The Month December 2012 by The Month

the month DECEMBER 2012

the winelands enjoyed where wine is

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We stop at nothing to cover the Winelands!

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the month

in my opinion

So long, and thanks for all the fish…

very year, around December, I pull out my rather tatty copy of the Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy, and turn to the fourth book in my one-volume trilogy, as I imagine the year waving goodbye. Of course, being a Douglas Adams fan, I’m soon drawn to more of my favourite passages and generally get stuck on either the passage involving the GM cow at the Restaurant at the End of the Universe or the page on which God proves that He exists, and in so doing vanishes in a puff of logic. It’s a crazy story, yes, but I love it. On the other hand… watching the news in the run-up to finalising this edition I couldn’t help but marvel at the mess unfolding in the Winelands as striking farm workers, and others, draw attention to their plight. Let me state, unequivocally, that despite its focus on the ‘finer’ trappings of the Winelands life, The Month, and I, as its editor, are appalled at the abject poverty some labourers are subject to. Equally appalling is the blatant manipulation and deception that ensued as an initially legitimate protest was hijacked by those seeking a convenient and ultimately destructive political platform. My view that South African wine is under-priced is common knowledge. As consumers, I believe, we should be more discerning in our consumption habits, willing to pay more for good wines and collectively encourage the industry to act in a

wholly responsible manner. The truth is, other than having the freedom to charge more for their wines, many South African producers are trying to operate ethically within the confines of a system imposed upon them by policy makers who simply don’t have a clue. And I mean that in the most general sense possible. Of course, there are exceptions to the rule, and that applies to both the producers and the policy makers, and consumers have no excuse not to be informed. So, as I end this rather serious introduction to our final jam-packed and fun filled edition of The Month for 2012, it is my earnest prayer that those of us who are able to relate to its content will heed the call to act as responsible stewards of the precious gift we call Earth. Lest we be caught out and wake one day to find the dolphins have left us for good! Speaking of good: We’re ending 2012 with a good mix of articles, as always, and hope that you’ll enjoy our featured personality, MasterChef SA Season 1 finalist, Guy Clark; our trip to the Richtersveld (pictured on the front page); wine, restaurant, hotel and movie reviews; some news; a couple of opinion pieces; the teen page and, as always, a jam-packed What’s On? guide. See you in 2013, and until then, enjoy the read!

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enjoyed where wine is

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PEOPLE & PLACES

GUY!

The Editor discovers that sometimes it’s OK to judge a book by its cover

f I admit that chatting to Guy Clark, outside Reuben’s in Franschhoek recently, had me a little distracted at times, you’ll forgive me, I’m sure. After all, the property broker-model-MasterChef SA finalist-turnedchef is rather good looking – which is a view any one of the many local ladies who bothered to interrupt my interview with him will happily endorse. But my distraction was not a result of his, or his adoring fans’, looks; rather it was the overwhelming sense of ‘joie de vivre’ that seemed to ooze from him as he recounted his experience of the first season of MasterChef SA, spoke about his time in the kitchens of the Madame Zingara group and let me in on some of the exciting things he’s up to and has planned for the future. Guy was one of the more popular prospects in the MasterChef SA line-up, and had public opinion counted for anything, or his ability to do a decent Twice Baked Cheese Soufflé counted for nought, things could have turned out quite differently for him. As it is, he was voted out earlier than many anticipated (and I count myself among that number) and joined the Madame Zingara group of restaurants where, as a chef, he was able to cut his teeth in the demanding environment of a professional kitchen. It didn’t take Guy long to realise that his love for food would best be expressed if matched to an opportunity to interact more frequently with his patrons – and he sensed that a professional kitchen wouldn’t make that easy. A stint at Reuben’s confirmed this and Guy turned his attention to a more interactive approach, offering cooking demos and acting as a private chef. It’s an

