ‘Buks’ Nel
Christine Rudman
Gregory Mutambe
Clive Torr
Irina von Holdt
For more information call us on 021 492 4210 or visit wineofthemonth.co.za
FROM THE HISTORICAL TERROIR, COMES SUPERB WINES
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P.O. BOX 111, TULBAGH. 6820 • CELL: 082 829 8404 • EMAIL: swanepoel@compagnies.co.za |
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Tinashe Nyamudoka
Stellekaya Hercules Stellekaya Hercules, 100% Sangiovese is a medium bodied red wine with rustic characters, dry cherry tomatoes and hints of earthiness. Good natural acidity and tannin structure with a follow through of cherry flavours. Enjoy slightly chilled. This wine compliments fresh and Mediterranean foods. Anti-pastas or veal with Parmesan shavings and truffle oil. Drink now or keep for up to 6 years.
With beautiful old, dry land, low yielding vines only the best rows of grapes are harvested to produce the unwooded Chardonnay, Merlot and MCC. The state of the art tasting room is open for tastings Monday – Saturday, and with a fresh selection of cheeses, preserves and cold meats you can help yourself to a delectable variety of nibbles to enjoy on the patio with its view over the vineyards. A very convenient location just outside of the D’urbanvale residential area together with its large inviting lawn, there is no reason to leave the children behind.
Tel: 082 5786821 Email: suzanne@nuibawines.co.za Vissershok Road, Durbanville
WWW.STELLEKAYA.COM INFO@STELLEKAYA.CO.ZA 021 883 3873
WWW.C A N TOW I N E S .CO. Z A
Passion and attention to detail have ensured that
AWARD-WINNING
Oakhurst Olives remains one of SA’s best
Broad Valley Farm is located in the Klein Rivier Valley of the picturesque Overberg. VISIT US: WWW.BROADVALLEYWINES.CO.ZA
@BroadValleyWinesSA
broadvalleysa
TEL: +27 (0)73 888 9495
@BroadValleySA
OPEN DAILY FROM 09:00 TO 16:00 EXPERIENCE A GUIDED TASTING OF OUR PRODUCTS. FACILITIES ARE AVAILABLE FOR FUNCTIONS.
023-230-0842 • reception @oakhurstolives.co.za www.oakhurstolives.co.za
G T W I N E | Editor’s Choice
Editor’s CHOICE A selection of our favourite wines Pair this recipe with our
Editor’s Choice
SEL EC T IONS
SALMON WITH RED WINE BALSAMIC SAUCE ¼ cup balsamic vinegar 2 tbsp heavy cream 4 tbsp cold unsalted butter salt and freshly ground black pepper 4 skinless salmon fillets 1 shallot sprig of thyme
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2. Cederberg Sauvignon Blanc 2017
1. Rooiberg
Cape White Colombar 2017 Discover a light, fresh-honey and strong guava bouquet, followed by delicious mouthfilling flavours of tropical fruit salad. Drink now. Enjoy with spicy chicken recipes and tasty pasta dishes. Single bottle price R59.99
4. Eikendal Sauvignon Blanc 2016 Tropical fruit, melon, Cape gooseberry, guava and a fresh grassy green aroma on the nose that follows through to the palate. A full mouthfeel, with a lively, delicate acidity. Drink now. Pairs well with a crisp salad or your favourite seafood dish. Single bottle price R115.00
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Aromas of gooseberries, guava, lemon zest with hints of asparagus and green fig. A refreshing, crisp acidity finishes off the initial sensation of creaminess on the midpalate. Drink now. The ideal companion to chicken pie. Single bottle price R115.00
