Aspire Lifestyle Spring 2022

ASPIRE LIFESTYLE SIX 9772663835008 22010 aspirelifestyle.co.za ISSUE 26 R69.50 (incl VAT) TIPS TO COMBAT HYPERPIGMENTATION FIT FOR A PRINCESS LOUIS HANDBAGCAPUCINESVUITTON’S A OFSENSELONDON EXPLORE THE CITY & INDULGE THE SENSES LOVE IS IN THE AIR THIS SCENTSATIONALSEASON’SFRAGRANCES Spring! THE TRENDS THE FASHION THE INSPIRATION

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14 CONTENTS/Issue 26 / 2022 44 MUST-VISIT new additions to the SA foodie scene 50 CULINARY QUEEN Siba Mtongana joins the regional jury panel for the S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy Competition 2022–2023 24 STYLE latest fashion trends 28 FIT FOR A PRINCESS Louis Vuitton’s Capucines handbag 32 MEET KIM BLACK Cape Town-based artist 38 EDEN FESTIVAL OF ACTION with Greenpop 40 GO FLY A KITE festival 43 VIGNETTES ballet

16 54 BEAUTY SPOT décor inspo 70 EMBRACE YOUR ELEGANT POWER journey to whole life alignment with author Nicky Rowbotham 78 LOVE IS IN THE AIR this season’s hottest new fragrances 82 THERE’S BEAUTY IN COLLAGEN brand new from Dose & Co. 85 FREE-SPIRITED Pandora’s new ME Festival collection 86 HYPERPIGMENTATION dos and dont’s 91 THE VIBRANCE OF NATURE Le Creuset’s Elements Collection 92 IN THE KNOW anti-ageing tips 94 FUNCTIONAL FUNGI functional mushrooms vs magic mushrooms 100 START THE DAY RIGHT breakfast recipes 106 MEET SOPHIE GERMANIER wine producer of Organic Wines by Sophie Germanier 108 BEYOND THE VINE Emile Joubert’s brandy and gin selection 110 A FAMILY OF WINE Cape Wine Crafters 116 A SENSE OF LONDON capital city adventures to feed the senses 126 BEAUTY & THE BE(A)ST Aston Martin DBX707 128 BOOK CLUB spring must-reads

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18 C M Y CM MY CY CMY

EDITOR’S

K Spring is here, and what a beautiful time of year it is! It’s a season that represents newness, and with that, we dive straight into fashion from across the globe. Don’t miss the latest o ering from Louis Vuitton and the new looks from some of our alltime favourite labels. If the warmer weather has you itching for an outing, it’s well worth working your way through our pick of top new restaurants. We also look at some of this season’s fun events; from Greenpop’s Eden Festival of Action to a kite festival and a ballet performance, there’s something for everyone. If you prefer to entertain at home, we challenge you to try some recipes from Natasha Sideris’ new book tashas Inspired: A Celebration of Food & Art. We’ve highlighted some of our breakfast favourites from the book to get youWithstarted.the new season and the promise of a fresh start, we’ve rounded up some beauty advice to get your skincare back on track, as well as some wellness insight from Nicky Rowbotham, an entrepreneur, intuitive wellness coach and author of Embrace Your Elegant Power. We hope you enjoy these pages as much as we have loved putting them together for you and that you ﬁnd some inspiration in our spring issue. Happy reading!

@laurenzuidema ... DANCE IS THE JOY OF MOVEMENT, AND THE HEART OF LIFE.

NOTE

Try something different this spring: book your seats to the ballet. Turn to page 43 for more about this diverse line-up of art.

19 STYLE FEATURE

20 MANAGING EDITOR Lauren Zuidema ART DIRECTOR Bianca-Leigh Nagel PROOFREADER Margy Beves-Gibson COMMERCIAL OPPORTUNITIES vann@aspirelifestyle.co.za CONTRIBUTORS Emile Joubert Jared VannTheaLoriJenniferRuttenbergCampbellCohenBeckmanvanStaden IMAGES Supplied, DepositPhotos, FreePik, Pexel, Unsplash COVER Sonnie Hiles/Unsplash DISTRIBUTION Distribution: Community Life Media, On The Dot PUBLISHED BY Aspire Lifestyle (Pty) Ltd 021 712 3842 THE TEAM Aspire Lifestyle supports Greenpop, a non-profit organisation, on a mission to (re)connect people with our planet. We are committed to plant 50 trees with every issue. www.greenpop.org ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. No part of this magazine may be reproduced in whole or in part without the written consent and permission of the publisher and copyright owners as featured. DISCLAIMER All information, dates and prices were correct at the time of print. We cannot be held liable for any changes thereafter. www.aspirelifestyle.co.za

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27 / STYLE TRENDS / TAG HEUER BOUTIQUE SANDTON CITY 011 784 7422 - V&A WATERFRONT 021 421 8539 WWW.PICOTANDMOSS.CO.ZA

The season’s collection features two new colour block Capucines: one is available in a warm Arizona shade with taurillon leather tones, a wood handle and coquille on the flap; while the other embodies pared-back elegance in black taurillon leather with accents in the same subtle harmony of shades.

Princess Olympia of Greece, a modern style icon, stars in Louis Vuitton’s new campaign in which the Maison reveals new variations of the Capucines handbag.

28 / STYLE FEATURE /

INCESS

BY JENNIFER CAMPBELL Fit for a PR COLOUR BLOCK

INCESS

THE MINI VERSION For those who love a classic, the iconic taurillon leather Capucines is now available in a mini version. It comes with a large strap and is available in scarlet red, a gorgeous shade that works for both day and night.

Inspired by the summer’s starry skies, the Capucines Summer Stardust features two colours, which are applied to the leather, with a third metallic shade that creates a striking shimmering effect. The bag’s golden LV signature is beautifully enhanced with a precious mother-of-pearl effect.

31 / STYLE FEATURE /

SUMMER STARDUST

A piece not to be missed, the Capucines Flower Chain comes adorned with a gold chain featuring jewel-like monogram flowers that have been injected with enamel and hand-polished. The bag is available in black, Tanzanite blue and Pondichery pink.

FLOWER CHAIN

assionate about paint and peonies, artist Kim Black lives and works in Kommetjie, on the southern peninsula of Cape Town. Here, she takes inspiration from the florals that feature so predominately in her work. Florals take centre stage in all of Kim’s pieces. “The reason these beauties inspire me is their organic loveliness and abundant colour palette,” she explains. “Flowers speak a language without using words, and this connection with the viewer is beautiful.” Blooms of all shapes and sizes are interpreted in various ways across the artworks, and Kim finds freedom in the form of flowers and the limitless ways in which they can be revealed through her paintings.

Kim is very aware of the value of introducing art to underprivileged children and gives lessons once a week to teens at an organisation called Hopetown in Ocean View. “Teaching teens the value of creativity and the chance to voice who they are through colour and form is a real conﬁdence-building skill,” she says. “To see strength and ability rise in these amazing kids is pure joy.”

Cape Town-based artist Kim Black takes inspiration from flowers and layers of colour.

BY JENNIFER CAMPBELL

Kim mainly works on commissions for her private clients but also gets involved in exhibitions in Cape Town and beyond. Her work has featured in many private collections worldwide, from the United Kingdom and Australia to Finland, Germany and Canada. In 2019, she received a mural commission for the Mount Nelson Hotel, one of her largest works to date — a 10 by 3.5 metre wall in the hotel’s OasisKimBistro.alsoforms part of the Open Studios team in Kommetjie. The group hosts an annual weekend event where artists open their studios up to the public. Guests are invited to indulge their senses in various art forms, ranging from ceramics and printmaking to sculpture and painting.

KimMeetBlack

32 / ART /

Most of Kim’s artwork features large canvases in acrylic and oils, and the style itself varies from impressionistic representational ﬂoral to an abstract form of botanical interpretation. “Colour is always the most important drive to create feeling behind the work,” says Kim.

P

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35 / ART / Follow Kim on Instagram @kimblack_art Check out this year’s Open Studio event in Kommetjie on the first weekend in December.

Buy now at your nearest Samsung store, our online store and selected retailers. For more information visit www.samsung.com

Available now.

Greenpop

38 / EVENTS /

EDEN FESTIVAL OF ACTION 2022 H

In just three editions spread out over four years, the Greenpop Eden Festival of Action (2018, 2019 and 2021) has planted over 10 300 trees and cleared 8 600 m2 of alien vegetation, not to mention the eight collaborative environmental murals that were painted and 790 eco-bricks ﬁlled. In fact, you need only glance at some of the before-and-after images of the areas restored by this seven-day sustainability experience to appreciate its incredible impact on both

osted by the Wild Spirit Backpackers’ Lodge on the Garden Route, along South Africa’s verdant east coast, the seven-day Greenpop Eden Festival of Action (2–9 October 2022) strives to restore the region’s once glorious landscapes, which have become degraded through relentless human activity and devastating ﬁres. Tightly interwoven with this agenda is the opportunity for people from all walks of life to connect with nature, each other, and the self through the immensely cathartic activities of giving back to the environment through planting trees, clearing alien vegetation, engaging in workshops, creating collaborative environmental art, and generally learning how to become better environmental stewards for the planet.

UNDENIABLE IMPACT ON NATURE AND PEOPLE

SUSTAINABILITY WORKSHOPS AND FIELD TRIPS

WWW.FESTIVALOFACTION.COM

the integrity of the natural places it visits and the lives of its attendees. To play a small part in breathing new, healthy life into a previously degraded area and to take home with you lifelong lessons on living more sustainability is how global change begins.

TIME TO UNWIND AND PLAY As soul-restoring as all of this important work is, there’s plenty of time for play at the fourth edition of the Greenpop Eden Festival of Action. In the evening, festivalgoers are invited to relax, dance and connect through campﬁre sessions, storytelling and music from some of South Africa’s bestlovedThismusicians.rich,week-long bouquet of activities, entertainment, and three plant-based meals per day with snacks is all included in the ticket price of R4 500 for South African residents and $320 for non-South Africans. (Also included is a campsite to pitch your tent and full transport during the event, as needed.)

39 / EVENTS /

AN UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE WITH A LASTING IMPACT

Outside the satisfaction of getting your hands dirty – knowing that each planted seedling represents the untold potential for entire ecosystems of creatures to flourish – the festival promises a full line-up of workshops and talks from sustainability experts like ecosystem restoration expert Alex Kruger, whose workshop ‘Permaculture Principles’ is all about learning from the forest to live our lives, grow food and harvest resources in a way that mimics nature. Matt Zylstra from NatureFix will be speaking about cultivating well-being through nature and practices to transform your green space into a place of Andwellness.Nature’s Valley Trust will be hosting a field trip to Nature’s Valley lagoon, where attendees will participate in a group analysis of the micro-plastic pellet pollution that plagues virtually every continent’s shoreline. The outcome of this investigation will have very real ramifications for national policies on single-use plastics and consumer responsibility laws.

Ultimately, the Greenpop Eden Festival of Action is about creating community around the common goal of restoring the once rich and verdant landscapes of the Garden Route; and ﬁnding life-changing connections and perhaps even lifelong friendships in that community. So, step out of your anxiety and into a place of action where you can accomplish incredible things for yourself, the next generation of humanity, and our planet.