approach that seems to have worked, judging by his busy schedule and the pics that keep popping up on Facebook… Guy is working on a number of interesting foodrelated projects at present, and each gives a hint of the many different facets of the man. The first is his new website, TheGuySpot.co.za, a take on Fifty Shades of Grey, but with food as a sensual central theme of the love story of life, rather than weird sex. A somewhat more-dynamic take on life will be a proposed TV series that should see Guy travel the globe in search of the kind of street food many of us will never try, but could easily make and would probably enjoy if we did. That the pilot episode, shot locally, involved some midnight revelry in the streets of Gugs – and some funky food, according to Guy – should be a pointer to the kind of thing viewers are in for. Guy’s most immediate engagement, however, has little to do with sex or international travel, and everything to do with Rhinos. A committed conservationist, he has put together a high profile, six-course dinner for about 100 guests, with support from Leopard’s Leap Wines and Woolworths and five of his MasterChef SA fellow-contestants. Each will take charge of one of the courses, under the watchful eye of one of the Wineland’s true Master Chefs, and the result come January 2013, predicts Guy, is going to take the concept of enjoying life for all the right reasons to a whole new level. We’ll drink to that, and his success! See Guy on Facebook: guy.clark.184 or at TheGuySpot. co.za or contact him at GuyClarkChef@gmail.com

THE MONTH

the month

WINE & DINE

IT’S YOUR

call…

Will James considers the Holy Grail of wine competitions – the search for the ‘best’ wine

ossibly the most controversial aspect concerning wine is one that has been with us for ages, and is sure to remain for many more. That aspect is the measure of the merits and appeal of any given wine; or to put it a little differently, the endeavour to find the best wine. I don’t believe there is an answer to the question “Which is the best wine?” Yes, some serious critics and bloggers (and I’m prepared to separate the two groups) claim to have found the ‘winning formula’; the measure to apply in all situations and the tool to end every winedrinker’s search. But such claims are simply ludicrous, and, in my opinion, the question borders on paradoxal. Having said that, results of the search for the ‘best’ wines could fill volumes and, if you’re willing to consider the many opinions shared to substantiate those results, you’d need to set aside a library or two to contain it all. And it’s getting worse, because now, in addition to the competitions, the ratings, the scores, the books and the guides, we need to add the blogs. Oh the minefield! Allow me to offer my humble opinion… Yes, finding that perfect wine is a legitimate quest for many vino-sapiens, but ‘perfect’ is a relative term; so different measures of perfection are bound to exist. “That’s a pretty spineless statement,” I hear you say, “come on Will, stick your neck out!” I’m prepared to suggest that any measure of

DECEMBER 2012

the merits of a wine must relate to quality – and in the definition of quality lies the means to identifying the ‘best’. Without becoming too philosophical or threatening the realm of paradox again, I’ll simply offer this insight with respect to quality: Wine quality is measured by the wine’s ability to meet or exceed the consumer’s expectations. So in order for consumers to find the best wine, said consumers first need to define what it is they’re looking for. For some a bottle of Obikwa Shiraz, at R23 a bottle, is the ultimate wine experience and thus fulfils their pursuit of wine happiness. For others the quest to find ‘quality’ becomes a bit more complicated and involves the matching of food with wine; a measure of value for money; questions of image and prestige; and so the list goes on. But those questions must be answered by the consumers themselves, and ‘professional’ opinions should serve to guide the questioning process or even influence the answers – but never to dictate. That these opinions so often muddy the waters (or perhaps even the wine – Ed) cannot be denied and certainly complicates matters and so, increasingly, many question the true purpose of all the competitions and ratings. Who is Veritas? or What place should Platter have on my shelf? I’m asked, almost as often as I ask myself! Should we be concerned with the accolades others bestow on the wines we ultimately have to drink? The answer is yes… and no. We have them to use as tools to direct our own search for our own measure of perfection in a wine, but never forget that the results are not an absolute. How could they be when wine is an inexact science? It’s also important to note that very little talk and writing about wine gives proper consideration of the consumer when delivering critique. Much of what is said and written is based on personal taste and the often vast experience of the writer (I excluded most of what is found on blogs from this comment as bloggers generally lack experience). Wine experts love to bathe in their own ego, so that taste and experience tends to draw attention to the writer, rather than the wine. My advice is to broadly align yourself with the writer, rating body or publication that suits your palate. Thus, if you generally agree with Platter and their 5-star ratings, they’re probably an adequate barometer of ‘quality’ for you. In the same way, the opposite can be true. Accepting that different rating bodies differ should not pose a problem, by the way, as the different bodies and rating panels have different focuses - especially locally. Veritas, for example, is a “for the industry by the industry” competition while the Old Mutual Trophy Show has a definite international feel about it. Perhaps the most important consideration is the performance of a wine according to your chosen criteria over time, or its ability to perform across a number of competitions – and here something like the South African Wine Index (SAWi), that quantifies precisely that, will become increasingly useful to wine drinkers of any description. Do not allow egos and ratings to dictate and spoil your wine experience. Be brave and experiment! And once you’ve exercised your palate to the extent that you have your own repertoire of favourites, don’t be surprised if someone asks you to share your own platter of stars.