5. Kleine Zalze Vineyard Selection Sauvignon Blanc 2017 Blackcurrant, green tropical fruit and hints of capsicum. A thirst-quenching palate with layers of fruit and subtle hints of minerality. Drink now or in the next 5 years. Enjoy with summer salads. Single bottle price R109.00
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3. Fable Mountain Vineyards The Raptor Post Rosé 2016 A unique Provence-style rosé with fruity, delicate hints of strawberry and the softest floral notes. Drink now. Pairs well with anchovies, hummus and other oliveinspired dishes. Single bottle price R105.00
6. Raka Cabernet Sauvignon 2015 A complex structure with a lot of dark fruits, blackcurrants and a hint of mint. Soft, juicy ripe black fruit flavours on the palate. Drink now or age for 5 years. Pairs well with meaty dishes. Single bottle price R125.95
1. In a medium saucepan, heat 1 tbsp olive oil. Add the shallot and cook over moderate heat until softened. 2. Add the thyme sprig, black pepper, red wine and balsamic vinegar and boil over high heat until reduced to 2 tbsp, about 12 mins. 3. Remove the pan from the heat and whisk in the cream, then whisk in the butter, 1 tbsp at a time. Season the sauce with salt and pepper. Strain into a bowl and keep warm. 4. Heat the remaining 1 tbsp of olive oil. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper and add them to the skillet, skinned side up. Cook over moderately high heat until the fillets are browned, about 4 mins. Turn the salmon and cook over moderate heat until the fish is just opaque throughout, about 3 mins longer. 5. Transfer the salmon to plates, spoon the sauce over the fish and garnish with ground black pepper. Serve immediately. RECIPE SOURCE: FOODANDWINE.COM
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7. Eagles' Nest Sauvignon Blanc 2017
8. Groot Phesantekraal Sauvignon Blanc 2016
Flavours of guava and white pear on the nose. These notes are underpinned by a fresh, zesty core, complemented by lime, oyster shell salinity and some spicy celery leaf notes. Enjoy now or till 2020. Pair with sushi or grilled fish. Single bottle price R115.00
The nose includes a melange of cool, crunchy tropical fruit well married with fresh peas and asparagus. The palate is still very youthful, with mouth-watering grapefruit and lemongrass notes. Drink now. Enjoy with a fresh garden salad. Single bottle price R79.99
9. Gabriëlskloof Sauvignon Blanc 2017
10. Ernst Gouws & Co Sauvignon Blanc 2017
Aromas of cut grass, kiwi fruit, blackcurrant and hints of citrus and tropical fruit. The palate is multi-layered with lingering flavours of gooseberry, lime and zesty fruit. Drink now. Pairs well with seafood. Single bottle price R109.00
Fresh, lively aromas of melon and granadilla, coupled with gentle green pepper and tarragon. A full mid-palate that provides tropical and citrus characteristics. Drink now. Try it with paella or fresh line fish. Single bottle price R89.99
WHITE WINE SAUCE 1 bag of pasta 2 tsp minced garlic ¼ cup olive oil 5 tbsp butter ½ tsp red pepper, crushed 1 tsp salt ½ tsp pepper, freshly ground ½ cup white wine
½ cup parsley, for garnishing ½ cup, freshly grated Parmesan 1. In large saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic, red pepper and sauté until golden, about a minute. 2. Add salt, pepper, wine and butter. 3. Stir for 2 mins, remove from heat and toss with pasta. 4. Garnish with parsley and generously add fresh Parmesan.
