http://www.themonth.co.za/archive/january_10 by The Month

5 minutes with DP Burger

Way back when in Franschhoek

We chat to the man from GlenWood - PAGE 9

A nostalgic look back to the ‘80s - PAGE 7

THE

FRANSCHHOEK VALLEY

MONTH

January 2010

If it’s NOT in here, it’s NOT out there!

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Franschhoek - the King of POp

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By the Staff Reporter

The ‘Magic of Bubbles’ Cap Classique and Champagne Festival, sponsored by Investec Private Bank and held in Franschhoek on the weekend of the 4th to the 6th of December, was another feather in the cap of South

Thousands of people enjoyed Champagne and South African Cap Classiques on offer from 37 different estates or importers, with a strong local representation from the Western Cape, especially the Franschhoek valley and even the

a number of musicians and bands throughout the weekend and the dancefloor was alive, thanks to the sound of music, the popping of corks and the enjoyment of bubbles. Set in the grounds of the Huguenot Monument, the festival effortlessly ties an iconic South African celebration to the quintessential French symbol of luxury. The FWVTA made particular mention of the stylishly-decorated marquees; Marti Foster’s subtle touch added a measure of glamour to the ‘White with a Touch of Black’ theme that was widely appreciated. The words inscribed on the monument’s colonnade, Post Tenebras Lux (after darkness (comes) light), seemed entirely appropriate as the festival coincided with the country’s emergence from recession and a renewed sense of optimism in most quarters. The optimism was echoed in the opening speeches by Jenny Prinsloo, Anne Ferreira, outgoing Chair of the Franschhoek Vignerons and Wouter de Vos, head of Investec Private Bank Winelands. The Wine Valley and Tourist Association and the Vignerons were both acknowledged for the tremendous role they play in making the valley a successful tourism and lifestyle destination. New to this year’s festival was the introduction of a Friday evening cocktail event. Supported mainly by locals, the

One of the many smiling faces at this year’s ‘Magic of Bubbles’ Festival

Africa’s premier food and wine destination. According to Jenny Prinsloo, CEO of the Franschhoek Wine Valley and Tourist Association, “Feedback consistently confirms that this is the best festival of its kind in South Africa.”

January 2010

newly formed W.O. Plettenberg Bay region. International Champagnes included offerings from Guy Charbaut, Laurent Perrier and Henri Giraud, amongst others. The hot summer’s weekend was picture-perfect, with clear skies and the occasional breath of wind to cool things down. The crowds were entertained by

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no jazz on 25 december and 1 st januar y

The quality of the Cap Classiques on offer was notable. Many of the visitors to the festival were quick to point out that the South African offering is every bit as good as its French originator, and one or two avowed Champagne drinkers were observed heading to the tables of the Cap Classique producers with their cheque books at the ready. An astonished French journalist was heard to say “I’m not sure how to deal with my experience back home. If I tell them how very good this South African wine is, they either won’t believe me or I’ll be called a traitor.” As he slipped his purchase discretely into his carry bag he looked up and pleaded, “I’ll need another glass for courage.”

LA BRASSERIE

13 DANIEL HUGO STREET FRANSCHHOEK

30 OCT 09 - 2 APR 10

evening was successful enough to suggest that it will become a regular part of the festival and it will surely become the highlight in years to come. Given the heat at this time of the year, the opportunity to sip bubbly under the stars is sure to remain a treat.

R130 PER COUPLE AND A BOTTLE OF WINE

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“The dancefloor was alive, thanks to the sound of music, the popping of corks and the enjoyment of bubbles.”

EVERY FRIDAY 5.30 - 8.30 PM BOOKINGS: 021 876 3420 EMAIL : info@labrasserie.co.za

DERK BLAISSE: 082 564 9285

January 2010

Technology will save us Michael Back, from the valley wine farm Backsberg, has often said that in trying to tackle his farm’s carbon emissions he principally focuses on his fuel and electricity usage since that accounts for 80% of the farm’s carbon footprint. And the way that he goes about reducing that footprint is through personal change; much as he hates drying himself after his shower with a chamois leather lappie instead of a towel, the act not only reduces his pollution and usage of water and electricity, but is also his daily reminder of his personal wont to make a difference. On a global scale it now appears we may have massively underestimated the impact of livestock on greenhouse gas emissions. Back in 2006 a UN study found that farmed animals

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were responsible for 18% of total greenhouse gas emissions with methane produced by livestock and the impact of clearing forest for pasture being the main culprits. A recent report suggests this underestimated the number of livestock globally by more than half! In other words it now appears that livestock could be responsible for more global greenhouse gas emissions than all other sources put together.

Technology, and the free market system, has delivered us affordable meat and affordable electricity and so in both cases is ‘technically’ to blame. It’s hardly our fault - we’ve simply developed a taste for cheap meat in the same way that we’ve developed a taste for cheap electricity - hence the growing number of livestock worldwide. But to make a difference we need to take the

Back approach. How difficult is it to remind ourselves daily that we are adding to greenhouse gas emissions without realising it? I recall a few years ago (and I forget the reason why!) that going on a meat-free diet was far from an issue - more a process of discovery. Not being able to choose meat opened up a whole new world of food experiences. Armed with the knowledge that, as individuals, we can make a difference, and with access to rapid communication systems, we can change the way we and others behave. If technology got us into this mess, 2010 may be the year it will get us out. Happy New Year! David

The 2010 Franschhoek Soccer Championship Kicks Off

thing would happen! The goodwill and positivity created is significant.” The top two teams from each group will go through to the semi-finals and the winners will receive not only a purse and a cup but a brandnew kit kindly sponsored by Haute Cabrière wines. The next games will take place on Saturday 16th and Sunday 17th January 2010.

he Month has grown over the last year into a 32 to 36-page newspaper (including an 8-12 page property and lifestyle pull-out) with a 10,000 copy distribution to the valley, the Cape Town Southern Suburbs and Waterfront and is now widely known for the quality of its design, lay-out, pictures and advertisements. It is a medium that reflects life in the valley and tackles global issues with a local application in a self-deprecating, humorous way with the purpose of creating positive interest and goodwill; to create this valley as an area that people aspire to be part of, want to be associated with, to live, work, play, and invest in, not just visit. Although our advertising rates are extremely reasonable in the light of our distribution, we look to attract likewise aspirant quality advertisers and aim to make them preferred suppliers to the readership. We only have three rules when it comes to advertising; we like a ‘quality feel’ to our ads (so if you are unsure, or if we think it can be improved, we have the services of a designer on hand to assist); we take the ‘default condition’ approach to advertising, ie, we assume you’ll keep advertising unless you tell us to stop, and your ads must be with us by the middle of the month as it takes at least two weeks thereafter to put together and print the paper. Feel free to get all the information from www.themonth.co.za. I hope you appreciate the direction in which we are taking the paper. We’ll keep it a stimulating read so it will stay in the hand for longer and maximise exposure, and you let me know if we can do anything to help you with the marketing of your business.

Spectators enjoying the soccer

Representatives from each sponsored team line up at the draw with the trophy

The 2010 Franschhoek soccer championship finally became a reality after the draw was made on December 4th at the top pitch in eTyotyombeni and two series of matches were held on the 5th and 6th December. After the first round of matches Seeff Silver Stars and Plum Developments Junior Celtics top the two groups on goal average ahead of Reuben’s Franschhoek Pirates and the Elephant & Barrel Scorpions. There were some really great matches, with Solms-Delta All Stars and Tricky T Evolution playing out to an exciting 4 – 4 draw and Pam Golding Try Again and the Winelands Experience Franschhoek United Under 19s also drawing 3 – 3. Col’Cacchio Black Aces were unfortunate to go down 3 – 2 to Plum Developments Junior Celtics but each game was played with passion, supported by many, refereed fairly and all players proudly wore their new kits supplied by headline sponsor Umbro. The teams were unanimous in their gratitude to Mark Solms and Richard Astor from the Delta Trust who supplied the full-size goals and it was felt by all that not only was it great to look down and finally see real soccer goals standing on the pitch but that exciting soccer results; formerly the players were using undersized galvanized piping as goals and most of the games finished 0-0. As principle organiser, Doug Gurr said “Thanks must go to all who are a part of something significant, uplifting and unifying. Many of the guys have asked me to pass on their sincere thanks for everything and have said that everyone is so excited. Until the draw none of them really believed that any-

Minimum Distribution

David

Valley Wine Farms 500 Guest Houses 500 Restaurants 500 Retail 500 Stands 800 Post Boxes 1200 Schools & Other 500 Housing Estates 800 Cape Town Shopping Centres 500 Southern Suburbs Post Boxes 3800 Hotels & Airport 400 Total

Results Group 1 SEEFF SILVER STARS PAM GOLDING TRY AGAIN LA VIE DU LUC SEA LIONS REUBEN’S FHK PIRATES

2-0 ALLEE BLEUE BOMBERS 3-3 WINELANDS EXPERIENCE FHK UTD U19 1-1 LA PETITE FERME MIGHTY BROTHERS 1-0 BUILD-IT HOME DEFENDERS

Group 2 COL’CACCHIO BLACK ACES TRICKTY T EVOLUTION PEARL VALLEY KING PIONEERS ELEPHANT & BARREL SCORPIONS

2-3 4-4 1-1 2-1

PLUM DEVELOPMENTS JUNIOR CELTICS SOLMS-DELTA ALL STARS TRUCKLES CHEESE PEACEMAKERS FRENCH CONNECTION 11 ATTACKERS

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10000

Editor: David Foster 084 827 3986 david@themonth.co.za Sub-Editor: Brett Garner 083 260 0453 brett@themonth.co.za Photography: Lightworks Photography 021 876 4832 info@lightworks.za.net The Month Online: Craig McNaught web@themonth.co.za

CONTRIBUTORS Dave Rundle dave@rundle.co.za Alan Saffery alan@saffery.org Paul Eccles paul.eccles@engelvoelkers.co.za Helen Naude lifestyle@fhfm.org.za Ed Flitters capehiking@gmail.com Tracey Garner tracey@drgarner.co.za Michele Lupini michele@carsinaction.co.za

January 2010

The Month

January 2010

MINUTES WITH . . . ILSE HEYS up straight and this will affect their ability to write. Gross motor development precedes fine motor development and you have to tackle this at an early stage. Many parents have also asked for someone to work through a structured programme with their kids while they busy themselves working on their own routines. TM: How did you end up at the Franschhoek Health Club?

The Month spoke to Ilse Heys, the 24-yearold Athens and Beijing Olympic medal winner who has just started working at the Franschhoek Health Club. Ilse has an honours degree in paediatric sport science from Stellenbosch and works extensively with primary school children. The Month: So, what do you actually do? Ilse Heys: Essentially I’m a gross motor therapist and focus on developing the large muscles of children. I make a lot of use of rhythm and body and spatial awareness. There’s also a strong focus on visual and auditory senses and proprioception. TM: You’ve specialised in primary school kids, why might a child need to see a paediatric sport scientist? IH: My interest is in getting children ready for school. If the right muscles aren’t properly developed then a child won’t be able to sit

IH: You know how these things go. Something pops up here, someone says something there and the next thing… I’m a frequent visitor to the Franschhoek valley with my fiancé and I guess you get to know people here. The gym knew I was available and I knew I’d like to work here, and here I am. TM: Tell us more about the nature of your disability and your aspirations as an athlete. IH: Well, if I look at you things are a bit blurry. I can’t tell the colour of your eyes for example. I was diagnosed with Stargardt’s Disease when I was 11. It’s an irreversible problem that causes a deterioration of the retina. I had to stop tennis and other ball sports but athletics is OK. I started competing when I was 15 and since then things have gone quite well. I started competing internationally at 16 and got a gold medal in the Long Jump at the Beijing Olympics and silver in the 100m in 2008. My goal is to compete in the London Games in 2012 and make a success of things here in Franschhoek. TM: We’re sure that you will. All the best for your preparation in 2010 and welcome to the Franschhoek valley.

MINUTES WITH . . . IVAN GOODMAN schhoek five years ago. My wife Ruth and I happened to go to a dinner party where Ruth sat next to Monty (at the time the Pam Golding Estate Agent) and she enquired as to whether he had anything available in the area. He apparently had four buildings available on the corner of Kruger and Huguenot and instinctively I bought them. It was decided that it would be best to knock the buildings down and rebuild to include both shops and apartments, initially with the idea of selling them, but we fell in love with the building and the nine new apartments, so thought we would rather rent them out as self-catering units.

Ivan Goodman, the owner of The Ivy and more latterly the building that houses Col’Cacchio in Franschhoek, speaks to The Month about his passion for the valley and his plans for the future. The Month: We understand you come from a retail background, Ivan? Ivan Goodman: Yes, I joined Foschini on a three-week holiday job and retired after 40 years! I was the Merchandise Director for 25 years and after I retired they offered me a consultancy job for six months and here I am 5 years later still consulting - although it’s only mornings now! TM: So how did you end up with The Ivy? IG: Very much by chance, I have always had an interest in property and came to visit FranJanuary 2010

TM: I understand you became ill. Nothing to do with the Franschhoek food, I hope? IG: Far from it. I contracted septicaemia and went into a coma for two weeks. The doctors apparently gave me only a 5% chance of survival. Thankfully, Ruth never left my bedside and when I came round my heartbeat was 220 bpm for six hours and I had stomach paralysis! That was three years ago and besides a dodgy knee – an old sporting injury - I’m back to full fitness. TM: And you are happy with your building? IG: Ruth and I love Franschhoek and are quite passionate about it. Over the years I have acquired a number of buildings in and around Cape Town, but I am definitely not the kind of landlord that sits back and collects the rent; I want to be proud of what I have. I recently acquired the building across the road (that houses Col’Cacchio) and have made major

improvements there, which I believe has truly enhanced the whole area. TM: The Ivy is certainly impressive. IG: The Ivy took a long time to complete, but in the end we have nine beautifully furnished apartments. No corners were cut and the best materials were used. Selling the apartments in this economic climate would be like giving them away so instead we got in an interior designer, used local shops like Masquerade downstairs to furnish in a classic style and now do fully serviced short-term rentals. TM: And now you spend the weekends here? IG: We’ve kept one apartment for ourselves and bring friends here most weekends. We love to eat out (he mentions Café BonBon, The French Connection and Essence) and bring friends from all over to see how beautiful Franschhoek is. The air here is so clear and it has that European feel. Franschhoek relaxes me - when I’m stressed I sit under the trees across the road! We love the shops, restaurants or just ambling up and down the street. It has the most special ambiance. We have been lucky enough to have travelled extensively but realise that this is not necessary when we have Franschhoek on our doorstep.

