Prestige 96

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96

FA S H I O N | DESIGN | J EW E L L E RY | T R AV E L | BU S I N E S S | P RO PE RT Y MERCEDES BENZ HYPERCAR – PROJECT ONE, WALTZING DOWN THE DANUBE, ATLANTIC SEABOARD MAJESTY, SPRING/SUMMER FASHION, SUPERYACHTS IN MONACO ISSUE 96 – 5/2017

AFRICA’S PREMIER LUXURY LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

WE DIDN’T JUST BUILD AN SUV. WE BUILT A MASERATI.

LEVANTE. THE MASERATI OF SUVs. STARTING FROM R1 650 000 The practicality and versatility of an SUV, or the power and panache of a Maserati? Now you can enjoy both - Introducing the new Levante. The Powerful V6 Engine, Q4 intelligent all-wheel drive system, 8 speed ZF transmission and sophisticated air suspension confirm that the Levante is every inch a refined SUV. Meanwhile, its exclusive Italian styling, luxurious interior and unique exhaust note affirms its Maserati DNA. So that’s one less difficult decision to make. o Levante diesel: v6 60 2,987cm - max power: 275 hp at 4,000 - max torque: 600nm at 2000-2600 rpm - max speed: 230 km/h 0-100km/ acceleration: 6,9 secs - fuel consumption (combined cycle): 7,2 l/100km - co2 emissions (combined cycle): 189 g/km The data may not refer to the model represented

www.maserati.co.za

MASERATI JOHANNESBURG

MASERATI CAPE TOWN

BUILDING NO. 3, BRYANSTON BOULEVARD, 2985

67 JAN SMUTS STREET, CAPE TOWN, 8001 Phone: 0800 0600 78 | E-mail: info@maseraticpt.co.za

WILLIAM NICOL DR, BRYANSTON Phone: 0800 0600 77 | E-mail: info@maseratijhb.co.za

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CONTENTS

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Upfront Ed’s Letter – Page 8

Inside

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Back of the Moon – Three additional watches to the Rolex range include new materials, a unique moonphase and a kaleidoscope of precious and semi-precious stones – Page 10 X Factor – Shrouded in mystery, the X Factor is everywhere. Firstly, in mathematics, where it stands in for an unknown element in an equation; then, in psychology, as the characteristic driving an individual to succeed, excel and push boundaries – Page 14 Secret Garden - Dylan Lewis earned his reputation through an exceptional ability to capture static movement, or potential energy, in the sculpture of wildlife – Page 18 The One… to rule them all - Vivien Natasen attends the world launch of the Mercedes Project One hyper car – Page 20 The Pursuit of Happiness – Dr John Demartini gets between the concept of success and happiness and whether they love or hate each other – Page 26 Over the Sea – House Sealion, located at the foot of the mountain on the Atlantic Seaboard of Cape Town, South Africa was designed with the intention of an entertainment home – Page 30 Red Blooded – Dolce & Gabbana’s Spring/Summer 2018 fashion show was themed “Queen of Hearts” – not the crazy eccentric “off with their heads” Queen, but the playful intent of Lewis Carroll as the monarch who steals the show – Page 36

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Sea Food – South African-born Werner Brenner is executive chef for luxury brand Crystal Cruises – the most awarded cruise line in the world – Page 42 Ave Maria – Deborah Curtis-Setchel climbs aboard the SS Maria Theresa for a cruise along the Danube – Page 48 Grande Dame – The award-winning Beverly Hills Hotel in uMhlanga, which first opened its doors in 1964, has become synonymous with elegance and luxury – Page 54 Tastes of Summer - Majeka House & Spa up the Blaauklippen road in Paradyskloof has for some time now, defined luxury sleeping and eating on the verges of Stellenbosch’s wine tourism – Page 66

Food and Wine

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Getting Away from it all

Down on the Farm – Larger wine estates in the Cape are going beyond the core business of wine into a diversified offering of food and experience. Boschendal has done the same and Chris Buchanan paid them a visit – Page 70 All Along the Watchtower – To make exceptional wine you need to adopt exceptional practices in traditional winemaking combined with technological innovation – Page 76 Sense of Place - On the Franshhoek road through Simondium, a white stucco curved entrance invites you to Plaisir de Merle. Chris Buchanan suggests that you stop and look around…. – Page 80

Getting Around Put to Sea – Tankoa Yachts, the boutique shipyard with a multicultural approach to yacht construction, is proud to announce the official debut of their new S501 M/Y Vertige shown at the 2017 Monaco Boat Show – Page 92 Italian Make-over – Vivien Natasen spends some time with the refreshed Maserati Quattroporte – Page 98 Electric Avenue – The world of motoring is at a crossroads and at the core of the debate are several earnest and frank discussions – Page 102 Family Get Together – Vivien Natasen samples the ever-expanding Mercedes AMG GT family in Germany – Page 106

Final Say From the Publisher – Page 112 PRESTIGE: IN THE LAP OF LUXURY

the new vintage international release - November 1st members@vilafonte.com

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UPFRONT

Publisher Vivien Natasen +27 11 484 2833

ED'S

Editor Chris Buchanan chris@prestigemag.co.za Deputy publisher/brand ambassador Carly Bailey Natasen carly@prestigemag.co.za

WHAT ARE WORDS WORTH?

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ne of my incarnations within my career has been a teaching role where I’ve been able to pass down valuable lessons learned by experienced journalists and broadcasters, to young people entering the profession. The skill of journalism, written or broadcast, is often taken lightly as best recalled by an editor colleague and friend of mine who, when her doctor told her that they loved to write but never found the time, wanted to say she liked to operate on people’s gall bladders but never found the time.

It’s as though the written or spoken word is seen a hobby, rather than a lifelong career.

I was taught to read and write news by Christopher Bennett, one of the most oratory gifted men who ever graced the airwaves of the New Zealand, British and South African Broadcasting Corporations. The fundamentals of his teaching were to read the facts so as to maximise the retention of information by the listener. This meant a measured pace and tone, placing emphasis on the important facts of each sentence and discarding conjunctives and prepositions as words that facilitate the information and hold it together. But broadcasting schedules dictate the news to be read as quickly as possible and the newsreaders of today discard the facts as they race through the bulletin, emphasising the conjunctives and prepositions because it’s the only way to get through the information in the shortest time.

From the written word perspective the landscape is a bit more cloudy.

Broadcast taught me to tell a story in five sentences within a minimalistic

Layout and Art Direction Daniel Jonathan info@danieljonathan.co.za Advertising Sales Carly Bailey Natasen carly@prestigemag.co.za

approach, no unnecessary adverbs or adjectival flamboyance to over exaggerate the experience, just the facts. Ernest Hemingway wrote novels this way and his journalistic minimalist style has been copied by many writers without the raw documentary that defined Hemingway’s writing. Public Relations consultancies should take heed – an editor is more likely to pay attention to a release that tells me the story, rather than one which mires the content in so many superlatives, all meaning is lost.

The articles written in Prestige are from a cross-section of writers who specialise in their subject matter and who vary in style and approach. Not all of the writing falls within my parameters of telling a good story but then we don’t all enjoy the same things in life or vote for the same political party. Most important, each word contributes to telling a story, whether it’s written by a copywriter or a journalist and that story is there to assist you in making a decision.

So take time to read the articles because they convey a personal view of the content we feature – an experience put into words, and the value of those words, however flamboyant or minimalist, is in sharing the experience with you, entertaining as best possible and planting a seed into your imagination. That’s what words are worth, spoken or written, they’re about the reader or listener and about telling you a story. It’s what I do for a living, as a professional, not as a hobby. I make beer as a hobby and fear not SAB, a hobby it will always remain.

CHRIS

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Operations and Circulation Eugene Reuben eugene.reuben@neoafrica.com Digital Nate Nel Nate.Nel@neoafrica.com Contributors Renate Engelbrecht, Keri Harvey, Deborah Curtis-Setchell, Patrick Leclezio Printing Paarl Media Kwazulu Natal distribution Media Support Services Subscriptions: To subscribe please go to www.prestigemag.co.za click on the Subscribe tab and submit the form. An invoice with banking details will be sent to you. Your first issue of Prestige will be despatched as soon as payment is made.

Costs: 6 Issues = R600 per annum excl VAT, other countries are subject to a postage surcharge and will be calculated accordingly. Single copies of Prestige can be purchased for a nominal fee of R89.00.

PUBLISHED BY Neo Publishing (Pty) Ltd Tel +27 11 484 2833. Fax +27 11 484 2899 All rights reserved. Opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher or any of its clients.

Information has been included in good faith and is believed to be correct at the time of going to print. While every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information and reports in this magazine, the publisher does not accept any responsibility, whatsoever, for any errors or omissions, or for any effects resulting therefrom. No part of this publication may be used, or reproduced in any form, without the written permission of the publisher. All copyright for material apearing in this magazine belongs to Neo Publishing and/or the individual contributors. © 2014

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JEWELLERY & WATCHES

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back of the

moon THREE NEW ADDITIONS TO THE ROLEX RANGE INCLUDE NEW MATERIALS, A UNIQUE MOONPHASE AND A KALEIDOSCOPE OF PRECIOUS AND SEMI-PRECIOUS STONES.

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GEM-SET BEZEL IN MANY HUES The Oyster Perpetual Yacht-Master 40, the emblematic Rolex nautical watch, is introduced in a gem-set version. Its rotatable bezel is adorned with multicolour sapphires, green tsavorites and a triangular diamond at 12 o’clock. This 18 ct Everose gold version is equipped with the innovative, elastomer Oysterflex bracelet, developed and patented by Rolex.

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EXCLUSIVE DISPLAY A new watch, the Cellini Moonphase, with an exclusive display of the phases of the moon, joins the Cellini collection. In a 39 mm case in 18 ct Everose gold, this new model is driven by a self-winding mechanical movement entirely manufactured by Rolex with a patented complication to display the moonphases. The Cellini Moonphase is fitted on a brown alligator leather strap with a folding Crownclasp in 18 ct Everose gold, a first for a Cellini model.

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YELLOW AND WHITE ROLESOR The Oyster Perpetual Sky-Dweller, Rolex’s classic watch for world travellers, is being introduced for the first time in yellow Rolesor (combining 904L steel and 18 ct yellow gold) and white Rolesor (904L steel with an 18 ct white gold bezel) versions.

The dials now feature index hour markers and a luminescent Chromalight display, modernizing the aesthetics and enhancing legibility. The hands have also been lengthened for greater visual comfort.

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SHROUDED IN MYSTERY, THE X FACTOR IS EVERYWHERE. FIRSTLY, IN MATHEMATICS, WHERE IT STANDS IN FOR AN UNKNOWN ELEMENT IN AN EQUATION; THEN, IN PSYCHOLOGY, AS THE CHARACTERISTIC DRIVING AN INDIVIDUAL TO SUCCEED, EXCEL AND PUSH BOUNDARIES.

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t is also found in the aerospace industry, where “X” is used to designate NASA’s most experimental projects. And it also has a place in watchmaking: since 2014, the letter “X” has been accompanying the range of experimental watches produced by Bell & Ross.