RECIPE SOURCE: WWW.JULIEBLANNER.COM
11. Ernst Gouws & Co Pinotage 2016 Upfront aromas of black and red berries, and the warmth of cloves and sweet anise. Soft, ripe tannins coupled with a lengthy finish. Drink now or keep for 3 years. Serve with roast leg of lamb. Single bottle price R94.99
13. Glenelly Estate Reserve Blend 2011 Rich, savoury character of Syrah, ripe fruit and hints of pepper-spice with flavours of Cabernet Sauvignon, blackberries, cherries, cassis and floral tones. Drink now. Pairs well with rich meat dishes. Single bottle price R199.00
12. Ernst Gouws & Co The 19th Sauvignon Blanc 2017
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With a bracing, lingering vibrancy, this wine shows enchanting tropical notes of melon, pineapple and gooseberry. Drink now. Enjoy with light meals. Single bottle price R85.95
14. Kleine Zalze Family Reserve Sauvignon Blanc 2016 Kiwi, gooseberries and 'kakie bos' on the nose with a mineral edge on the palate. Will reward careful cellaring for the next 5 years. Enjoy with seafood, pasta and sushi. Single bottle price R187.99 goodtaste.co.za
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15. Anthonij Rupert Optima 2013 Interplay of spice and red and black berry fruits on the nose and palate. Succulent mouthfeel with black cherry, blueberry and plum. Drink now or within the next 5 years. Pairs well with roast lamb. Single bottle price R160.00
19. Rupert & Rothschild Classique 2015
20. Koelenbosch Chenin Blanc 2017
Blackcurrant and plum aromas combined with cedar wood and graphite nuances. Abundant blueberry flavours with fine textured tannins. Drink now or in the next 7 years. Pairs well with braised Karoo lamb. Single bottle price R178.99
Boasts a variety of fruits on the palate with melon and peach dominating, followed by smooth and slightly spicy finish. Drink now or over the next 12 months. Serve with seafood and poultry dishes. Single bottle price R65.99
21. MAN Free Run Chenin Blanc 2017
22. Neil Ellis Cabernet Merlot 2014
Aromas of quince, pear and pineapple. On the palate, stone fruit and apple flavours are backed by refreshing acidity. Drink now or over 5 years. Enjoy with vegetable dishes. Single bottle price R72.99
Vibrant colour with youthful purple hues. Bright, aromatic sweet fruit with spicy varietal notes. Fine, elegant, nicely framed attractive palate with cedar undertones. Drink now. Enjoy with a good steak. Single bottle price R114.99
16. Stellenbosch Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc 2017 Hints of gooseberries, asparagus and lemongrass on the nose, complemented by lush, juicy fruit. Drink now or mature for 5 years. Pairs well with your favourite fish dishes. Single bottle price R79.99
17. L’Ormarins Brut Classique NV
18. Meerlust Rubicon 2012
Appealing aroma of candied apple, citrus pith and light flinty, limestone nuances. Distinctly fruity white peach and apple entry. Finishes on a light lemon zest note. Drink now. Enjoy on its own. Single bottle pricee R119.95
A classic Rubicon nose with violets, ripe plum, cedar wood and intense spiciness. Followed by liquorice and stony minerality. Drink within the next 20 years. Enjoy with roast beef and ripe cheeses. Single bottle price R399.99
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A selection of highlyrated wines to try. Order them by calling the Wine Club on 021 492 4210
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23. Waterford Pecan Stream Sauvignon Blanc 2017
24. Kyburg Merlot 2010
Aromas of granadilla, pear and apple with hints of peach and gooseberry. The palate expresses great purity in fruit, and a softer acidity. Drink now. Pairs well with any summer dish. Single bottle price R79.99
Classic pencil-shavings and French oak on the nose balanced with dark fruit, red and black berries and cherry flavours with well-structured tannins. Drink now but will mature further for 10 years. Enjoy with a rich oxtail stew. Single bottle price R165.99
25. Kyburg Cabernet Sauvignon 2010
26. South Hill Dry Rosé 2016
A deep, dark red classic Cabernet Sauvignon with ripe fruit, notes of cassis and delicate mint and eucalyptus characters. Drink now but will mature further for 10 years. Enjoy with rich meat dishes. Single bottle price R165.99
The nose bursts with cherry, strawberry and tropical fruit aromas. These are followed by a fresh, yet juicy palate, which finishes enticingly clean. Drink now. Pairs well with crisp summer salads. Single bottle price R72.99
CITRUS WHITE SANGRIA 1 large naval orange, sliced 2 lemons, sliced 2 limes, sliced ¼ cup fresh mint leaves ½ cup citrus vodka 2 tbsp agave nectar 2 bottles of dry white wine
29. Marianne Sauvignon Blanc 2016 Citrus, white peach and hints of spice and vanilla on the nose. The palate has integrated green and yellow fruit, with coated acidity. Drink now or in the next 3 years. Pair with a flavourful risotto. Single bottle price R205.99
