To the vines

Gorgeous estates, rolling vineyards and beautiful gabled manor houses, the Winelands are one of the most picturesque regions in South Africa. But where to start? We asked an expert: the Cape’s own ‘Wine Fairy’, Katie Barratt.

Tell us about what you do.

All things wine. I host fabulous tours around the Cape and throughout the winelands of South Africa whether it be one day, multiple days or just an evening out to showcase the abundance of beauty, splendour, culture and diversity around us. I travel abroad hosting my global wine and culinary adventures, and I drink wine, yet all in the name of research.

How did you get into wine?

I was a student at Hotel School when I went on a wine tour from Johannesburg to the Cape. It was a hot day in April and we were at a stunning farm in Stellenbosch waiting under the oak trees to be introduced to the winemaker. Glass in my hand, I sipped the golden nectar as the cellar door swung open and we turned to see this gorgeous man standing there. I swear there were lights and music too. I went weak at the knees and was just completely overwhelmed. This is love, I thought.

Education has taught me that it was actually the CO2 being released during fermentation combined with the heat of the sun that made me dizzy... but that feeling has lived with me my entire life and is the passion that drives my love and continued journey of wine. I’ll not allow science to take that moment away from me.

What is it that makes the Winelands so special?

The obvious answer here is wine, yet for me it's the people. It's the stories beyond the glass, the secrets of the cellar, the history, the terroir, the food, the magnificent views. Vines only grow in spectacular places, yet it takes people to nurture and respect the process through sustainability and passion.

What does your ultimate day in the Winelands include?

It would typically include visiting up to three wineries, exploring a cellar, meeting a winemaker, savouring a light lunch along the way and just immersing myself into everything wine. Add in a helicopter ride, a chef’s table-style multi-course food and wine pairing dinner and a gorgeous hotel for the night and now we’re really styling.

How do you approach touring with guests who know very little about wine but want to learn?

Wine is for everyone and I love introducing people to it. I start at the very beginning. I take them through my three-step tasting protocol, then all about the lifecycle of the vine, the basics of winemaking and cellar technique influences all with wine glass in hand. It’s so rewarding for me to see how people react, light up and suddenly understand the ‘why’ and ‘how’ behind it all.

How to enjoy wine at home

Explore a variety you like.

If you know you enjoy a French Suavignon Blanc,why not try a version from another part of the world like Chile or South Africa? You might just find a new favourite.

Keep notes.

You don’t have to be a card carrying oenophile to know what you like. When you try a new bottle at home, make a note of your opinion – you’ll know what ones to look out for in future.

Do a virtual tasting and share the fun.

Senior Africa Travel Designer Jody is a former Winelands local and to stay connected while far from the vineyards she loves to do tastings through her local wine shop. ‘Not all of my friends have been lucky enough to go to South Africa so it’s a fantastic way to share my passion’.

Visit the Winelands with Jacada → jody@jacadatravel.com