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ooking about at all the Santas and flashing trees dotted about prominently at our local Winelands mall recently, the wife gave me the look and declared “It’s the Festive Season, at last!” Which is code for, “Let’s go shopping in Cape Town!” That combination of the wife and the look works every time… but oh the schlep of trekking in, the day’s shopping, dinner and then the trip back. If only there was another way. Given my sentiments, it’ll come as no surprise that a recent timely opportunity to spend a night at the Winchester Mansions on Beach Road, overlooking the Sea Point Promenade, had me wringing my hands in delight. I’ve attended a number of wine-related functions at the hotel and enjoyed their restaurant, Harveys, often enough to know that the location alone is a deal-clincher. That the wife would have more time to shop, that kids are welcome and that the wine list is more than adequate did nothing to hurt. Checking in was efficiently dealt with by a smiling team that had one tapping my details into a computer, one heading off to collect my luggage and the friendliest doing his best to capture the attention of my five-year-old, who, at this stage, was wrapped around my leg and desperate for the loo. Noting the urgency we were soon whisked up one floor to the family suite, with reservations in the courtyard for supper confirmed and an invitation to pre-dinner drinks and view of the setting sun to set the tone for a relaxing overnight stay. As the wife flopped down on the king-sized bed and the five-year-old set about using the bidet as a basin (with overly-loud commentary about the ‘toilet’ being “strange hey?”), I couldn’t help but recall the Publisher’s comments in the November edition, about what sets similarly graded establishments apart. The Winchester Mansions is a four-star establishment, offering all the expected four-star amenities as well as ‘nice to haves’ like a heated pool, attractive Cape Dutch architecture and the amazing location. But its X-factor, I realised, as two wet hands emerged from the bathroom, followed by a big smile on an excited face, was the nature of the welcome we’d received just moments earlier. There’s a sense of camaraderie about the place and from the moment we entered I felt as though I was on home ground. As if reading my mind, the five-year-old reached for my hand and said confidently “Let’s go Dad!” A short trip around the hotel and a leisurely walk along the promenade later, we were back in the suite with the threat of supper without ice-cream the only motivation necessary to convince the kid to transfer from the bidet to the bath. Leaving said kid to soak, the wife and I opened a bottle of wine and shared a rare relaxing chat on the balcony with a view of the Atlantic, some joggers traversing the boardwalk and the occasional hop-on hop-off Red Bus making its way along Beach Road. Dinner was a relaxed affair, with yet another friendly staff member prepared to accommodate the whims of a young palate. The hotel offers a decent menu and, while the atmosphere is relaxed, it’s far from common. Expect to pay upwards of R40-odd for a starter or dessert and about R150 for mains. Given his busy day we opted for something easy for the kid – the Princess Fiona chicken burger and chips (R40), which we neglected to name out loud for obvious reasons.

hotel review

m o r f HOME HOME

The Editor suggests the warm welcome at The Winchester Mansions is hot news this Festive Season

The wife enjoyed two starters, the Winchester Salad Bowl (R45, green salad with pesto roasted vegetables and goats’ cheese) and Ostrich Neck Chartreuse (R65) served as mains, while I polished off a seafood platter (R175, line fish, scallops, prawns, calamari, mussels and sautéed vegetables) without even looking at the Chardonnay I’d ordered for the table. As an aside, the wine list is not extensive but covers a number of wine styles and most of the recognised wine growing regions, so should tick a box for pretty much everyone. Kid’s meal, starters, seafood platter, bubbly and wine set us back R580 before the tip and, whilst not cheap, offers real value for money given the beautiful location and attentive and friendly service. Back in our suite the kid discovered that not only did he have his own room, but that he’d been given a personalised bag of toys that would have to be played with before there was any hint of shut-eye. Minutes later he, the little car, the Chinese puzzle, the sweeties and the bag with his name on it were tucked up and fast asleep. Not long after that mom and dad followed suit. Preparing to check out the next morning the kid burst out crying at the news that we were heading home. My sentiments exactly, I thought, my sentiments exactly. The kid, the wife and I were guests of the hotel on a bed and breakfast basis, while our evening meal and all other expenses were for our own account. Contact Winchester Mansions on 021 434 2351 or visit Winchester.co.za

THE MONTH

MAKING NEWS

the month

Plaisir De Merle

Adds a Sparkle to its Range

o celebrate its 20th vintage, Plaisir de Merle has added a Méthode Cap Classique sparkling wine to its range. The Plaisir de Merle Grand Brut MCC 2010 is made in the classic French tradition from Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, with body and flavour from the Pinot Noir and a clean flintiness from the Chardonnay. Tasted by The Month, prior to its official release, the wine is highly recommended for those looking for a more ‘serious’ bubbly, that still exhibits youthful flavours and a lively mouth feel. Expect to pay about R150-odd per bottle.