IG: I’ve realised that honesty, integrity and generosity are paramount and that your name is the most important thing – you must treat people the way you’d like to be treated yourself. As my late father used to say “measure three times before you cut” – in other words think carefully before you act.

As my late father used to say “measure three times before you cut” TM: Thanks for your time, Ivan, and The Month thanks you for your support of the local soccer tournament. The Ivy in Franschhoek is available for short-term rentals. Call 021 876 2957 for more information.

TM: So what is the legacy, Ivan? IG: I really hope that we have been able to enhance the area, that we have improved it and made this part of town more of a destination. I have also committed to the repair of the soccer pitch at eTyotyombeni for the Franschhoek 2010 tournament and will help maintain it down the line if needed. TM: And a last word?

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The Month

January 2010

Crop Spraying in the Valley Late last year, The Month received a copy of a general email informing a number of residents of the Stellenbosch municipal region (into which the Franschhoek valley falls) of the dangers they are exposed to through the incorrect use of pesticide sprays by wine and fruit farmers and the dangerous nature of many of the sprays currently deemed legal in South Africa. First-hand anecdotal evidence of these dangers from the originator of the mail, Stellenbosch-based Jurgen Schirmacher, was supported by similar accounts from a number of Franschhoek valley residents and we were asked to dig a little deeper into the matter. Due to the possibly charged nature of anecdotal evidence, The Month chose not to focus on the horror stories, or otherwise, relating to the spraying of pesticides in the valley. Instead we considered the present legislation that governs the use of pesticide sprays on wine and fruit farms, compared this to international best practice and attempted to determine what types of pesticides are commonly used. We also asked a local GP to share her views on the matter. For the average layperson, trying to make head-or-tail of legislation in general is fraught with difficulty. This is especially true when that layperson works for The Month or the topic is Act 36, the Fertilizers, Farm Feeds, Agricultural Remedies and Stock Remedies Act of 1947. The act, amongst other things, regulates the use of pesticides in South Africa. While it is a dated piece of legislation, it was last amended directly in 1980 and most recently through an amendment of the General Law Amendment Act, in 1996. Of particular interest is the section that deals with the kinds of pesticides

A Local Doctor Comments: Residents of the Franschhoek valley usually mark the arrival of Spring with sneezing, sniffing and puffy eyes. In my experience, 2009 was worse than previous years – with very itchy eyes being a prevalent symptom. Those whose livelihood does not depend on farming, cite crop spraying as a definite contributor, while farmers defend themselves by saying that this is not possible or that the spraying is really not as bad as we think. I’m not sure who is right, but I do know that the answer does not lie in anecdotal evidence, but rather in a rational, scientific approach. The possible side-effects of exposure to chemicals range from nasal congestion, asthma and skin rashes, to the toxic effects of heavy metals, which could cause long-term neurological and organ damage. There is also the possibility of an increased risk for some malignancies. While the valley may very well trap pesticides, the ever-present wind is likely to cause considerable drift of sprays into residential areas within it. I came across a study done on workers on table grape farms in the Hex River Valley, which illustrates why it is important to inves-

deemed acceptable for use in South Africa. The following is taken directly from the Act: “… For detailed information regarding the use, the labels of these products must be consulted. To obtain the best results and ensure that the remedy is used correctly, it is imperative that the label be read carefully and label instructions strictly adhered to. The use of an agricultural remedy for a purpose or in a manner other than that specified on the label is prohibited by law.”

is in the interests of farmers in the valley to use sprays sensitively and responsibly given the constant attention that it receives from both foreign and local visitors. He conceded that the responsibility rests firmly on the shoulders of the farmers and that effective enforcement of the law is difficult. The saving grace, he feels, is the fact that much of the valley’s produce is destined for foreign shores and being able to prove a farm’s adherence to EU standards is a requirement for international viability.

For a pesticide to make it onto the list of acceptable pesticides, the ‘label instructions’ that need to be strictly adhered to are studied and approved by the law-makers. But, and here’s the rub, enforcing and policing the law in this regard is nigh on impossible. This, and the fact that some of the pesticides approved for use are very dangerous, has formed the basis of much of the concern of those potentially affected by the use of these products.

As far as we can tell, the facts are as follows: Some local residents have shown manifestations of pesticide induced illnesses; South African law allows for the responsible use of a number of dangerous pesticides but law enforcement in this regard is difficult; Franschhoek valley farmers appear to be using pesticides responsibly and generally apply stringent EU standards rather than national ones. We would be naïve to leave it at that and say that we’re out of the woods. In the same way that the effects of global warming are not limited to particular countries or regions, so the irresponsible use of dangerous chemicals anywhere affects us all, eventually.

Internationally the experience of people like Jurgen has been taken seriously, thanks to the sheer volume of public support raised. The EU in particular has thorough but complex monitoring and policing frameworks designed to ensure that the harmful use of pesticides is prevented. But even in such a First World environment, the success of the various policies is debatable. It remains an expensive and difficult task to make people comply. Pieter Hannekom of the farm Akkerdal in Franschhoek is commonly regarded as the valley’s pesticide expert. When looking for answers in this regard, he was routinely labeled as the ‘go-to’ man. According to Pieter, valley farmers are generally quite responsible. Much of what is sprayed is organic and breaks down quickly once sprayed. He pointed out that it

tigate this issue before we formulate an opinion. Despite the possibility that the chemicals they spray directly affect their health in other ways (recent studies demonstrate an increased prevalence of chest complaints and wheezing among workers exposed to paraquat and organophosphates), the study showed that the workers had a high prevalence of ocular-nasal symptoms and wheezing as a result of exposure to spider mites (T. urticae). It became clear that the introduction of pesticides to eliminate fruit moths on the farms had resulted in an increase in the number of spider mite populations (that are not well controlled by most predator mite complexes). In this case, an indirect biological response to spraying caused the illness – not what anyone would have expected. I’d like to suggest that we engage in open dialogue about the use of various sprays, without foregone conclusions or finger-pointing. We need a rational approach to determine what the risks are and how to limit them. Once we have that we can sit down (with a glass of our best wines of course!) and agree on how to best take care of each other. Dr Tracey Garner

If you have comments of your own to share or would like a list of contacts and resources used for this article feel free to visit our website at www.themonth.co.za

Our Perfect Day in the Valley

Last month we chatted to an ‘elderly couple’ about their perfect day in the valley – this month we speak to ‘new arrivals’ Richard and Charlene Waite, the new owners of the Photo Lab in Franschhoek, about what would make up their perfect day. “We’d wake up in the morning and go for a jog in the vineyards or on the farm tracks by where we stay, then make French Toast for breakfast for the kids and eat that on the stoep or meet up for coffee or breakfast at Essence. Then we’d take the kids for a hike on the Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve (we

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have a year’s permit for the family), have lunch at Kalfi’s, then take a drive in the valley exploring all the wonderful places in the afternoon (we recently discovered Klein Genot and love that part of the valley). Then back for a late afternoon braai and a couple of drinks around the fire and maybe a trip downtown to get an ice-cream for the kids at Gelato Mania. That’s the nice thing about Franschhoek, there’s always such a lot going on. If this was Mossel Bay everything would be shut on a Sunday night – here we have a great choice. We also love the jazz at La Brasserie – that would end off the day perfectly”

January 2010

the Month

Waiting for Change Looking down at myself in the shower recently I wondered why it is that errors of perspective are limited to my stomach and feet. Knowing that my wife, the fitness junkie, would try to explain it with a lengthy treatise on the benefits of exercise to body, mind and eyes, I decided to recommit myself to an outdoor pursuit for the Christmas and New Year break. Tiger Woods’ headline grabbing lovelife troubles and the excitement in the valley surrounding the SA Golf Open were incentive enough to give attention to my sadly underutilised driver. So I headed off to Val de Vie, hoping to catch glimpse of Richard Sterne (or at least his beautiful new wife who was pictured in the December edition of The Month). The driving range was deserted, save for someone walking a horse. As I couldn’t find anyone to hire a bucket of balls from, I took the handful I keep for mulligans and, after a short warm up, hit all three straight and true, at right angles to my intended direction. The horse walker changed into a rider and in no time bore down on me shouting “Fore. Luck sakes, man!” or something similar. “This is a polo field, bugger off!” I did.

of black.” Later I heard the word ‘ass’ and assumed she was referring to her own. The financial consequences of buying scalped World Cup tickets hit me with a thud while tucking in to a second helping of Christmas pud. Fortunately our lavish festivities were hosted by our equally lavish neighbours and I

was able to pocket a large number of five rand coins towards the cost. It helped that the kids were all in the pool at the time that their bowls were set out, giving me ample time to dig carefully through the fruit mince and sherry without being discovered. The party was catered for by an ex-convict made good, who now cooks for the rich and famous. Making small talk I asked: “So did you ever think you’d leave prison as a chef?” He replied, “It wasn’t really a surprise, I’ve always been good with knives.” -Jim Waite

I read the Lick o’ the Cat’s piece with great interest last month. I must admit I fall between two stools here. While I am not a great fan of Halloween, precisely for the reason that the “ageing battleaxe” went on about, I can see the Lick’s point. Little kids should be educated gently about the dangers of falling under the influence of the darker side of our society, not ranted at like a fishwife. And Lick, my buddy, the dangers are there, make no mistake. We see this every day, if we are paying attention. Young people are being led into the path of evil and paying the price. The TV news and newspapers are full of reports of cases of strange behaviour by the youth. Any committed Christian (and no doubt other religions as well) feels uncomfortable with the idea of flirting with the dark side. Staying on the “religious” tack, wasn’t the Carols by Candlelight at the Franschhoek Dutch Reformed Church, a delight? We never miss that evening. The talent exhibited by the choir was inspiring. One disappointment was the fact that we did not walk over to the town hall January 2010

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The Magic of Bubbles created quite a stir in the family. In-laws, Jenny and Charles rushed down from ‘Josie’ to share in the (locals only?) Friday night introduction to this year’s incarnation. She has J-Lo’s posterior and he has the ears of a certain prince. “Should we take the nanny, Mable?” I asked, “The theme is white with a touch of black.” The junkie shuddered as she often does when I open my mouth in public and fastened a black scarf around her waist. “There,” she said, “white with a tush

By Clive Alexander of Franschhoek Travellers’ Lodge

January 2010

with the little lights burning to switch on the lights in the tree, as we have done for years. On enquiry we were told “Things have changed!” What things? Who changed them? Does our dysfunctional ‘Municipality’ have a say in this? Isn’t it about time that we Franschhoekers took our town back? We seem to be drifting away from each other. The simple things that bind are lacking. All we have these days are monster occasions like Champagne Festivals and the like which cater for the rich tourist, but ignore the ordinary folk of Franschhoek. The recent ‘Christmas Craft Market’ in the Town Hall is a case in point. It was a dismal affair with a lot of commercial junk on offer and a few crafts thrown in. It occupied me for about 15 minutes, whereupon I left feeling very disappointed. In the past when the DRC was running it, it was worth going to. I will give it a miss next year. I found this interesting little tidbit on one of the travel websites the other day: As of 2nd June 2009 it has been prohibited to use or enter into Rwanda with any type of plastic bag, even Duty Free bags. Please be aware as you do not want to face trouble just because of a plastic bag. Now, isn’t that a good idea, or what? But here is something that is not such a good idea, to my way of thinking: American scientists are experimenting with a procedure by which babies are born with three biological parents. The plan is that if the mother carries genes which predispose to an incurable disease, they transfer healthy DNA from her to an egg donated by another woman, thus shortcircuiting the disease DNA. At first glance this sounds like a good idea. But surely we are messing with natural selection here. Instead of diseases being eradicated because the carriers thereof die out, which is Nature’s way, these guys are trying to do it by creating genetically engineered children. The whole thing makes me shudder. (Which at your age could be caused by any number of things – Ed) www.themonth.co.za

The Month

January 2010

Franschhoek and the Foreign Media By Alan Saffery ruary, the UK’s ‘Daily Telegraph’ in March and May (May’s article written by Cricketer Alan Lamb), the UK’s ‘Independent’ in March, UK’s ‘Times’ in April, and the lifestyle section of the ‘Nu.nl’ website in April. Grande Provence was well reported in ‘The Australian’ newspaper in October.

According to Google’s new ‘timeline’ feature, the number of online articles and news features about Franschhoek has increased substantially throughout the past decade. As we head through year-end, and indeed the decade, I thought this month I’d take a look to see what some of the worldwide media has been saying about Franschhoek.

Tom Hall, wrote a good down-to-earth summary of what the town has to offer in response to a question posed in the ‘Irish Independent’ in June. “Stellenbosch and Franschhoek ... are pleasant places to spend a few days, both touring vineyards on tasting missions and enjoying the gourmet food and history of these towns. Both are less than an hour from Cape Town, either by hire car or easy-to arrange private car transfer. Accommodation in Franschhoek, for example, varies from family-run B&Bs to country lodges... serving superb food, so it’s a good idea to settle in for a day or two “. A similar description appeared in New York’s ‘Jewish Week’ newspaper in January. “The picturesque mountains are filled with valleys full of vines. There are dozens of wineries where

paper made an analogy of South Africa and its wine – in this case Bellingham. “South Africa. Land of black and white. Of poor and rich. Of lion and leopard. Football and golf. South Africa, land of harmony and contrast. The wine is no different. Chenin versus Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir and Pinotage, but blends instead of single varietals are long accustomed. It is one of the finest vineyards in the world. Especially in the autumn, when the copper grape leaves contrast with a bright cloudless sky. The valley is protected by the impressive mountains of Great Drakenstein.” In articles focusing on Franschhoek as a great place to buy or rent property, the UK’s ‘Sunday Times’ declared “The town is filled with little boutiques and art galleries but if it’s action you’re after, the more energetic can head for the hills for hiking, cycling and riding trails, and there are several golf courses nearby.” Liz Rowlinson talked in Country Life of Franschhoek being a “charming old colonial town, which draws middle-aged ‘swallows’ each year.”