IT’S TIME AGAIN for the annual Cape Town Kite Festival! On Sunday, 9 October 2022 – the one day of the year when the wind in Cape Town is actually welcome (and not cursed) – scores of brightly coloured kites will take to the sky at Melkbosstrand Beach, creating a breathtaking visual spectacle for people of all ages to stand back and admire. And if you’re not an avid kite-flier, bring a picnic, set out a blanket, and lie back to enjoy the show. Either way, you’ll be making a difference because the Cape Town Kite Festival was originally established to support World Mental Health Day. The pop-up fly event will raise money for Cape Mental Health to help the organisation continue to provide free essential mental health services and remote tele-counselling to those in need across the Western Cape. This year, there is a special focus on youth mental health, with the pandemic –among other traumas – taking such a toll on the wellbeing of so many. All you have to do is grab a kite or a picnic basket (or both), head down to Melkbosstrand Beach or anywhere in the world, and let it fly to show your support.

FLYGO A Kite

WEAR GREEN, AND MAKE SURE YOU TAG @CTKITEFEST ON SOCIAL MEDIA WHEN YOU POST YOUR PICTURES! 40 / EVENTS /

You can also visit the Cape Town Kite Festival website for in-person and online activities, such as community flies, an inclusive EduKite competition for school learners, and activities for the little ones. Also, go to www.capementalhealth.co.za/ FlyYourDreams to show your support by making a donation.

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Johannesburg Price: R150–R200 FOR BOOKINGS: WWW.WGRUVDANCE.COM/EVENTSSORENSENLAUGEPHOTOGRAPHER:

VIGNETTES

R200–R450 VIGNETTES Date:

VIGNETTES elaborates on energetic moments of impact and serene moments of passion, subtlety and exquisite line variations. The brilliant restaging of A Solo in Nine Parts by Jessica Lang will be featured, reminding the viewer that lasting dance artistry is found when the stage becomes a safe space to play. You will feel inspired to connect with new genres of contemporary movement and leave with a reignited appreciation for dance artistry.

Cape

Price: R200–R250 VIGNETTES Date: 12–13

Vignettes

Venue:

Venue: Etienne

Venue: Roodepoort

43 / EVENTS /

Sasolburg Price: R200 VIGNETTES REIMAGINED Date: 15–16

Date: 12–16 October 2022 Venue: The Mandela At Joburg Theatre, Johannesburg Price: 27–29 October 2022 Star Theatre, HCC Events Centre, Town November 2022 Rousseau Theatre, November 2022 Theatre,

WGRUV DANCE COMPANY is celebrating its inaugural year, and artistic director Holly Gruver has created a dance palate of varied colours as the company performs its second season, unveiling VIGNETTES!Apicture;an engraving or photograph, a snippet that shades o gradually into the surrounding landscape. This diverse line-up of art includes a look into the classics of ballet, including La Bayadere variations and Flower Festival in Genzano, as well as a sparkling Spanish Ballet by Carli Olivier and more! Peering into international choreography with works by Dominic Walsh, Tyler Gilstrap and Kanji Segawa, VIGNETTES will be sure to entertain and inspire the audience.

THE LIVINGROOM AT SUMMERHILL GUEST ESTATE

Indulge in our selection of South Africa’s newest and best restaurants. Here are this season’s must-visit restaurants to explore.

With Chef Johannes Richter at the helm of the kitchen, The LivingRoom at Summerhill Guest Estate has fast become one of KwaZulu-Natal’s most beloved foodie destinations, securing a spot in the Top 20 Mercedes-Benz Eat Out Awards 2019. Raised in Durban, Chef Johannes brings ﬁne French training, international experience in Michelin star establishments, and a passion for Asian techniques to the table, transforming the fresh vegetables, herbs and fruits grown on the estate into a menu that showcases the glorious breadth and depth of Durban’s culinary heritage. Every dish is made from hyper-endemic, seasonal ingredients and is paired with carefully selected premium wines and impeccable service. Think Willowdale tru e, butter lady mascarpone and key lime; Midland’s chicken, pear and tamarind, pumpkin, farm-to-fork rhubarb and pink peppercorn. Pinetown, KZN | www.summerhillkzn.com/livingroom

Must visit

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BY THEA BECKMAN

THE BAILEY, CAPE TOWN

/ RESTAURANT SPOTLIGHT /

Bree Street, Cape Town City Centre

PHOTOGRAPHY: SAM LINSELL

Located in a historic building on Bree Street, right in the culinary heart of Cape Town, The Bailey is a triple treat – café, brasserie and whisky bar –that captures the elegance and romance of the grand all-day cafés and restaurants of Europe. On the ground floor, the glamorous lobby café and patisserie serve delicious baked goods, all-day breakfasts, brunch, light lunch and high tea. The second floor is home to an authentic Parisian brasserie with a menu of iconic continental dishes complemented by a superb wine list. And on the rooftop terrace, sprawls the luxurious and exclusive Old Bailey Whiskey Bar. The Bailey is a collaborative effort between award-winning South African chef Liam Tomlin, his wife Jan, and the owners of the five-star Tintswalo Lodges.

/ RESTAURANT SPOTLIGHT /

At the new GRK in Rivonia, Johannesburg, the classic street food gyro is the star of the show! (Gyro is a hunk of meat slow-cooked on a vertical rotisserie and served wrapped or stuffed in pita bread.) But it’s nothing like what you see on the streets of Greece. Rather, GRK completely reimagines this popular dish, employing innovative cooking methods to deliver impeccably succulent, quality cuts of meat and cheek-popping flavours.

GRK

There are also four different imported Greek pita breads to choose from, each with their own nutritional values. Diners can enjoy this gorgeous fare in a modern, upmarket, yet casual Greek tavernesque setting designed by creative director Giorgio Tatsakis. Rivonia, Johannesburg | www.grk.restaurant

BACKSBERG TASTING ROOM

Since 1916, Backsberg Family Wines has graced our restaurant menus and store shelves with its generous repertoire of award-winning wines. This year, however, they’ve relaunched with a new state-of-the-art cellar, branding and packaging upgrade, and a gorgeous new tasting room. With comfortable furniture upcycled from wine barrels and pallets, a menu of delicious, tapas-style canapés, and staggeringly beautiful views over a dam and the Mont Rochelle Mountains beyond, the tasting room is a must-head-to destination for winetasting and eats in any season. Backsberg is also South Africa’s ﬁrst carbon-neutral winery and a proud WWF Conservation Champion. Franschhoek | www.backsberg.co.za

Wale Street, Cape Town City Centre | www.ouzeri.co.za

47 / RESTAURANT SPOTLIGHT /

OUZERI What began as a series of pop-ups in Cape Town, including a summer residency at Leo’s Wine Bar, has matured into a contemporary casual dining restaurant celebrating Cyprus and Greece’s regional dishes and culinary traditions. Inspired by Nic Charalambous’ travels, Ouzeri showcases the best of Cypriot cuisine while stepping outside the tired, clichéd approach to Greek food to instead serve inspired, contemporary interpretations of this country’s cuisine, something yet to be seen in South Africa. This, coupled with its utterly charming, Mediterranean coastal vibe and carefully selected wine list, makes Ouzeri a must-try new restaurant. Try their fried mussels with walnut skordalia; beetroot salad with date molasses, yoghurt and almonds; and beef shin youvetsi with roasted bone marrow.

HACIENDAMEXICANCOASTAL

48 / RESTAURANT SPOTLIGHT /

Another new addition to the Bree Street scene, Hacienda, is bringing the spirit of Baja California to the tables of Cape Town. But forget Tex-Mex: Hacienda’s menu is an ode to authentic coastal Mexican/spiced Baja California cuisine, courtesy of executive chef Justin Barker and sous chef Michael Badenhorst. Think grilled dishes of lamb chops, charred octopus, and guajillo-dusted corn; bowls and plates, like the kingklip bowl, featuring lime gel, coconut cream, and chipotle roasted leeks; vegetarian dishes like the Oaxaca adobe rice; and desserts like flan de chocolate, churros, and pastel de maiz dulce. For a no-holds-barred Mexican experience, try the tequila tasting pairing menu! Bree Street, Cape Town City Centre www.hacienda.co.za

Nurturing the art of Tasteful Living with S.Pellegrino. sanpellegrino.com ACquapanna.com For home delivery: italiandelionline.co.za

“Ultimately, as chefs, we must cook food that people will love, enjoy and come back for; and tell the whole world about!” Chef Siba explains. “So, I’m looking for a balance between all the key points of skill, creativity, presentation, authenticity, taste and sustainability.”

Chef Siba Mtongana joins the regional jury panel for the S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy Competition 2022-2023

Of course, Chef Siba isn’t closed o to any particular theme or cuisine: “Overall, I’m looking forward to being wowed by these bright minds; to seeing pure and raw talent through these young chefs showcasing their skills. I think it’s important to impart and share our knowledge with the younger generation to inspire them to be the best now and in the future.”

We’re sitting on the edge of our seats to ﬁnd out who the next S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy regional winner will be. Find out more about the S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy and the competition www.sanpellegrinoyoungchefacademy.comat

CONNOISSEUR OF CHEF TALENT & Culinary Queen

Of course, Siba Mtongana is no stranger to judging chef competitions, being a best-selling cookbook author, the creative engine behind SIBA The Restaurant at the Table Bay Hotel in Cape Town, and star of the award-winning Siba’s Table on the Food Network channel. But what tips the scales of excitement for her, in this case, is the immense scope of talent being put to the mettle and that South Africa, her home country, will once again be the host of such a prestigious competition.

“It’s important that the ﬁnalists keep both local and international audiences intrigued when using ingredients that may not yet be known in the West.”

50 / PROFILE /

W

.

hen South African celebrity chef Siba Mtongana was headhunted for a judging position in the new edition of the S.Pellegrino Young Chef Academy Competition for the Africa, Middle East and South Asia region, her immediate reaction was “overjoyed” and “honoured to be part of the very ﬁrst female-only jury panel”. Together with two other internationally acclaimed female chefs – Tala Bashmi from Bahrain and Selassie Atadika from Ghana – Chef Siba will be judging the signature dishes of the young chefs at the regional leg of the competition, set to be held in Cape Town in January 2023.

However, when asked what particular skill or flourish would be most likely to impress her, given a technically perfect plate of food, Chef Siba points firmly towards using creative, out-the-box thinking to address some of the dominant issues facing the food industry today, such as the move towards sustainable and locally sourced ingredients. She is also excited to see how finalists represent African and Afro-fusion cuisine to create something new, exciting and elevated, which she believes to be a major upcoming trend in the world of gastronomy.

So, what’s on the menu for Chef Siba? What does she most want to see from the chef ﬁnalists? Technical skill and ﬁnesse are important, along with thoughtfulness, creativity and authenticity, which she believes to be the key ingredients for creating delicious, beautiful and memorable dishes. But let’s not forget the taste!

SPOTBEAUTY

This bold Victorian home in Cape Town is a triumph of confidence in colour, peppered with nostalgic references.

TEXT LORI COHEN PRODUCTION SVEN ALBERDING PHOTOGRAPHS GREG COX ❛

55 / DECOR AND DESIGN /

The first room next to the passage was converted into a study for Jocelyn. The room is cocooned with emerald green, covering walls, ceilings, and custom shelves in a verdant shade.

“Having lived in an apartment previously, I was overwhelmed by how large the house was when I ﬁrst bought it. But Dawid transformed it into a light, warm space with my beautiful things around me; I couldn’t be happier,” says Jocelyn.

❛❛

O ne of the reasons I decided to move was that I had run out of walls to put art on,” confesses Jocelyn Hellig. A new beginning deserved a new perspective. So the busy doctor asked her friend, interior specialist and founder of design ﬁrm Establishment, Dawid Augustyn, to help her transform the faded centenarian from its role as a practical guest house into a home that would highlight its heritage while inviting in a sophisticated palette of energising colours and contemporary artwork.