28. Blaauwklippen Vineyard Selection Cabriolet 2015
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1. Add all the ingredients to a large pitcher. 2. Stir and serve over ice. 3. For best results, cover and let rest in refrigerator for 4 hours. 4. Serve over ice. RECIPE SOURCE: WWW.JOYFULHEALTHYEATS.COM
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Dark berries with liquorice spice and dark chocolate combine with notes of pepper, coriander and fruitcake. Drink now. Excellent with meat and venison dishes. Single bottle price R138.99
29. Vergenoegd Terrace Bay 2015
30. Dalla Cia Classico 2015
Fresh red fruits followed by spicy tones, a tinge of cedar and lead pencil. Rounded off by a hint of mint and violets. Drink now or in 5 years. Pair with a homemade quiche. Single bottle price R99.99
A bouquet of sweet blueberry, cherry, ink and a hint of spiced cedar wood. Followed by a velvety mouthfeel and soft lingering aftertaste. Drink now. Pair with a meaty pasta. Single bottle price R186.99
goodtaste.co.za
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DECEMBER
2017 |
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STRANGER THINGS In the business of making things nobody wants
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here was a time when little country villages had individual shops run by local shopkeepers who went on annual buying trips and came back with items nobody else stocked. General dealers (remember them?) ordered their stock from factories according to what they thought their particular customers wanted. Today, of course, every little town has a Spar and a Pick n Pay—and probably a Checkers as well. The sad result is that you can buy exactly the same stuff in every town, at exactly the same prices because the supermarket chains advertise nationally. If your toothpaste costs R12,99 in Putsonderwater it will cost R12,99 in Vrotfontein 60km away, so there’s no point in shopping around. In the Karoo dorp where I was born (before the chain stores achieved their state capture) one of the popular shops was Miss Jillings’ Gift Shop. A gift shop is a strange phenomenon. By its very nature it sells stuff nobody wants to keep for themselves, but only things customers will give away to other people. In other words, a shop that stocks stuff people do not want. Miss Jillings did good business around the two big commercial festivals, Easter and Christmas, selling items
nobody wanted. I do not believe, for example, that anybody ever deliberately set off with a shopping list that contained ‘hand crocheted floral toilet roll cover’. (Many of the toilet roll covers came in the form of a wide lady’s skirt complete with occupant, and hundreds of Barbie dolls ended their days dressed unfashionably and standing on toilet cisterns with their slender legs stuffed down loo rolls.) In the desperate shopping panic before Christmas many a small child was handed a ten-shilling note and released into Miss Jillings’ shop with the instruction: “You go and find a nice present for you to give Mummy.” Or Daddy, of course. That Aladdin’s cave contained just as many useless items for men as for women: hand-knitted ties of unsurpassed ghastliness, felt chequebook covers, trophies to be awarded to ‘World’s Greatest Dad’ and coffee mugs printed with messages sweeter than anything they would ever contain. The Miss Jillingses of this world have become an extinct species and their position in the retail evolutionary chain has been filled by shops that sell drinking and smoking accessories. Both of these activities are simple ones requiring
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nothing more than a box of matches or a corkscrew, but an entire industry has grown up around them, producing items just as useless as anything Miss Jillings ever offered. You can buy a complete formal dress-suit to fit a standard wine bottle, complete with waistcoat and red bow tie, for example. It will look very smart standing on your bar counter, but must be removed to open the bottle, or you might spill red wine down the bottle’s shirt. Once removed all attention will be turned to the now naked bottle and the miniature dress suit will probably end up mopping spilled beer. Jokey items are popular in menoriented gift shops; a beer tankard fitted with a bicycle bell, for example, or an ash tray shaped like a toilet bowl and inscribed ‘Rest Your Ash Here’. Ash. Geddit? I often wonder how many millions of people all over the world spend their entire working lives slaving away in factories, producing ridiculous items nobody wants and nobody will ever use. Imagine somebody like that having to fill in an official form. Name? Yin Lee. Occupation? Maker of small green plastic monkeys. Tough job, but somebody has to do it, yes?
Illustration by: Chloe Damstra
By David Biggs