And now, in 2017, the new BR-X2 is expressing the values of innovation, creativity and performance inherent to the Bell & Ross watch brand. X Factor times two…

In 2014, the release of the BR-X1, with its resolutely masculine design, marked Bell & Ross’ first advances into a more experimental and innovative arena. The technical characteristics, typical of sports models, were joined by a bold streak of creativity, characterised by the adoption of a skeleton chronograph movement inside a high-tech square case that combined titanium, ceramic and rubber.

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Two years later, the BR-X1 Tourbillon Sapphire would spark a revolution, as it gave complete transparency to the famous square case, which was cut directly from a block of sapphire! This timepiece established a direct link between Haute Horlogerie and hypersophistication. And now, with the new BR-X2 Tourbillon Micro-Rotor, the second generation of its X collection, Bell & Ross is adding another chapter to the BR saga.

Given just three words to define a watch, they would undoubtedly be “case, movement, dial”. It would be difficult, if not impossible, to miss out any one of these elements. However, true innovation lies in questioning certainties and exploring brand new paths. This is exactly what Bell & Ross did when designing its new BR‑X2, where the case and movement form a single element.

When designing a case from steel and sapphire (a highly technical

material which is exceedingly difficult to work with), Bruno Belamich, the brand’s creative director, came up with a utopian idea: “Fusing the case and movement into a single component to make the case disappear, leaving only the movement visible.”

In concrete terms, the design of the BR-X2 implies wearing the movement directly on the wrist. The square BRCAL.380 manufacture caliber, designed and developed entirely by Bell & Ross, is set between two sapphire crystal plates, joined at the sides by a narrow band of steel machined as a single piece, ensuring unrestricted visibility.

This makes the case virtually invisible, and the skeleton dial does the same, showcasing the movement.

This highly exclusive watch, will only be available to 99 cultivated connoisseurs, offering them the unique experience of wearing a watch movement on their wrist…

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ART

DYLAN LEWIS EARNED HIS REPUTATION THROUGH AN EXCEPTIONAL ABILITY TO CAPTURE STATIC MOVEMENT, OR POTENTIAL ENERGY, IN THE SCULPTURE OF WILDLIFE. THE REALISM OF THE SUBJECT MATTER SAW A PROLIFERATION OF THE GENRE AMONG ARTISTS PRODUCING SIMILAR BUT INFERIOR VERSIONS OF THE COMPLEXITY THAT’S NEEDED TO PORTRAY THE ANTICIPATION OF STATIC MOVEMENT. by: chris buchanan PRESTIGE: IN THE LAP OF LUXURY

is work took on the abstract and surreal and, roughly a decade ago, I attended an exhibition at the Everard Read Gallery in Johannesburg where Dylan Lewis “came out”, shedding the leg irons of a pigeon holed artist and revealing the depth in his soul – sculptures that possessed the same energy, yet spoke of a world where the energy was contained, retarded and unable to fulfil its full potential. Oversized

hands and feet at the ends of powerful limbs, on beings sprung through anguish and fighting an invisible force that seemed destined to overpower them.

Now, in the Dylan Lewis sculpture garden in Stellenbosch, his work is on display celebrating the evolution of the work - its “deliberate imperfection”, its depiction of us in the wild and the wild in us and the real, abstract and surreal that accompanies life.

The Beautiful News has put together a film showcasing this place where art and nature collide www.beautifulnews.co.za

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the to rule them all VIVIEN NATASEN ATTENDS THE WORLD LAUNCH OF THE MERCEDES PROJECT ONE HYPER CAR PRESTIGE: IN THE LAP OF LUXURY

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he word hypercar is one of those new terms that was born in the last decade. It is a word born out of shifting frontiers as the general definition of “supercar” applied to too many normal luxury cars that started to achieve performance at levels that traditional big brand sports cars were achieving. Now we seem to be getting to a “megacar” with an unspoken of race on vehicles with neck-breaking accelerations and top speeds well over 400 kph, such as the latest Koenigsegg and Bugatti offerings. The hypercar unofficial “definition” refers to a vehicle capable of superior accelerations, performance and exclusivity than generally available in the market, which usually refer to boutique brands. However, that being said, Mercedes Benz recently launched their much vaunted Project One hypercar before the Frankfurt Motor Show.

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So, does it tick the boxes of a hypercar? Only 275 units to be made at a price tag of approximately 2,275 million euros (excluding taxes), which is the first step into exclusivity, coupled with the integration of F1 technology including the engine from an actual Formula 1 car, surely makes this a resounding Yes! When Mercedes teased the market since the idea was postulated, they referred to a car that would have superior track performance and be the best all-rounder, in other words, not the fastest, not the highest

top speed, not just a single seater, track only race car. They wanted to create an everyday car that is better-thangood at everything. We had covered in a previous issue of Prestige the drive train reveal which was done at the Nurburgring 24 hour race. At that point it was evident that the actual F1 engine and drivetrain, adapted for road application was going to feature in the vehicle, coupled with several electric motors achieving around 1000 hp. No indications were given on any other aspect of the vehicle.

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The launch was world class amidst great fanfare with the AMG posterboy, Lewis Hamilton himself driving it onto stage

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It was then with great anticipation that we attended the world launch of the actual production version of the Project One. The launch was world class amidst great fanfare with the AMG posterboy, Lewis Hamilton himself driving it onto stage, with a backdrop of a F1 car digital clip morphing into a street legal hypercar as he emerged through the digital fireworks display.

I must admit, the silhouette teasers of the vehicle and the actual car caught everyone off guard as the final lines of the car were vastly different. The car is unmistakably AMG with the huge accentuated front air dams and scoops that clearly spell out its intentions. The Formula 1 roots are also clear from the top mounted air scoop over the cabin.

The key to attaining such levels of performance is to dissipate heat away

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The Project One deploys several new innovative technologies never seen before in road going vehicles

from the car as quickly as possible and more important, to direct air flow for minimal resistance, therefore finding innovative ways of pushing the air out is critical. AMG achieves this with mechanical air scoops that open to regulate pressure around the vehicle by opening according to specific conditions.

The Project One deploys several new innovative technologies never seen before in roadgoing vehicles.

The electric motors include the two front wheels as well as one to drive the turbos. The real magic is the EQ+

management of all these different sources to achieve the levels of power and grip to make this the car that it is.

The F1 engine revs up to 11000 RPM, a bit lower than the 13500 rpm of the actual F1 race car. That fourth electric motor is married to the crankshaft to add another 120 hp into the mix which either helps power the vehicle or draws recovery from the spare capacity under generation – truly phenomenal technology.

With over 1000 interested parties registered against a limited production

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of 275 units, Mercedes hype into creating such a car is well justified.

It is genuinely exclusive, fundamentally strategic in its technology and design and is commemorative in that it is the culmination and celebration of 50 years of motoring excellence.

Mercedes and AMG’s dominance in being able to target markets from the entry level space (Smart and A-class), all the way to the exclusively elusive hypercar well-heeled client is truly genius! The One to rule them all!

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BUSINESS

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happiness the pursuit of DR JOHN DEMARTINI GETS BETWEEN THE CONCEPT OF SUCCESS AND HAPPINESS AND WHETHER THEY LOVE OR HATE EACH OTHER. by: chris buchanan

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t is said that money doesn’t buy happiness but I suppose it all depends on circumstances and there will be many people who’ll say “give me the money and I’ll take my chances”. The important thing about money, says Dr Demartini, is that it’s a product of finding a balance between success and happiness, and not the immediate happiness we come across in fleeting moments, but a greater fulfilment built on a foundation of purpose – the Nicomachean Ethics of Aristotle.

Success also comes in short-term small success and overall multiple successes, the latter contributing to overall wellbeing and centred around the individual’s highest values. Dr Demartini says striving for success is proportionate to these values and creating a balance in the seven areas life, from business, to health, to family.

So, do the two – success and happiness – live side by side, or are they mutually exclusive, contributing individually to overall fulfilment? I asked this question of Dr Demartini because so often people believe that the one comes at the expense of the other. That true happiness is devoid of material or business measure and exists on an existential plane, more to do with the soul than to do with the short time we will spend on this earth accumulating wealth and status.

He tells of a woman in Australia who spends her time and her money placing orphaned and wayward children into schools. She lives in poverty and takes no reward for her actions but has a highly fulfilling life centreing her efforts on serving the lives of others and the world around her.

In a world where money talks, former Microsoft marketing executive for the Asia Pacific region, Guy John Wood, has used his ability to get his hands on money and over a decade opened 1000 schools and 10 000 libraries in poor communities throughout Asia. Both stories are about a greater influence on the world and people around the individual, greater fulfilment and meaning in their lives and a combination of success and happiness.

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The origin of the word wealth is ‘well’ and relates to wellbeing, yet our distorted definition is often measurable possessions and a wealthy person is defined by their bank accounts, the car they drive and the mansion in which they live. The key says Dr Demartini, is to consider wealth in all aspects of your life. The minute wealth becomes a measure of possessions the more likelihood of a gambling mentality prevailing, where we look short term with a “high risk high reward” approach.

Long term appreciation of wealth from a holistic perspective centres around a service mentality and an understanding that immediate fulfilment is temporary, but holistic fulfilment is permanent.

If your measure of success and happiness is wealth, then fair enough as long as your understanding of wealth is congruent with what success and happiness bring to your life.

For Dr Demartini, he finds success and happiness as happy bedfellows within his mission to enrich other peoples’ lives in his teachings and presentations. He’s a rich man

If your measure of success and happiness is wealth, then fair enough as long as your understanding of wealth is congruent with what success and happiness bring to your life. financially, but he’s a wealthy man in the areas of his life that are congruent with the higher values.

Inevitably the conversation turns to American President Donald Trump, whose outward values seem to be set on power and money, with some arrogance and egocentricity tossed in for good measure. Dr Demartini sees both polarities in Trump but there is a huge bias toward the importance of money and influence in his list of highest priorities. Going back to Aristotle, the pursuit of hedonistic and transient happiness happens at the expense of deeper wellness and wellbeing – the true meaning of what it is to have wealth.

Can we then expect success and happiness to work together for a greater good within ourselves and leave the material, hedonistic definitions at the door? Easy says Dr Demartini when the purpose of your success and happiness are congruent with your values. The reward will come, depending on your measure of reward and if you’re getting the formula right, your wealth will reflect in what you do and how you do it.

Founder of the Demartini Institute, International best-selling author, educator and consultant

www.dr.demartini.com

Presented by Dr John Demartini: Human Behavioural Specialist, Educator, Author and Business Consultant

WORKSHOP

MASTER PLANNING FOR LIFE 3 Days Defining Your Extraordinary Life Only 3% of the world’s population take the time to plan and 97% of the world’s wealth is in the hands of those who take the time to set their goals and MASTER PLAN their lives the way they want it. Ask yourself honestly…

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An amazing life starts with defining your inspired goals and from there developing a plan on how to achieve it.

Master Planning Your Life will be THE MOST IMPORTANT 3 DAYS OF YOUR LIFE. No one is going to wake up in the morning to empower and inspire your life. No one is going to decide what you would love to achieve.