56 / DECOR AND DESIGN /

The walls and ceilings of the entry hall are dipped in a deep rose shade, giving it a quick but dramatic makeover. Thedrawsmonochromaticcolourpaletteyouintotheheartofthehome.

57 Select Grade Multilayer Oak 220mm x 15mm x 2200mm laid in Pearl Valley Golf Estate and glued down with Wakol MS 228 adhesive for a quality installation. e ﬂoor was coated with a Loba Viva Matt varnish to create a ﬂoor with authentic character.

59 / DECOR AND DESIGN /

The cool, collected atmosphere of the living and dining room combines vintage finds, modernist lighting, and lashings of South African art and furniture. This unique blend of old and new creates a space that is both contemporary and steeped in tradition. The central room of the house serves as a lounge and dining room, separated by a fireplace. A contemporary molecular chandelier was hung in the centre to celebrate the ceiling’s subtle use of decorative plaster on the ceiling. A modernist arc lamp hovers above the seating area. “It adds another layer of light but can also be moved to highlight the art or create a reading nook, and I love the versatility it brings to the space,” Dawid says. Finally, wooden pendant lights inspired by antique carved table legs were placed above the dining table, again giving a touch of nostalgia.

Molecular Atom chandelier, by Aromas Del Campo; Miniforms Ozz lamp; wooden pendant lamps, Establishment; table and bench chair, Pedersen + Lennard; chrome and leather chairs, vintage; sofa, Menu; the coffee table, Menu; cabinet, Jacobs Collection; Torch lamp by Collection Particuliere; drinks trolley, Gorgeous by Olivia.

“Jocelyn is a wonderful cook, so we wanted to create an in-dining kitchen that her guests could be part of the experience if they want to and could spill outside when the weather was nice”, Dawid says. Table and chairs, James Mudge Furniture Studio.

The checked tiles of the entry hall and living room are echoed in the kitchen, creating continuity.

60 / DECOR AND DESIGN /

the Victorian style inside and playfully

pink hues, flamingos, shell murals and retro-inspired outside furniture

The outdoor space takes a break from combines by

South African designer Haldane Martin.

Bed and bench, Houtlander; lamps, Kitto lamps by Aromas Del Campo.

An elegant skirted bath sits symmetrically between the frosted doors, giving Jocelyn views over her balcony on the treetops when she soaks. Freestanding bath and tapware, Victorian Bathrooms.

The Shaker-style bed, made of raw wood, is the focal point of this room and rests on the original unfinished wood floor. The quirky lamps offset the clean lines and simple bed design, which add personality and charm to the room overcomplicatingwithoutit.

/ DECOR AND DESIGN /

The en suite bathrooms were kept to a monochrome palette with a custom-made steel frame shower partition giving it a contemporary edge. Walls were kept in creamy tones to connect to the bedroom and ensure the space feels warm and nurturing. Bathroom fittings and tapware, Victorian Bathrooms; pendant light, Establishment.

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64 / DECOR AND DESIGN /

A Shaker-style four-poster bed dominates the guest bedroom. Dawid explains that one of the spaces where he enjoyed playing with symmetry – the Tetrislike display of paintings and a side table and lamp resting on only one side of the bed – injects interest into an otherwise simple room. Paintings, Isabel Kluitjers; bed, Weylandts; side table, collected piece; lamp, collected piece.

“I wanted the guest bathroom to be a slightly more masculine version of Jocelyn’s bathroom,” says Dawid. He installed a Crittall-style shower screen with black subway tiles to make it feel modern, architectural, geometric, timeless and traditional. Bathroom fittings and tapware, Victorian Bathrooms; mirror, Victorian Bathrooms.

65 / DECOR AND DESIGN /

66 COMPOSABLE, CREATE YOUR BRACELET LINK BY LINK NOMINATION.COMatonlineandjewellersselectedinAvailable

/ DECOR / Meet

The Mood Collectives has since become an artistic stage not only for beautifully designed and locally manufactured furniture, but also for other creative entrepreneurs. In particular, Kim and Cynthia have a passion for working with female-owned and run businesses, which is demonstrated in The Mood Collectives’ showrooms with brands like Mia Melange (artisanal woven baskets), Summah (Turkish towels and throws), Amanda Jayne (handpoured soy candles and home fragrances), and Marutsca (100% linen clothing and home accessories), to name a few.

THE MERGER THAT INSPIRED A MOOD

THE COLLECTIVESMOOD

A PASSION FOR ENTREPRENEURSHIPFEMALE

A state of mind or feeling captured by design.

BY THEA BECKMAN

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HAVE YOU EVER walked into a room and, for better or worse, had your mood perceptibly altered by the design of that space? From gloomy lobbies and sterile doctors’ rooms to shimmering conservatories and kooky co ee shops, rooms are a mood, and while some comfort and inspire, others have the grace of an elephant falling down a ﬂight of stairs. It’s this very idea that décor and retail industry veterans Kim de Villiers and Cynthia Chasteau de Balyon locked onto when uniting their talents under their unique brand, The Mood Collectives. So, how did it all start?

With both Kim and Cynthia based in the picturesque Helderberg basin, it wasn’t long before they found themselves rubbing shoulders, collaborating on projects in di erent capacities. They admired in each other a particular attention to detail, an unsinkable work ethic, and a passion for women’s empowerment. A relationship was soon forged and then a partnership when they recognised an unleveraged opportunity: the lack of upmarket, luxury interior showrooms in the Cape Winelands area. And so, Kim and Cynthia joined forces in 2018, merging their creative home studios into a single space and thus, The Mood Collectives was born.

DESIGN VISION

The Mood Collectives is all about evoking, by design, the state of mind or feeling desired of a space through the subtle interweaving of luxurious design elements, furniture and accessories. It’s for this reason – as well as their unwavering support for female entrepreneurs –that what Kim and Cynthia do is so visionary. www.themoodcollectives.co.za

68 Subscribe to the best luxury lifestyle magazine in South Africa. Read the latest in beauty, fashion, décor and design, travel, food and wine, motoring and loads more. A lifestyle to aspire to. Subscribe now | Email subs@aspirelifestyle.co.za SUBSCRIBE Subscribe to 4 issues and get more than 25% DISCOUNT 4 issues @ R200

69 / STYLE FEATURE / Ideally located on the Garden Route only a four hour drive from Cape Town, the 11 000 hectare, private game reserve offers a one of a kind Cape safari experience. Luxurious accommodation is provided in romantic, stand-alone safari suites or bush villas ideal for families, all with awe-inspiring views of the mountainous landscape and passing wildlife. Enjoy exhilarating game drives encountering free roaming Big 5 game species as well as giraffe, hippo, and herds of antelope. Additional activities on offer include the fun Junior Ranger programme for kids, mountain biking, Africology spa treatments, guided Fynbos walks and conservation activities. Tel: +27 (0)21 555 0807 . Email: reservations@gondwanagr.co.za . Website: www.gondwanagr.co.za Experience an authentic Cape Safari

71 / WELLNESS / Writer, wellness coach elegantalignmentwhole-lifejourneysharesNickyentrepreneur,andRowbothaminsighttotothroughpower. BY THEA BECKMAN Embraceyourpowerelegant

For millennia, the standards for success, from the battleﬁeld to the boardroom, have been ﬁrmly rooted in masculine energy. We strive hard, are aggressive in our desires, and claim space through force and conquest. While this extreme end of the energy spectrum produces results, it takes a toll upon our bodies and, often, our relationships, too.

A dislocated shoulder is a painful thing; hard to ignore. Yet chartered accountant and entrepreneur Nicky Rowbotham was so tightly wound by her octane-fuelled life in business that she had actually failed to notice her shoulder had popped out of its socket. The surprising diagnosis was the wake-up call Nicky needed; her overwhelmingly demanding lifestyle and internalisation of stress were dismantling her body. In an e ort to heal, Nicky deep-dived the scientiﬁc literature on stress and what she discovered not only allowed her to rapidly recover from a crippling suite of stress-related maladies, but also inspired two books, a career shift and a healing movement that has since guided a great many people, particularly women, away from a life of ﬁerce struggle and towards an empowered, authentic and unarmoured state of grace. The best part of her epiphany is that such a life is immediately available to one and all if you would but embrace your elegant power.

ELEGANT POWER: A STATE OF STANDING GROUNDED IN REVERENCE OF YOUR OWN SELF-WORTH Nicky Rowbotham’s book Embrace your Elegant Power was born out of question: what if we stopped using force to beat a path towards traditional masculine standards of success and instead allowed our innate elegant power and unique gifts to guide us?

But what if we stopped forcing our way towards our goals and instead moved more gracefully by connecting with our intuition and stepping with thoughtful simplicity into our radiant power? It sounds a little ‘woo-woo’, but it’s more than just possible. It’s the better way. Like Anne Lamotte wrote: “Lighthouses don’t go running all over an island looking for boats to save; they just stand thereThisshining.”ishowNicky Rowbotham healed herself faster than conventional medicine would have believed possible, by recentering herself in her elegant power and, in doing so, popping her life (and shoulder) back into alignment. And this is what she writes about most eloquently. Her commitment to helping people, especially women, to stop dimming their light in an attempt to be more accepted and agreeable and intentionally create, transition to, and live a life they love based on their individual and unique gifts shines like a beacon on every page.

To explain; brute force and elegant power are diametrically opposed terminal stations of the human energy spectrum. On the one hand, you have aggressive conquest and force – the hunter, masculine. And on the other, a gentle holding of space and compelling presence – the nurturer, feminine.

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www.nickyrowbotham.com

It’s not about changing or becoming. It’s about remembering and knowing. We are already enough. Our authentic nature glows from within at a soul level. It emanates from every pore with our knowing that we have elegant power in our enoughness. This is the path to easefulness, success through ease, in our lives. When we are grounded in a sense of selfworth and self-love, we do not seek approval or validation from outside of ourselves. We are at our most powerful, and our self-recognition emanates from every pore as we trust our sense of self and stand tall in our own value. It’s time to shine!”

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When we embrace the elegant power in our own lives, we step into our inner knowing and fully own our innate, intuitive and individual gifts. We unshackle from the shoulds of societal conditioning around how we are expected to show up in our lives. In doing so, we redeﬁne success on our own terms as we own what makes us di erent and what makes us special and unique.

Nicky Rowbotham

But how do we do this? By stepping into our own natural light.

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77 We L ve FRAGRANCES / BEAUTY / WELLNESS AND MORE A brand new fragrance from Jimmy Choo, with top notes of juicy rose, middle notes of black cherry liquor pg 78

78 Love is in the air Get your hands on this season’s round-up of new scentsational fragrances. YVES SAINT LAURENT Y EDT Fresh and clean, this fragrance for men boasts fresh notes of sage and lavender fused with a crisp bite of geranium, sensual woods and masculine incense. Rock legend Lenny Kravitz takes centre stage in the new Y Eau de Toilette campaign – a true representation of a fearless experimenter who lives by his own rules. EDT 100ml | R1 990 EMPORIO STRONGERARMANIWITHYOUOUD New from oudfragranceArmani,Giorgiothisispowerfulandmysterious.Thewoodyscentiselevatedwithoud,oneofthemostpreciousingredientsinperfumery.Theworksbeautifullywithnotesoflavenderandvanilla. EDP 100ml | R2 040 YVES SAINT LAURENT LIBRE LE PARFUM This scent blends lavender, orange blossom and musk for an intense and spicy floral fragrance. It’s a celebration of freedom –flamboyant and beautiful. EDP 90ml | R2 650 CARTIER BAISER VOLÉ This new femme fragrance features main accords of white floral and vanilla with powdery, soft and spicy elements. Created by French perfumer Mathilde Laurent, the scent features top notes of lily, middle notes of heliotrope and base notes of tonka bean. EDP 100ml | R2 360

BERDOUES COLLECTION GRANDS CRUS DOLCE AMALFI

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EDP 100ml | R2 599

HERMÈS EAU DE BASILIC POURPRE Perfect for the warmer months, this fragrance is inspired by the notion of giving elegance to simple things. Green and purple basil feature as a base, while geranium adds a freshness and notes of patchouli and spices bring depth to this sensual scent. 100ml

| R1

EDP

| R2 180

R1

COACH WILD ROSE

R1

This one is a floral fragrance and a must for those who love citrus and floral scents. Top notes include fresh orange, lemon and bergamot, while the middle notes bring a soft floral quality with magnolia, ylang-ylang and rose. Base note of patchouli and musk add a fresh spiciness.