Revive

But there is definitely more to Franschhoek

Dermal Fillers Botox ® LEss 10% IN JANuARY Dr Tracey Garner 021 876 4622 The Ivy • Franschhoek Google Timeline of News Articles on Franschhoek Unsurprisingly food, accommodation and wine feature quite regularly, so the ‘Eat, Sleep, Drink’ brand seems to be well enforced. The UK’s ‘Daily Mirror’ highlighted Franschhoek as “happy hunting grounds for those on a tasting mission” but added that it “also offers gourmet restaurants galore.” The Prague Post in February suggested that in an area “settled by French Huguenots, the distinctive influence still carries through in the traditions of local wine-making.” Also on wine-making, the Dutch ‘de Gelderlander’ newspaper, in March, stated that “some of the cellars in South Africa are the most modern in the world. Even now there are more talented winemakers with international experience than in other New World countries. The best wines still come from areas such as Paarl, Stellenbosch and Franschhoek.” A number of our local vineyards made prominent appearances. The ‘San Francisco Examiner’ wrote enthusiastically about Solms-Delta in September, the journalist Pamela Busch was “blown away” by the wine producer. Allée Bleue featured on Germany’s ‘Wein-Plus. de’ website in an interview with Friedrich and Elke Dauphin. Boschendal and Bellingham got a good mention on Israel’s ‘Haaretz. com’ website in October. L’Ormarins received worldwide attention for its UV treatment of wine on China’s ‘winechina.com’ and Russia’s ‘Gastronom.ru’ websites. Leopard’s Leap and La Motte wines got a mention in Malaysia’s ‘The Star’ newspaper following an event pairing South African wines and Japanese cuisine – an East meets West event. Klein Genot and Le Quartier made good appearances in many of the articles published including ‘The Independent’ in Ireland in January, the ‘Radio Netherlands’ website in Feb-

you can go wine tasting, have lunch or simply enjoy the beautiful scenery”. The ‘Irish Times’ in May suggested that Franschhoek would be a better place to base yourself than Cape Town. Other articles were a little more descriptive or imaginative, such as the first article of 2009 to feature Franschhoek – an article from in ‘The Age’ and the ‘Sydney Morning Herald’ where it is stated “Franschhoek is almost Disneylike, with immaculate, white-washed, scalloped Cape Dutch architecture, vineyards old and new, art galleries, boutiques, fine restaurants, smart guesthouses and mountain vistas. The view from Franschhoek Pass is not to be missed.” Sarah Edworthy, writing for the UK’s ‘Telegraph’ newspaper in January described Franschhoek as “a leafy village that rates as the equivalent of Park Lane on the South African Monopoly board.” The ‘Ottawa Citizen’ described Franschhoek as stately – the ‘OuestFrance.fr’ website, as mystical. Cindy-Lou Dale said in ‘Time Magazine’ in June, “Find yourself on the southern edge of Africa with 48 hours to spare and a good set of wheels at your disposal? Then set the GPS coordinates for Franschhoek in the Western Cape.” Another Chinese Internet site described Franschhoek surprisingly eloquently in an article on 350 years of South African wine history, “The fertile green valleys of the Cape Winelands are surrounded by proud mountain ranges. It is the Mediterranean climate and winter rainfall of the Western Cape that produces some of the best wines in the world. The wine regions of Swartland, Paarl, Franschhoek and Stellenbosch have become world famous for their incredible wines.”

than just ‘Eat, Sleep and Drink’. In the UK’s ‘Guardian’ newspaper in June, of course, the Literary Festival got a mention. Nigel Beale stated “Franschhoek is the picturesque setting for one of South Africa’s biggest literary festivals”. A number of publications touched on the unique Huguenot history, like Mexico’s’ El Universal’ newspaper in May, Algeria’s ‘El Watan’ newspaper, and the UK’s ‘Daily Mirror’ – “Today, French heritage is remembered with a wine and food festival every Bastille Day. The town itself is a mix of traditional architecture with “broekie lace” wrought iron and Dutch gables.” The ‘Boston Globe’ in March mentioned the lavender fields.

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Then we even got articles on Franschhoek’s residents! “Nothing, and I mean nothing, can prepare you for a tasting with Achim von Arnim. The owner of Franschhoek’s Cabrière Estate has few rivals as the wine world’s leading eccentric” stated the UK’s ‘Guardian’ newspaper. Franschhoek, it seems, gets a good mention around the world. I’ve already mentioned Russia, China, Israel, the US, Canada and Malaysia. But articles were also found from Sweden, Norway, Abu Dhabi, Korea and Indonesia! Of the 47 sites reviewed – nothing at all negative. Let’s hope it continues! A Happy New Year to you all. A full list of article credits are available from The Month.

Peter Nijdam in the Dutch ‘de Telegraf ’ newswww.themonth.co.za

January 2010

the Month

Franschhoek Way Back When... By the Staff Reporter This is the first in a series of light-hearted articles about Franschhoek in the old days, where we chat to locals who have been around a while and who are quoted ‘as is’ but are not credited. Inaccuracies are sure to ensue, so feel free to inform us at info@ themonth.co.za

until a few years ago…” And the roads were a bit different: “Franschhoek was a small town but amazingly there was one more robot then than there is now; a pedestrian robot between the ABSA bank and where Bouillabaisse is now situated. Most

There were very many fewer places to eat: “Where Fotini’s superette is now was Swanie’s Café, but he moved on to Sandbaai. The other place you could get a meal was Chez Michelle where Seeff is now. Then the Swiss guy had it. He sold to Ralph (later of Ralph’s) and Ralph sold it to Peter Hager. At the Huguenot Hotel, Attie’s Dad was still there and you could get a great buffet lunch. La Cotte Hotel used to belong to the Maskes, who did a nice roast. Or you could go to the old Swiss Farm Excelsior (now le Franschhoek Hotel) which also belonged to the Maske family. The ‘1688’ restaurant (which became Le Quartier Francais) was owned by Michael Troll who sold it to Arthur McWilliam-Smith and his wife, and a Greek guy opened a steakhouse where the FNB is now.” Entertainment was a bit thin on the ground: “Sundays after 1PM, Franschhoek was as dead as a door nail. Traditionally on Sunday afternoons we’d go to the Swiss Farm for scones (a tradition that carried on into the nineties). It was so nice - in the summer we’d pack a picnic and sit round the pool, there were lots of children because very few people in Franschhoek had swimming pools. We’d read and chat.”

In the early ‘80s in Franschhoek, it seems, wine was no big deal. Boekenhoutskloof was still owned by Jannie Lieter and “We never locked a door, in fact we never had a key for the house January 2010

of the others were dirt roads. In ‘84/’85 there were big storms in Franschhoek and progress began to enlarge the main road. The bottom of the street was the bend at La Cotte”

And shopping was a bit limited... “The Kooperasie was where the Pick ‘n Pay was until recently. They catered for the farmers because at that stage there weren’t a lot of foreigners and mostly Afrikaans was spoken here. Johnny Bell owned the pharmacy (where Taki’s is now) – then he bought the house (where Engel and Voelkers is now) and the chemist moved there.

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January 2010

Everybody bought from the Pepler family’s butchery. The farms were mostly planted with fruit and everybody brought their fruit to the pack store at the bottom of town. All were buying from the Kooperasie. There was no FNB, just Standard Bank, Boland and ABSA. There was a bakery where Gerda (the hairdresser) is now. Franschhoek’s first Estate Agency, run by Siggy Michelson and George Dominic, was where Ralph’s Restaurant later appeared. ” Service, even then, was top-notch... “Francois de Wet was the dentist - he was where Pam Golding is now – he was a tall guy who made his own teeth. Leon Waite was the electrician and the first guy to put electricity and running water into his labourer’s houses. There was a lot of ‘hype’ about this because not only was he not a Franschhoeker (he was from Paarl) – he was English speaking!” We all got along though. The village was very social, especially for the youth: “There were a lot of young people in Franschhoek, with lots of Afrikaans traditions, events and parties, mainly at the town hall. All the young folk were involved in the Junior Rapportryers. And there was only the one school, Franschhoek High. In the early ‘80s they built a new hostel (on the East side of Reservoir Street). The school got some more kids in from Cape Town so Jan Roux renovated the old hostel (now the Franschhoek Travellers’ Lodge) and put all the Junior School kids there and all the High School kids went to the new hostel. There were 550 to 600 kids and the school did well – when they had inter-school athletics, the whole of Franschhoek was there; baking pancakes and boerewors rolls supporting the sport.” Look out next month for more ‘Way back when...’

The Month

January 2010

A Review from the Top The Month paid a visit to Franschhoek valley chef Matthew Gordon’s cellar restaurant at Haute Cabrière on a sunny summer’s day. Looking for a casual working lunch, Haute Cabrière was a calculated risk given that it is well known as an evening venue. The ex-

and then addressed my companion by name. He assured me that as far as his wife knows he doesn’t eat at Haute Cabrière very often. He offered to pick up the bill and there was no complaint.

topping. The presentation was flawless and the mandatory pause for a photo was shorter than usual given the wonderful smell rising from the plate. The recommended wines to enjoy with the fish are entirely appropriate; the Haute Cabrière Chardonnay Pinot Noir blend or Haute Cabrière Pinot Noir or the Arnim Sauvignon Rouge would be ideal complements. The mushroom lasagne was served with creamed spinach and a grain mustard sauce. There was quite a bit of garlic, so be warned. Despite the relative simplicity of the dish, it is rich and extremely filling. As an evening meal the pairing of the lasagne with Pierre Jourdan Tranquille, Arnim Sauvignon Rouge or Haute Cabrière Brut Savage is highly recommended. Particularly the latter. The meals are R115 (R70 half-portion) and R110 (R65 half-portion) respectively. With a bottle of water and tip the bill of R280 was fair, given that this is essentially a dinner menu, and offers very good value for money. Haute Cabrière commands a particularly impressive view of Franschhoek and the Franschhoek vally, looking over the village. As a lunch-time venue it needs little more than a

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By the Cullinary Correspondent

One of the delightful desserts on offer

couple of outside tables to make it a viable destination for daylight gourmands. Add enigmatic Achim von Arnem’s excellent wines to the mix and the shrine to Sun Soil Vine and Man could very well be joined by one to Lunch Tea Sundowners and Dinner. Haute Cabrière cellar restaurant can be contact on 021 876 3688 or cabriere@iafrica.com

The view from Haute Cabrière cellar restaurant

tensive dinner menu offers all options in half portions and a number of non-meat dishes will ensure that whatever your fancy, it is sure to be satisfied. All meals are paired with a number of Haute Cabrière and Pierre Jourdan wines. The intimate interior, carved out of the hillside, was cool and inviting and the friendly reception staff saw us quickly seated at a table close to one of the two windows to take full advantage of the beautiful day outside. As an option, a seat at the back of the restaurant, with a view of the double volume cellar makes for an interesting visual contrast to the restaurant proper. The waitron gave us a minute to settle

A cursory glance at the menu has my companion asking about the ‘soldier lamb’. “Is it aggressive, do you think?” he asks no one in particular. The friendly waitron points out that it’s ‘shoulder lamb’ and quickly runs through the menu with particular recommendations of Fish of the Day, springbok and the Prawn Risotto. Fish of the Day and a Wild Mushroom Lasagne cracked the nod. As it was a working lunch, a bottle of still water soon headed to the table while excess wine glasses were quickly removed. The Fish of the Day was a filleted Kingklip served with tomato salsa, ratatouille vegetables and thinly sliced potato with a parmesan

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January 2010

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MINUTES WITH . . . DP BURGER The Month: DP, you’ve been in the Franschhoek valley for a while now, tell us a bit about your experiences here. DP: Well, I’m giving my age away when I say that I’ve been here for 39 years now. I was born and bred in the village. I grew up at the old Cabriere, where La Brasserie is today. I can still vividly recall hanging in my Jolly Jumper from the beams on the veranda, while my parents packed fruit. I’ve seen it grow from a small little farming community to the gourmet capital of South Africa. It’s almost unbelievable. I’ve been at GlenWood for about 21 years. In those days we only had one hectare under vine.

January 2010 MY

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TM: GlenWood has become particularly well respected for its Chardonnay, why is this? DP: Well, we’ve always been well suited to the planting of white varietals. It’s hard to believe, but we’re on average 5°C cooler than Franschhoek. We also get an enormous amount of rain here. The prominent viticulturist, Johan Weise said to me, 18 to 20 years ago, “DP, Franschhoek is Chardonnay terroir.” Years later we know he was correct. Truth is GlenWood’s other wines are also doing well and the valley has a number of award-winning reds. There was a time when Franschhoek wineries bought in much of the grapes used in their wines. Now that’s changed completely, and look at the accolades the valley has raked in over the past eight or ten years, with their own grapes. The young winemakers here are passionate about

making wine and together with the Vignerons they constantly help each other produce better and better wines. TM: We’ve heard a rumour that you’re taking on a prominent role in the Vignerons? DP: Yes it’s true. I’ve been elected the chairman of the Vignerons de Franschhoek and I’m very excited about that. Much of the work for the year ahead has already been done by the existing committee and I’m looking forward to enjoying 2010 with all the winemakers. TM: DP, we look forward to GlenWood’s continued success as an award-winning Chardonnay producer and will watch with excitement as the farm’s other wines grow in stature and success. All the best for year ahead.

TM: Did GlenWood have aspirations to be the successful wine farm it is today, 21 years ago?

The Month received a call from DP Burger, celebrated winemaker and General Manager at GlenWood Estate on the Robertsvlei Road, to tell us that he had seen someone reading the November edition of The Month at the airport in Dubai, shortly after the Uncorked Festival in October. We wondered why he had bothered to fly that far to get his hands on a copy and caught up with him at the estate on a quiet summer morning for a relaxed chat about farming, Chardonnay and terroir. January 2010

DP: Yes, there was always a vision. Alaistair (Wood, the owner) is not a short-term thinker. When we developed the farm we considered the terroir and carefully planted what suited the soil and the climate. At that time we sold our grapes to well-known establishments and when our grapes started winning medals and international wine challenges we decided to build our own cellar and produce wine under our own label. I was the ‘Farm Manager’ then and had to learn to make wine. But honestly, successful winemaking is in the blood, you can’t teach it. Yes, anyone can pick up a manual and make wine, but a winemaker is like an artist, you have to have a feel for it. One of the many breathtaking views on offer at GlenWood

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The Month

January 2010

Local Wine News By the Wine Correspondent La Motte released their new Méthode Cap Classique at the ‘Magic of Bubbles’ Festival in Franschhoek recently. The Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes for the MCC are from La Motte’s southern slopes at about 200m above sea level. The vineyards have been managed organically since 2006 and the wine was bottled in October 2007, with fermentation in the bottles. The wine was matured on the lees for 24 months and only 3 000 bottles were released at the festival. According to Hein Koegelenberg’s blog, the La Motte MCC is “Good with most local cheeses, especially soft cheese, luxury foods such as oysters and crayfish, eggs in all forms, line-fish with or without a sauce, pastries, especially mushroom quiche, salads, carpaccio and light meats such as poultry, veal and pork.”