That’s ENTIRELY UP TO YOU!

www.DrDemartini.com

DI_1708_4481

Monday - Wednesday 14 - 16 March 2018

What is the bigger picture that you are working towards?

What do you want to achieve short term, medium term and long term?

What ultimate level of success do you want to attain?

What do you want to have financially, in business, in relationships, in family, in health and in life?

frederic@neoaegir.co.za | john@neoaegir.co.za +27 (0)72 244 1982 +27 (0)72 683 2660 Shop 35, Seaside Village Shopping Centre, Cormorant Road, Big Bay, Cape Town, 7441 Authorised Dealer

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PROPERTY

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HOUSE SEALION, LOCATED AT THE FOOT OF THE MOUNTAIN ON THE ATLANTIC SEABOARD OF CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA WAS DESIGNED WITH THE INTENTION OF AN ENTERTAINMENT HOME. THE SITE PRESENTED A CHALLENGE OF MAKING THE MOUNTAIN AND THE OCEAN INTEGRAL PARTS OF THE EXPERIENCE.

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rivacy was an important issue, while trying to optimise on achieving maximum allowable height. The close proximity of the adjoining neighbours presented an opportunity to think differently about how to organise the building on the site. The resolution was to stack the building and optimise on height, by separating the main volumes by way of courtyard spaces - which offer an additional layer to the horizontal spatial relationships.

Key to the clients' brief was a primary relationship between the mountain and the ocean. This is central to the way one circulates through the central circulation spine that connects the two key volumes of the house. The internal courtyard at ground floor level and upper bedroom levels become integral extensions of the internal spaces.

Double volumes work to shift the spatial experience at the entrance and living levels where the mountain and ocean gain special emphasis respectively. The main staircase double volume opens onto a more intimate, water feature courtyard and extends towards the living area, the sliding doors in the living room and dining room slide away into cavity walls, which allows the living room and dining room to flow out onto the pool and BBQ terraces. The master bedroom, situated on the second floor level enjoys access to it own terrace, where the experience and relationship to the mountain backdrop and ocean below dominates.

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Being very sociable people and great hosts, the client needed both a home and a place to entertain and "share" the incredible natural beauty offered by the special location

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The street edge is protected with splayed concrete walls with intentionally placed window openings from the master bedroom and study desk. The laser cut screens serve a dual purpose of security as well as the slick aesthetic contribution to the facade of the house.

Being very sociable people and great hosts, the client needed both a home and a place to entertain and "share" the incredible natural beauty offered by the special location.

The minimalism of the interior finishes, creates a sense of calm, which is immediately contrasted by the bold and colourful decor. Bold and discreet lighting has been layered to evoke contrasting but complementary moods throughout the house.

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The client said, "We are thrilled with the house that Greg Wright Architects have created for us. We set a challenging initial brief that included an ocean view from every single room in the house; quiet garden spaces, as well as a strong connection between inside and outside. We wanted to create a ‘journey' through the house so people could appreciate both our art and the views. We have a strong focus on entertainment within the house, with the desire for all key needs to be on one single spacious level – this included the kitchen, scullery, wine cellar, dance floor, cinema, living room, gym, sauna, braai and swimming pool. Greg Wright Architects have definitely achieved our brief and helped create an amazing contemporary but yet cosy home with amazing views out of each section of the house."

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DOLCE & GABBANA’S SPRING/SUMMER 2018 FASHION SHOW WAS THEMED “QUEEN OF HEARTS” – NOT THE BUT THE PLAYFUL INTENT OF LEWIS CARROLL AS THE MONARCH WHO STEALS THE SHOW.

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CRAZY ECCENTRIC “OFF WITH THEIR HEADS” QUEEN,

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sea food

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SOUTH AFRICAN-BORN WERNER BRENNER IS EXECUTIVE CHEF FOR LUXURY BRAND CRYSTAL CRUISES – THE MOST AWARDED CRUISE LINE IN THE WORLD. HIS TASK IS MASSIVE AND HIS KITCHENS ARE ALWAYS ON THE MOVE, SOMETIMES OVER HIGH SEAS. STILL, EVERY DISH SERVED IS MAGNIFICENT IN TASTE AND PRESENTATION.

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by: Keri Harvey

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he love of cooking and travel has kept executive chef Werner Brenner at sea for 25 years – 17 of these on super luxurious Crystal Cruise ships “A chef that works and travels on the open seas is a lucky chef,” smiles Werner, “and I think a chef that works and travels on Crystal Serenity is the luckiest of all. This ship provides itineraries and experiences that allow me to further my culinary education almost every day. When I go ashore, I head straight to the local markets to taste the food. And yes, we do also buy local produce from markets we know.”

Born and raised in Kimberley, Werner grew up in South Africa and then Austria, where he moved with his family. He says he always knew he wanted to be a chef and travel. “I used to pester my mom with questions about cooking,” he smiles, “and I always hung around the kitchen when there was cooking happening.” After learning all he could from his mom, Werner did an apprenticeship as a chef in Austria and then studied at the Culinary Academy of Bad Gleichenberg, graduating with honours.

Since 1990 – except for a few years working back on terra firma in South Africa, when he got married and had kids - Werner has been at sea, starting as a chef de partie on Royal Princess and culminating in his current position of executive chef for Crystal Cruises.

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It’s a multi-faceted job he has. Apart from a full day as a chef, establishing the daily menus and overseeing 115 galley staff, Werner also has to keep the ship’s vast pantry well stocked to supply seven galleys on board. In addition to the Crystal Dining Room, there is the Nobu Restaurant, Silk Road, Italian venue, Prego, Tastes, serving world cuisine, the pool snack bar, ice-cream bar and room service menus to maintain. Plus there are about 650 crew and officers to keep fed and happy. It’s no small task.

The main galley cold section is open 24hrs a day, says Werner. Two cooks prepare stocks, bases and soups through the night and then the night cleaners finish off at about 5am, just in time for the breakfast team of 10 chefs, cooks and assistant cooks to start their day in the gleaming main galley. Griddles, grills and ovens are fired up and will run late into the night.

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When I go ashore, I head straight to the local markets to taste the food.

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Within two hours, breakfast for a thousand passengers is ready, including fresh pastries and breads from seven patissiers. By 7.30am roasts, sauces and special dishes are already being prepared for lunch and dinner. It’s a carefully orchestrated culinary symphony, and Werner is the director. He casts a watchful eye over all proceedings. That’s just an average day, but there are gala dinners, themed buffets and other specialist culinary events on board in between, the scale of which is enormous.

“It all starts with a shopping list,” says Werner modestly, “similar to yours at home. Ours just has foods from around the world and much more of everything.” Sevruga Caviar, cheeses from France, Italy and Denmark, crab from Alaska, live lobster from the USA or tails from Australia, and fresh produce from California and Florida. A typical 10-day cruise includes about 60 tons of provisions, all ordered a month before departure through the Los Angeles head office, and delivered and transferred onto the ship to designated storage areas on turn-around day. When a cruise ends, the next one generally starts the following day.

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I do taste every dish we serve in the Crystal Dining room for breakfast, lunch and dinner because the menu changes daily

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Just imagine the planning and logistics when in just one day 1000 ship passengers consume 2 500 bread rolls, 90kg of cooked vegetables and 90kg of salad, 55kg of prawns and nearly a ton of fruit, 160 litres of ice-cream, 2 300 eggs, 200kg of fresh fish and over 2kg of caviar – and this excludes thousands of kilograms of daily beef, chicken, veal, pork, lamb and seafood. The quantities are staggering, and everything is cooked from scratch. Accompanying the food preparation is a massive dishwashing operation. Plus the silverware is polished every day.

Werner says chefs on board are passionate and all pay attention to detail. “We design the plates for them and there are photos of plated dishes in the galley, so even if there are 200 of the same dish going out each one is beautifully plated. Some chefs are more creative with plating and garnishes than others, so there is latitude for this though the dishes will all taste exactly the same.”

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Yes, Werner still stirs pots – which if the sea is rough will only be half full - but not as much as before, since there is plenty of admin work to do.

“But I do taste every dish we serve in the Crystal Dining room for breakfast, lunch and dinner because the menu changes daily. I love eating and tasting new things.”

Food is Werner’s overriding passion

and he says he loves cooking at home too. “I cook to relax and never get tired of it. I don’t dream recipes, I just make them up, but my favourite dish remains my mom’s spaghetti and meat sauce.

And though I now live in Spain, I still can’t live without a braai.”

See more on www.cruises.co.za

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THE SS MARIA THERESA, THE MOST SUMPTUOUS ‘SUPERSHIP’ PRESIDING ALONG THE DANUBE AND RHINE RIVERS, WAS CHRISTENED AFTER THE HOLY ROMAN EMPRESS, QUEEN OF HUNGARY AND BOHEMIA, MOTHER OF MARIE ANTOINETTE AND ONE OF THE MOST ADMIRED LEADERS OF HER GENERATION. DEBORAH CURTIS-SETCHEL HOPPED ON BOARD. PRESTIGE: IN THE LAP OF LUXURY

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y expectations in terms of the on board grandeur of this boat, matching the magnitude of her namesake, were as high as the castle turrets lining the soon to be revealed Rhine River valleys, so admired by Turner and Wagner.

From the quayside, in the gridlocked Amsterdam harbour, her massive bow stood out - a proud peacock among motley pigeons and from the moment I and my bulging valises were escorted, up the red carpet to embark, together with a galaxy of international guests, from Texan presidential campaigners to New Zealand tomato barons.

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Unlike my fellow passengers, I was no devotee of cruising and the most recent I had notched up, was pole opposite to Uniworld, being on the serious high seas, in search of polar bears or icebergs, where cabins are minimalistic, horizons distant and the weather wild enough to be debilitating.

But to enter a plush Baroque styled chamber on tranquil waters and to behold the proximity of the ever changing, ever alluring shoreline – mere metres from where you’re pampered, if not powdered head rests – is to become an instantly converted cruise sybarite.

“C’est la vie!” I remarked in my best Marie Antoinette overtures to my multi lingual butler, already delivering champagne and canapes on a silver tray with one white glove and making

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Another source of constant entertainment was gathering on the bow to watch the 69 odd canal locks being navigated by our expert captain.

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gangplank to board a luxury bus for a short drive to a new destination – one more historically sought after, than the next – Cologne, Rudesheim, Heidelberg, Miltenberg, Wertheim, Wurzburg, Bamberg, Nuremberg, Passau, Melk, Vienna and finally Budapest. Post guided tours, by intriguing locals, you are free to meander, shop and explore on your own, before returning to the ship for lunch.

Afternoons include return shuttles to town, on board cultural events from glass blowing in Melk, pretzel making in Wertheim, to Viennese waltz lessons in Vienna ( pre a Strauss concert), or talks by relevant historians. Every evening heralds concerts including a unique Zitka demonstration - and après dinner dancing ( the accomplished Hungarian in house singer could hit any note from Winehouse to Verdi) and upon retiring – an inspirational poem or quote by a relevant icon would await you, together with the next day’s schedule and temperatures.

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my suitcases disappear under the Queen bed with the other.