CARTIER LA PANTHÈRE

Fruity and mossy, this scent is a new version of the iconic La Panthère Parfum from Cartier, originally released in 2010. This reinterpretation is even richer and more intense, with notes of apricot, patchouli and floral gardenia. 75ml 880

This captivating Grands Cru promises elegance and refinement and is reminiscent of a flowery and sunny interlude on the Amalfi Coast. Expect a feminine, fresh and delicate fragrance that features a blend of Indonesian Patchouli and Virginia Cedar. 100ml | 675

EDC

EDP

Inspired by the free-spirited beauty of a meadow of wildflowers, the new fragrance from Coach balances the delicate with the bold. The scent opens with sparkling red currant and spicy bergamot, while the heart boasts delicate rose and jasmine before finishing with crystal moss and Ambroxan. 90ml | 720

ACQUA DI PARMA MAGNOLIA INFINITA

EDP

This iconic fragrance from Givenchy has been reintroduced with slight changes to the notes and packaging. Top notes feature orange and bergamot, with jasmine, tuberose and orange blossoms on the middle notes, and a base of vetiver, patchouli, rock rose flower and sandalwood. D’HERMÈS EAU GIVREE

EDP

| R2 485

COACH OPEN ROAD

EDT 100ml | R1 465 GIVENCHY

EDT 80ml | R1 885 TERRE

This addictive scent is a new release from Maison Francis Kurkdjian. 724 is a vibrant and fresh fragrance with musky floral notes, including bergamotaldehydes,fromItaly, and jasmine absolute from Egypt with a sandalwoodwhite musk accord. 70ml

This new fragrance for men is inspired by friendship, adventure and the optimism of a road trip along the American West Coast. It features top notes of red apple and sparkling lemon Primofiore, accentuated by spicy Sichuan pepper and a blend of lavender and sage. L’INTERDIT

| R6 515

MAISON KURKDJIANFRANCIS724

A fragrance for men, this new offering by Hermès is fresh and aromatic. It features citron, juniper berry and Timut pepper notes, along with mineral and woody notes for a distinctive elegance. 100ml

JIMMY CHOO I WANT CHOO FOREVER Brand new from Jimmy Choo, this feminine fragrance encapsulates a sense of confidence and elegance. Expect top notes of juicy rose, middle notes of black cherry liquor and base notes of moss accord. 100ml

| R2

Another captivating offering from Giorgio Armani, this feminine fragrance is bold and modern. Expect sparkling top notes of bergamot, a bright blackcurrant accord, and two rose notes at the heart for a soft, powdery effect.

EDP 200ml

| R1 593

SÌ PASSIONE ÉCLAT DE PARFUM

EDP 100ml | R2 695

FORTE_FORTE X ACQUA DI PARMA MIRTO DI PANAREA Designed for both men and women, this scent is aromatic, fresh and spicy. Top notes include myrtle, basil, Italian lemon and bergamot, the heart notes feature marine breeze, jasmine and damask rose, and the base notes include juniper and amber. 100ml 699

An aromatic fragrance for men, this new offering from Jimmy Choo features top notes of cardamom and grapefruit, middles notes of seawater and sage, and base notes of patchouli and moss. It’s a woody marine scent formulated to evoke the smell of the ocean. 100ml

EDT

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This gorgeous limited-edition fragrance from Chanel is woody, with notes of vetiver, cedar and vanilla, along with iris and accents of leather. The scent is presented in a Baccarat crystal bottle, sealed with a fine baudruche and stamped with Chanel’s distinctive double C.

CHANEL SYCOMORE

JIMMY CHOO MAN AQUA

EDP

| R1 949

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BY JENNIFER CAMPBELL DOSE & CO. is a global ingestible beauty brand that has been o ering wellness and beauty products with an emphasis on quality and ecoconsciousness since 2019. Now, the brand has launched a new product specially formulated to improve skin elasticity and hydration levels.

HOW DOES IT WORK? Beauty Collagen is an ingestible supplement formulated to deliver the traditional beneﬁts of collagen peptides with an extra boost of beauty beneﬁts. Available as a powder, the product can be added to a cup of tea or co ee or blended into a smoothie or baked goods. It’s designed to be taken daily, and the collagen peptides work in synergy with hyaluronic acid and vitamin C to create an environment where the skin can thrive.

WHAT KIND OF RESULTS CAN YOU EXPECT?

The powder is especially formulated to improve the skin’s moisture levels, which helps to boost elasticity and reduce the appearance of fine lines. The vitamin C content supports collagen production while providing protection from free radicalWithdamage.dailyuse, the idea is that the product will help to achieve a more luminous complexion and a generally more even skin tone and texture. Like the rest of the Dose & Co. range, Beauty Collagen is made with 100 percent natural ingredients, including high-dose collagen. It’s completely free from GMOs, fillers, binders or artificial sugars. All the collagen peptides used are sustainably sourced and do not contain dairy, soy, gluten or artificial colours.

The brand-new Beauty Collagen Unflavoured from Dose & Co. is making waves on the beauty scene.

THERE’S BEAUTY IN COLLAGEN

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SpiritedFree

When asked what inspired the collection, Pandora’s creative directors, Alessandro Filippo Ficarelli and Francesco Terzo, point ﬁrmly to the ‘Summer of Love’ and the youth movement at the end of the ‘60s and ‘70s. “Pandora ME is a mindset created by the energy of discovering, the energy of playing with style, and the energy of connecting with people,” they say; a philosophy that ﬁts neatly with their latest line of audacious and free-spirited festival-inspired summer jewellery!

We Love: Pandora ME Festival Collection. BY THEA BECKMAN SUSPENDED IN FRESH AIR and nature, connecting with fellow untamed spirits, and dancing beneath a canopy of leaves or stars, there are hundreds of reasons we love going to festivals. But perhaps chief of all is the opportunity to show up as our true selves and express our uniqueness through clothing, dance and the art with which we adorn our bodies. Enter Pandora ME’s Festival Collection: a new line of festivalinspired jewellery that truly captures that wild and whimsical spirit we chase after. Launching this summer, Pandora ME’s Festival Collection is an audacious and unﬁltered celebration of colour, style and variety, empowering each individual to express their authentic selves through interesting and eyecatching pieces that are also interchangeable, allowing for virtually unlimited style remixes. Think bold styling links, tie-dye enamel, sun power medallions, open rings, rainbow hearts of freedom, and mini dangles in eye-catching tones.

How to deal with pigmentationhyperDO s & DON’Ts

WHAT IS HYPERPIGMENTATION? Hyperpigmentation, put simply, refers to darker patches of skin that develop from an overproduction of melanin, the substance in the body that produces pigmentation in the hair, eyes and skin. Although the issue generally doesn’t cause any harm, it can be a cause of cosmetic concern, especially when it a ects visible areas, such as the face.

WHAT HYPERPIGMENTATION?CAUSES

f you have noticed some parts of your skin are darker than others, you’re not alone. Hyperpigmentation is a common issue that a ects people with all skin types and tones, often in areas such as the face and hands. Fortunately, mild to moderate cases – such as sunspots, age spots, scars left by acne, and small patches of discolouration – can be resolved with the right choice of brightening and lightening products.

We’re all about loving yourself the way you are but sometimes what we see as imperfections can be debilitating. If this is the case for you, and you’re looking to achieve a more even complexion, take these easy steps to protect your skin from the sun and other forms of damage.

BY JENNIFER CAMPBELL

There are a few types of hyperpigmentation, the most common of which is melasma. Melasma may be caused by hormonal changes, such as those during pregnancy. Other common forms of hyperpigmentation include sunspots, which appear as the result of excessive sun exposure; and postinﬂammatory hyperpigmentation, which occurs as the result of inﬂammation or a skin injury. This type of hyperpigmentation sometimes occurs as a side e ect of acne.

Read on to ﬁnd out exactly what causes the issue and what you can do to keep it under control if you are unhappy with the condition of your skin.

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HOW CAN IT BE PREVENTED?

■ Moisturise every day and every night to help keep the skin moist, aiding in boosting cell regeneration

■ Make sure your skincare routine includes products with vitamin C, retinol, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid

■ Use a hat, and don’t forget the daily application of SPF

■ Avoid direct sunlight where possible

If over-the-counter brightening and moisturising products are not having enough of an e ect, however, it might be time to consult with a dermatologist. Prescription products are highly e ective for reducing the appearance of dark skin patches, while skincare treatments like chemical peels, laser therapy and dermabrasion are popular means of minimising discolouration.

■ Exfoliate your skin once a week

TIPS

■ Hands off acne, blackheads and bug bites to avoid excess injury

There are, however, ways in which the skin can be protected from the sun to lessen the risk of dark patches. You should wear sunscreen daily; choose a product with an SPF of at least 30 for optimal protection. It’s also a good idea to wear a hat and protective clothing anytime you are in the sun.

WHAT ARE THE TREATMENT OPTIONS?

If you’re struggling with dark patches of skin, the good news is there are a few ways to tackle this issue. Make sure to include a nourishing skincare range, including moisturisers and serums, in your morning and evening self-care routine, as this will help restore the skin’s natural fat barrier and provide protection from the sun. It’s worth looking out for ingredients that beneﬁt the skin’s overall condition and boost the production of new cells and good options include hyaluronic acid and retinol.

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Unfortunately, it is not always possible to completely prevent hyperpigmentation, especially in cases caused by hormonal changes or an underlying medical condition.

In some cases, hyperpigmentation could be a sign of an underlying health condition, while certain medications tend to increase the skin’s sensitivity to the sun and could put you at greater risk of developing the issue.

This is a powerful tool to cleanse the face and remove makeup. It has an immediate brightening effect and leaves your skin feeling refreshed. R269.95 TO BRIGHTEN AND EXFOLIATE EXUVIANCESERUMBRIGHTENING

R1 070

R797

It is absolutely imperative that you remember to apply a good sunscreen every day. To help with pigmentation, ensure you use an SPF of more than 30 for maximum protection. Daily Care SPF 50+ is formulated to illuminate, protect and brighten your skin. R459.95 TO BRIGHTEN AND REDUCE ILLUMINATINGNEOSTRATADISCOLOURATIONENLIGHTENSERUM

This serum has a cooling effect and specifically targets blotchiness and soothes sensitive skin. TO acid is a great

R949 FOR AGE SPOTS & ANTI-AGEING NEOSTRATA FIRMING TRITHERAPY LIFTING SERUM

The full Bioderma Pigmentbio range, which specifically targets hyperpigmentation includes C-Concentrate, Daily Care SPF 50+, Foaming Cream, H 2O, Night Renewer, and a Sensitive Areas crème. BRIGHTENING

89 WE LOVE SKINCARE FOR BLOTCHY, RED SKIN NEOSTRATA RESTORE REDNESS NEUTRALIZING SERUM

This serum quite literally illuminates the skin with its potent multi-action function that brightens and reduces the appearance of discolouration. Includes vitamin C, among other targeting ingredients.