Vrede en Lust Mocholate Malbec Susan Erasmus, Landbou Weekblad’s Woman Winemaker of the Year in 2007, of Vrede en Lust, recently released a new wine called Mocholate Malbec. Malbec is a full-bodied grape that offers spicy berry flavours and is tradi-

tionally used in Bordeaux blends. The name, Mocholate, alone suggests that this will be a Malbec to turn heads and change minds about the nature of this established varietal. Early response has been extremely positive with descriptions of cherry and mocha flavours dominating. The wine is predicted to age well and cellaring is recommended.

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Franschhoek is a fine read Random House Struik has announced that four of the Struik Lifestyle cookbooks won in their respective categories in the SA Gourmand World Cookbook Awards 2009. Of the four, two feature Franschhoek; La Petite Ferme, by Carol, Mark and Josephine Dendy Young won in the category: ‘Best Food Book for Professionals’ and Franschhoek Food, by Myrna Robins took the honours in the ‘Best Culinary Travel Guide’ category. The winners in each country now go on to compete against winners in the same category from other countries for The Best in the World. The results will be announced on the 11th of February at ‘Le 104’ restaurant at the Paris Cookbook Fair.

Tickled Pink

Visit our tasting facility or enjoy a glass of wine on the terrace while soaking in the scenery. Our wine range consits of Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Viognier, Rosé, Noble Late Harvest, Méthode Cap Classique, Shiraz, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon T: +27(0)21 876 2493 Winery opening times: Monday-Friday 09:00-16:00 Saturday & Sundays 10:30-16:00 E: info@dieudonnevineyards.com

By the Staff Reporter

A finely crafted creation with ‘charming blush and exuberant character’, the new Brut Rosé NV is a wine “destined to become a firm favourite amongst those who appreciate a fizz with flair” says Graham Beck Wines cellarmaster, Pieter “Bubbles” Ferreira who notes that since 1991 Graham Beck Wines has produced fine examples of Méthode Cap Classique wines which have made their mark both locally and internationally. “We have been successful in creating and maintaining a consistent house style which continues to draw loyal followers year after year” he says. The new Brut Rosé has all the hallmarks of a traditional and carefully crafted bubbly, with the added appeal of being exceptionally good value for money. Flirtatious and fun, yet elegant and structured, it’s a wine for all seasons and many scenarios. “When you sip the new

Graham Beck Brut Rosé NV you should detect fantastic cherry-berry flavours as fresh, lively bubbles dance around your mouth. These bubbles are neither harsh, nor aggressive; rather they will be pin-prick tiny and burst gently and exhilaratingly on your tongue. It’s a tingle no celebration or sunset should be without!” comments Pieter. The Brut Rosé NV is a blend of 55% Chardonnay and 45% Pinot Noir. The Pinot Noir lends complexity and length of flavour, while the Chardonnay contributes fruit and elegance. The wine has an alluring pale silver-pink hue, while the nose is redolent of raspberry and strawberry with a few secondary whiffs of minerality. The mousse is lively but fine with subtle red berry flavours enlivened by bright acids. It’s brisk on the palate, displaying hints of oyster shell and fresh lavender. With its youthful yet firm finish and superb potential this is clearly one classy Cap Classique and is available from the cellar in Franschhoek at R 89 per bottle. www.lightworks.za.net

Bubbly lovers will be delighted to discover the most recent addition to the Graham Beck Wines Cap Classique portfolio is the non-vintage Brut Rosé.

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For more information contact Ann Ferreira on 021 874 1258 or visit www.grahambeckwines.com www.themonth.co.za

January 2010

the Month

January 2010

The Pinotage Barista By the Wine Correspondent

Diemersfontein Pinotage, KWV Café Culture and Val de Vie Barista Pinotage have a number of things in common. Besides the obvious, they were all created by the same man and share a phenomenal success story. According to winemag.co.za, the three wines were voted the best red wines on show at WineX in Cape Town earlier this year and at WineX in Johannesberg, wine.co.za lists the Diemersfontein Pinotage as the top choice amongst red wine drinkers.

Bellevue Pinotage was the very first Pinotage to receive the General Smuts Trophy for the overall Champion Wine at the South African Young Wine Show. Today, Pinotage is regarded as South Africa’s signature varietal, though some would suggest is more of a scrawl than a signature. During winemaking, Pinotage has a tendency to develop isoamyl acetate, giving it a paint-like smell. One local winemaker regularly refers to Pinotage as ‘Grape Diesel’ and, despite its hardy nature, refuses to plant it.

wine using a variety of oak products and yeasts, as part of his Masters studies at Stellenbosch University. One of his techniques in particular tended to give red wines, like Merlot, a rich chocolate aroma thanks to the release of coffeescented furfurylthiol, which occurs naturally in oak. While not immediately useful at the time, he felt sure it would make some sort of impact on winemaking in the future. His opportunity to prove himself right came about quite by accident.

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While busy at Diemersfontein as a young winemaker, he had prepared the fermentation tanks in advance of harvesting the farm’s Merlot crop. His intention was to oak the Merlot using his special technique and then blend the result in a Diemersfontein blend. A number of factors led to a block of Pinotage being ready to pick days before the Merlot. In a tight spot and pressed for time (it was late Friday and the hired hands were itching to knock off for the weekend) Bertus had the grapes deposited in the prepared Merlot tanks, locked up and braced for the worst. On the Monday morning it was worse than he could have imagined. On opening the cellar doors the overwhelming smell of coffee and chocolate greeted him, causing him to head to his office to prepare to be fired. The result was instead, Diemersfontein Pinotage, which quickly became know as ‘Coffee Pinotage’ and Bertus became known as ‘Starbucks’. The phenomenal success of the wine led Neil Pendock to christen it “The Peoples’ Pinotage” and the people have continued to ensure that Diemersfontein sell out of their 60 000 Pinotage cases year after year.

As a varietal, Pinotage was created by Abraham Perold, Professor of Viticulture at Stellenbosch University, in 1925 as a cross between Pinot Noir and Cinsaut (Hermitage). Some years later it was grown at Elsenburg, where the first Pinotage wine was produced in 1941. The 1959

January 2010

Because of this generally overpowering characteristic, most Pinotage is used for blending purposes. In 1991, Bertus Fourie catalogued and built upon a number of techniques for the oaking of

A move to KWV in 2005 had a similar result, with Bertus being responsible for the production of KWV’s Café Culture Pinotage. In 2009 close to two million bottles were produced! Currently the Managing Director at Val de Vie Wines, Bertus assists his brother Martin, the chief winemaker, by producing Val de Vie’s Barrista Pinotage. Like the Diemersfontein and KWV incarnations, this ‘Coffee Pinotage’ has won its way into the mouths and minds of many Pinotage avoiders. The wine is not as complex as the Diemersfontein Pinotage, with more of the Pinotage grape’s characteristic flavours readily on hand. It retains the characteristic coffee/chocolate nose and mouth and is aimed unashamedly at turning non-wine or white wine drinkers into Barista Pinotage drinkers. Given his previous success, Bertus and his gospel are sure to make many a convert.

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ear Sir, I am writing to formally apologise for the noise made by the music at the wedding hosted by La Brasserie on Saturday night, the 12th December 2009. Whilst we try to combat every situation in the interests of our neighbours, there are a few areas out of our control. We always try to inform our immediate neighbours (and occasionally drop off a bottle of wine as a gesture of goodwill) but on this occasion some were away or simply not there. What we didn’t realise was that on that particular night a gale-force South Easter was carrying the music as far as four blocks away! We always negotiate a cut-off time which is usually 11.30PM. As anyone will tell you, a good wedding has good music and although we managed to get the DJ to turn it down, it was still being carried by the wind. When functions are held indoors there has been little or no disturbance so we are going to consider all future options taking into account the concerns of the residents. Thank you to those who “put up” and thank you to those who brought it to my attention. Franschhoek is still a relatively small village and hopefully we can all live and let live, with consideration for others. For the record, the Jazz on Fridays, seen by all as a weekly Franschhoek event, has a strict cut off time of 9.30PM. This will continue to be adhered to. Thank you for your past, present and future support. Mark Dendy Young - La Brasserie

of the month The Month question

January 2010

Following on from last month’s Question of the Month, we continue with our ‘festive season special’ asking local chefs “What would you have done if you hadn’t gone into the food business?” The results were interesting and entertaining last month and fun continues here. Read on...

that. “But since a boy, any toy I ever wanted had to be a jet!” he says “and will you mention my new opening hours at Fyndraai – now open Tuesday to Saturday from 10 ‘till 8PM and Sunday and Monday 10 ‘till 5PM?” Certainly not Shaun, no free plugs here sir. The incredibly talented Margot Janse from Le Quartier Francais was bound to bring some sanity to the proceedings; “I always wanted to be an actress (it was my life-long dream from the age of six) and went to drama school in Holland. After a year they said I was just too young and I should rather go see the world. I was 19. So I applied to the Amsterdam Theatre school and got very close to being accepted (down to the last 16) but after all the auditions they also said I was too young. So I gave up bargaining with them and went to see the world instead. When I got to Joburg I was seriously involved with photo journalism and, in truth, if that had gone better I wouldn’t have ended up as a chef!” Journalism’s loss is our gain...

Stage actress, Margot Janse

Cross-country rider, Chris Smit

Out at Freedom Hill Adrian Buchanan was preparing for another busy lunch at his recently opened restaurant and, without hesitation, he answered “Marine Zoologist. I wanted to do research and loved the sea. But it was the old

I began at the delightful Café BonBon where executive chef Chris Smit was busy in the kitchen preparing breakfast so, without wanting to disturb too much, I barged in ‘journostyle’ and started taking pictures. “I always, always wanted to train horses” says Chris, “and I wanted to be a cross country rider. Dressage was always my passion.” I kind of expected Dane Newton from Allée Bleue to spin me a story about playing for Liverpool FC but it was nothing as glamorous; “I was always going to do food and at 15 my mind was made up. At 16 I did my O-Levels and then left school and was training at Silwood (in Rondebosch) at 17. The only other thing that ever stood a chance was medicine” although we established later that this was primarily due to playing too much ‘Doctors and Nurses’ as a kid in Zimbabwe. Shaun Schoeman, the chef from Fyndraai at

Maverick, Shaun Schoeman

Brick-layer, Duncan Doherty Solms-Delta, like Neil Jewell, also wanted to be a pilot. Wait a minute, there’s a trend here. “It was Top Gun” he says. “When I saw Tom Cruise as Maverick I knew that was my calling!” But then he answered an ad at the old chemist in Franschhoek that Matthew Gordon was looking for a trainee chef and that was

South Africa and there were no jobs, so I ended up going to the Army instead. I always loved food but never thought of doing it as a career. It was a fantasy really, I had these visions of swimming with dolphins and all that, but the reality is that I’d have been stuck in a lab and I’m not cut out for monotonous work.” He’s always been creative, he says, so it was either that or becoming a writer, “I’m still going to finish that novel that’s been on hold for the last two or three years!” I couldn’t end off without a trip to Cotage Fromage where I knew I’d get an honest, straight up answer from chef Duncan Doherty. “To be honest” he said, and I told you he’d be honest, “the only other thing I’ve ever done is brick laying. I worked as a ‘brikkie’ in Germany when I was about 17. In the early 80’s the tax system was easier in Germany so I just went there to make money. It was great, we worked hard and had a ball” Then he gets all philosophical on me. “What do I tell my son when he grows up? Be a chef like Mummy and Daddy? Work long hours - it’s tough work. Or go do something else, rather?” Well I reckon he ought to be a fighter pilot, Duncan…

Doctor Dane Newton

Marine Zoologist, Adrian Buchanan www.themonth.co.za

January 2010

THE

FRANSCHHOEK VALLEY

MONTH

Property & Lifestyle Section Boschendal - Back in the spotlight By the Staff Reporter Six years and six master plans later and still Boschendal wine farm has yet to gain all the necessary approvals for its redevelopment. The public auction in the first week of December of three sites for a combined R43m was the first movement on the estate in some time. And the buyers, it seems, have landed a bargain.

al offers to purchase, including the 100-yearold Herbert Baker cottage built by Cecil John Rhodes and Old Bethlehem farm.

in the Dwarsrivier valley. He apparently spent only one weekend in the cottage before he died in 1902.

These two properties, the auction’s two biggest drawcards, were pulled from the bill at the eleventh hour due to “various suspensive conditions”.

Boschendal sprawls over 2 240 hectares but only about 100 hectares – less than 5% - is set for new built development. The estate has applied to build residential homes in villages of varying sizes, a retirement complex, a boutique hotel and a commercial precinct of shops, offices and apartments. Permission for Phase One, the creation of the Founders Estates, was granted last year but only after the developers scaled back their plans following various objections.

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Johnson says Boschendal is in the midst of a protracted Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process which should wind up early in 2010. In response to the issues raised by independent consultants, the developers are currently working on their sixth master plan. It may entail some substantial shifts to the proposed development.