Vergelegen Estate Opens Oak Arboretum

Nederburg

Maintains Platter Five-Star Momentum as Macici Crowned Diners Club Winemaker 2012

or the fifth time Nederburg’s flagship blend Ingenuity White earned a five-star rating in the Platter’s South African Wine Guide, making it one of three Nederburg wines to garner the accolade in the 2013 edition. The 2011 Winemaster’s Reserve Noble Late Harvest, and the 2012 Private Bin D252, a partially barrel-fermented blend of Sauvignon blanc and Semillon, were the other two. Hot on the heels of the success of his wines, Nederburg Cellar Master, Razvan Macici was crowned the 2012 Diners Club Winemaker of the Year, thanks to Nederburg’s Private Bin Eminence 2007 and the 2010 and 2011 vintages of the Winemaster’s Reserve Noble Late Harvest. Nederburg last featured in the Diners Club awards when Günter Brözel won the title in 1983 for Rhine Riesling and in 1985 for his Gewűrztraminer.

According to the biodynamic calendar, developed in the 1950s by Maria Thun, there are four specific lunar-based tasting cycles; namely fruit, root, flower and leaf - with the fruit and flower cycles generally regarded as the more favourable days for wine tasting. While it’s neither fool-proof nor rocket science, we’ve found the calendar, courtesy of Avondale, a useful tool – not least of which to spark conversation.

lunar tasting.indd 1

DECEMBER 2012

Luna TasTing CaLendar

Taste by the Light of The Moon… DECEMBER MOn

3Leaf

ergelegen’s new oak arboretum forms part of their East Garden, currently under development. The estate already boasts about 15 varieties of oak and the arboretum is set to play a vital role in increasing the awareness of the history of oaks in the Cape, as well as the conservation and propagation of the trees. Vergelegen is home to what is believed to be the oldest living oak in Africa, a hollow Old English Oak, estimated to be about 300 years old and the estate has made it a tradition to invite visiting dignitaries to plant a commemorative oak when visiting there. Vergelegen is open throughout the year to the public at a cost of R10pp, with a reduced rate of R5 for pensioners.

Vrede en Lust

the Toast of Winex Johannesburg

n a break with recent tradition, wine consumers attending Winex seem to have outgrown ‘Coffee’ Pinotage and have turned their attention to wines more serious. Well, that’s if the recent Winex Johannesburg Top 10 Leaderboards were anything to go by. In fact, the results suggest that not only is ‘Coffee’ Pinotage very last season, the new trend is Vrede en Lust; with four of the top six wines from that estate alone! Vreden en Lust took the honours for Best Red Wine on Show with Boet Erasmus 2009 (the runner up was De Toren Fusion V 2010 and the other Vrede en Lust wines in the Top 10 were Mocholate 2012 and Syrah 2009). Best White Wine on Show went to Vrede en Lust Barrique 2011 (with their Casey’s Ridge Viognier 2011, Jess Dry Rosé 2012 and Casey’s Ridge Sauvignon Blanc 2011 also featuring in the Top 10). In total, of the more than 850 wines on show, seven of the Top 20 were from Vrede en Lust. Nie te sleg nie, Boet! Tue

4 Leaf/Fruit

Wed

THu

Fri

sun

1 Flower

2 Flower

8 Root

9 Root

15 Fruit

16 Root

5 Fruit

6 Fruit

10 Root/Flower 11 Flower

12 Leaf

13 Leaf/Fruit 14 Leaf

17 Root

19 Flower/Leaf 20 Leaf

21 Leaf

22 Leaf/Fruit 23 Fruit

26 Root

28 Flower

29 Flower

18 Flower

24 Fruit/Root 25 Root 31 Leaf

27 Root

7 Root

saT

30 Flower/Leaf

For more info and next month’s calendar

www.biologicwine.co.za 2012/11/21 11:30 AM

w o H

the month

is Thy Wine Rack? O

We go green this Christmas, with a choice of organic, biodynamic and sustainably farmed wines

rganic practises eradicate the use of pesticides, fungicides or chemical fertilisers and the resulting wines are neither harsh on the environment, nor on one’s health – if consumed in moderation, of course! What better way to end the year then, than responsibly, by drinking green? Lazanou, situated in Wellington, is an organic gem with only 5.5ha under vine. Josef Lazarus and Candice Stephanou are committed to the environment and have worked hard to make the farm self-sufficient, with sheep, a cow and umpteen ducks tending their vineyards. They have some exceptional wines under the belt, none more so than their Single Vineyard Syrah 2009.