The Tri-Therapy Lifting serum is an oil-free, antiageing serum designed to renew skin tone by gently exfoliating the skin. R1 186 FOR DAILY SUN PROTECTION BIODERMA PIGMENTBIO DAILY CARE SPF 50+

R1 228 TO CLEANSE AND BRIGHTEN BIODERMA PIGMENTBIO H2O CLEANSER

HYDRATE THE SKINS CERAMIDEHYALURONICDERMALOGICABARRIERMIST Hyaluronic

It’s all in the name. This multitasking serum is formulated to brighten, exfoliate and reduce the appearance of dark spots.

lastingacidfourhydrated.andtheandreduceingredientskincaretohelppigmentationblemishes.ItleavesskinlookingplumpreallykeepstheskinThismisthastypesofhyaluronicforextra-long-hydration.

90 DRINK RESPONSIBLY. NOT FOR PERSONS UNDER THE AGE OF 18. a new range of wines that are full of ﬂavour & light in alcohol. CHENINLIGHT.LIVELY.BLANCLIGHTANDSHIRAZLIGHT, in &AND SHIRAZ LIGHT,

The Elements Collection from Le Creuset represents four elements – earth, air, fire and water – each in a corresponding colour.

NECTAR Evoking the element of fire, this particular shade of Nectar brings the sun’s warm rays to mind. The hue is luxuriously glazed and shines with a rich, golden glow and is the perfect way to make a sunny statement in the kitchen, especially as warm spring days are upon us.

CAYENNE The latest shade in the collection, Cayenne, represents the earth element and conjures up shades of a rich, red desert. Vibrant and expressive, the hue works beautifully with some of Le Creuset’s other iconic palettes. Cayenne is available in a range of enamelled cast iron cookware, oven-to-table stoneware, and various accessories.

MERINGUE A breath of fresh air, this shade of Meringue is simple and understated. It can stand alone in a neutral kitchen but works equally well with the rest of the Elements palette. Pure and elegant, this hue represents the element of wind.

The Elements Collection includes a single stoneware essential in sets of four. Available in uniquely designed boxes, the range includes espresso and cappuccino mugs, regular mugs, mini cocottes and mini ramekins. Available in Le Creuset boutique stores and online at www.lecreuset.co.za

COASTAL BLUE Evoking a refreshing oasis, Coastal Blue is the shade of cool water. It brings a chic, contemporary look to the collection and works well with various other tones across the Le Creuset offering.

THE VIBRANCE OFnature

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92 Keep the visible signs of ageing at bay with this expert advice. BY JENNIFER CAMPBELL tipsageingAntiIN THE KNOW

“Anything that’s not healthy for your gut can lead to a microbial imbalance and trigger oxidative stress and inﬂammatory process throughout the body,” says Dr Wilkinson. For this reason, it is advisable that you limit your consumption of sugary and processed foods and stick to a balanced diet as much as possible.

One of South Africa’s few female plastic surgeons, Dr Nerina Wilkinson is the founder of the House of Aesthetic Couture and Skin Science, located at the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town. Dr Wilkinson obtained her medical degree at the University of Stellenbosch before specialising in plastic surgery, and over the past 25 years, she and her team have pioneered industry-changing and minimally invasive facial rejuvenation techniques, which achieve natural looking results for their patients.

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PROTECT YOUR SKIN FROM THE SUN

CHOOSE THE RIGHT INGREDIENTS Cape Town-based plastic surgeon with a special interest in facial rejuvenation, Dr Nerina Wilkinson says, it’s essential to understand there is never just one ingredient that solves every skin problem. “Each individual skin requires its own bespoke ‘recipe’ to achieve results,” she explains.

Meet Dr Nerina Wilkinson

hen it comes to maintaining youthfullooking skin, it turns out the secret could be simpler than you think. According to the experts, choosing the right products and taking some preventative care against the ageing process makes it possible to keep your skin healthier for longer.

“Similar to when baking, only once we combine the best ingredients do we achieve the most delicious cake.” That said, there are a few key ingredients worth looking out for. These include

If you do go into the sun, Dr Wilkinson suggests you always wear a hat and try to sit with your back to the sun for minimal damage to your face.

antioxidants like vitamin C, vitamin E and hydrolysed collagen, all of which protect the skin from free radicals; peptides, which strengthen the cells; and retinoids that help to improve overall skin texture and quality.

BE MINDFUL OF YOUR LIFESTYLE

According to Dr Wilkinson, there are four key components to minimise the visible signs of ageing: genes, lifestyle, daily homecare routine, and in-clinic treatments. She suggests establishing a face cleansing routine every morning and evening and investing in good supplementation that supports skin health. She also advises starting preventative skin treatments in your thirties. This might include a combination of chemical peels, medical skin needling and LED light therapy, depending on your particular needs. Interestingly, gut health issues can manifest on the skin in many ways, from blemishes to ﬂushing.

To prevent premature ageing, it’s critical that you protect your skin from the harsh e ects of the sun. “Be diligent with applying SPF,” urges Dr Wilkinson. “The earlier one starts, the better: even on rainy days, you should try and reapply an SPF every two hours and be sure to use a broad-spectrum product that protects against UV rays, high visible light and infra-red.”

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f you’ve been hearing a lot about functional mushrooms lately, you’re not alone. These brain-boosting mushrooms are a rapidly growing health trend in cognitive wellness. Research shows that these mushrooms o er many beneﬁts, from improved memory and concentration to increased stamina and overall immune support.

With that said, when many hear the word ‘mushroom’, one of two types of mushroom will often pop into their heads: regular cooking mushrooms and magic mushrooms. Although functional mushrooms are a relatively new thing in South Africa, they have gained immense popularity globally.

FUNGIFUNCTIONAL

I

Functional mushrooms vs magic mushrooms.

LION’S MANE Favoured by Buddhist monks to aid meditation, Lion’s Mane is particularly good for improved mental acuity, increasing concentration and focus and boosting memory. It also means improving cognitive function.

SUPER MUSHROOMS

Understanding the key di erences between these legal, 100% safe mushrooms and psychedelic mushrooms is essential to avoid any confusion.

Studies have been done on mushrooms’ benefits on the prevention and treatment of cognitive impairment. Some research indicates these mushrooms can reduce the risk of age-related cognitive disorders such as dementia and Alzheimer’s.

All three primary types of functional mushrooms (Lion’s Mane, Reishi and Cordyceps) have unique benefits. The most widely known use of functional or medicinal mushrooms as a whole is their ability to promote cognitive health.

CORDYCEPS These mushrooms grow on living hosts in the Tibetan mountains. They’re known for their benefits of stamina and energy. Research shows that daily use of this mushroom can improve physical fitness and reduce fatigue, making it easier to get through the day and still power through workouts after finishing a tiring workday.

REISHI Originally used in ancient Chinese medicine as a way to increase longevity and vitality, Reishi is best known for its immuneboosting properties. This mushroom is adaptogenic. Adaptogens counteract the effects of stress on the body. Regular use of Reishi mushrooms helps the body ward off stress, fight infections and improve immune health. Studies show this mushroom can also reduce inflammation and make it easier for the body to fight infections.

ARE FUNCTIONAL MUSHROOMS PSYCHEDELIC? What are functional mushrooms, you may be wondering? And more importantly, are they the same as psychedelic or magicFunctionalmushrooms?mushrooms or medicinal mushrooms have been used for thousands of years in many Asian cultures. They are known for their wide range of health beneﬁts, particularly when it comes to cognitive health and mental acuity. They are legal with no harmful side e ects and are taken as supplements, usually in capsule or powder form. The most beneﬁcial types of functional mushrooms include Lion’s Mane, Reishi and Cordyceps. When we talk about psychedelic mushrooms, we are talking about the mushrooms associated with getting ‘high’. These mushrooms are not yet legal in South Africa and many other parts of the world. They contain the psychoactive component psilocybin, which induces hallucinations or feelings of euphoria.

ARE FUNCTIONAL MUSHROOMS SAFE TO TAKE? Functional mushrooms do not contain psilocybin. This means they do not have the ability to produce hallucinations or a sense of being ‘high’. Plenty of studies have been done to date on the beneﬁts, potential e ects and safety of these mushrooms. And the science is clear: these mushrooms are safe to take, with no harmful side e ects. They can be taken daily in capsule form as a healthAlthoughsupplement.functional mushrooms are not the same as magic mushrooms, they certainly have a lot of magical beneﬁts to the mind and body.

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GOODMIND™ is passionate about the goodness of mushrooms and all they have to o er. Its functional mushrooms include 8 supermushrooms namely, Lion’s Mane, and These mushrooms are available in both capsule and water soluble powder form for a calmer, clearer mind.

Reishi

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Cordyceps.

SHOP ROV04, OLD CONSTANTIA VILLAGE SHOPPING CENTRE, CNR CONSTANTIA MAIN RD & SPAANSCHEMAT RIVER RD | (021) 001 0684

100 / FOOD / START THE DAY RIGHT A BEAUTIFUL SPRING MORNING is the perfect time to enjoy a leisurely breakfast or brunch. To create our very own feast, we take inspiration from the aptly named tashas inspired: A Celebration of Food & Art, Natasha Sideris’ new cookbook. As the founder of the muchloved tashas restaurants, Natasha knows just what it takes to rustle up a meal that combines delicious and wholesome ingredients for the best start to the day. With a spread of citrus delights, waffles and a mouth-watering frittata, you simply can’t go wrong with these recipes. Global inspiration and fresh ingredients pair beautifully in these breakfast recipes. CITRUS SUNRISE Serves 4 Ingredients OAT CRUMBLE 100g rolled oats 100 g cake flour 150g sugar 150g butter, melted FRUIT SALAD 2 oranges 2 naartjies or clementines 2 mandarin oranges 2 ruby grapefruit 2 limes 1 banana HONEY CREAM YOGHURT 60ml honey 400g plain Greek yoghurt 120ml cream, whipped to stiff peaks TOPPINGS 60ml Turkish delight syrup or rose syrup 40g pistachios, shelled and toasted crushed edible gold leaf Method Oat crumble Preheat the oven to 200°C and grease a baking tray. Mix all the ingredients together, then spread evenly in the prepared baking tray. Bake for about 15 minutes or until the crumble is golden brown and bubbly. Leave to cool and break into bite-size pieces. Keep in an airtight container. Honey cream yoghurt Gently fold the honey and whipped cream into the yoghurt. Fruit salad Peel and segment the citrus fruits, and peel and slice the banana diagonally. Here’s how to segment citrus fruit: use a sharp, straight-edged knife. Slice off both ends of the fruit and place it cut side down on a chopping board. Following the curve of the fruit, cut down into wide strips to remove the skin and pith. Now hold the fruit in the palm of your hand over a bowl to catch the juice and segments, and cut each segment away from the membranes on either side. And, voilà, perfectly segmented fruit. To serve Layer honey cream yoghurt, fruit and oat crumble in four long-stemmed cocktail glasses. Drizzle with syrup and sprinkle with crushed pistachios. Repeat the layers until the glasses are full, finishing with crumble. Drizzle with more syrup and garnish with flecks of edible gold leaf. This is a sunny, vibrant breakfast that could just as easily make an appearance after lunch as a light, fresh dessert. Serve the dish in long-stemmed cocktail glasses and add an extra element of glamour by garnishing with flecks of edible gold leaf.