One of Boschendal’s beautiful homesteads

Property sales had been on hold since March 2009 and the auction was intended to kickoff a new sales drive under Kuwaiti-controlled joint owner IFA Hotels & Resorts. IFA recently took over the marketing of the project after increasing its share of Boschendal to 37%. (JCI holds the other 63%) The auction was intended to raise R200m from five properties and was timed to coincide with the hype around SA’s hosting of the soccer World Cup. IFA was hoping to repeat the success of an auction it held at Zimbali outside Durban five years ago when record prices were obtained. Then, the property market was booming. Now, the market is only just beginning to claw its way out of a deep trough and the prices achieved on auction reflected that, coming in at just over half of initial earmarked values - so much for Pam Golding CEO Andrew Golding’s bold assertion upfront that “icon properties like these are not affected by the property cycle”. But Boschendal Properties MD Graham Johnson says the auction served its purpose in generating fresh sales interest. At the time of going to press, just after the auction in mid-December, Boschendal was considering four additionJanuary 2010

Apparently since Rhodes Cottage was never properly constituted as a Founders Estate, it was felt prudent to tie up the technicalities before auctioning it along with the two other Founders Estates. At least former CEO Clive Venning’s costly plan – to turn the three-bedroomed cottage into the estate’s clubhouse by building an underground banqueting facility behind it – is now off the table.

For instance, Rademeyer says the planned retirement village of 350 units may be shifted towards the R310 following objections from neighbouring L’Ormarins. It would abutt the commercial area planned for the old sawmill site (opposite Allée Bleue), which will probably also be scaled down. “We want a micro Franschhoek,” says Rademeyer, “There’ll be no fast-food chains. We want something tasteful with a fantastic coffee ...continued on following page

The Founders Estates auctioned off are just two out of a total of 19 earmarked for sale - that’s only 19 houses on a tract of land that could technically accommodate three Pearl Valleys, according to Boschendal Properties marketing director Peter Rademeyer. (Each plot varies in size from 21 to 44 hectares. Boschendal originally priced the properties at R16m-R37m, so the buyers appear to have got a good deal on auction). Rademeyer reveals the astonishing fact that Boschendal covers an area bigger than the Stellenbosch municipal district and about three times bigger than Franschhoek. The complex was assembled 110 years ago by former mining magnate Cecil John Rhodes who secretly bought up 19 adjoining farms www.themonth.co.za

PROPERTY & LIFESTYLE

January 2010

PEARL VALLEY GOLF ESTATES PROVIDES A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE WHERE THE COMMUNITY ENJOYS ACTIVITIES OF GOLF, EQUESTRIAN, LEISURE FACULTIES, MOUNTAIN BIKING, CANOEING ON THE BERG RIVER AND THE ADDITION OF A KID’S CLUB PROGRAM FOR SCHOOL HOLIDAYS. YEAR TO DATE R80 MILLION WORTH OF PROPERTY HAS BEEN TRANSFERRED, MAKING PEARL VALLEY GOLF ESTATES A SOLID INVESTMENT.

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...continued from previous page shop and bakery, like Ile de Pain at Knysna, and perhaps an old fashioned grocery store selling organic produce, olive oils and cheese.” “If this development is tastefully done it can tidy up a scrappy part of the valley,” he says, pointing to how the Franschhoek Estate developers built 1000 houses so that previously disadvantaged residents could be relocated away from the informal settlement along the main road. When Boschendal was purchased six years ago from Anglo American for R323m by a consortium led by Venning, the conditions of sale included strict requirements for social upliftment and environmental protection. Shortly after taking over the estate, the new owners announced that their plans included donating the manor house and its werf building to the nation as well as undertaking to preserve and maintain it in perpetuity. At the time, over 2000 original Boschendal farm workers were relocated to 90 hectares of land along the Dwars River near Lanquedoc to which they were given freehold title. As part of Phase Two, an additional 100 hectares is being given to the Boschendal Treasury Trust to allow for the residential expansion of Kylemore, as well as to give the community access to agricultural land, and to create a corridor linking Kylemore and Lanquedoc. The Trust’s beneficiaries include various subtrusts as well as the neighbouring communities of Dwarsrivier, Kylemore, Pniel, Johannesdal, Groot Drakenstein and Lanquedoc. A certain proportion of its funds must be held over for

conservation and agriculture. The Trust will get 5% of every first sale on Boschendal. Johnson confirms that this means it will receive around R2m from the R43m made at the auction, should Boschendal accept all the bids made. It will also receive 0.5% of all resales in perpetuity. “Our founding goal for the trust is that it use the money for wealth-generating projects like small business development since the area has plenty of skills but has never had access to capital,” says Johnson. “We want the trust to give loans not grants so that it is still here in 100 years, contributing back into the community.” Rademeyer believes the Boschendal development will allow the sun to shine on everyone, saying, “Once all the conditions have been complied with, it’s going to allow substantial income and opportunities to flow into a neglected corner of the valley”. The benefits have certainly been a long time coming. Johnson estimates it will be at least another year before the final approvals are granted. The wait has proved too long for some. Venning chose not to renew his contract as CEO earlier this year, and SA golfing legend, Gary Player, who was one of the first people the reserve a property, has since elected not to exercise his option. At the time, Player said: “This is an opportunity that has taken more than 300 years to present itself and it’s a prize that will only appear once. For those who seize it, the rewards will be immeasurable. Few places have it all. Boschendal is one.” His words are as true today as they were then.

he Pam Golding property group was awarded the exclusive marketing and sales mandate for the Boschendal “iconic pieces of real estate” Goede Hoop and two heritage Founder Estates which were auctioned in association with the Alliance Group on site at Boschendal in Franschhoek on Monday 7th December. The bidders, spectators, estate agents

12/14/09 2:15:28 PM

yard and modern amenities including a swimming pool and tennis court, sold for R23,5m. The two additional Founder Estates, each of approximately 21 hectares, “providing the investor or developer the chance to build a manor house among a rich legacy of vineyards” with a permitted development foot-

Dr Andrew Golding with Doug Gurr at the auction

and press in attendance were addressed by Dr Andrew Golding, Chief Executive of the Pam Golding Property group whilst they enjoyed finger-food and refreshments in a specially erected tent on the lawn and the auction was carried out by Rael Levitt, the CEO of Alliance Group. The first heritage Founder Estate, Goede Hoop, set on 21 hectares and comprising a main homestead built in 1821 with tall sash windows, thatched roof, three reception rooms, dining room and three bedrooms and, in addition, a two bedroom cottage, a wine cellar built in 1832, stables and court-

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print, for each, of 2400sqm sold for R10m and R9,5m each. Outside the “excluded area” the land on all three estates is subject to a 99-year registered lease in favour of Boschendal Winery (Pty) Ltd. Although needing to comply with various restrictions and permitted improvements, the new owners “will enjoy an iconic address, benefit from professional management and extensive estate security and receive a quota of the wine production each year” said a Pam Golding spokesperson.

January 2010

PROPERTY & LIFESTYLE

January 2010

FRANSCHHOEK & THE WINELANDS DOUG GURR DIONNE GURR SHELLY SCHOEMAN OFFICE EMAIL

072 610 7208 072 460 2586 083 301 8833 021 876 2100 winelandsint@pamgolding.co.za

FRANSCHHOEK

P.O.A.

Bedrooms

Bathrooms

Garages

WEB ACCESS 1013108

MOUNTAIN MANOR. A masterpiece for the discerning buyer. This unique property offers several individual homes on 1 property. A substantial manor house with a cinema, large entertainment room and wine cellar. Spacious 3-bedroom home, 2-bedroom apartment, separate, gym and squash court. Incredible mountain, valley and village views from this 4000 m2 plot on the secure Fransche Hoek Estate. A detailed property prospectus is available.

FRANSCHHOEK

Bedrooms

Bathrooms

R5.4 MILLION

Garages

WEB ACCESS 1013116

HISTORIC GEM. Built in 1927, the original manor house on La Petite Provence has been stylishly remodelled and restored. Offering open-plan country kitchen, family room with fireplace and dining room all with French doors, separate TV room and guest toilet. A large garden with rolling lawns to the river and wonderful views of the mountains and the Franschhoek Valley make this a special property.

FRANSCHHOEK

Bedrooms

Bathrooms

R2.995 MILLION

Garages

WEB ACCESS 1011380

VILLAGE GEM. Charming and delightful cottage in the heart of the village. 2 Spacious open-plan living areas, dining room, study nook and modern kitchen. Folding-sliding doors open to the pool and pretty paved garden with lovely mountain views. A double garage and laundry complete this gem.

FRANSCHHOEK

Bedrooms

Bathrooms

R3.79 MILLION

Garages

WEB ACCESS 1006619

DUFF COTTAGE. This immaculate family home offers open-plan lounge/dining and family room with cosy fireplace, kitchen, scullery and large walkin pantry. There is a spacious master suite with private lounge, 2nd bedroom and full bathroom, while 2 additional bedrooms a bathroom. A heated indoor pool, charming garden all located on a quiet corner plot with lovely mountain views.

FRANSCHHOEK

Bedrooms

Bathrooms

R1.3 MILLION

Parking

WEB ACCESS 1006809

LA PETIT PROVENร E. Located in the secure La Petite Provenรงe Estate with communal swimming pool and tennis court. This upstairs apartment comprises kitchen, lounge with fireplace, 2 bedrooms and a full bathroom. There are French doors that open to the patio with lovely mountain views. La Petite Provenรงe is a few minutes from the village and offers one the perfect lock and leave or full-time apartment.

www.pamgolding.co.za/franschhoek Contact ooba today. Call us on 0860 00 66 22.

January 2010

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January 2010

PROPERTY & LIFESTYLE

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January 2010

PROPERTY & LIFESTYLE

January 2010

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January 2010

PROPERTY & LIFESTYLE

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January 2010

PROPERTY & LIFESTYLE

R6 800 000 (EXCL.VAT)

January 2010

FRANSCHHOEK

A COUNTRY HOUSE IN THE VILLAGE

Bedrooms 3

Bathrooms 3

Garages 2

This well designed and planned home has been beautifully remodelled and offers various entertainment opportunities flowing out onto the covered patio and heated pool. High quality finishes throughout including underfloor heating. The accommodation consists of two en-suite bedrooms and a separate guest suite with its own bathroom. It also boasts a beautiful designer kitchen with granite tops - simply stunning!

WEB REFERENCE: 184043

JEANINE ALLEN 082 410 6837 [O] 021 876 4592

FRANSCHHOEK

R4 950 000

CREATIVE FLOW THROUGHOUT

Bedrooms 4

Bathrooms 4

A unique property situated in the heart of the village, with a double living and dining room with two fireplaces and beautiful undercover verandas leading out to a pool in the private garden - with views. Ideal rental property!

WEB 186390

MELINA VISSER 082 419 9928 [O] 021 876 4592

FRANSCHHOEK

FABULOUS FAMILY HOME

R5 100 000

Bedrooms 3

Bathrooms 2

Garage 2

FRANSCHHOEK

CHARMING FARMSTYLE HOME

R3 600 000

Bedrooms 3

Bathrooms 2

Garage 1

Stylish and characterful Victorian style home with a wrap around veranda leading onto a beautiful garden and pool. Situated close to amenities. Sit outside and enjoy the tranquility that only Franschhoek can offer.

MARIANNE VAN DER MERWE 082 921 3248 [O] 021 876 4592

FRANSCHHOEK

VILLAGE CHARMER

WEB 186889

R3 450 000

Bedrooms 2

Bathrooms 2

Garage 1

Family value with overwhelming outbuildings on a 933mÂ˛ plot. This house has a huge lounge area & a veranda overlooking the pool. To complete the value - double garage - flatlet/cum study & loft that could be developed.

This beautiful thatch cottage is situated in a very desirable position with a lovely garden and beautiful views. The living area as well as the bedrooms open up onto a veranda overlooking a sparkling pool.

MARIANNE VAN DER MERWE 082 921 3248 [O] 021 876 4592

JEANINE ALLEN 082 410 6837 [O] 021 876 4592

January 2010

WEB 186272

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WEB 150151

January 2010

PROPERTY & LIFESTYLE

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January 2010

The Green Page

January 2010

The road to Damascus, again What follows is a shortened version of an article written by Claire Bisseker that first appeared in the Financial Mail on December 4th and can be read in full at www.themonth. co.za. It is particularly poignant now since news from the Copenhagen conference, billed as ‘the largest and most important United Nations climate change conference in history’ that has since taken place is that South Africa has pledged to slash the growth of its greenhouse gas emissions by 42% by 2025, but in exchange wants rich nations to expand aid for poor countries to help them cope with climate change.

Randers is on the Cambridge University faculty as well as being a professor in climate strategy at the Norwegian School of Management. He serves on several boards and is co-author of The Limits to Growth. Also with Cambridge University is Australian Paul Gilding, who has devoted 30 years to addressing sustainability issues and climate change as a corporate adviser, activist and businessman. He is a former international executive director of Greenpeace. From SA, the panel included Adrian Enthoven,

cuses on climate change is not because it is the only issue but because it is a sharp-edge issue, forcing us to wake up to sustainability issues more broadly. Willis: What is science telling us about how much time we have before we should start changing? Randers: It’s already too late. We aren’t going to avoid climate change or climate damage. It’s now a question of how deep that damage will be by 2050. If we want to constrain it to affecting only 500m people, we should get going immediately. Gilding: The accepted policy target around the world is to limit the carbon dioxide concentration in the atmosphere to 450 parts per million (ppm) by 2050. Meeting that gives us a 50/50 chance that global temperatures will not rise by more than 2°C - the tipping point after which we get into dangerous territory. But 2° implies the loss of the Great Barrier Reef, the dislocation of agriculture in many countries, the loss of monsoons in India and China.

World leaders will meet in Copenhagen next week to negotiate a new climate change treaty. The US and China have offered to make big cuts in their emissions, placing SA, a poor country but heavy emitter, in a difficult position. Though SA produces only 1% of the world’s emissions, its emissions intensity (emissions per unit of GDP) is second only to China’s, while its emissions per capita are among the highest outside the OECD.

the chairman of Spier wine estate, a leading environmentally responsible tourism destination, and Justin Smith, who heads Woolworths’ sustainability programme. The panel was chaired by Peter Willis, director of the Southern Africa office of Cambridge’s programme for sustainability leadership.