Lazanou Syrah 2009, R150 This Michelangelo double gold winner, which was awarded the Trophy for the Best Organic Wine at the 2012 Michelangelo Wine Awards recently, literally bursts with dark plum fruit and black pepper flavours and has a beautiful silky mouth feel. It is a well-structured and elegant wine that begs for rare roast beef and a prominent place on your Christmas table. Elgin Ridge is an even smaller than Lazanou, with only 4.5ha under vines. What was intended as a relaxing retirement project for Brian and Marion Smith, has turned into what they call “bloody hard work!” Nonetheless they have a fervent passion for working the land organically and even shun the use of tractors, opting to use their horse, Maddox, for ploughing weeds in their vineyards. By all accounts Maddox enjoys the work as he is yet to use any expletives to describe a typical day. Elgin Ridge 282 Sauvignon Blanc 2011, R107 Named after the altitude of the vines, 282 metres above sea level, this wine features abundant flavours of green

apple, lemon and lime with a moderate acidity that lends balance to the wine. The result is another elegant addition to Elgin’s repertoire and should be perfect on Boxing Day with some of the leftover turkey or chicken in a crispy leaf salad. Situated just next door to Vineyard Connection, Laibach was one of the first producers to embrace organic viticulture in South Africa. Their Ladybird range of wines (with its great spotty packaging) pays homage to the little bug that acts as a natural pesticide in their vineyards. At the beginning of each year, thousands of these tiny helpers are released onto the farm’s vines, as cute combatants to mealybugs.

Avondale’s Ducks Maddox

Laibach Ladybird White 2012, R83 This Chardonnay-Viognier blend showcases ripe stone fruit, citrus and nuttiness and is rich and creamy with balancing acidity and freshness. You shouldn’t need any excuse to find a place for it on the Christmas table, and would do well to consider it as a stocking filler for those hard-to-shop-for family members. Reyneke is the only certified biodynamic producer in South Africa. Based on the holistic philosophy of Rudolph Steiner (also known for the development of the Waldorf education system), biodynamic farming is similar to organic farming but stresses further harmony with the earth’s inert clock and celestial cycles. As a result, care of the vines, timing of the harvest, bottling and even tastings are arranged according to the lunar calendar (Which we now feature regularly in The Month – Ed). While some regard biodynamic principles with scepticism, Reyneke remain the reigning champions of the Nedbank Green Wine Awards – and took the title of Best Organic Red and Best Organic White overall at the 2012 competition.

Reyneke Organic Shiraz Cabernet Sauvignon 2011, R63 The vivacious blend of organic grapes from both Stellenbosch and Swartland give this wine flavours of black pepper, savoury spice and ripe red fruit and the moderate oaking and grippy tannins add to the wine’s appeal. Avondale, under the leadership of Johnathan Grieve, has adopted a philosophy known as BioLOGIC – which is defined as a combination of organic and biodynamic viticulture, together with the application of modern scientific principles. Their unique approach makes place for both empirical methods and some of the nowcommon approaches such as the use of duck and other predators to combat pests in their vineyards. If you visit the farm, try to see the ‘Duck-Mobile’ in action, which transports and releases dozens of hungry feathered friends into the vineyards to eradicate snails each morning. Avondale Armilla Brut NV, R196 This Cap Classique is Chardonnay-based, part of which was barrel fermented and two years ageing on the lees. The result is a rich and complex wine with a fine mousse and bright acidity. If you’re looking for the perfect wine to toast a great Christmas party, your loved ones, or one of the greatest gifts we have in this country – our wonderful nature – this is the wine! The Vineyard Connection wishes all a beautiful and blessed summer festive season!