1 tbsp butter 1 tbsp olive oil 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced 4 medium courgettes, sliced into 1/2 cm rings 200 g fresh or frozen peas 10–12 eggs 20g mint, chopped 20g flat-leaf parsley, chopped 20g chives, chopped salt and black pepper 100g soft goat’s milk cheese drizzle of olive oil chopped chives for garnish 10g pea shoots for garnish FRITTATA Method

The prepping and cooking time from start to finish can be up to 40 minutes, but you can easily make it ahead and serve it at room temperature (though it will subside a bit). It’s ideal picnic food. Make a large one for lots of guests and cut it into wedges.

PEA, COURGETTE & GOAT’S CHEESE

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Ingredients

In an ovenproof frying pan, heat the butter and olive oil and sauté the onion and courgettes until tender. Blanch the peas. If you’re using fresh peas, it will take a bit longer to blanch them until they’re tender. Add the peas to the pan and sauté until they are heated through. In a mixing bowl, lightly beat the eggs together with the herbs, salt and pepper. Pour into the pan. Reduce the heat to medium and cook for about five minutes. With a spatula, continuously scrape through the mixture, from the outside to the middle, all around the pan. This will help to lift the cooked parts and allow the raw egg to run in underneath to cook. In the meantime, preheat the oven grill. When the egg mixture is halfway cooked, make sure all the ingredients are evenly distributed. Break half the cheese into small pieces and sprinkle on top of the egg mixture. Place the pan in the oven and cook under the grill for 8–10 minutes or until golden brown. Do not overcook the frittata. Remove the frittata from the oven, and top with the remaining cheese, also broken into smaller pieces, and chopped chives. Drizzle with olive oil and garnish with pea shoots. Season with salt and pepper. When we opened our first tashas, we had a few frittatas on the menu, not realising how ambitious that was for a restaurant kitchen. A properly made frittata is not a pan-fried omelette. It should be baked after frying because it’s only in the oven that it becomes light and fluffy, like a soufflé.

Date & caramel sauce Melt the sugar in a non-stick heavy-based saucepan until it starts to turn amber. Do not stir with a utensil; rather, swivel the pot to prevent the sugar from burning on the sides. Remove from the heat and, while whisking, slowly pour in the cream. Return to the heat, continue whisking and bring to a boil. When the caramel starts to boil, remove it from the stove again and whisk in the butter and salt. Let the sauce cool for at least 15 minutes before transferring it to a jug. To serve Crème anglaise, pistachio & berry sauce

Beat the egg yolks, half the milk and half the sugar together in a mixing bowl.

Natasha Sideris is the founder and CEO of Tashas Group, which has taken South Africa and, more recently, the United Arab Emirates by storm. Natasha grew up at her father’s side, he was a restaurateur, so she learnt the business from a very young age. She founded tashas in 2005 and, in doing so, filled a gap in the market for a casual dining concept where the interiors were beautiful, the food fresh and delicious, and the service second to none. There are now 15 tashas in South Africa and five in the UAE. Natasha is also the brains behind Flamingo Room by tashas, Avli by tashas, and Galaxy Bar, all of which are in Dubai, and Le Parc by tashas in Johannesburg. Natasha’s new cookbook, tashas inspired: A Celebration of Food & Art , is more than a collection of recipes. The book includes seven themed chapters, each of which is inspired by Natasha’s travels and her love of different cuisines and cultures round the world. It’s packed with recipes and art that evoke the bistros of France, the tapas bars of Spain, the delis of New York, the tavernas of Greece, and the souks of the Middle East. As an added bonus, there are Spotify playlists to go with each chapter that are the perfect way to set the mood as you cook and entertain.

104 / FOOD / TWO WAFFLES Serves 4 Ingredients WAFFLES 70g 440gbuttercake ﬂour 12,5g baking powder pinch of salt 3 eggs, separated 3 tsp castor sugar 750 ml milk 1 tsp vanilla extract CRÈME ANGLAISE, PISTACHIO & BERRY SAUCE 4 egg 1160ml40g160mlyolksmilkcastorsugarcreamvanillapod,split lengthwise, seeds scraped out 200g mixed frozen berries, sprinkled with 1 tbsp castor sugar and left to 60gthawunsalted pistachios, shelled and 1ltoastedpistachio ice cream DATE & CARAMEL SAUCE 230g castor sugar 125ml pouring cream 90g pinchbutterofMaldon salt ﬂakes 12 dates, halved and pitted 1l vanilla ice cream Meet Natasha

Drench the wa es in crème anglaise. Garnish with berries, pistachio nuts and scoops of pistachio ice cream. Serve extra toppings and sauce on the side.

In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, bring the cream, vanilla pod and seeds, and the remaining milk and sugar to a boil. When the cream starts to boil, remove from the heat and slowly pour the cream into the egg mixture to temper it. Whisk vigorously. Pour the mixture back into the pot through a sieve, heat to 75°C, whisking all the while. The crème anglaise is cooked when it covers the back of a spoon, and a line remains on the spoon when you drag your ﬁnger through it. Pour the mixture into a clean mixing bowl or jug and cover with cling wrap directly on the surface to prevent a skin from forming.

Sift the flour, baking powder and salt together. Whisk the egg whites with one teaspoon of castor sugar until soft peaks form. Whisk the milk, vanilla extract, egg yolks and remaining sugar until the sugar has Nowdissolved.whiskitinto the flour mixture. Slowly incorporate the cooled clarified butter. Fold the whipped egg white into the mixture. Heat the wa e pan to 190°C. Coat the hot pan lightly with non-stick spray and pour in one cup of batter. Close and cook for about seven minutes or until set and golden.

Method Wafﬂes Heat the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat until it begins to foam. Scoop o the foam and allow the clariﬁed butter to cool but not solidify.

Date & caramel sauce Top the wa es with caramel sauce, dates and a large scoop or two of vanilla ice cream.

Crème anglaise, pistachio & berry sauce

Two wa es are always better than one. These toppings are just as sticky and syrupy-sweet as they should be. If you’re going to make wa es, you have to go all out. Tuck in and enjoy!

WineriesonSpotlightBoutique MEET SOPHIE GERMANIER

s the daughter of renowned Swiss winemaker Jacques Germanier, one could say that it’s Merlot, not blood, that runs through Sophie’s veins. Like red wine on a white tablecloth, her father’s passion for winemaking left an indelible mark upon the landscape of her childhood, so it was no plot twist that, in 2014, she decided to move from Switzerland to South Africa to take the reins of the family business, Germanier Wines, in the historic, sundrenched and bountiful winelands of Paarl. Here, on the outskirts of Cape Town, in sweeping vineyards and fragrant cellars, Sophie witnessed the grand unfurling of the winemaking artistry her father had so adored, imbuing her with as fervent a passion for both wine and the environment. With special attention paid to organic and sustainable farming, production and export practices, this passion became the momentum behind her own unique wine range, which she proudly debuted in 2020: ‘Organic Wine by Sophie Germanier’.Atﬁrst,Organic Wine by Sophie Germanier featured three wines produced, of course, with an environmental and social conscience: one white and one red blend – a Sauvignon Blanc Sémillon and Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot Shiraz – and a Grenache Noir Rosé. This year, however, Sophie has expanded the range with the Chardonnay 2021, which serves up a gorgeous juxtaposition of lemon peel and buttery brioche on the nose and palate; and the Shiraz Mourvèdre Viognier 2021, a Rhône-inspired blend bursting with ﬂoral aromas, peppery notes and rich black plum on the palate. With a rating of 90 points, this latter wine landed Organic Wine by Sophie Germanier a prestigious IWSC Silver Award. When asked about her approach to creating wine blends, Sophie pointed towards her access to high-quality varietals and that through their combination, she is able to

A

106 / FOOD & WINE /

Award-winning wine producer with an environmental and social conscience. BY THEA BECKMAN

107 achieve certain covetable flavour and aroma profiles that are hard to find in other wines.

It’s not only winemaking that tugs at Sophie’s heartstrings. After absorbing tomes of knowledge on wine production and exporting from the family business, she became attracted to trading wine as a negociant, a wine merchant or wholesaler.

“It is this approach that di erentiates my wines from others, and that’s important,” sheAdditionally,says. all of Sophie’s wines are certified organic and 100% vegan-friendly, so no pesticides, herbicides or synthetic fertilisers are used to farm the grapes and no animal products to produce the wine (through fining), while sulfites are kept to a bare minimum in the cellar. Her wines are also WIETA-certified, the gold standard in fair labour practices, making them environmentally and socially sustainable.

“My vision is to have consumers move towards drinking more wine that is conscious about the environment and society as a whole. Through the creation of organic, sustainable wines that place quality and consciousness at the forefront of their values, Organic Wine by Sophie Germanier will build towards that vision.”

Once again, sustainability is a primary theme in what Sophie does, and so, while meeting the demand of the various markets within South Africa and across the world, she ensures her operations run as sustainably as possible with the smallest possible carbon footprint.

Today, Sophie Germanier is an award winning wine producer and a rapidly ascending star in the South African wine industry, but also a champion for the environment and the palates of environmentally and socially conscious wine lovers everywhere. www.organicbysg.com

“It is my mission to create quality and a ordable organic wines while caring for the Earth and its inhabitants.” Sophie Germanier

the vine Brandy and gin are sources of pleasure – especially when enjoyed in their finest forms. BY EMILE JOUBERT Beyond

A TRUE CLASSIC Keeping to a spirited theme, I’ll admit gin is another favourite of mine. The sharp coolness of a gin-and-tonic sharpens the wine-tasting tools. And a dry gin Martini is the most decadently fortifying drink known to man. But here, I must state that all gins are not created equal. My taste is not attuned to the floral frivolousness of these craft gins going around, being neither young nor tattooed enough to appreciate such hip products. Gin, for me, is robust, dry and spirited, the characteristic taste of juniper are all that is required to give it singularity of person. Names such as Stretton’s, Gordon’s or Beefeater state true gin for me. If I am feeling stylish, Tanqueray will do with its slight citrus kick. My gin-and-tonic is lifted with a few drops of bitters and a slice of lemon. Believe me, I am not alone: in the warm summer months of the wine harvest, you will find tired winemakers, their shirts stained with fermenting grape juice, reaching for a cold G&T as the first drink of the evening.

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LOCAL QUALITY These standards entail that any South African spirit purporting to be brandy must start off as a low-alcohol, sulphur-free wine, usually Chenin Blanc, which has been approved for distillation. It must then have undergone a double-distillation process, ensuring the rough edges are cooked out, with only the pure, smooth elixir remaining.

THE PERFECT TECHNIQUE

A FIRM FAVOURITE When appreciating the spectacular depths of good cognac, you must make an effort to realise the quality of South African brandies as they are truly brilliant. Actually, this year sees the 350th anniversary of the country’s brandy industry. For it was in 1672 that brandy was first distilled in the Cape when a chef in service of the Dutch VOC used some rough local wine and the recognised distilling prowess of his European forebears to produce a few drams of brandy. Since that event, brandy has grown and developed in tandem with the country’s famous wine industry. Access to Chenin Blanc grapes, widely planted in South Africa and a fine variety for brandy-making, forms the basis of local brandy. In addition to this are the strict regulations that producers adhere to; rules aimed at ensuring local brandy meets certain quality standards.

A s a professional in the wine world, I am often asked whether I dare allow anything other than the magical result of fermented grapes to pass one’s lips. As if anything nonvinous would desensitise the tasting faculties. My answer is: indeed, I do. In fact, exposing your senses to other alcohol products gives you a greater reference source from which to make general assumptions on flavour and taste. And yes, variety is the spice of life.