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Randers: Here, [in the Western Cape] the first thing which is really going to start hurting is when you get the first droughts in the wheatgrowing season because all the climate models forecast that the rain is going to start falling in the ocean. A critical economic point is that you can’t put off your response for ten years and think that then you will have the same angle of adjustment. The later you start, the sharper it gets.” Read more at www.themonth.co.za

Acknowledging that SA’s reliance on coal to produce 90% of the nation’s electricity has made it one of the bad boys, in 2006 the cabinet commissioned a plan to clean up SA’s energy profile. The resultant Long Term Mitigation Scenarios (LTMS) project, orchestrated by former environmental affairs minister Marthinus van Schalkwyk, has become a model for other developing countries. After more than two years of consultation, the LTMS process has succeeded in getting all sectors of the economy, including the cabinet, to endorse its most demanding scenario - that SA cut emissions by 30% by 2050. However, since then complacency has set in. Former energy affairs minister Buyelwa Sonjica has taken over at environmental affairs and alarmed climate change experts by describing the LTMS project as a “research product” rather than a policy document. Against this background, the University of Cambridge’s programme for sustainability leadership convened a high-level panel discussion in Cape Town last week. The FM, represented by Claire Bisseker, had exclusive access to cover the event. The panel fielded two international experts on climate change, one Prof Jorgen Randers, who chaired the Norwegian commission on low greenhouse gas emissions in 2005/2006. January 2010

Willis: What is the scale of the challenge SA is facing? Gilding: SA is facing a dramatic shift that it’s not quite ready for. It will be surprised by the scale of what’s to come. That surprise is rooted in a 1980s and 1990s view, which is that we’d like to protect the environment, if we could afford to, therefore, we must get the economy right first. That mentality is profoundly wrong and rooted in the idea of the environment as a place over there that we can go and visit. Climate change brings it to the centre. Overnight, SA’s competitive advantage of cheap energy - coal - has become a competitive disadvantage now that coal generates costly carbon emissions. Willis: Does the issue really boil down to the fact that we are fuelling our electricity with the wrong stuff? Gilding: It would be good if it was, because that’s actually easy to fix. The problem is more that emissions are accelerating broader environmental problems, like water supply and food security. The reason everyone fowww.themonth.co.za

January 2010

2009 the year in review

Clearing the rope The Dave Rundle Financial Column

in good times, but strongly in bad times. Understand how exposed your assets are to an extreme event.

Insurance and the cost of insurance - The explicit purchase of insurance

is a time honoured way of seeking to protect against extreme risks. Just because insurance can be expensive does not mean that you should not buy it. The market may be pricing in risks of which you are not aware, but even if that is not the case you may have little choice but to acquire insurance if you can’t afford a certain level of loss. The alternative, of course, is to lower your exposure and take less risk in the first place.

Welcome back to everyone. I hope you all have a wonderful 2010 and may Bafana Bafana do us proud this year. It is a welcome relief that markets have rebounded and that the financial system is recovering. Large banks are starting to report profits again and, in general, institutions are a lot healthier, at least for now. I am, however, far from believing that the investment horizon is completely benign. Unemployment is showing no real signs of easing and interest rates, especially offshore, remain at levels last seen in the Great Depression (3-month US Treasury bills are currently yielding only 4,5 basis points per annum). Relatively little deleveraging in the system has actually occurred. The range of possible future outcomes remains very wide (upside as well as downside), which makes investing into riskier assets very difficult indeed. The recent financial crisis serves as a vivid reminder that extreme capital market events can, and do, occur. The challenge we all face is how to manage our portfolio exposures in the face of such risks. Extreme events are particularly daunting because, in principle, any outcome is possible. Might the equity markets fall 75% in the next two years? Might the US Government default on its debt? Might we experience hyperinflation or crippling social unrest? Obviously, anything is possible.

Tip of the month: In 2010 make it an objective to find out how your portfolio is positioned and to adjust it if necessary to suit your risk profile. Don’t wait for a crisis before you act. Happy New Year! Dave Rundle Rundle Management Services 083 658 8055 This article is solely intended to provide you with objective information about financial products and services and is not intended to constitute a recommendation, guidance or proposal with regard to the suitability of any product in respect of any financial need you may have.

The new hot spot By the Staff Reporter

It’s always exciting when a new destination opens up in the valley. It’s even more so when the hype is deserved. In the case of Tokara winery’s new deli, it certainly is. Located at the revamped Olive Shed – a modern boutique-style production plant just down the road from Tokara’s main restaurant - the Tokara Deli has been pulling in the crowds all summer. The family-friendly venue, on

the olive oil tasting area. A large tree house constructed like a weaver bird’s nest is a big draw card for the kids as are the free-form jungle-gym, boxes of quirky toys and story books. The hot and cold buffet is especially popular on weekends, when long tables of beautiful people take up residence or sprawl outside on the deck on over-sized sofas.

products and wine are also on sale. The deli is a mother/daughter operation with Tokara’s owner, Anne-Marie Ferreira, taking a ‘hands on’ approach accompanied by her daughter, Kara, one of the chefs. The opening of the deli coincided with extensions to the Olive Shed. According to Anne-Marie, who runs this side of the family business, the success of Tokara’s olive oils left it with little choice but to extend the production area. The Olive Shed is the only South African producer of single varietal olive oils, namely Mission, Frantoio and Leccino, as well as a multi-varietal blend.

However, fully protecting an investment portfolio against losses from such extreme events is difficult and potentially extremely expensive. It is, therefore, very important to focus on identifying, assessing, and sizing exposure to extreme events. A few points are extremely important in a portfolio:

Broad diversification - Diversifying across asset classes, managers and instruments is important Reacting to a changing risk environment - Continually updating and as-

sessing the risk in your portfolio and reducing the risk when the risk environment worsens

Manager Selection - is not only about

seeking excess returns, but also strategically important for portfolio risk control

Counting all sources of exposure - conditional correlation. A key

aspect of any analysis is to understand how a particular event could impact a given portfolio. Some assets correlate weakly with others

The new kid-friendly deli at Tokara with the free-form jungle-gym

the crest of the Helshoogte Pass outside Stellenbosch, has spectacular views across olive groves and vineyards with Table Mountain as a backdrop.

The venue is ideal for brunch when, in addition to the usual fare, the menu includes milk and Cornflakes – the most intelligent offering for children I’ve seen in a long time.

The interior design is clean and crisp, with trademark metalwork furniture by Gregor Jenkins. A feathery white chandelier by Heath Nash, inspired by olive branches, dominates

The deli produce is local and, as far as possible, organic. There are cheeses and hams, free-range chickens, venison, lamb and duck, as well as the usual deli fare. Tokara’s olive

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The deli is open from Tuesday to Sunday between 9AM and 5PM. For more details visit www.tokara.com, email olives@tokara.com or phone (021) 808 5900.

January 2010

2009 the year in review

January 2010

2009 - What a Year! By Andrew Finlayson from Citadel

As 2009 draws to a close, I am sure there will be a collective sigh of relief around the world. Relief that we have made it through one of the most difficult years in recent memory, relief that it wasn’t quite as bad as many had predicted and – dare I say it – relief that it is over.

To put 2009 into perspective, it is necessary to look at a couple of the major events of the year. On reflection, it is easy to see why it has taken its toll:

The threat of a repeat of the Great Depression of the ‘30s.

Thankfully Ben Bernancke – the Chairman of the Federal Reserve in the US - had completed his doctorate on the great depression and had a very good understanding of what needed to be done to avoid a similar scenario. The result was the effective nationalising of a lot of the financial institutions of the USA and UK through a bailout plan totalling trillions of dollars.

The Credit Crisis – the reason a bailout plan had to be invented! As banks chased profits through various derivative products and credit facilities, the downturn in the property markets globally caused a seizure of credit extension from banking institutions. As economic activity slowed, the ability of people to pay back debt diminished and so a vicious cycle developed. Citadel’s Andrew Finlayson

It was a year that presented some of the most unique challenges to almost everyone I have interacted with and most people whom I have read about. From the US government having to ‘act on the run’ to avert the biggest financial crisis since the 1930s, to the bailouts of the major financial institutions of the world, to every man and woman involved in businesses both locally and abroad, the consensus has been very similar – 2009 was one of the toughest years we have had to endure.

The first decrease in property prices – globally – in decades. An election in SA. ‘Polokwane’ seems

like a distant memory, but in February of 2009, the people of South Africa voted Jacob Zuma into power following two terms of Thabo Mbeki rule. Despite a healthy dose of scepticism, President Zuma has recently received approval ratings above 60% - higher than Barack Obama!

A decrease in economic production around the world. Even the

“To invest successfully over a lifetime does not require a stratospheric IQ, unusual business insights or inside information. What’s needed is a sound intellectual framework for making decisions and the ability to keep emotions from corroding that framework.”

The exchange rate has vacillated in

Never has this statement been more relevant. Conversely if you continue to change strategy depending on the news of the moment, you will most likely lock in losses from which you will never recover.

Thankfully, South Africa seems to have been spared much of the hardship and job losses that have been experienced elsewhere. Locally, our banking infrastructure proved itself to be incredibly strong to the extent that the government didn’t have to intervene at all in the trading of the banks despite the anecdotal evidence that business has been much more difficult. Unfortunately our bailouts have come in a different guise – the parastatals. Tax-payers are facing up to the reality of financing the incompetencies of Eskom, SAA, SABC and others.

And so with 2009 behind us, what can we look forward to? I immediately think of the first point listed above – “the future will surprise”. I am not in the business of predictions. That is a game best left to the soothsayers and crystal ball gazers of the world. I would rather base my decisions on research and analysis. Accordingly, I am of the opinion that a diversified portfolio should be overweight international assets at this time. The valuations of companies internationally appear to be reasonable and – coupled with the current valuation of the Rand – I think that there is decent upside going forward.

mighty Chinese felt the impact of producing for the rest of the world as their GDP growth figures dropped considerably from previous years. the extreme during the year – from R6/ $1 to R10.50/ $1 – one can sympathise with those business people who rely on either imports or exports for their income.

As we can now reflect on this year, we know that it is often in these darkest of days that the most profound lessons can be learned. As an advisor to clients, I personally have learned the following:

The future will surprise. This might sound like an odd statement, but I have learned that if you take a ‘one line’ view of the future and bet your wealth on this view coming true, you are often going to be disappointed. Economic hardships don’t necessarily equal poor market performance. It is easy to forget that markets

Diversification improves your chances of generating positive returns in tough times. Finally, if you have a plan in place and you stick to that plan (provided it is a sound strategy), you are unlikely to suffer permanent losses. I am reminded of the statement by Warren Buffet;

Most importantly, I believe that 2010 is the year that will redefine SA. The World Cup will provide the world with the opportunity to see just what this amazing country is capable of. Sometimes it seems necessary to pinch ourselves to make sure this isn’t a dream, but we have completed an amazing amount of work in the space of the past four years as we have collectively worked to turn this dream into a reality. It doesn’t mean that the markets will reflect the same change in fortune, but one this is for certain – 2010 is going to be a year to remember, this time for all the right reasons.

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around the world have performed very well despite the tough economic times. It is the nature of markets to ‘look through’ the bad news into the future and anticipate what the future might look like.

Have you had enough of financial planners who pretend to care? Perhaps its time you spoke to a wealthcare manager who takes the time to get to know more about you, your goals and your concerns, and commits to providing personal expert service that continues well into the future. It’s a way of doing business that is rare these days, but we find it pays big dividends for our clients. At Citadel we do more than any other company to develop an enduring, personalised financial wealthcare strategy, which is why people who invest with Citadel, tend to stay with Citadel.

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January 2010

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Group.

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The Month

January 2010

MINUTES WITH . . . STUART ADAMS to Franschhoek, as a way to start their retired life. The Month: Stuart, how did you prepare for the arduous adventure?

Franschhoek has its fair share of ‘swallows’; Europeans who fly South for their winter. But have you ever considered an alternative way to get here from Europe? The Month spoke to British couple, Stuart and Susan Adams, who decided to drive from the UK

Stuart Adams: We bought a Land Rover Defender, which was always our vehicle of choice; it has a romantic African image and they are pretty common. Ours is a 300 Tdi with no electronics so it’s easy to repair. There is a substantial list of modifications which I won’t bore you with. We did some trials to see if we could manage the trip both physically and mentally, we were not huge campers back in the UK but we did a 4x4 roof tent trip in Australia and Kenya. We also did an overland journey in Libya to see how we handled sand and a hiking trip in the Himalayas as preparation for climbing Kilimanjaro.

TM: How were the land border crossings and dealing with local bureaucracy? SA: Surprisingly easy actually. We didn’t experience any border crossing where we had to bribe our way across and most were pleased to meet with overlanders and ask questions. The slowest was getting into Egypt which took about two hours but that was because we were issued with special Arabic number plates and had to get driving licences, etc translated into Arabic. Sudan has a lot of road blocks but providing your paperwork is in order, it’s no problem, we found everyone wanted to practice their English on us! TM: You drove and Susan navigated, was that always the agreement? SA: Pretty much so. By the time we finished packing, the Land Rover was very heavy, it’s not like driving a car, so I did that and Susan concentrated on navigation, estimating when we would arrive somewhere, fuel consumption, choosing where to stay and all the shopping. The most difficult part of the trip was

in the Middle East and Egypt where signposts are exclusively in Arabic. Trying to find a backstreet hotel in the middle of Cairo as the sun is setting is a challenge! TM: What was the highlight of your trip? SA: That’s an easy one – it was the hour we spent with the rare mountain gorillas in Southern Uganda. TM: And now that you’re here in Franschhoek, what about future plans? SA: Well, we’ve only just arrived but we’re done furnishing the house, stamping our mark and getting settled. Franschhoek is a lovely village and it’s so nice to have people wave hello to you as you go about and do your shopping it’s certainly more friendly than where we came from in the UK. We will rest awhile for the summer and then consider doing some circular safaris from here; Namibia and Botswana are obvious choices. We also want to explore closer to home; Western Cape, Namaqualand, the Karoo, Drakensburg, Lesotho, the list is endless...

Road Test: Audi R8 5.2 FSI Quattro V10 FRANSCHHOEK FUNFAIR

great everyday car. Er, supercar. On the road, the R8 is lightning quick. It achieved a 3.9second 0-100 dash in the valley (versus 4.5 in air-depleted Gauteng) and Audi reckons it’ll run 316km/h. The dandling is sublime and it actually seems almost too easy to drive. Put it through its paces and switch on the skid and it will drift and cavort to your heart’s content.