THE MONTH

TRAVEL

“Y

the month

ou’ll be fine” says the Editor when, in response to his demand for a December travel piece, I question whether my 2003 Toyota 4x2 bakkie will make it to the Richtersveld and back in one piece. Slamming the door behind me (which has become his way) I hear him add, “Be back here on Saturday - with 1500 words!” Studying the map I see that, even by SA standards, it’s quite a trek up to the Richtersveld, on the border with Namibia. However, knowing that De Beers had recently given back a 50km stretch of coastline to the Namaqua National Park, referred to as the ‘coastal route’, just over half way to the border, I wonder if there would be sense in a stop off there to break my five-day trip. Reading that it is ‘full of rocky shores, white sandy beaches, countless beautiful little bays and relatively untouched by human activity’, I wonder no more. Leaving Monday morning and heading up the N7, the

DECEMBER 2012

The Publisher t round tri

Don’t T at H

towns get smaller and further apart. None more so than Garies (at 450kms), and from here a 75km dirt track to Groenrivier takes you to the southern end of the coastal route. When the nice SanParks lady observes “You have a 4x4.” I stupidly don’t correct her. After all, with the tyres down, the ‘diff’ lock on and memories of getting through Botswana unscathed some years ago, I’ll be fine. So I distract her by pointing out the snake pictures on the wall. “If you get bitten by that one you should have time to get to hospital” she offers. “And that one?” I ask. “Er, rather don’t get bitten by that one,” she replies but adds, reassuringly, “no-one’s been bitten since I’ve worked here.” As I leave, I try not to allow her ‘trainee’ badge to unnerve me… Realising I’d not yet tested whether my newly-bought ‘on special’ air compressor actually worked, I anxiously let down the tyres to a still-too-hard 1.5 bar (0.9 bar is ideal) and drive off into some pretty hectic sand to ‘Kwass se Rivier’ and set up camp there. Flagging down the only other car I see that night, I’m relieved to learn that the ‘road’ to Hondeklip Bay gets better, not worse. Half-moon wind breaks around the camp fire, just a stones-throw from the beach, make the braaivleis and sweet corn taste all the better - and the quiet solitude proves a tonic after the long drive. My previous-night’s confidence is dented just 10kms up the track the following day, as my 4x2 grinds to a halt just 50 metres short of harder sand. An hour and a half of digging out and searching for grip rocks just gets me in even deeper trouble so I am relieved (to say the least) when Wouter from Garies comes by with a bunch of hikers doing the ‘Donkie Stap Safari’. As they each have a bit of a chuckle and offer now useless advice like ‘you should have had a 4x4’, Wouter cheerfully winches me out of my mess. The most mind-numbingly boring travel awaits on the long, straight, dry and windy stretch North where, because its mine country, you get asked for your ID, cell number, mother’s maiden name and inside leg measurement at each checkpoint. Save for an entertaining petrol-jockey at Port Nollith, the few redeeming qualities had me thinking that the definition of a double-edged sword must be to receive an Ambassadorship to Alexander Bay. The sign that

read ‘Sendelingsdrif 82 kms’ was a welcome site. That sign should have read ‘Ladies – don your sports bra here’ for an hour of cattle-grid road lay ahead. The changing landscape and relief from the sea wind is a decent distraction, though, and I eventually arrive at Park Reception and book in for three nights - tired, dusty and having gone a little insane from the rattling of the loose coins in the ashtray. The lady in reception suggests the Potjiespram Rest Camp for the first night since it is only a further half-hour into the park, properly known as the |Ai-|Ais/Richtersveld Transfrontier. She offers me the Official Info Guide for R50, which I gladly take, but in hindsight, she should have asked me whether I had a map, whether I could read signs backwards, whether I was driving a suitable vehicle, whether I had a puncture kit, a compressor, a spare wheel, the right spanner (I didn’t) and enough food for 3 days if I got stuck. Potjiespram sits amidst trees a short walk from a tributary of the Orange River. A cold shower there is preferable to a swim, although the ablution blocks need a little TLC. With a Kalahari Robin, a blazing fire, a couple of Roman spiders and a bottle of Nederburg Shiraz 2010 for company, I wind down quickly and barely remember dragging myself into the roof tent. The next morning sees me negotiating the confusing map (with ‘roads’ labelled R1 through R19) and the near impossible Akkedis Pass, which I assume doubles as 4x4 testing track and, for amusement, is deliberately not mentioned at reception. It’s slow, bone-jarring driving in the Richtersveld but the many forced stops allow spectacular photo-ops of gnarled mountains, Quiver tree and other Aloe varieties, and wonderful natural rock sculptures (see the ‘Hand of God’, pictured above right). Had he lived another year, Neil Armstrong could well

the month

takes an arduous 2000km ip to the Richtersveld

Try This Home!