All brandy needs to have at least a 30 percent portion of pot-distilled brandy that has been aged for a minimum of three years on oak casks. In the case of so-called pot-stilled brandies, also known as Cape Brandy, the spirit must be exclusively distilled in copper pot stills and all of it aged in wood for at least three years. This category of pot-stilled brandies has me reaching for the snifter regularly, especially if there is a fire going and a good cigar on hand. As in wine, we South Africans are spoilt for choice when it comes to good brandy.

With a good brandy, such as these mentioned, there are many suggestions as to how best enjoy it. Purists will advise adding only a splash of water to release the esters and flavour compounds. Others deem soda water to add a sprightly deliciousness, while the true gritters sip it as is, and that is neat. Personally, I will pour a double tot into a snifter and add one block of ice, allowing the ice to melt halfway. In the aforementioned brandies from Oude Molen and Van Ryn –both spirits averaging over a decade in age –the slight dilution of the ice and the coolness will bring those heady and mesmerising flavours of a good brandy to the fore. On the nose, it is spice, ground coffee and tobacco. The first sip releases that comforting warmth, with the flavours following: dried apricot, cardamom, fruit cake and prunes. However, what stands out about these Cape brandies is the overall polish and seamless structure of the spirit. There is a purity and majestic quality that is not only very impressive, but it makes you realise brandy is one of the jewels in the offerings from the South African vineyard.

SHAKE IT UP One of life’s other pleasures, although a bit more formidable, is the dry Martini. Here I also use the aforementioned gins, to which two necessary additions come into play: a freezing temperature and the slightest touch of dry vermouth. I’ll pour three tots of gin into an ice-filled shaker with, literally, a few drops of vermouth; about a quarter of a teaspoon. Shake the mixture for 45 seconds and strain into a chilled Martini glass. One green olive. However,Bliss.once you have cut a taste for a dry Martini, it becomes notable that the ice in the shaker has a diluting effect, taking some of the oomph from the drink. A sage trick is to crack open a bottle of gin and use one tot for a G&T. Add half a tot of vermouth to the gin bottle and keep it in the freezer. Whenever Martini hour arrives, simply remove the bottle, give it a few shakes, and a neat Martini is on hand, ready for pouring. Not glamorous, true, but a sign of a real spirit lover.

Over the years, the house of Oude Molen near Elgin has proven to make superb brandies, and its Oude Molen XO is a delicious spirit blended from a variety of barrels, of which the youngest component has undergone 10 years’ maturation. In the same class is Van Ryn’s 12, one of the products out of the famous Van Ryn’s Distillery at Vlottenburg, Stellenbosch.

111 / FOOD & WINE /

he last time I went to Weltevrede Estate in the rolling winelands of Robertson, I was treated to a candlelit cellar tasting of an award-winning repertoire of wines, accompanied by stories of the estate’s colourful cast of historical characters. Needless to say, I have only the fondest memories of this centuries-old wine estate, but since that day, the expansion of the farm has unfurled a new bloom. In 2021, Cape Wine Crafters – a house of brands – was launched that has taken the baton of Weltevrede’s familiar favourites like the Vanilla Chardonnay and Cherrychoc Merlot. Today, they proudly continue the legacy with the Simplicity Collection, featuring six delicious and accessible wines made from grapes grown in the soils of Weltevrede.

BY THEA BECKMAN wine T

A familyof Cape Wine Crafters, a legacy of wines for all walks of life.

THE SIMPLICITY COLLECTION: MEET THE FAMILY

You need only casually peruse any supermarket wine section or restaurant menu to likely come across Weltevrede Vanilla Chardonnay, now Cape Wine Crafters Vanilla Chardonnay. With a tropical fruit basket on the nose and rich flavour notes of butterscotch, crème brûlée, and vanilla, this go-to white wine is a firm favourite of wooded Chardonnay lovers. If, however, it’s a crisp, dry wine you’re after, try the Lemon Zest Unwooded Chardonnay, which boasts prominent notes of grapefruit, passion fruit, pineapple, lime, and lemon peel. Then there’s the Turkish Delight Rosé with litchi, rose petals and candyfloss on the nose and strawberries and Turkish Delight on the palate. Are you starting to see the pattern here?

112 / FOOD & WINE /

Each wine’s name pays homage to its most prominent aroma or ﬂavour note, for once making the task of buying the perfect wine for the perfect meal, occasion or craving ridiculously easy. But we’re not done with the Simplicity Collection yet. On the red end of the spectrum, Cape Wine Crafters serves up the beloved Cherrychoc Merlot, which delivers a heady blend of ripe cherries, espresso and intense dark chocolate; the juicy BlueBerry Cabernet Sauvignon (intense cherries, blueberries and espresso on the nose; plums, pomegranate, berries and dark chocolate on the palate), and the smooth and sultry Cigarbox Shiraz (plum, violets, cloves and tobacco on the nose; cherries, dark chocolate and espresso on theAllpalate).ofthese wines – as well as the others in the Cape Wine Crafters’ portfolio – are made from grapes sun-ripened in the sweeping vineyards alongside the Breede River, the main artery that gifts life to the Robertson Wine Valley.

Each wine’s name pays homage to its most occasionmakingaromaprominentorﬂavournote,foroncethetaskofbuyingtheperfectwinefortheperfectmeal,orcravingridiculouslyeasy.

113 / FOOD & WINE /

THE ROBERTSON WINE VALLEY

Sandwiched between the Langeberg to the north and the Riviersonderend Mountains to the south, the Robertson Wine Valley embraces a constellation of more than 61 wine estates dotted in and around the quaint towns of Ashton, Bonnievale, McGregor and Robertson. Here, the drainage, soils and climate deliver a trifecta of perfect growing conditions for grapes nurtured by talented winemakers into the beautiful wines the region is known for. But it’s for more than just the wine that people readily make the two-hour drive from Cape Town; it’s for the hearty fare, country hospitality, salt-of-the-earth people, and one-of-a-kind wine experiences, like Weltevrede’s underground cellar tastings and candlelit stories. And it’s this authenticity and spirit of fun that Cape Wine Crafters embraces, not only with the Simplicity Collection, but with their underlying philosophy, which is to make wine accessible, relatable and sociable so that we may all share in the joy of wine, whoever we are and whatever path we’ve walked to come here.

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BY JARED RUTTENBERG

England’s capital is approaching celebrating 2 000 years of history, with over 30 million visitors annually seeking to immerse themselves in the city’s two millenniums of history. South Africans account for a good slice of that tourist pie and for those who’ve done the tried and tested iconic London sights, I’ve curated a collection of new capital-city adventures, each designed to feed one of the senses.

116 / TRAVEL / A Sense

TASTE ALL THE CAPITAL HAS TO OFFER Soho is a favourite for Londoners after work, and in the centre of the action is a brand-new underground experience. In speakeasy tradition, the Park Row journey starts through a secret bookcase and winds two floors underground to a 1920’s Gothamstyled space that is so sprawling and magnificent that it feels too incredible to be true. There’s daily entertainment to be enjoyed while sipping on the capital’s finest cocktails and all this deep under Soho. But wait, there’s more, once a night, 20 fortunate people can experience what’s possibly London’s most exciting dining experience. In an exclusive section of Park Row, The Monarch Theatre is a dining spectacle; seven courses of molecular gastronomy are paired with fine wines; and then the entertainment: each course is introduced by a narrator and enhanced by the floorto-ceiling screens with 360-degree projection mapping. Expect smoking cocktails, impressive set changes, floating plates, sensational flavours… and many more surprises to o er a night you won’t easily forget. parkrowlondon.co.uk/monarch-theatre

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In addition to the River Thames, which famously snakes its way through town, a series of canals dissect the city. In the classy docks of Canary Wharf, there’s a new and unique way to explore the canals. Skuna Boats o ers guests a chance to rent a bespoke electric and easy-to-self-drive boat with a wood-ﬁred hot tub. Moreover, you get to captain it down the canals for an adventure with passersby turning their heads in envy. The boat is heated at 38 degrees Celcius and takes up to eight people, along with a cooler box stocked with drinks of your choice. There’s also a BBQ boat if you’d rather fancy staying dry and braaing a meal while navigating the docks. skunaboats.com

SMELL THE FRESH AIR ALONG THE WATERWAYS

119 / TRAVEL /

TOUCH DOWN AND WITH THE LOCALS

TRAIN

You won’t ﬁnd it hard to achieve those 10 000 steps while exploring the streets of London, but if you’re after a little more activity, head to Hampstead Heath, barely 20 minutes from the city. Here you can walk or run your heart out, or my favourite, a swim in the wild. Although there’s a lido (England-speak for a public pool), head further up the park for the ponds. Three natural ponds o er bathers a chance to bond with nature while getting in those lengths. There are dedicated ponds for men and women and a mixed pool. Walk-ins are accepted, but best book your slot ahead of time; each session lasts an hour and costs around £4. Hampstead Heath is also home to one of 57 parkruns across London. Join keen locals every Saturday at 09h00 at Lime Avenue, opposite Well Walk, for a 5km stroll or sprint. Remember that the London Overground is bike-friendly for cyclists, and Hampstead o ers kilometres to explore. parkrun.org.uk and cityoﬂondon.gov.uk

HEAR THE SOUND OF THE CAPITAL No London visit is complete without a visit to the West End, and 21 years after Baz Luhrmann’s Moulin Rouge had people singing along with Nicole Kidman and Ewan McGregor, the movie has been transformed into a show-stopping musical. Expect a rousing near-three hours of spell-binding energy. There’s all the Moulin classics such as ‘Your Song’ and ‘Come What May’- and a host of other modern favourites paired with electric choreography and dazzling outﬁts. moulinrougemusical.co.uk

If you’re after something more classical, St Martin-in-theﬁelds – the impressive church that stands guard over Trafalgar Square – has a long tradition of musical performance, both orchestral and choral. For the budget savvy, watch the online programme as there are often free lunchtime concerts. stmartin-in-the-ﬁelds.org

The London skyline has transformed in the past decade and now sports a string of glass skyscrapers. 20 Fenchurch Street, or ‘The Walkie-Talkie’ as it’s a ectionately dubbed, is one such, rising 160m above the city. The 37th ﬂoor is open to the public, with two bars, occasional yoga sessions, and dining in an enclosed glass garden on the roof. Known as the Sky Garden, the views over London areToincomparable.avoiddisappointment, book your free place ahead of time on the website. Order a tipple from one of the two bars or further elevate your dining experience with a meal at one of the two restaurants. skygarden.london

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SEE THE CITY FROM ABOVE

Barely a year old, The Londoner has quickly become the talk of the capital. Luxury hospitality group Edwardian Hotels has spread its wings to include The Londoner, and it’s a rather extraordinary feather in its cap. Occupying a space in the desirable central location of Leicester Square, the hotel spans an impressive 16 storeys: from the several stories carved underground o ering conference and events spaces to the shimmering glass and iconic blue-tiled stories above ground. Classified as a ‘super boutique hotel’, with over 350 rooms, there is still infinite attention to detail and personable service. When it’s time for sanctuary from the city, head down to the appropriately titled The Retreat, a pool, sauna, steam room, gym and spa tucked away underground. Later as the sun sets over the city, enjoy the signature cocktails from ‘8 at The Londoner’, an izakaya rooftop bar that celebrates the traditions and informal style of Japanese drinking establishments. Or visit one of the other five unique food and dining options spread throughout the hotel. Endless spoils in a city that wears its history on walls, but the heart within those walls. thelondoner.com

122

REST YOUR HEAD AT THE LONDONER

123 / TRAVEL /

CLASSWITHFLYING

Saying goodbye to lengthy layovers and multi-stop journeys, I took advantage of Virgin Atlantic’s direct Joburg to London flight. Thanks to a sneaky upgrade, it was time to recline horizontally at 33 000 feet, tucked in my duvet and sipping on French Champagne. With more seat buttons than a Range Rover and a food and dining experience to rival any bistro, Virgin Atlantic’s Upper Class cabin may be the classiest route to London, uninterrupted. And if that’s not enough, flying Upper Class entitles you to the Clubhouse at Joburg airport and then Revivals at Heathrow where a refreshing shower and cooked breakfast of my choice was waiting. Capetonians don’t despair, the good news is daily flights from the Mother City resume on 5 November. Depending on your route, lookout for flight options that include the new A330neo. These beautiful new aircrafts are 11% more fuel efficient – so 11% fewer emissions – and an impressive 50% less noise contour. They also feature the brand new Retreat Suite, the most spacious suite in Virgin Atlantic’s history. With ottomans that double up as extra seats, up to four people can comfortably dine, chat, play games and more. virginatlantic.com

STARS IN YOUR EYES Star-worthy Success, the Toyota Starlet

The top-tier Xr model adds Smart Entry, Push Start and Cruise Control amongst other niceties. A reverse camera and auto-dimming rear-view mirror add even more convenience to the Xr package, while an additional 2 tweeter speakers (total of 6) interface with a larger 23cm infotainment screen.