Eish – if I’d charged for everyone that wanted a flip in the R8 V10 down Huguenot Street, I’d have made a pretty penny. Not to mention those with their fat bottom lip who missed out! The R8 was designed with one thing in mind: to take that four-ring Audi brand and shove it down your neck as though it was a Ferrari or its cousins Porsche and Lamborghini. It seems it’s worked. I raved about the V8 a few years back

and now the V10 has me mesmerized. One of the supercar sensations that shook the SA car market to its roots this year, the R2m V10 is every inch a supercar – it produces 386 kilowatts, has sensational looks and a performance envelope to match. But it’s a very normal car too. OK, it’s a trick to get into it, especially for big fellows, but once in, you won’t think you’re in a Supercar. That’s what makes this thing so special – it’s a

Take it to the racetrack and it’s just as magnificent. Be warned though: the standard steel brake equipped unit didn’t stop our test vehicle all that comfortably after a few laps, flat out. The problem is easily solved with carbon-ceramic bakes – at a cool R125k. But most drivers are unlikely to ever lap Kyalami (that hard) in an R8 and will never need that much braking in day-to-day driving, so who cares, really? Talking options, the choice of manual or double-clutch gearboxes is interesting. The manual is slower and harder to drive, but much more fun if you like it like that. Not only has R8 V10 taken it to its apparent rivals, it’s done it in the style Audi once only dreamed of. The queue on Huguenot Street is more than ample proof of that.

Words: Michele Lupini Image: Giordano Lupini Warranty: 5-year/100 000km Service Plan: 5-year/100 000km Price: R1 950 000 Find out how the R8 V10 fared in Cars in Action’s Performance Car of the Year in the February issue on sale at now at the Franschhoek Pick ’n Pay

Stat Sheet

Audi R8 5.2 FSI Quattro V10 Engine: 5.2-litre QOHC 40V V8 Gearbox: 7-speed Double Clutch, AWD Power: 386kW Torque: 530Nm Tested 0-100km/h: 3.9sec (Reef 4.5sec) Tested 0-400m: 12.5sec @ 189km/h Kyalami Hot Lap: 1:55.1 Claimed Urban Fuel: 14.7/100km Claimed Emissions: 351g/km

Paarl Motors Paarl 37 Jan Van Riebeeck Road, Hugenot Tel: 021 872 1531 Contact: Barend (0833030976) Desiré (0723768375)

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January 2010

Hike the ‘hoek By Ed Flitters, Cape Hiking

The stunningly beautiful Jonkershoek nature reserve, managed jointly by Cape Nature and MTO Forestry, lies at the Stellenbosch end of the Helshoogte Pass and is easily reached from Franschhoek. The Reserve itself, a World Heritage Site covering 15000ha, provides water for the Stellenbosch area and offers visitors opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, horse riding and even fly-fishing. There are numerous walks to do here; ranging from 5km strolls right through to the circular ‘Swartboskloof ’ and ‘Panorama’ hikes which, at 18km, are full-day trips.

pink Watsonias. Looking up to our right, high up in the rocks, it is not unusual at this point to see a troop of baboons, the sentries barking their warnings down at us. Within 25-30 minutes we come across the first sign on our right, indicating the track off to the ‘Eerste Waterval’. This leads us to a deep shady gorge, providing some welcome respite from the sun. The area is covered with delicate and beautiful blue Aristeas which contrast starkly with the fire-blackened branches. Returning to the main track we continue our hike, now turning slightly south-east, and after another

doing or are with someone experienced. There is no cell phone coverage here, and accidents happen all too easily with a momentary lapse of concentration.

One of the many spectacular views in Jonkershoek

Because this is the festive season and some of you may be recovering from the over-indulgence of Christmas, I will confine myself to the delights of the Eerste River and the two waterfalls. What better way to start the New Year than by making a resolution to spend less time at the computer and more time communing with nature in our beautiful mountains?

half hour we arrive at the steep ‘boulder’ staircase which takes us from 500m to 550m. Keep your eyes peeled, especially on a hot sunny day, for a resident berg adder; but don’t worry, you will almost certainly hear him hissing before you get too close! From here the second waterfall is clearly visible in the recess of the mountain and high up we can see the water cascading over the edge. It has taken us 1½

If you are feeling adventurous, you can now push on up the notorious Kurktrekker (Corkscrew) and complete the circuit to the Bergrivier Nek. BUT be warned, this means at least another five or six hours on top of what you have already achieved, so be certain to have the right equipment and provisions with you. We cross the river and begin the long, slow pull that will take us to the head of the valley. At 620m there is a rusty and illegible old sign where the path diverges; we fork right and enter the ‘Corkscrew’ scree slope, turning from left to right as we climb. The larger boulders lower down make the walking easier but, as we reach the upper slopes, these rocks become gravel and the going is more uncertain. At the top of this wide gully on the left is a rocky outcrop where a family of klipspringer can often be seen. It will take you a good two hours to reach the nek at 1000m but the views looking North-West over The Twins and First Ridge Peak are unbeatable; you will have earned a rest and a drink! We now turn left and head east and then north-east, reaching a fabulous north-facing ledge at 1170m which provides us with wonderful photo opportunities over the whole Jonkershoek Valley. The path now contours around the mountainside, passing a tiny stream and small pools, and a green sign which marks the turn off for Viktoriapiek, before we begin to drop gently down to the Bergrivier Nek. The path is exposed here on our left hand side so do watch your footing. The Nek is at 1090m and allows us to look due east down the Assegaiboschkloof which

takes us to Franschhoek (this will be one of our 2010 adventures!). From here we need to allow another two hours, walking westwards, to descend to the gravel road where we left our car. There are a couple of stream crossings and some boulder hopping but nothing tricky that might trouble an experienced hiker.

Gorgeous flowers litter the path

The Jonkershoek is a jewel that should be loved and treasured. Treat yourself in 2010 and find some time to explore it. Cape Hiking will be taking a very short break over the New Year period but we will be back with you after 9 January. Happy New Year! ‘’Doubly happy, however, is the man to whom lofty mountain-tops are within reach’’ - John Muir

For the really bold; a pool for a ‘kaalgat’ swim

Our excursion begins at 385m above sea level at the far right-hand end of the valley, where there is plenty of room to park your car. After last year’s fires the hiking trails have been closed for the past six months, but Patrick Shone (from Cape Nature) and his team, together with some friendly advice from MCSA, have done an excellent job of assessing and repairing them, ready for the summer season. With the Eerste River on our left we head almost due East on a sandy gravel track that climbs very gently through the burnt Proteas and gorgeous January 2010

hours to reach this spot but the effort has been worth it. Seated in the shade, surrounded by ferns, flowers and emerald moss, and listening to the slow-flowing water, it is an idyllic place to relax and put aside your cares. Have a sandwich, drink from the stream and revel in being alive! Don’t forget to pack a ‘cozzie’ and a small towel or, if you are feeling really bold, you might even fancy a ‘kaalgat’ swim! The more adventurous will want to ‘boulder hop’ up the stream, discovering frogs and enticing dark pools, but only go if you know what you are www.themonth.co.za

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Behind the Mic with Helen Naudé of Franschhoek FM I spoke to an Eskom person and it was surprisingly good. I was looking forward to the opportunity to interview a real live one and enjoyed the on-air chat to a rather nice spokesperson. We did not discuss the juicy stuff, but rather the “Measure 2 Manage” project which they implemented at the CTICC. It is an energy saving initiative to monitor and thus measure and save electricity in specific areas at the CTICC. I did ask about the outlay and running costs of the equipment compared to the energy savings achieved and the implementing of the plan, and wouldn’t you know it, everything had been considered. It sounded like the sort of initiative we would support in our Conservation Conversation on Franschhoek FM on a Monday. During one of my interviews with Tracey Randle, I asked her about Philida, the subject of André P Brink’s new book. It was in the news because of the controversy surrounding the grant he had received for the book. Philida was born 200 years ago and was a slave on the Solms Delta farm. Tracey had dug up quite a bit of information on her and the story begs to be told. I’m not telling anymore, read the book! Dentists are allowed to do non-invasive procedures on patients’ faces and necks, but cannot go south of the collarbone. I found this out in the Franschhoek FM studio when I interviewed local dentist Dr De Kock on the Autologous Cell Regeneration procedure. He has been trained in this anti-ageing treatment and is performing it at his surgery. It involves the drawing of a small amount of the patient’s blood, spinning off some cells and using the plasma to fill out the unwanted concaves of the patient’s face. This is combined with a dermaroller treatment and needs to be repeated

after 3 months and again after 6 months. The result apparently is a natural looking, long lasting 10 year younger face! It was reassuring to know that the good doctor had trained for six years and had focused on the face. You don’t want rookies messing about in those parts. Diamonds’ Liquor has risen from the demolition ashes and lives again. They have opened a new store near the radio station and became one of our advertisers in December. We hope to keep them on our client list. The staff look nice in their blue shirts; sober and eager. I could listen to Adriaan Brand for hours. He fitted a studio chat into his busy academic and music schedule on the eve of the new Sunset Suppers programme at Solms-Delta. He is in charge of the music co-ordinating and training (he calls it facilitating) at the farm. He is bursting with excitement about the musical talent in the Franschhoek valley and has interesting teaching and coaching methods which he brought back from the East. He says the

people’s music is not necessarily indigenous, but encompasses their interpretation of favourites, albeit American pop. Do make a point of catching future chats with him. One of my favourite broadcasts recently was an interview I recorded with Jenny Prinsloo, CEO of the FWVTA. It was after their AGM, during which Jenny referred to the possible twinning of Franschhoek with a town in the Napa valley. She says the town, St Helena, is about the same size as Franschhoek, has a similar population and is known for its food and wine. They do not allow wine farms to have restaurants, do have a training place for chefs and love our festivals. Yes, they also have a radio station! A very exciting exchange plan would be part of the deal. Imagine a group of us; chefs, farmers, winemakers, hoteliers (guesthousiers?), tour guides, shop owners, civil servants and radio announcers going to America for a look see, and hosting them back here again. How I would love to interview the people of St Helena.

Our latest trick at Franschhoek FM is to do an outside broadcast by Skyping. The simplicity of the operation is mind boggling compared to what used to be involved in broadcasting from outside the studio. Telephone lines, equipment, standby equipment, roaming microphones, stationary ones, temporary studio, technical staff, on-air staff. Now we can use a laptop to Skype to the PC in the studio. Magic! I don’t have much to say about the old year, except that I spent 2009 where I had wanted to. I would like to wish you a very happy and prosperous 2010 and a closer acquaintance with your local radio station in this brand new year ahead. Best wishes Helen Naudé lifestyle@fhfm.org.za

‘Windes’ of change for Plot 412? By the Staff Reporter

Alan Winde, MEC for Finance, Economic Development and Tourism for the Western Cape, paid a visit to Franschhoek on the last Friday of November to address members of the Franschhoek Wine Valley and Tourist Association at their AGM. Alert to the importance of the man and his appointment in the valley, Franschhoek’s Informal and Small Business Association (FISBA) were quick to ensure that he paid them a visit to consider their proposal for the development of a prominent piece of real estate at the entrance

to Franschhoek. Plot 412 has been vacant for many years now and the FISBA team would like to see that change with the development of a business village as part of an integrated tourism initiative for Franschhoek North (Groendal). The village would comprise a number of units, built of low-cost material, that would house traders and consultants and serve as both a tourist destination and a place of work for residents in the immediate vicinity. At present the site is used for the grazing of livestock and sees the occasional informal soccer

Alan Winde chatting to Shadrack Solwandle on plot 412

The home of tourism of Franschhoek North?

game. Given the uneven surface, infrequently mown grass and the presence of cattle, most games are short-lived and have been described as ‘soccer adventures.’ The village will form part of a larger initiative to see Franschhoek North developed as a viable tourist destination in its own right.

and protocol in developing municipal land – which he pointed out belongs to the residents of the valley. Residents are thus encouraged to visit the FISBA offices in Mark Street in Franschhoek North to discuss the merits of the possible development and register their support, or otherwise, for the proposal.

Alan seemed impressed with the initiative but stressed the importance of following procedure

For more information contact Shadrack Solwandle on 078 864 0548

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January 2010

MINUTES WITH . . . TANIA STEYN then got a job at the Cape Winelands District Municipality. Having an experience of government structures and the way things work has been extremely valuable and that’s where I first interacted with the FWVTA. It has a reputation of being a very stable association that offers a lot of added value to its members. When the opportunity arose to fill a vacant position here I didn’t hesitate. TM: What are some of the things you’ll bring to the position in Franschhoek?

According to their website, the Franschhoek Wine Valley and Tourist Association’s newest staff member, Tania Steyn “ is passionate about tourism marketing.” With a Masters of Commerce degree in Tourism Management, this outdoor fanatic has quickly shown herself to be au fait with social media trends, research and statistical analysis and the generation of brochures and press releases. As the Franschhoek representative on SA Wine Routes and Vigneron matters, The Month sought to get to know her a little better. The Month: Hi Tania, tell us a little about your background and how you ended up here in Franschhoek. Tania Steyn: I’m originally from Pretoria, but I’ve been here in the Western Cape for three years now. I stay on a farm out towards Klapmuts and as I’m an outdoors person, I really enjoy ‘farm life’. I’m married to Francois, a lecturer at Stellenbosch (University). His work at the university was what prompted our move to the valley and for me that has been fantastic. Being involved in the tourism industry in Pretoria was really difficult while here in the Western Cape there are so many options that it’s easier, in a way, while being far more stimulating. I consulted privately at first and

TS: I worked closely with Professor Ernie Heath at the University of Pretoria and I’ve learnt a lot about effective research in tourismrelated matters from him and we’ll be putting that to good use here in the valley. I also have a strong focus on social media. As the FWVTA we Twitter, there will be a blog soon, we have a Facebook presence and channels on Flickr and soon on YouTube. Social media allows us to engage directly with visitors or potential clients so, if I see that someone is coming to the valley I can contact them, welcome them and our members can then pick up on that and personally invite them for a wine tasting or a visit. Those personalised experiences will become increasingly important.

Shop 13, Place Vendome, Huguenot Road, Franschhoek, South Africa. Telephone 083 290 7459 Email info@collectb.co.za Visit Collectables by B, and on presentation of this advert, you will receive 10% DISCOUNT on your purchase. *conditions apply.