The “European Jewels” voyage transports you through four countries – The Netherlands, Germany, Austria and Hungary along three great rivers – the Danube, the Main and the Rhine and to countless UNESCO World Heritage sites, whose jaw dropping beauty and ornate style can largely be attributed to Catholics, living juxtaposed to poorer Protestants, who throughout the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries forever attempted to upstage their religious rivals. The architectural and cultural result of which, makes for spectacular viewing.

As hedonistic as this is – three meals a day, a high tea and a constant supply of beverages and snacks, all included in the price of this excursion - one has ample opportunity to purge oneself of one’s daily sins: You awake every morning in a picturesque town, where after an anything but a petit, petit dejeuner – one descends the

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Food and wines on board are cleverly paired with whatever national destination we happened to be floating through - Franconian Brakwurst, Viennese Apfelstrudel, Austrian Tafelspitz, Hungarian Goulash and in emulating the Hungarians who live to eat, rather than eat to live, you can dispense with your life jacket, such do your natural levels of buoyancy increase. Fortunately, there are frequent options, especially along the Rhine, to cycle and hike through the enchanting vineyards and forests, highly recommended, despite chilly temperatures. Let me dispel the myth that geriatrics alone travel on cruise ships: The bike ride I signed up for, not having sat in a saddle for years, being a runner, was 35km on the flat, hugging the Danube contours and her conifer encrusted banks. State of the art bikes were delivered to the ship near Passau and you could take your pick, together with helmets and extra padding for your saddle. Despite skidding on a beach, while over ambitiously overtaking on ice covered pebbles, I was in my element, leisurely gliding along, until we caught

up to the speed freaks, already quaffing beer and sausages and fraternising with curious locals, in a quaint Hansel and Gretel pub. Thereafter we had to cross the river to rendezvous with the “Marie Theresa”– bikes and all – on an antique wooden ferry manned by a canny old sailor, negotiating the current Spaghetti Western Style. Proud, if not wounded by my exhilarating marathon feat, I returned to my suite to find another unanticipated Hollywood touch – a bunch of red roses with a card addressed to the “Brave Biker..”, which will forever be treasured.

Among a host of highlights, I would single out romantic Heidelberg, for its fabled hilltop castle and antique book stores brim full of leather bound books with eighteenth century botanical prints, or love poems translated into three different languages, fairy tale Rothenburg, another medieval walled city, with its timber framed houses, narrow cobbled streets and plethora of cavernous Christmas shops, resembling an Aladdin’s cave of treasures, Nuremburg for its incredible contemporary museum of Hitler’s Rise

Post guided tours, by intriguing locals, you are free to meander, shop and explore on your own, before returning to the ship for lunch.

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to Power, showing Riefenstahl’s epic propaganda documentary, Triumph of The Will, and Vienna for its imposing architecture and Melk Monastery, its fantastic gold embossed library with its 1200 manuscripts and chapel built by Benedictine monks from Monte Casino.

There is little time to linger below deck, however should you run out of steam, there is a cosy cinema conveniently located next to the Viennese Café, complete with velvet reclining chairs, while your head signals another round of popcorn and cocktails. Another source of constant entertainment was gathering on the bow to watch the 69 odd canal locks being navigated by our expert captain.

Suffice it to say, once aboard the Maria Theresa, you are ruined for any other river cruise experience, unless of course you select one of her sister ships, on another continent, on another river - Ganges, the Neva, the Seine – the options stretch as far as the Danube. You return home to regale your adventure, with your mind stretched, your senses heightened, having made new friends, followed in the surreal footsteps of an Austrian Archduchess and lived like royalty.

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CARLY BAILEY NATASEN VISITS THE ICONIC BEVERLY HILLS IN DURBAN

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he award-winning Beverly Hills Hotel in uMhlanga, which first opened its doors in 1964, has become synonymous with elegance and luxury. It remained an iconic landmark along the North coast of South Africa where the area has now blossomed to become the new central business district of Durban when substantially all corporates had exited the inner city. At its inception, it stood alone then, the only multi storey building in the area towering above its neighbours for several decades they don’t call her the “grande dame of Kwazulu-Natal” for nothing. This was the first property the hospitality icon Sol Kerzner ever opened - the start of an empire that was to become Sun International.

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French actor/singer, Maurice Chevalier and German actress/singer Marlene Dietrich being the first to visit which set the tone for years to come

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The Beverly Hills was also the first hotel in South Africa to ever be granted the coveted five star status. Kerzner had a vision, even though he at that point in his life had never been to Beverly Hills, Los Angeles himself, he had to replicate what he had envisioned it to be. It was also the first of its generation to offer a classic five-star experience which felt like home. The iconic pool setting is a great example of what the style and design language of architecture was then as an international standard, way before its time in South Africa, making this development a pioneer of placing entertainment at the centre of the experience, with accommodation to match.

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Later, this scale was expanded 100-fold with the creation of Sun City.

One of the outcomes of this vision was to capitalise on Durban’s warm, sunny climate as a holiday destination. In fact, it was significant as a way to make a very small under developed Durban at the time very glamorous. This assisted in getting celebrities from abroad to come and stay at the hotel. Some examples at the outset were French actor/singer, Maurice Chevalier and

German actress/singer Marlene Dietrich being the first to visit which set the tone for years to come where celebrities across the world graced the floors.

Over the years the Beverly Hills kept evolving to keep up with the times, without losing her identity. The trends of the 60’s till the 90’s were slowly replaced with modernised facilities.

Colours, textures, styles and trends changed over the years, even though the personality of the hotel always

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remained the same. Contemporary had to complement the classic elements of the hotel. Large sepia prints of early Durban landscapes and the extensive use of wicker and cane on the terrace reflect the hotel’s intention to champion the glamour and sophistication of a bygone era, hinting at its colonial underpinnings. In 2014, Beverly Hills celebrated their golden anniversary.

Sol Kerzner himself gave the keynote address where he graciously helped the audience understanding the thinking behind the creation of the hotel 50 years before. He even reminisced about the original staff, some of whom were still present today! That is true symbolism of vision into reality.

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The 89 en-suite rooms are extremely luxurious with an emphasis on comfort and privacy, and each has an uninterrupted view of the ocean. If you are there on a Saturday, make sure you book for the Signature Afternoon Tea buffet, with its myriad pastries, savouries and sweets, complemented by a wide selection of loose leaf teas. If you want a bit more of a vibe, elements cafĂŠ bar offers informal dining, light snacks and fantastic range of cocktails.

Much is on offer in and around the hotel. Gateway Shopping Centre, offering a full range of designer boutiques, is mere 3 km away. Micro lighting, dolphin viewing, scuba diving and deep-sea fishing are on the doorstep to tempt you, as well as the countries’ most prestigious golf course all within close proximity. uShaka Marine and Aquarium is a 20 minute drive, as is Sun Coast Casino and Spa. The new King Shaka International Airport is only 15 km from the hotel, with the hotel offering BMW chauffeur driven airport transfers.

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LIKE THE INTERWOVEN DIRT ROADS MEANDERING THROUGH THE KAPAMA PRIVATE GAME RESERVE NEAR THE GREATER KRUGER NATIONAL PARK, THE UNDERSTANDING AND THE RESPONSIBILITY OF CONSERVATION HAS MADE ITS WAY INTO THE HEARTS OF BOTH STAFF AND GUESTS AT CAMP JABULANI. by: Renate Engelbrcht pictures: Camp Jabulani

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hile driving into a gentleman’s club of buffalo, peacefully watching the king of the jungle taking his early morning catnap, and being fascinated by the large amounts of giraffe roaming the reserve, it’s inevitable to want to learn more about nature. The Kapama Private Game Reserve, Camp Jabulani and the Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre (HESC) flaunt ample opportunities for educational tourism, allowing guests to experience nature with an interactive approach.

On arrival at Camp Jabulani, we were instantly ushered to a grandiose dining room where a large set table, overlooking the camp’s water tortoise inhabited dam, was waiting. Our weary expressions after a five-hour drive quickly transformed into sheer astonishment as the dinner menu was presented. Chef Dylan’s remarkable talent was beautifully presented on specially selected plates and filled the dining room – tastefully decorated with both African and floral designs – with inviting aromas.

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Enjoying an early morning coffee on the room’s private deck while watching sunbirds come out and play, is but one of the many advantages of coming here.

The immediate natural surroundings and the humanised luxury environment have carefully been stitched together, without running the risk of being kitsch.

The rooms are stylishly designed with stargazing showers and private decks with heated splash pools. In nature, it’s all about details and balance and Camp Jabulani has mastered the art.

This is not the only balance they’ve found. Interlacing a delicate educational aspect into their guests’ experience,

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There’s a very fine line between décor being cultivated or kitsch and Camp Jabulani has definitely found the balance. The attention to detail stunned us from the start. From elephant imprinted leaves, carefully placed on facecloths in the bathroom and bedtime stories about tortoises and vultures to specific and generous gifting, they know how to pamper you properly. Everything about Camp Jabulani is gently woven into a general theme of bush and bliss, providing both local and international guests with a comfortable, relaxing environment from where they can take in what nature has to offer.

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cunningly creates awareness and loyalty towards nature and its magnificent creatures, especially elephants. You leave here with an understanding of the importance of conservation, inspired to become actively involved in their efforts of preserving nature for future generations.

Camp Jabulani’s existence is due to twelve elephants which had originally been trained for elephant-back safaris on a commercial farm in Zimbabwe from which they, together with their keepers, were rescued in 2002 and relocated to the Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre. With the elephants

Today, sharing their environment with humans is part of the elephants’ survival, which is ultimately the goal to protect them from extinction.

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costing an enormous amount of R2 685 per elephant per day, the camp was established, structured as a unique offering around the elephants in order to sustain them and keep them alive.

As the elephants were trained for elephant-back safaris, Camp Jabulani continued with this experience and used the profits to care for the herd.

Increasing international pressure against these elephant-back safaris prompted the team to remove this offering from its list of experiences and since April 2017 a whole new elephant experience has been implemented – an experience that left us stunned.

The Jabulani herd serves as an educational herd to guests, offering personal orientations with some of the herd’s members. Meeting the 21-year old Jabulani, the herd’s namesake, is

quite something. He was a tiny calf when he first arrived here and was not only intensively and successfully rehabilitated, but also acted as a key element in the 20-year journey of gaining invaluable experience and developing a model of rescued elephant care, with specific focus on infant rehabilitation. Jabulani came at us in a graceful stride, his groom by his side, swaying his trunk from left to right. His left tusk was shorter than the right, apparently dubbing him as a lefty.

We also met our room’s namesake, Sebakwe, an even bigger member of the Camp Jabulani herd. Standing in front of these giants makes you feel small and insignificant. The grooms speak of the elephants with nothing but respect, accentuating the fact that they still learn new things about them every day.

You leave here with an understanding of the importance of conservation, inspired to become actively involved in their efforts of preserving nature for future generations.

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and poses danger from other wild elephant herds in the Kapama Private Game Reserve. Therefore, the grooms spend every day in the elephants’ company, ensuring that their well-being is always front and centre.

Together, Camp Jabulani and HESC have found a way in which they have made the best of the elephants’ unfortunate history with humans.