far more dangerous thorns about which you must worry when flip-flopping around. With the river in full flow and daytime temperatures not yet that hot, this must be the best time of year to visit. The African Pied Wagtails and Southern Masked Weavers are clearly used to human company and unwinding is easy here, and waking to the sound of the water lapping at the shore in the morning sun is special indeed. I exchange ‘road’ stories with some fellow campers from Cape Town who tell of dangerous currents in the river and that a child had drowned at that very spot just a week prior and again question the responsibility of the park toward preparedness. Yet I reflect that the appeal of the Richtersveld is that it takes you out of your comfort zone, it doesn’t prepare you – it rather asks questions of your preparedness and, if it

the pleasure of solitude, the risky satisfaction of fending for yourself. The uneventful ten-hour trip home begins down the N7, this time skipping the Namaqua coastal route – I’ve already pushed my luck – and stopping only in Port Nollith to buy the correct wheel spanner. Arriving in the Winelands early Friday evening, I decide to quickly pop into the office (expecting no-one there) and find what is, to all intents and purposes, an end-of-year office Christmas party underway. The laughter and revelry abruptly stop as I walk in. Staff, designers, contributors and one or two long-term advertisers are staring back at me. A champagne cork pops and is quickly muzzled by that dolt, Jim Waite. The Editor steps forward and says “Oh, hi - we weren’t expecting you back until tomorrow...”

Save for an entertaining petrol-jockey at Port Nollith, the few redeeming qualities had me thinking that the definition of a double-edged sword must be to receive an Ambassadorship to Alexander Bay have visited and felt at home here – this harsh mountain desert is a moonscape. But it’s all worthwhile when you arrive at ‘nirvana’ – otherwise known as the De Hoop camp site – on an open stretch where the river splits with scattered trees for shade and neat ablution blocks with cold showers running with sun-warmed Orange water. I would hate to think there’s some large earth moving equipment driving around without it, but the bolt I extracted (dentist-fashion, and pictured right) from the rear tyre on arrival was large - even by bolt standards. I reflect that the repair kit I bought at Sendelingsdrif is by a long, long way the best R35 I have ever spent. What to do? Well you can easily spend a lazy day lolling around in the water, swimming upstream against the current and letting it carry you down, read, enjoy the silence, watch the Cormorants and Egrets patiently dry their wings on the rocks before observing the evening ritual of fly-catching swallows whizzing around above the water and fish jumping at dusk. At night, bats swirl around the treetops and the stars twinkle and glisten exactly as the Official Info Guide says – and only now do I read Useful Information like ‘Do not sleep on the bare ground as the Park is ideal Scorpion habitat.’ and ‘Make sure you have a good supply of water.’ This is not only spider, scorpion and snake country, it is the

were more accessible, would lose its appeal. Because it’s so harsh here it is, in a sense, easy not to come. But in the age of comfort, should we not be showing our children what it’s like to wake up in the middle of nowhere, what it’s like to live on their wits? Nothing else quite compares. Leaving the park after three nights and seeing people again ironically pleases and disappoints in equal measure – the realisation that, if in trouble you’ll be okay, detracts from

THE MONTH

OPINION

the month jim wAItE reviews

MOVIE review

Jim Waite loves sport – particularly when it’s on TV. He’s fond of movies too, but when his prize VHS copy of Flashdance was eaten by his VCR, he vowed “never to live vicariously through cellulite”. He meant celluloid, of course. Armed with an open mind and an empty wallet, he shares his experience of watching the premier of the locally filmed and produced cycling-themed movie, Baroudeur, below. (SubEd, pls check this last sentence. I think it should read ‘empty mind’ – Ed)