TM: All-in-all you sound quite busy, what do you do to get rid of the stress of your day job? TS: Well, I work it off outdoors. Francois and I are doing a 6000km round trip through South Africa on 125cc MotoMia Enzo motorbikes. We’ll keep a video diary of our adventure and blog regularly and I’m sure by the time we finish that I’ll be completely relaxed and ready for 2010! You can follow our journey by visiting our website www.aroundsa.co.za TM: I have no doubt you’ll return preferring your drinks shaken and not stirred after 6000km on a motorbike. We look forward to welcoming you back in one piece. Contact the FWVTA on 021 876 2861

The Investec ‘Magic of Bubbles’ festival held early in December, was enjoyed by the young and not-so-young alike. Pictured right are the winners of the bestdressed couple on the Saturday, who won a bottle of Morena Brut Rosé and lunch from the La Petite Ferme stand. January 2010

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Bridge House Highlights of 2009 Growing a-pace and with plans for new developments, Bridge House begins 2010 with a new Head. Mike Russell, previously Head of Redhill in Johannesburg, looks forward to leading Bridge House into the next phase of its development. 2010 sees Bridge House celebrating fifteen years of nurturing a ‘can do’ attitude and recognising a spirit of individualism in all its pupils. Within a framework of integrity, humility, wisdom and inspiration, each child is encouraged to develop his or her own unique potential and to innovate and lead in a changing world.

Looking back at 2009: On the sports front In the June holidays, Bridge House Under 13 cricketers took England by storm playing nine

matches (265 overs) in ten days on the first overseas tour by the Prep School. Besides the cricket and the lasting friendships and memories made, the seventeen pupils and four staff members spent three days exploring the sights and sounds of London where they visited, amongst others, Lord’s Cricket Ground, the Emirates Stadium and the Imperial War Museum.

Colourful cultural highlights Scarecrows, tin men, lions, pirates, tornadoes … and the wizard himself took the stage when the Senior Primary pupils staged The Wizard of Oz over three nights in September. And, in turn, the College staged The Fantasticks, an allegorical and comical story with music, which enabled more than fifty pupils to appear on stage.

Bridge House is very much part of the ‘Global Village’. Bridge House is one of seventy schools on five continents belonging to the International Round Square Organisation. These schools share a commitment to personal development and international understanding. Round Square aims to inspire students throughout

held at Stanford Lake College in Limpopo Province and thirteen Grade 9s attended the Round Square Regional Junior Conference at Brook House School in Nairobi, Kenya. The highlight of the year was the International Round Square Conference held at Mayo College in Ajmer, India. Six pupil delegates and two Bridge House staff members attended the conference, along with five hundred other delegates. The conference theme was “Lead me from the darkness of ignorance to the light of knowledge” and discussion and debate around this theme brought children from a wide range of backgrounds and from all corners of the world together.

Academics matter! Two Bridge House whizz kids in Grade 10, marvelous mathematicians Rehan Visser and

the world so that their generation will strive for new levels of co-operation, communication and understanding. Democracy, Environmental stewardship, Adventure, Leadership and Service. In the Prep school, Bridge House pupils undertake the Learning for Life Leadership programme while College pupils take part in The President’s Award. Service is an integral part of both these programmes. Apart from the efforts of individual pupils who served the community in various ways, a number of Bridge House College pupils spent one afternoon a week for the whole year reading and interacting with pupils from Franschhoek’s Dalubuhle School. On one very hot day they cooled off in the pool and began teaching the children to swim. They hope to continue the swimming programme in the New Year.

Can-doing canoeing There is no can’t-doing when it comes to canoeing at Bridge House. For the eighth year in a row, Bridge House was the top Co-ed Pri-

mary School in the country at the South African Sprint Championships held at Nagle Dam in Kwazulu Natal and the College was the top senior school.

Through Round Square, Bridge House pupils are able to connect with and experience a world far wider than our small valley. In 2009, eighteen Grade 10s spent approximately three months each at Round Square schools all over the world including Thailand, India, Germany, Canada, Peru, Australia and New Zealand. In turn, pupils from these schools visited Bridge House. Attending conferences and sharing experiences is an important part of the Round Square philosophy. In 2009, a delegation of six pupils attended the African Round Square Conference

Vaughan Newton, came in the top one hundred students in Grade 10, 11 and 12 in the country in the National Mathematics Olympiad. Vaughan was also selected for further training and possible inclusion in the International Olympiad in Informatics team to represent South Africa in Canada. Bridge House has an excellent track record, with 100% pass rate to date, in the Independent Examinations Board Matric exams.

Parents at Bridge House didn’t hold back in their support for the school and the community and whilst doing so raised a significant amount of money at the Big Music Night and the Bridge House Golf Day. Part of the proceeds was given to the Bridge House Bursary Fund, The KUSASA Project in Franschhoek and Helping Hands in Mbekweni.

Serving the community Round Square has six crucial aims, the Round Square IDEALS: International understanding;

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January 2010

Killers rock Val de Vie By the Staff Reporter

Killers fans soaking up the atmosphere prior to the concert at Val de Vie

As part of their South African tour one of the world’s hottest alternative rock bands, The Killers, played at the valley’s revered wine and polo wstate, Val de Vie on December 6th. More than 20,000 fans were rocked by the multi awardwinning band that have sold millions of albums across the world, received seven nods from The Grammy’s and won a variety of MTV, BRIT and NME Awards and have headlined some of the biggest festivals in the world including Glastonbury, Reading/Leeds and Pukkelpop, as well as selling out prestigious venues such as

Madison Square Garden in New York. The tour was presented by Heineken® and supported by regional radio stations 94.7 Highveld Stereo and 94.5 Kfm. Situated on the R301 between Franschhoek and Paarl, The Val de Vie estate is one of South Africa’s premier destinations offering world class polo, recreational facilities and a historic award-winning wines. Go to www.valdevie.co.za for more info.

From French Corner to Cornered in France friends, a dash of romanticism and two spoons of eagerness. The end result? We should buy our own property in France and share it with friends. After all, if Peter Mayle could do it, we could, right? Surely we have all the expertise, I thought. We have a banker, a decorator, a real estate businessman, a developer, not to mention their spouses - the sideline experts with all the knowledge... The area we sourced was Lourmarin which is in the Luberon region of Provence, just 35km from Avignon and 30km from Aix-en-Provence. Having been awarded one of the ‘most beautiful villages in Provence’ and boasting some of the best restaurants, shops and local wines it was, in fact, almost Franschhoek. Romantic, Thys Geyser

In this article local resident and entrepreneur, Thys Geyser, shares his international property experience with the romantic story of renovating and owning a property in the heartland of Provence – otherwise known as the poor man’s version of a Peter Mayle’s ‘A Year in Provence’. It started with a few bottles of Merlot. We had all the ingredients; good company, a few

January 2010

We were lucky and found a gem; a run-down apartment built in 1573, but located perfectly in the centre of Lourmarin (we quickly referenced all the Peter Mayle books!). There was more than enough space and it was a fantastic building with views over the Luberon mountains, the village plane trees, the Friday morning market and had a champagne bar right underneath the kitchen window! Mrs Local, the French overseer, was our guiding light. She was going to protect us - little

did we know! The finance was the easy part. However, the redesign concept presented by Mr Apple noted that any exterior changes affecting a view from any other place in Lourmarin must be approved in Paris which meant waiting months for an answer. The seller had, in the meantime, moved to Corsica and access was now impossible. Having flown to inspect our purchase the “Immobilier” (agent) casually said he was sorry but he didn’t have a key and we should try next time! The transfer took more than a year and we almost lost the deal three times with penalty interest to follow. The renovator, a one-man show called Bruno, who doesn’t understand a word of English, took months to do the changes when not on his lunch or tea breaks and always applied ‘Le French’ logic, instead of ‘Le Architect’s’ drawings. Romanticism has its boundaries. The detail of this process is better spared as building overruns, late delivery, linguistic challenges, remote control, overcharging supervisors, etc., never make a good story. But there was light at the end of the tunnel. After a potential partner split we agreed that the best decorator would be one of French descent. At last the sun shone on us as Le Decorateur (ala Catherine Zeta-Jones look-alike with Ban-

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deras look-alike hubby) transformed the apartment into a piece of heaven! At last the end result is an authentic renovated, three bedroom, three bathroom apartment, with lounge, open-plan kitchen, huge fireplace and a reading room in perfect nick - decorated for kings. It’s a pity we only go there once a year! And it had a happy ending, even though we lost two friends in the process. We have subsequently appointed a French manager (of Nordic descent) to oversee the running of the apartment and have introduced a roster system defining use and appointed an accountant to run the finances. Now we only enjoy and this means no more shareholder meetings! My advice; its great to burn your fingers and learn by your own mistakes, but it’s easier to learn by others. Thys specialises in niche properties and properties with unlocked potential. There is a 10% share of the French property he speaks about above available for €70 000 of which 90% can be financed at 4.9% over 10 years. Feel free to call him (see banner below) if you have an interest in part ownership or property opportunities both here and overseas.

January 2010

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January Jazz Special By the Staff Reporter

Eighteen year old Sean has just matriculated and plans to study at UCT. His talent for singing and performing was recognised when he won Best Male Singer at the Paarl Valley Eisteddfod seven times as a school boy and in 2002 when he won the KWV Talent Competition. He has performed with well-known local singer and composer Randall Wicomb and toured South Africa in 2003 with the show ‘Oos Wes, Tuis Bes’. In 2004 he performed with actress/producer Natalia Da Rocha in ‘Wa’ was djy’. He also plays the flute. Danielle Davenport and Sean Jacobs sing jazz at La Brasserie

January 15th will see a special Jazz on Friday performance at La Brasserie, at which The Cape Dutch Connection will introduce two extremely talented young guest artists to sing with the band, Sean Jacobs and Danielle Davenport. Both former Bridge House

pupils, Sean was this year’s best vocalist at the National Jazz Festival in Grahamstown and Danielle was runner up. Well known musician Mike Rossi will join them on the saxophone.

Danielle, who is planning to study Jazz at UCT, has also just finished school at Bridge House in Franschhoek. Her passion for music began at the age of five when she learned to read music then began piano and violin lessons. She studied at Hugo Lambrechts where she played in the orchestra. She also played in the Backsberg DE WINE FP 241109 1.pdf

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orchestra for two years. However, a snowboarding accident in 2008 left her wrist ligaments damaged and put paid to her ambitions to be a musician. So she took up singing and instantly found a passion for it. There is jazz at La Brasserie every Friday evening from 5.30 – 8.30pm until the 2nd April 2009 except the 1st Januar y at 13 Daniel Hugo Street, Franschhoek. Entrance is R130 per couple which includes a bottle of wine and free jazz. To book call 021 876 3420 or email info@labrasserie.co.za The Cape Dutch Connection is a jazz quintet with vocalist Charlette Dickson, Wesley Rustin double bass, drummer Jack Momple, Derk Blaisse on piano and a guest soloist on saxophone, clarinet, flute, trumpet or trombone.

Above: Sub Editor of The Month, Brett Garner, congratulates Paul Barkley, winner of our first Sudoku competition. Paul received a selection of High Overberg wines from the Faraway House Estate (featured in the December edition). Left: Jonathan Peach of Franschhoek Build-It hands over a stainless steel combination braai valued at R1500 to Lindi Kamstra.

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The Last Writes

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By the Sub Editor

The Editor passed on an email that he received from a reader who signs the email “Bemused” but not Bewitched! The email essentially questions our motivation for publishing The Lick o’ the Cat’s frustrated rant in last month’s edition about his Trick or Treating experience in the village. Whilst I’m not in the business of defending this publication or its contributors, the email makes a couple of points that allow me to comment and so I’ve taken the liberty to do just that. Note that this column is now called ‘Last Writes’ and not the ‘Parting Shot’ we’ll see next month whether it’s a prophecy or not. One of the lines in the mail reads: Surely your magazine does not approve of the attacking of religion (although the writer says “I have no intention of turning this into a religious debate”). Unfortunately the snide comments about Christians (OK, “some Christians”, and “lofty, fanatical Christian platform”) etc.etc. DO indeed turn this into rather inflammatory debate material. I have to concur on two points. We’re a magazine (in a newspaper format) and no, we don’t approve of the attacking of religion. In my opinion The Lick wasn’t attacking anyone. His response was entirely understandable given his experience. And sharing experiences is exactly what The Month allows our contributors to do. While we are a vehicle of sorts for the sale of this valley, I think our success has been largely due to our authentic approach in sharing our experiences with readers of the Month. You won’t find a press release in this paper, we write

it all ourselves. As a Christian, I read The Lick’s article quite carefully and chose to include it because it makes an important point about tolerance. Its possibly ‘inflammatory’ nature makes the point precisely because it is ‘possibly’ inflammatory. That’s why we love The Lick; it’s intelligent writing for our readers. That Clive Alexander chose to respond to The Lick as he did in the Lemon Twist on pg 5 in this edition, is testimony to the intention of the article. Clive’s Twist leads me to my next Write. The council have indeed missed the marketing plot in Franschhoek. While many municipalities have chosen not to erect Festive Season lights in city streets, we have; though you’d be forgiven for missing them. The tiny ‘Merry Xmas’ over the main road at the entrance to the village is a sorry sight. Was I in power, that sign would adorn one of the council office windows; it’s just about big enough to do the trick. It certainly doesn’t cut the mustard as our show to the world of how things are celebrated in the Gourmet Capital. Perhaps we need a Festive Season Lights Festival. As an aside, the use of ‘Xmas’ is a pet irritation of mine but for the sake of those not into religious debates it’s possibly entirely appropriate. As someone pointed out to me recently, X is a variable and as such means ‘anything’. So everyone is free to celebrate whatever over the Festive Season.

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January 2010

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www.themonth.co.za

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January 2010

the social page social

Anti-clockwise from above: Proteas captain, Graeme Smith enjoyed the festivities at the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Magic of Bubblesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Festival, as did local artist, Johannes du Plessis pictured with friends. Venters, AJ and Martin seen here with friends and family at the Killers conert at Val de Vie in early December. The All-Stars, sponsored by Solms-Delta, who will be competing in the 2010 Franschhoek Soccer Championship are seen here sporting their new kit.

Photo by Eddie Wilson

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Tel: (021) 874 1611 | Corner of R45 and Klapmuts Simondium Rd, Paarl | Visit our website to join our wine club: www.vnl.co.za

www.themonth.co.za

January 2010