Today, sharing their environment with humans is part of the elephants’ survival, which is ultimately the goal to protect them from extinction.

Elephants and their habits have, over time, become an intricate part of Camp Jabulani, just as Camp Jabulani has become an active and involved role player in their survival. It’s a carefully woven pattern; a dance between man and nature.

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A favourite experience among guests is the elephants’ evening walk back to the stalls, which concurrently acts as one of the most beautiful sundowner backdrops you’ll ever witness. Coupled with some typical South African indulgences from the kitchen, a selection of drinks to choose from and the elephants gliding past the waterhole while the sun graciously sets behind them, this makes for the perfect African experience.

Elephants’ emotional intelligence is astounding and that is one of the reasons why the Camp Jabulani herd cannot be out in the wild completely on their own. Since they’ve grown accustomed to human care, completely reintroducing the elephants into the wild would be akin to abandonment

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of summer

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MAJEKA HOUSE & SPA UP THE BLAAUKLIPPEN ROAD IN PARADYSKLOOF HAS FOR SOME TIME NOW, DEFINED LUXURY SLEEPING AND EATING ON THE VERGES OF STELLENBOSCH’S WINE TOURISM. CHRIS BUCHANAN REVISITED

n the few occasions I’ve stayed at Majeka House in the past, Karine and Lloyd have put me in the pool suite which is a delight being able to cool off in the heat of summer. In August, while cold frontal weather lashes at the Cape, the upstairs premier collection room embraces the weather and wraps you in warmth and comfort while wind and rain beat at the windows. De Toren’s Ablie Koch had given me the remainder of the bottles of

“Z” and “Fusion V” that we had tasted earlier in the day, playing into the hands of the prevailing weather by completing the circle of warmth and wellbeing.

Chef Lucas Carstens took over the Makaron kitchen at Majeka House toward the end of 2016 and has slowly evolved the offering to keep the tradition of local, seasonal ingredients and follow a growing trend of smaller portions allowing diners to experience more of the menu. The announcement came in April 2017 of the small plate menu with a winter twist and I found myself opting for the five plate option with wine pairing on the new summer variation – despite the cold weather.

THIS FAVOURITE FOR A SAMPLE OF THE NEW SMALL PLATE SUMMER MENU.

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Stellenrust 2015 Chenin Blanc accompanied an amuse bouche of Majeka garden leaves with a smoked snoek doughnut and trout roe and a starter of langoustine mi-cuit perhaps inappropriate for the weather as a fresher combination of flavours that worked so well with the wine.

Call me fickle but when I see duck on a menu it peaks my attention immediately and served with Chinese cabbage made reference to the cuisine where duck sets the test. An extraordinary pairing with Gabrielskloof “The Blend” – a Cabernet dominated Bordeaux blend – combined spice, sweet and velvet flavours with the rich texture of the duck and the Asian influences.

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Lamb ribeye’s richness is offset with lemon puree, whey soured onions and Jerusalem artichokes paired with a smokey Cinsault from Stellenrust which carries four stars in Platters. The cut is wonderfully done and the fat on the ribeye is rendered to a consistency of butter.

Summer fruit dominates the dessert section of the menu completing the seasonal take on a style of food that emulates cuisine in Asia and southern Europe with a tapas bent and a trend toward food becoming a sharing experience and a wider experience of a menu – no slabs of steak or large bowls of pasta.

Majeka House celebrates design and luxury with an eccentric touch that epitomises Karine and Lloyd Dequeker and it reflects their warmth and sense of hospitality. I always look forward to going back as a Stellenbosch home away from my home and it seems Makaron is answering the call for a contemporary international dining experience with the wine and ingredients of the region at its heart.

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LARGER WINE ESTATES IN THE CAPE ARE GOING BEYOND THE CORE BUSINESS OF WINE INTO A DIVERSIFIED OFFERING OF FOOD AND EXPERIENCE. BOSCHENDAL HAS DONE THE SAME AND CHRIS BUCHANAN PAID THEM A VISIT.

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oogle Boschendal or mention the estate to your wine loving friends and you’ll immediately hear or read the words Blanc de Noir.

This is one of the legacies of a 300 year old estate, one of the oldest in South Africa, that has stood the tests of a turbulent and evolving wine industry.

The history is long and complex but important milestones are: diseased vines turning the emphasis to a fruit farm when Cecil John Rhodes acquired the property, a strong historical identity when wine was dominated by large corporates in the 1970s and 80s and, of course, Blanc de Noir, the creation of a summer’s day wine from red varietals with a just tinge of the skin to give it a delicate salmon hue.

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But, post 1994, the wine landscape changed and the favourites of old were cast aside as private ownership of the winelands brought innovation and excellence, never mind huge diversity in new varietals, rootstock and techniques. To survive, many of the household names would have to embrace the change and the aces up Boschendal’s sleeve, were its heritage and its position.

The property straddles the Helshoogte Road before the intersection with the R45 Franschhoek Road and forms an ecosystem on the slopes of the mountains behind. Where better than to focus on the heritage of farming – vines, fruit and livestock – create a sustainability through practice and the involvement of the community on the borders, and develop a holistic visitor experience that communicates these values through food, wine, accommodation and physical interaction.

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Not only were the new owners intent on pushing Boschedal back into the forefront, they were intent on diversifying the property and making it a “top agricultural farm; a sought-after producer of naturally-produced farm-totable food and wine; a farm where our natural environment thrives; and where our staff and communities prosper.

The property is being more intensively farmed than ever before in its 330year history. 450,000 new fruit trees have been planted. There is already a herd of over 700 Black Angus cattle, as well as chickens, pigs, sheep, goats and ¬fish! Permanent employment on

the farm has grown from 70 people to over 450, and will reach almost 700 by the end of 2017. The picking season is being increased from 4-5 months to 9-10 months – a game changer in the seasonality of agricultural employment”.

The team has also removed alien vegetation from the property which has seen fresh water springs emerge for the first time in years. The timber is used in the wood workshop to make all the new furniture needed in the refurbishment of the buildings on the estate and currently fills the Werf Restaurant. No new buildings have been built in the

development of the accommodation options with the cottages all renovated existing structures, completely modernised within the context of its heritage.

My digs for the night was one of the Werf Cottages, a pleasant 400m walk away from the restaurant within the precinct that also houses the tasting room, the Werf Butchery and Deli. Chef Christiaan Campbell has developed a menu that centres around the new ethos on the farm within a restaurant space that is so comfortable and cutting edge in its positioning between the elegant and the homely.

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The kitchen thought it best that I sample a variety of dishes in small plate guise rather than a starter, main and dessert. Good suggestion and I enjoyed fantastic crisp Parisian gnocchi in a lamb broth, just enough of the famed Angus steak, charred in a delighful soy sauce with pickled onions, the rich flavours of salt-baked short rib, a casserole of hake, pickled

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mussels and Jerusalem artichokes and an absolute winner with the guavas in a jar, full of custard and milk ice cream.

The wine was a 1685 Cabernet/Shiraz but Boschendal has recently diversified its collection with the Appellation Series Elgin – Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir and Chardonnay made from grapes grown in the cool climate of the Elgin Valley – and the Heritage Collection - a limited

release Syrah 2014 called The Grand Syrah, a Shiraz blend with Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc.

The Werf cottages are well placed as a base from which to explore the farm and the Franschhoek/Stellenbosch wine estates with a kitchenette for you to prepare meals and snacks in between indulging in the food offerings in the area. Other cottage offerings cater for larger groups or families, all in luxury and all renovated existing buildings from old staff cottages to Rhodes’s house in Rhodes Cottage.

There was a time that Boschendal could have become a mixed use housing estate with retirement facilities and a golf course, and thank the gods that sanity prevailed because it now provides a showcase for resurrecting old practices, combining them with new, at the same time giving surrounding communities a place to work and learn in a sustainable environment.

www.boschendal.com

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All Along the

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watchtower

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TO MAKE EXCEPTIONAL WINE YOU NEED TO ADOPT EXCEPTIONAL PRACTICES IN TRADITIONAL WINEMAKING COMBINED WITH TECHNOLOGICAL INNOVATION. CHRIS BUCHANAN SPENT THE DAY AT DE TOREN WHERE THE OVERRIDING TENET IS EXCELLENCE.

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first met the De Toren team at a tasting of the 2015 releases of the Black Lion Shiraz and Book XVII Bordeaux blend at Marble restaurant in Johannesburg. Albie Koch, managing director of the estate and winemaker Charles Williams took us through these two Expression Unique wines that have culminated in nearly 20 years of De Toren focussing on a small range of quality driven wines – from the vine to the cellar to the bottle.

But the story began at the end of the 20th century with 22 hectares of south and west facing slopes with a particular terroir and aspect that showed themselves for Bordeaux style varieties.

It was a cold winter morning as I made my way up the hill to the estate in Polkadraai outside Stellenbosch, under the shadow of the gravity tower that gives the estate its name.

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Albie and I stood among the vines, planted to take full advantage of the breeze that blows off the sea from False Bay with terrific views of Table Mountain to the west, the coastline to the south and the Helderberg to the east. Albie explained the vineyard practices and how meticulous attention to detail begins in the vines. The vineyards, he says were set up from the start with the view to producing a South African Bordeaux blend that would occupy the pinnacle of wine production, using the clichÊ of quality vs quantity, but in practice, a winemaking craft approach where everything is done by hand with a gentle nurturing of the fruit while it’s on the vine, as it makes its way through production in the cellar, into the bottle and specially wrapped and placed into its box.

It was a bold move at the time by owner Emil Den Dulk given the fact that South African wine in 1999 was finding its feet in a market not yet exposed to the full international spectrum that awaited. In his favour was a wine drinking population starved of innovation for so many years and eager to delve into new experiences, particularly those with a Bordeaux bent.

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Both of these wines have ageing potential of four decades or more and are at the top of the handful of South African wines that are considered investment quality

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Enter Fusion V, the first vintage from De Toren and a left bank Bordeaux blend of the five essential varietals with a Cabernet Sauvignon dominance. The difference was Albie’s five vintages abroad, two of which were in California, at the time making some of the world’s most sought-after Bordeaux blends. The De Toren Z soon followed, capturing the essence of the cool Zephyr that blows off the ocean, so enjoyed by Merlot which dominates this right bank blend of the five varietals.

Into the cellar and it’s a synergy between technology and tradition – infrared aerial shots of the vineyards are displayed overlooking the hand press that ensures the fruit is massaged through its journey into the barrel.

Gravity does all the pumping courtesy of de toren (tower) and wines are aged in specific cellars for each varietal and blend. The very small batch ageing of Black Lion and Book XVII takes place in what I can only describe as part cellar, part exhibition space. Barrels are gently turned on custom designed gantries and it’s from here that these two wines become exceptional, having had the privilege of preferential and dedicated treatment throughout the process. Both of these wines have ageing potential of four decades or more and are at the top of the handful of South African wines that are considered investment quality.

Back at the Marble lunch and De Toren had no need to serve us a sparkling wine aperitif as is often the norm, because of Délicate. This Malbec, Cabernet Sauvingnon, Cabernet Franc blend, served slightly chilled, is perfect as a welcoming ice-breaker and brings the winemaking ethos of De Toren to a price point that makes it accessible.