There are 3 trim levels in the line-up, namely Xi, Xs and Xr. With an option between a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission on Xs and Xr models, resulting in a model matrix of 5 variants catering to a variety of need. Starting from R226 200 for the Starlet 1.5 Xi MT going all the way up to the range topping Starlet 1.5 Xr AT coming in at R 313,300 PEACE OF MIND

ADVERTORIAL

TOYOTA STARLET HAS BEEN MET with rapturous applause and has instantly cemented itself within the highly-competitive B-segment in the passenger car market. It's combination of stylish good looks, traditional hatchback layout, comprehensive speciﬁcation level and impressive frugality at the pumps, earned the Starlet top marks amongst customers.

New front seats feature an improved contour focussing on lateral and shoulder support, additional bolstering and two-tone accents to complement the interior. A centre console with adjustable centre armrest aids front passenger comfort, while the interior is equipped with multiple cup and bottle holders for addedSpaciousnessconvenience.and comfort remain a hallmark of the new Starlet. A 60/40 split seatback provides the option to expand the 314 litre boot space and create even more utility. The sporty, three-spoke steering wheel includes matching grey metallic inserts and a 'ﬂat-bottom' edge and conveniently-placed steering switches - to provide the perfect driver interface.

MORE STAR, MORE CAR

The new Starlet promises to deliver even more, on all fronts. The front styling ups the visual ante with sleek headlamps (LED dependant on grade), uniﬁed by a sleek chrome 'brow' and prominent lower air damcreating a signature Toyota look. Wide-mounted fog lamps (grade dependant) replete with C-shaped trim, add to the overall appeal.

STARRY LINE-UP AND PRICING

STAR PERFORMANCE

The new Starlet packs a 1.5-litre engine. This kicks out 77kW of torque and 138Nm. 0-100km/h sprint gets done in 11,2 seconds, with a top speed of 175 km/h.

SPECIFICATION STAR All models come equipped with a touchscreen audio system with USB, Bluetooth and Apple CarPlay/ Android Auto interface, as well as two rear USB chargers (USB-A and USB-C). Automatic Climate Control, power-retractable mirrors, electric windows and Multi-Information Display (MID) are features on the standard menu.

All Starlet models are sold with a complimentary 3-services/45 000 km service plan – with 15 000 km service intervals. A 3-year/100 000 km warranty is also provided.

A revised interior design features swooping accent lines and multi-hued detailing, with a large centrallymounted infotainment screen and easy-to-read instrument binnacle.

The side proﬁle echoes that of the outgoing model, with well-proportioned elements and surface detailing. Blacked-out A-pillar and chrome waistline trim, draw your eyes across the silhouette, which terminates in a sloping rooﬂine with sporty roof spoiler. The bodycoloured side view mirrors now also feature built-in turn signal lamps.

BEAUTY AND THE BE(A)ST ASTON MARTIN DBX707 BY VANN VAN STADEN. PHOTOGRAPHY: TIMOTHY THRONE

127 / MOTORING / T

he magniﬁcent Aston Martin DBX707, the world’s most powerful SUV, has touched down in Mzansi. The British marquee’s latest edition to its high-performance inventory of supercars comes in the form of a super SUV. Aston Martin has bridged the gap between going o -road and driving a supercar simultaneously. A decade ago, this would have been unfathomable, a preposterous idea that would be impossible to execute.

Yet, here we sit, the year is 2022, and the DBX707 has been delivered to us on a silver (gold) platter. Under the hood is a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine. The DBX707 devours the 0-100km mark in a mere 3.3 seconds, making it 0.1 seconds faster than the Italian stallion, the Ferrari Roma. It has a top speed of 310km/h. The torque that the DBX707 delivers might be mistaken for a typo, but at 900Nm, this is undoubtedly the most powerful SUV on the market.

The design of the DBX707 wasn’t compromised to give us an SUV. It still pays homage to Aston Martin’s sophisticated presence on the road, mixed with a sporty design, making it a force to be reckoned with. You are greeted with a larger-than-life mesh grille. Two air intakes on the bonnet create a sporty design for the DBX707. The light clusters bring the front together in harmony. It boasts black trim detailing all-round. The spoiler and the quad exhausts wrap up the show in the back. The sporty design inspiration continues within the cabin. The bespoke leather seats have a trio colour scheme (our test unit) of cream, black and a yellow ‘racing’ stripe down the centre. The instrument cluster is state of the art and user-friendly and the design of the cabin is very much driver-focused. Various luxurious trimmings on the door panels and dashboard further lends to the classy design of the 707.

THE DBX707 WILL SET YOU BACK R5 500 000.00

THE QUALITY OF MERCY

128 BOOKCLUB

A novel by Rachel Lynn Solomon, Weather Girl , tells the story of Ari Abrams, a TV meteorologist. Ari connects with shy sports reporter Russell, and together the duo hatches a plan to get their bosses together. In doing so, Ari and Russell get to know each other and what ensues is a story of unexpected romance.

GIRLWEATHER

Cover price: R290 | Published by Penguin Random House

Cover price: R215 Published by Penguin Random House

From best-selling author Liane Moriarty, Apples Never Fall is the story of the Delaneys, a family who appears to be enviably contented. But, when Joy Delaney disappears, her children are forced to re-examine their parents’ marriage, as well as their family history, with fresh (and frightened) eyes. Questions begin to arise: is Joy’s disappearance related to a mysterious house guest? Or were things never as perfect as they seemed in the Delaney household?

Written by Siphiwe Gloria Ndlovu, this novel tells the story of Chief Inspector Spoke Moloi as he investigates his very first ‘white case’ on the eve of his country’s independence. The novel combines social comedy and crime while examining a country’s transition from colonial to postcolonial state. Expect engaging characters, a captivating murder mystery and historic poignance.

Restock somebookshelfyourwithoftheselatestbookreleases.

APPLES NEVER FALL

Cover price: R215 | Published by Penguin Random House

KIN THAI Alive with colour and flavour, this book of modern Thai recipes by John Chantarasak will inspire any foodie to try something new. The chapters are structured by dish type, from snacks and relishes to curries, stir-fries and salads. The recipes include ingredients native to Thailand, while the origins of western ingredients and their place in Thai cuisine are also explored and explained.

Cover price: R290 Published by Penguin Random House

A smart social comedy, this novel by Ania Bas revolves around Gosia, a young cashier living and working in London. When she meets the man of her dreams, Gosia is pushed to do things she has never done before. She quits her job to become a personal trainer, invests in a self-help bible, travels to Poland and falls out with her mother. The novel transports us to suburban London and weaves a tale that is original, tender and discerning all at once.

Cover price: R304 Published by Jonathan Ball Publishers

Cover price: R464 Published by Jonathan Ball Publishers

THE MYTH OF NORMAL

In this novel by Anne Booth, three nuns play the lottery to save their failing convent. What unravels next is a story of friendship, community, faith and love. Set in the 1990s, the story centres on the last three nuns at the order of the Sisters of Saint Philomena. When 99-year-old Sister Cecilia decides to play the National Lottery, a series of small miracles begin to unfold. It’s an ideal read if you’re looking for something joyful and uplifting.

ODD HOURS

This captivating book by renowned physician and addiction expert Gabor Maté looks at the link between personal suffering and the pressure of modern-day living. Maté discusses how medicine often fails to treat the whole person and ignores how today’s culture stresses our bodies, burdens our immune systems and undermines emotional balance. Co-written with his son Daniel, this book shows the reader a path to health and healing by sharing real-life stories.

Cover price: R350 Published by Penguin Random House

SMALL MIRACLES

130 STOCKISTS Beauty & We love BIODERMA www.bioderma.co.za DERMALOGICA www.dermalogica.co.za DOSE & CO. www.doseandco.co.za EXUVIANCE www.exuviance.co.za GOODMIND www.goodleaf.co.za LE CREUSET available at Le Creuset boutique stores and online at www.lecreuset.co.za NEOSTRATA www.neostrata.co.za PANDORA www.pandorashop.co.za Fragrances ACQUA DI PARMA MAGNOLIA INFINITA available at Skins Cosmetics & Woolworths V&A, Gateway and Sandton BERDOUES COLLECTION GRANDS CRUS DOLCE AMALFI Foschini and Truworths stores CARTIER BAISER VOLÉ available at the Cartier Boutique in Sandton, Edgars, Woolworths stores CARTIER LA PANTHÈRE available at the Cartier Boutique in Sandton, Edgars, Woolworths stores CHANEL SYCOMORE exclusive to the CHANEL Fragrance and Beauty Boutiques COACH WILD ROSE available at Dischem, Clicks, Woolworths, Truworths, Foschini, Edgars, and ARC stores COACH OPEN ROAD available at Dischem, Clicks, Woolworths, Truworths, Foschini, Edgars, and ARC stores EMPORIO ARMANI STRONGER WITH YOU OUD available at Edgars,Truworths, Woolworths, Foschini & ARC stores FORTE_FORTE X ACQUA DI PARMA MIRTO DI PANAREA available at Skins Cosmetics & Woolworths V&A, Gateway and Sandton GIORGIO ARMANI SÌ PASSIONE available at Edgars, Woolworths, Truworths, Foschini and ARC stores GIVENCHY L’INTERDIT available at select Edgars, Foschini and Woolworths stores HERMÈS EAU DE BASILIC POURPRE available at Woolworths stores JIMMY CHOO I WANT CHOO FOREVER available at Dischem, Clicks, Woolworths, Truworths, Foschini, and Edgars stores JIMMY CHOO MAN AQUA available at Dischem, Clicks, Woolworths, Truworths, Foschini, and Edgars stores MAISON FRANCIS KURKDJIAN 724 available at Skins Cosmetics stores TERRE D'HERMES EAU GIVREE available at Woolworths, Edgars, Truworths and ARC stores YSL LIBRE available at Edgars, Foschini, Truworths, Woolworths and Edgars Beauty stores YSL Y EDT available at Truworths, Edgars, Woolworths, Foschini and selected ARC stores Style COUNTRY ROAD www.woolworths.co.za FREEDOM OF MOVEMENT www.freedomofmovement.co.za GUESS www.guess.co.za www.woolworths.co.za LEVI’S www.levi.co.za www.woolworths.co.za LUXOTTICA www.luxottica.com POETRY www.poetrystores.co.za VANS www.vans.co.za WITCHERY www.woolworths.co.za

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