As I mentioned earlier, there are but a handful of local wines that might garner attention internationally as superior investment quality and De Toren’s contribution does so on the basis of excellence as a starting point.

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ON THE FRANSHHOEK ROAD THROUGH SIMONDIUM, A WHITE STUCCO CURVED ENTRANCE INVITES YOU TO PLAISIR DE MERLE. CHRIS BUCHANAN SUGGESTS

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THAT YOU STOP AND LOOK AROUND….

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o many of the historical properties that make up the Cape winelands have used their history as pivotal to their marketing efforts exactly as Boshendal in the article before this one. They do it to varying degrees and more often than not, it’s the property that gets the recognition rather than the people. Plaisir de Merle has for many years, produced a range of upper tier wines under the ownership of Distell without too much fanfare as far as its heritage is concerned but it’s a rich story of historical significance from one of the first wine makers to set foot on our soil.

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Charles Marais fled his home town of Le Plessis Marly in France toward the end of the 17th century and was granted his property under the slopes of the Simonsberg mountains in the Groot Drakenstein valley and it was his grandson Jacob who sculpted the erf for the beginnings of Plaisir De Merle.

It’s a big farm with 400ha under vine but only 80ha of that is used in the production of its own wines.

Winemaker Neil Bester says they’ve concentrated on making good drinkable wines from superior fruit and solid processes.

Grand Plaisir was the pinnacle wine until Neil identified a need for something more special – a wine that speaks to an ever increasing need for South Africa to put itself ahead of its new world competitors and deliver in terms of quality throughout the process. He used Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc as the fundamentals with Petit Verdot as the middle man and some Shiraz as a warranted inclusion for mineral richness and Merlot and Malbec to finish off, venturing outside of the Bordeaux purists and taking on the complexity of the Cape.

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Barrel treatment centred on the wood adding a sweetness and integrating the tannins into the wine – 18 months before blending and another six months for the blend to consolidate.

The name would undoubtedly be Charles Marais and its treatment and packaging would celebrate the founder’s tenacity as a Frenchman who came to this land with a pioneering spirit in his heart and wine in his soul.

The cellar is cavernous with a high, vaulted roof and leads to the moat that feeds an old mill, created by

Jacob as he developed the estate after his grandfather. You’ll struggle to see better preserved original Cape Dutch vernacular architecture anywhere in the region with notable touches in the Friezes and Putti adding a mythological element to traditional ornanemt.

But stay awhile and ask for Charles Marais, because it’s his spirit that ignites 300 years of winemaking passion into a new glowing ember of special wine that will ask questions of our new-world competitors and lead us into a generation of excellence.

Winemaker Neil Bester says they’ve concentrated on making good drinkable wines from superior fruit and solid processes

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love affair an enduring

PATRICK LECLEZIO SITS DOWN WITH THE GUYS MINISTERING

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SOUTH AFRICA’S PASSION FOR SCOTCH WHISKY.

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PL: When did Distell first get involved with Scotch whisky beyond representation and distribution?

DD: Distell was initially involved with building the Scotch industry in South Africa as a distributor of a number of iconic brands. When these agreements ended in the 1990’s, Distell and Burn Stewart Distillers (BSD) formed a joint venture for Africa and distribution of the brands started in South Africa. This was then extended with the purchase of BSD in April 2013.

PL: We’ve heard that Distell recently bought a stake in the Best brand. Does this indicate an intention to focus (a) regionally within Africa on (b) value-formoney Scotch whisky?

DD: Distell has a long-standing focus on growing in Africa. The acquisition of a 26% stake in Best Whisky opens the door for synergies as we progress towards taking a controlling stake. We also believe the combined portfolios will help to fast-track the portfolios of both Best and Distell in Africa across multiple value tiers.

PL: What are the next steps for Distell regarding Scotch whisky, both globally and particularly with regards to the South African market?

DD: Whisky we believe will retain its inherent appeal with consumers around the world and South Africa is no exception, where the category is in

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If you were ever searching for evidence that South Africans have good taste, you’d find a rich vein in our affection for Scotch whisky. It’s a preference that says something about us: we’re discerning without being fussy, and cultivated but not pretentious. We’ll connect over a glass of the good stuff, in silent nod to this shared understanding, whether we’re crusty old dogs, boardroom big shots, or slinky models. In fact the extent and duration of our ardour has been impressive indeed: South Africa has for decades now been amongst the top ten export markets for Scotch whisky. We might have had suspicions though, until not long ago, that this affection was unrequited. Thanks largely to companies like Intra and Distell it can now be confirmed jubilantly that we love Scotch and that Scotch also loves us. This commitment to one another is emphatically evident in Distell’s landmark investment in the industry – which wedded three distilleries (Bunnahabhain, Deanston and Tobermory) to South Africa. I recently chatted to Andy Watts, their head of whisky intrinsic (and an all-round whisky legend!), and Dino D’Araujo, the spirits category marketing manager, about the company’s role in these matrimonial developments.

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excess of four million cases. We find that both our Scotch as well as our South African whisky portfolios are well poised for growth domestically as consumers become more discerning in their choices.

We will be focusing our efforts between both portfolios.

PL: Andy, what is the scope of your involvement in BSD / Distell’s Scotch whisky operations?

AW: I was appointed into the newly formed Distell centre of excellence intrinsics just over a year ago. My roles cover the overall quality of the whisky which goes into the bottle as well as looking at the production methods we are using across our different distilleries - identifying opportunities for synergy as well as standardisation of good practice.

The timeframe is still relatively young but already projects are being implemented in Scotland at Tobermory, Bunnahabhain and possibly Deanston within the near future. These projects are being driven by the highly capable team which we have in Scotland so my involvement is not on a day to day basis.

PL: I’m guessing that Distell has a different approach to and a different vision for whisky making compared to BSD’s previous management. Can you give us any insight into these differences – and specifically give us examples of how they have already and how they may impact the whiskies and the product range going forward?

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effective manner. The team in Scotland is a new team with the operations under the capable leadership of Alan Wright.

Again my involvement is not on a daily basis but the immediate task is to produce consistent base malts which will allow us to grow the current malt range as well as apply innovation to continue to be at the forefront of whisky evolution.

The only real change between the old and new Burn Stewart / Distell International operations is a focus on cased own goods business rather than the bulk supply of whisky to third parties.

Remember we have whiskies that have already been produced and that were in maturation long before the acquisition took place, therefore the focus is on the future and how we do things going forward to achieve those goals.

PL: Related question: what changes / improvements has Distell made to the whisky making process at BSD, if any?

AW: The changes are more in terms of an upgrade and improvement to some equipment and not one of changing time-honoured process. The legislation governing how whisky is produced in Scotland is very transparent, and we strictly comply to the laws. I am fortunate enough to taste all of the expressions before they go into the bottle and I am very excited at the work being done both on the blending front with Dr Kirstie McCallum, and on the production side under the guidance of Stephen Woodcock, the distilleries manager.

PL: You’ve been a SA whisky man for a long time. Some people and some companies can wear multiple hats, some can’t. Do you think the acquisition has / will enhance both categories within Distell, or do you think one will be favoured at the expense of the other?

What are the roles that each is expected to play?

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AW: We make South African whisky, considered a ‘New World’ whisky region, as well as Scotch whisky, one of the most pedigreed areas for whisky production in the world. For me, it is easy to wear the two hats as I don’t feel that the two categories compete with each other. I am still very involved with our SA marketing as the “face” of our South African whisky portfolio but I do not see that role spreading to our Scottish family. We with very capable distillers, blenders, ambassadors and marketers who will continue to grow the awareness of our Scottish portfolio as more and more of our whisky come on line in future years. We will continue to be innovative on both fronts whilst ensuring the core ranges grow accordingly.

PL: Lastly, what’s your favourite whisky within the BSD portfolio and why?

AW: Having not really being exposed to BSD whiskies before the acquisition it was fun when all of a sudden I could try just about anything! However I have come to enjoy Deanston 12-year-old, matured predominantly in ex-Bourbon barrels, un-chill filtered and bottled at 46.3%. I think Deanston is one of our hidden gems – one, which going forward, will appear more frequently on whisky lovers’ “to try” lists……..May the dram be with you.

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here’s something primal about the anticipation of summer - maybe because we depended on it for our survival, or maybe because after long, bleak winters it’s what made life worth living. Whatever the reason it’s an excitement that’s programmed deep within us. Benson and Hedges tapped into this emotion with the soundtrack for their cricket commercials in the 1990’s. I didn’t and never would smoke, and I didn’t really attend live matches at the time, but regardless I found that imploring incantation incredibly relevant and evocative. It was a summons - for sunshine, freedom, and good times – that gripped me at the core.

I subscribe to the view that life is short and that we should enthusiastically make the most of any given moment, but it’s easy to get distracted, hypnotised by the tedium of everyday life. Summer is the clarion, a reminder that we should suck the marrow from every juicy bone presented to us - or more specific to our modest purposes here: drink the drinks that make the whole world sing. So, as we hear that rousing chant all around us [come on summer], let’s fill our glasses with right stuff [come on summer], and get ready to celebrate the season in style [come on summer, come on!].

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Nothing says summer quite like gin – and it’s comforting to note, as we contemplate this sentiment, that the “gin boom” has furnished us with a magnificent selection, ready to be harnessed to the purpose. One of the latest to emerge, after a long and considered development, is Wixworth.

Whilst there may be veritable flood, each gin, by virtue of its choice and combination of botanicals, has the potential to stand out and be distinctive – and Wixworth is no exception in this regard. Ironically though I think it distinguishes itself most in its adherence to tradition (and regulations), rather than its individuality.

In an era of boundary pushing (and crossing!) juniper-recessive (if not absent) gins, Wixworth is a true London Dry Gin, out and proud brandishing its predominating juniper essence.

This is the style that in the sweltering outposts of the British Empire gave birth to the gin and tonic, so in equipping ourselves for the conditions that made its name, it’s clearly not to be taken lightly. London Dry it may be, but it’s also avidly South African; its use of Renosterbos in particular, a local shrub that was historically added to river water to mask its brackish taste, unmistakably binds its identity to the country. Wixworth’s style and substance, the latter evidenced in a crisp pine and citrus flavour, makes it an ideal gin on which to ride this summer’s rolling swells.

With gin in play you’ll invariably need tonic, its trusty sidekick. When I first started drinking Gs ‘n T, I was astounded and dismayed by the amount of sugar in tonic. It’s there to check the bitterness of the quinine, but health-wise you may as well be drinking coke. There’s further concern, because tonic is largely water, in that a disproportionate share of what you’re buying is invested in packaging (mostly disposable and environmentally unfriendly). Enter the tonic cordial, and Symmetry in particular. By using cinchona bark (the source of the quinine) instead of the quinine extract alone Symmetry balances its typical bitterness with the bark’s other components, mitigating the requirement for excessive sugar.

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The pack delivers approximately 12 servings in concentrated form, as opposed to the four that you’d get from a litre bottle of the regular stuff. The format has enabled both the bottle and closure to be significantly upweighted, each made from glass and reusable as a carafe and wine stopper respectively.

This is well and good, but if the flavour doesn’t measure up then it’s all for nothing – and it’s in this sphere that Symmetry arguably shines brightest, being constituted from a hand-picked of local botanicals that have been expertly crafted into a range comprising three variants: Citrus, Spice and Floral. A word of caution: you don’t want these full-flavoured tonics to overpower your specific gin, so choose the one that’s most complementary (some experimentation may be required – luckily you’ve got a whole summer to work at it).

Vodka is the world’s most internationally popular spirit: there are more people drinking it across a broad

swathe of countries than any other.

It’s also the one drink where lack of flavour (or subtlety of flavour, as one would have it) has wrought a crushing advantage – defining a versatility that’s largely responsible for this widespread appeal. This makes it the ideal summer spirit, a willingly assimilating partner for any number of tall, cool, refreshing mixers. Whatever your preference, vodka will enhance it. In Snow Leopard we have an exponent that straddles the fine vodka line between no flavour and too much flavour – it offers a little something when drunk neat, but it doesn’t interfere when mixed. The unusual use of spelt grain, an expensive ancient wheat hybrid more commonly employed by jenever rather than vodka distillers, lends a rich and creamy mouthfeel, and everything about it from the concept to its packaging to the liquid itself, suggests a high quality, well-made vodka. The clincher for me though is its commitment to nature conservation,

dedicating a significant 15% of its profits to the preservation of the critically endangered Snow Leopard, and highlighting its plight. I like the idea of kicking my feet back and watching a late sunset with glass in hand, I like it even more knowing it’s doing some good in the world.

My tastes run to strong cocktails.

And my favourite cocktail ingredient is lime, which happens to be perfectly suited to summer. The Gimlet, neatly encompassing both those attributes, is a tried and tested classic that’s been persistently drunk for almost a century.

Most important it’s simple and delicious. If you want to shake things up (no pun intended) and try something different, then look no further.

Add two and half tots of Wixworth gin, one tot of fresh lime juice, and half a tot to a tot of simple syrup (according to taste) into a cocktail shaker loaded with ice. Stir or swirl, and strain into a coupe. Garnish with a lime wedge or a cucumber wheel.

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put to

TANKOA YACHTS, THE BOUTIQUE SHIPYARD WITH A MULTICULTURAL APPROACH TO YACHT CONSTRUCTION, IS PROUD TO ANNOUNCE THE OFFICIAL DEBUT OF THEIR NEW S501 M/Y VERTIGE SHOWN AT

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THE 2017 MONACO BOAT SHOW.

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M/Y VERTIGE – KEY FACTS Date of sale: February 2015 Date of launch: February 2017 Date of delivery: May 2017 Concept and Exterior Design: Francesco Paszkowski Interior Design: Francesco Paszkowski in collaboration with Margherita Casprini M/Y Vertige, the second build for Tankoa Yachts – sold in February 2015 to an expert French owner – after delivery to

her owner and an intense charter season in the Mediterranean, was present at the 2017 Monaco Boat Show for her official debut.

The Tankoa S501Vertige represents the quintessential union between a highly qualified shipbuilder and a sales and marketing organisation in daily contact with the owner, captain and consultant.

“It was a very interesting project as everyone’s intentions, from the shipyard

workers to the management to the owner, was to create the most elegant fifty meter yacht on the market. We are sure to have succeeded. Michel Karsenti, Sales Director at Tankoa Yachts, continues, “We are more than happy with the result. Creating a six cabin yacht, including two suites on the main deck, enormous open air spaces, yet keeping under 500 gross tons and maintaining such an elegant design has been very satisfying.”

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Tankoa’s management worked in very close contact with Francesco Paszkowski in project design with the following objectives: • Obtain a timeless perfectly balanced design that doesn’t worry about current market trends.

• Offer an ideal layout allowing owners and guests to circulate throughout the yacht without meeting any crew members, while at the same time allowing the crew to freely move around while carrying out their duties.

• Give the owner of a 499 gross ton yacht the kind of comfort and equipment more commonly found on much larger yachts.

• The S501’s hull number one features six cabins, including an owner’s cabin and master suite on the main deck, two VIP and two guest cabins on the lower deck, a gym, home cinema, garage for the 7m tender, two jet skis with a second service tender forward, plus further features like full height glass widows and a hydraulic terrace in the owner’s cabin and the open air salon aft – all combining to increase her already ample dimensions...

Maintaining a constant visual contact with the sea was one of the other objectives assigned to Francesco Paszkowski’s design team, who tells us, “The Tankoa S501 Vertige is the result of concerted action between the yard, the owner and our offices. We understood each other right from the start of this project’s development, which was characterized by indepth research into materials and architectural elements, extremely careful work carried out in the yard – they completed the project with an excellent quality level – and, for the first time in a Tankoa, a plumb bow, giving us a glimpse of the future direction of the yard. As for the exteriors, we went ahead on several different fronts: energizing the dimensions of all exterior surfaces, from the sunbathing areas to the conversation zones; developing the exterior terraces, both fore and aft; amplifying the sun-shaded areas with the use of convertible awnings.

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in collaboration with Margherita Casprini to reflect a “modern yet warm” atmosphere. “Being on the same frequency as the rest of the team allowed us to devote extra attention to material and architectural details,” confirmed Margherita Casprini. “The owner was in full agreement with our proposals, and on occasion enriched them with personal proposals, such as having two cabins on the main deck, the owner’s and a VIP cabin, similar but not identical. We satisfied this request proposing the use of different colours for the same materials. In creating these interiors we added to the choice of materials the combination of various textures and colours like matt bleached uncoloured teak matched with glossy rosewood, a high-contrast mix, and the analysis of details like the shape of the steps on the formidable aerial staircase that connects the decks.

And finally, the layout of the lower deck and the use of that same teak let us create a luminous and welcoming crew quarters.

The result is, without a doubt, the most beautiful 50 meter yachts ever built under 500 gross tons. The level of finishings, both interior and exterior, is in line with what everyone would expect to find on a much larger yacht.

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Vehicle specifications may vary for the South African market.

Thrill instructor.

The new Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 CoupĂŠ S. Visit www.everyterrain.co.za

A Daimler Brand

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make-over VIVIEN NATASEN SPENDS SOME TIME WITH

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THE REFRESHED MASERATI QUATTROPORTE.

M

aserati has been going at it quite quickly in South Africa.

Having been clinically sliced off and handed to new owners in South Africa just a few years ago, they have done well to carve out their own niche in the country, developing a loyal client base through better service, a customer-centric approach and improved product range that distinguished the brand from the “poor man’s Ferrari” it was previously perceived as. The main impetus of the change of the brand worldwide comes from new products such as the Levante and Ghibli ranges, which consequently necessitated the refreshing of other models, most recently the Quattroporte, to keep up with customer demands against the

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multimedia is too close to that of the donor Chrysler vehicle, I found the visuals to be extremely usable and intuitive. The touch screen is responsive and elegant. A signature of the Maserati brand is the frameless windows on the doors, hinting at its sportiness.

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as if the car is more urgent – as much so as it is Neptune’s Trident, it is now resembling a sleek motor boat fit for the king of the seas with Maserati’s unmistakable lines exuding from the front bumper to the exhaust tips.

With regard the interior, the entire multimedia interface has been modernised and refreshed. Although, there has been some criticism that the underlying technology of the

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backdrop of the competition advancing their technology.

The revised Quattroporte launched in the country earlier this year. We recently spent a week with the new car to see how it weighed up as a luxury sedan in our daily lives. Firstly, on the outside, the changes are mostly aerodynamic and aesthetic alterations to the bumpers and the grille. The new visuals present a sportier look and feel,

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Wherever we travelled in the week with this car, we noted that the trident logo attracts attention and respect, as if one is a connoisseur of fine art

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with good ergonomics. One gripe is that Maserati will need to recognise that the owners of cars in this particular segment may spend as much time in the back of this car as behind the wheel so some attention must be given to the experience in the back seat, such as technology. I am sure this will be addressed in future models.

In recent months, two special derivatives of the Quattroporte have surfaced in order to create a degree of bespoke finishes for those wanting something different depending on taste preference – the GranLusso and the GranSport. The luxury-oriented GranLusso incorporates a chromeheavy exterior and a richer interior with Ermenegildo Zegna silk fabric inserts and open-pore Radica wood for the dash. Options include fourzone climate control, heated rear seats and an electric rear sunshade. The more-aggressive-looking GranSport trim brings 21-inch wheels, red brake calipers, and black exterior elements, along with piano-black trim for the interior and a restyled steering wheel that’s trimmed in either carbon fibre or leather.

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The Quattroporte services a segment competing against the Mercedes S class (which is currently going through a mid-cycle refresh), the BMW 7-series (launched just on a year ago) and the Audi A8 (just about to launch its new model in the country) and possibly the Jaguar XJ – most of these in respect of function and application. The Maserati is pricier, without many of the bells and whistles that the others possess.

When one chooses and Italian car, one has to consider the heart more than the head. The drama of the Italian design is reflected on the inside as much so on the outside. Wherever we travelled in the week with this car, we noted that the trident logo attracts attention and respect, as if one is a connoisseur of fine art. That alone is worth the premium. Coupled with that, gone are the days of the unreliability that made Italian motoring notorious, as much so as their designs made them famous. The car felt solid, creating confidence in driving. Even in the sportier modes, which I lived in most of the time, the deep growl of the V8 in the GTS is what I wanted to hear all the time.

The current Quattroporte is every bit as passionate as its heritage suggests and it brings it out in you as the driver.

Worth it, I say a confident Yes!

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electric avenue…

VIVIEN NATASEN EXAMINES THE

FUTURE OF MOBILITY SHOWCASED AT

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THE FRANKFURT MOTOR SHOW

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he world of motoring is at a crossroads! At the core of the debate are several earnest and frank discussions – electric versus combustion debates, do people want to own and operate vehicles, commuter (public transport) models, brand placement, convergence between cars and computers, autonomous driving etc – this list goes on. What is evident is that

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electric vehicle (EV). The take-up of the technology is influenced by several factors: distance travelled, availability of infrastructure, robustness of the market (region), legislation and regulation, and so on. Let’s look at this in more detail on a home front. In Africa we have a few large cities with varying degrees of technology and public transport infrastructure and as we Africanise the options of technology, we have to take into account the other issues such as infrastructure for charging of electric vehicles and the costs of the alternative solutions, as well as the cost

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each manufacturer has a different picture of their perceived end state and is tackling these differently. Some of the innovations are dictated to from legislation, especially the European standards which will form the basis for strategy in vehicle production and product placement going forward.

Most manufacturers at the Frankfurt Motor Show seemed to have a strong focus on electrification of vehicles.

At the minimum, mainstream changes start off on the low end as brake energy regeneration to a battery whilst, on the far end of that spectrum is the totally

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of maintaining and servicing electrically oriented vehicles. This is different for every single country on the continent.

Due to legislative and regulatory pressures, many manufacturers have made conscious decisions though to phase out diesel production over the next decade, which is a decision that has to be weighed up in terms of an Africa strategy as many countries lack the infrastructure to be able to accommodate alternatives.

I will try to unpack most of these over the coming Prestige issues, as well as separate commuter and personal transport needs in my analysis. For now, the rest of this piece shall deal with some of the technology trends showcased at the Frankfurt Show.

As noted above, the low end of efficiency are technologies such as smaller engines with larger outputs, generally fitted with turbos and other power enhancing devices, supplemented by energy regeneration technology to recuperate as much of lost energy as possible. BMW has been evolving their efficient dynamics catch-line, Audi has a BlueMotion line and Mercedes calls this EQ+. All large manufacturers have been compelled to reduce emissions through more efficient technology. I don’t think the combustion engine will result in a total PRESTIGE: IN THE LAP OF LUXURY

dinosaur in the next decade, however, congested cities with high emissions will be regulating to different degrees on the use of combustion engines, some highly punitively where the only viable option will be a hybrid or pure EV. Going briefly to the other side of the equation, relating to pure electric vehicles, the race is on for the highest yielding batteries with the shortest charge time.

Currently some battery manufacturers like Toshiba are claiming 90 percent of full charge within 5 minutes – that would be the holy grail if the range is in the region of 500 kilometres. In Africa, we have seen a slow take up of pure electric where most buyers have been purchasing these for a daily home to work commute utilising in the region of 50-80 kilometres a day. Any more than that would start to result in range anxiety depending on traffic congestion and other available charging infrastructure en route. That being said, through innovation, the yields on batteries increase every year and the ranges and charge times are significantly improving all the time. In the interviews with R&D personnel from Mercedes Benz, they were quick to point out that within the group from 2022 there will no cars without electrification, whilst the whole Smart sub-brand will be totally electric before that date, the first complete brand globally to make a complete migration to electric.

For now, with us in Africa, we are generally faced with a decision tree around conventional petrol and diesel whose efficiency have improved greatly over the years, to possibly hybrid options, as the costs of hybrids are starting to be more affordable, and not at a premium over the former options. Again, Mercedes Benz has even started producing a hybrid C-class at their Eastern Cape plant.

It seems a few manufacturers are also not absolutely certain around pure electric as well. Consequently, they are hedging bets with hydrogen and fuel-cell options. Mercedes again chose to invest in a GLC SUV with fuel-cell technology with a 450km range with zero emission. Again, the barriers to entry are infrastructural availability and the cost of set up. However, it is commendable that other power options are being contemplated.

The next decade of motoring is set for interesting times – unnerving if you are a manufacturer, and interesting if you are a driver or commuter. The industry has to unlearn itself in order to deal with a myriad needs and applications. It is a complex and diverse market. One that is changing at the speed of light. I am truly glad to be alive at this time. My only gripe as a passionate petrol head, is that the death of the V8s and maybe even V6 is imminent‌ and I might be out of a job as a motoring journalist very soon!

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family get together… VIVIEN NATASEN SAMPLES THE EVER-EXPANDING

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MERCEDES AMG GT FAMILY IN GERMANY

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he Mercedes Benz AMG GT family is probably one of the youngest gene pools in the fold, I suppose next to their recently unveiled X-Class bakkie and the impressive AMG Project One (also covered in this issue). The first GT along with its GT S derivative was launched not too long ago in April 2014.

Amid initial criticism that it was too close to one of its other German rivals, given that the GT was directly targeted at the same market segment, the GT brand has steadily carved out a niche market for itself. Helped along by stellar performances by the AMG racing team in Formula 1 with the GT safety car not-so-subtly implanting itself into our subconscious, along with impressive GT3 and now a GT4 owners series racing cars, the GT family has truly entrenched itself into several markets as a recognisable contender into a segment that was dominated by Porsche for a long time.

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Coupled with the deep growl of that V8, one is always tempted to revert to manual and keep high gearing, just for that sound

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The current family comprises the entry level GT, with the GT S derivative with more power, followed now by the recently launched GT C and the muchhyped GT R. There are also convertible versions available on models other than the GTR. I have been a fan of the AMG GT since inception. I must admit there was the trepidation before the first GT as it was pitched as the replacement to the SLS, which in its own right, was a homage vehicle to the legendary gull wing cars of yester year – a tough act to follow. The method in the madness

by AMG was to develop an everyday supercar that would hold its own in many applications and be equally at home and around the track without being ostentatiously in-your-face. My first stints in the GT and GT S at the time yielded a very competent vehicle for the intended market.

We were treated on a recent trip out to the Frankfurt Motor Show to a special ride and drive to experience the GT family out at Paderborn, which included some track time at the Bilster Berg race track.

On arrival at Paderborn Airport we were immediately paired up with fellow journo’s and allocated GT family members to head out into the countryside. We were fortunate enough to call dibs on a GT C coupe Edition 50 which a limited volume run to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Mercedes AMG. This special edition comprises only cosmetic and interior changes to these models to set them apart. Their rarity is intended to create a collector’s series of limited run derivatives whereby tradeable asset investments can be developed over time.

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The GT C itself is, in my mind, the perfect balance between the iconic GTR (spoken about later in this article) and the GT S. Looking at the specification levels, the GTC is deliberately positioned for a more enthusiastic driver who does not want to go for the ruggedness of the track focused GTR. In C variant of the GT, that muscular stance is enhanced from the rear view by an increase in overall width by about seven centimetres as well as a wider track width by about four centimetres. The GT C is shod with 305/30ZR-20 tires instead of 295/30ZR-20s on the GT S. This wider bodywork and track are shared with the GT R although the GT R comes with even wider tyres.

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The biggest happy button, is the yellow dial on the centre of the dash, allowing one to experiment with the extent of electronics intervention one wants from the car

The GT C’s engine also has more in common with the GT R’s than with the one in the base and S versions of the GT. These two performance derivatives share a common turbocharger and intercooler package and have been uprated slightly for these models, with the base engine now developing 469 horsepower at 6000 rpm. Note that the S makes 515 HP at 6250.

Between the added power and the shorter gearing in its set up, the GT C is significantly more energetic than the GT S, bringing a sense of urgency and driving thrill that is easily discernible over its brethren. Driving on the back roads of northern Germany near Bad Driburg on our way to Bilster Berg, the GT C leaps ahead when you trample down on the accelerator pedal. Coupled with the deep growl of that V8, one is always tempted to revert to manual and keep high gearing, just for that sound. Throttle response is also prompt, with notably less turbo lag than in its competitors at low rpm. With superior handling and braking than the GT S, I felt a lot more confident through the corners and down the straights in this car even on the narrower country roads off the main highways.

We arrived at Bilster Berg track grinning from ear to ear, this after several stops for

posing social media pictures, especially showcasing the wonderful look and the amazing Panamericana grille, unique to the GT C and GT R models.

I did the research on this track after having driven it so what I know now does perfectly put the experience into perspective. The track has been referred to as “diabolical” by more than a few seasoned drivers. The famous two time world rally champion driver, Walter Röhrl, designed this private racecourse at the behest of a well-heeled local. The track comprises just over four kilometres of blind rises dotted with unnerving off-camber plunges and disappearing gradient. It has actually earned it the nickname the “Little Green Hell” i.e. a mini version of the to the 20 someodd kilometres of terror that is the Nürburgring north loop.

On the track, we were “limited” to only the GT R models, most of which were liveried in the launch colour, aptly named AMG Green Hell Magno. There is no mistaking this car coming from a mile away. My second favourite colour in both this and the GT C model is the matte Designo Magno Gray. Our stints on the track, after a comprehensive briefing with a stern not-so-friendly warning not to test the off-road capabilities of

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the GT R, comprised four lap runs with the two seasoned instructors, one of whom is DTM driver veteran, Bernd Schneider, on radio to us leading us through the complex and challenging track. As with most experiences on new tracks not driven before, we started out carefully and then, as confidence started to blossom, we were putting in some interesting track times. The GT R, is definitely the track focused beast that all the hype and the media portrays it to be.

After having spent the better part of the day on the GT C, I was not expecting the GT R, whose performance statistics are marginally higher than the GT C, to be the vicious animal that is turned out to be when unleashed in this environment.

The biggest happy button, is the yellow dial on the centre of the dash, allowing one to experiment with the extent of electronics intervention one wants from the car. I must admit, I was brave to a point, but never brave enough to turn that dial fully!

Driving a car like the AMG GT R on a track like this brings about a different dimension, the GT R is as competent and safe as most of the other recognised performance machines out in the market.

Sitting in the driving seat at this track though, teaches one a new respect. We were disappointed that that day had to end when dusk set in.

Overall conclusion: the Mercedes AMG GT family present a very diverse yet somehow focused set of options for a motoring enthusiast looking for something different. The choice depends on how frisky a driver you are!

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game plan CALLING ALL VISIONARIES

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n recent months, I have been hauled onto several significant projects requiring strategic inputs, with several of these projects having implications as far ahead as five decades into the future. I love this kind of work for several reasons, the most important of which is that they allow me to explore my own creativity. Secondly, it forces the auditor in me to kick in with reality checks to stress test the practical aspects of creativity. Whilst artists may be able to generate amazingly beautiful pieces of art, on strategy projects, these have implications on people’s lives, beyond appreciation. The risks of poverty, job creation, economic implications and so on, create a degree of trepidation that makes one have to apply one’s mind wisely or create future disasters.

One of our clients was recently appointed to lead change in their organisation – an extremely large and diverse one with a myriad personalities, most of whom are against, or at the very minimum fear, the changes to come.

I suppose as a consultant, it is a bit easier to stand on the outside and have the privilege to not really “own” the process. However, this client has bound us inextricably into his process, ensuring that we are as much committed as he is to the outcome and objective laid down.

At least our role brings that objectivity and independence to be able to guide everyone to the outcome whilst still ensuring the mission and values are committed to.

The recent events in the market, where large global advisory businesses have been implicated in the “state capture saga”, have made me look into

our own business to make sure we have checks and balances not to fall foul of these same issues as we grow ourselves.

How do we instil a value system in our people to ensure that the organisation operates on the same levels of integrity and standards, no matter where in an organisation a person is? Many organisations pay lip service to this thing called “values”. Part of our scope of the aforesaid project is to develop the vision, mission etc. for this business. We know for a fact that the new leader is extremely distanced in his thinking to his employees (the ones inherited from the old leadership). The consequence of the is that, in many instances, the vision, mission and values are too detached from the everyday circumstances of the employee base.

Prestige’s own icon is the king chess piece. So whilst in the game of chess, this is the possibly seen as the laziest piece, representing the monarch directing the behaviours of the other pieces on the board, today’s kings (not gender specific) are the ones leading from the front, leading by example. With the pervasiveness of technology today, information is available to all and sundry with the right tools to access it. So, the kings of today are the ones who are the most visibly in action, not just sitting in background with the strategy role.

The new kings need to have the skill to morph into any role on the board, i.e. have the solidness of a rook, have the unpredictability of the knight, have the lateral thinking of the bishop, and the firm but fair role of the queen (I reiterate, not gender specific). Anyone for a game?

Vivien Natasen

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EDDIE R E DM AY N E ’ S CHOICE SEAMASTER AQUA TERRA MASTER CHRONOMETER