r u e d u o r a B

art of the p l a it v a is that faith s n r a e l e it Jim Wa ife cycle of l

“I

need you to cover a movie premier for The Month,” said the Editor recently when I asked him if there was any chance I could make up for the recipe review I submitted last month (Cellarmasters in the Kitchen, DECEMBER 2012). “Here’s R50 for petrol and some deodorant; and hurry back as the waiter for tonight’s office party has cancelled and we need a stand in.” Great, I thought, a movie, a party and money to spend; this is the Winelands life. Arriving at the premier of the locally produced and filmed movie ‘Baroudeur’ a few hours later, and smelling rather good but down in the finance stakes (even generic CK is rather pricey these days), I was introduced to a number of the stars of the show itself and given a brief run-down of the basic premise. The movie chronicles a period in the life of the character, Francois (Frans Cronjé), who loses his job and is forced to become a bicycle messenger to make ends meet. Fingering the credit card stub in my pocket as a grey-haired man, also called Frans, spoke of the relevance of the movie to him on a personal level, I anticipated a movie scripted just for me. Baroudeur, it turns out, is a French word for ‘fighter’, and in cycling circles refers to a rider brave (or crazy) enough to go on a suicidal solo effort. In competitive cycling events, the general rule is that the Baroudeur gets caught by the peloton, and while the effort is endearing, the Baroudeur is never a favourite to win. With the lights dimmed and the movie almost underway I picked up from the quiet chatter about

DECEMBER 2012

Without offering too many spoilers I’ll admit that I pushed back a

tear...

me that the actor Frans Cronjé was also the movie’s producer and was previously responsible for the relatively well-received local hits ‘Faith Like Potatoes’ and ‘Hansie’. As local productions go, it is no match for the cinematic spectacle that even low-budget Hollywood films tend to be. So be warned – at times the dialogue seems strained, there are a number of inconsistencies in the editing and here and there the limited funding for the movie is patently obvious. But, and this is an important ‘but’, the development of the story of a man trying to care for his family, who loses everything but his faith in God is well-constructed and ultimately, convincingly portrayed. That the frequent use of the word ‘Jesus’ in the movie is never in the form of an expletive came as a bit of a surprise, until I recalled that Cronje’s ‘Faith Like Potatoes’ was a big hit amongst church-goers and not a MasterChef spin-off. Baroudeur then, is also overtly Christian. Without offering too many spoilers I’ll admit that I pushed back a tear in the scene where Francois and his movie-wife, Michelle (played by the gorgeous and newto-the-acting-scene, Leoné Pienaar, who happened to be sitting in the seat next to me), fall asleep in their home, stripped bare of all they have by the Sherriff of the Court, save for a mattress, a sheet and two side lamps. I was tickled pink by the humour injected by Player 23, Merlin Balie, in the role of a fellow downand-outer (rather than rugby supporter). And I was

often on the edge of my seat as Franscois goes from hard-headed bicycle messenger to competitive cyclistcum-Baroudeur and let slip the odd expletive of my own, before realising that Pienaar’s ‘angry face’ was not something she learnt in an acting class. Believe it or not, Malcolm Lange and Phil Liggett both feature prominently in the movie, and even to a non-cyclist like me, the gravitas brought to Cronje’s efforts by the two as a result, is noteworthy. As the lights came up and the credits faded I realised that the grey-haired gent that had addressed the audience prior to the screening was the same Frans Cronjé pictured with jet-black hair in the movie. So relevant was the storyline, I learnt later, that in the period prior to filming his hair had in fact gone from jet-black to grey due to stress. The movie is unlikely to be seen in mainstream cinemas as the marketing strategy involves more intimate screenings in local churches nation-wide, at a cost substantially less than the average cup of coffee. Baroudeur is available for R105 on DVD, postage included, or as a download for far less. Does the Baroudeur win, you ask? Watch the movie for the answer to that, but as far as movies with a positive message go, Baroudeur is a winner all the way.

the month Lady Who Lunches

Malu Lambert is a freelance food and wine writer. Despite not having the kind of figure that would suggest it, she LOVES lunch. This column chronicles her pursuit of that love in the Winelands. Follow her on Twitter @MaluLambert

By George!

Malu Lambert visits Jordan Restaurant and is introduced to the ‘spectacular’

t’s a bright, beautiful day in Stellenbosch; all golden light and rolling green hills and my dining partner and I are in search of the only things left to complete it; lunch and a decent glass of wine. On the journey up to Jordan Wine Estate the tar roads of Stellenbosch give way to something wilder, more ‘country’. The scent of fynbos laces the air, and the thrum of cicadas adds rhythm to the scenery. I spot a giant artichoke, like a king’s forgotten crown, sprouting between the roadside foliage; perhaps I’m being fanciful, but it seems like an omen of the royal culinary experience that lies ahead. Jordan Restaurant is run by award-winning chef, George Jardine, and his wife, Louise (front-of-house). The décor is modern yet classic and simplicity reigns, letting the views of the mountains and dam spill in. “The scenery is so beautiful,” says George. “We created the restaurant to be as open as possible to maximise on the environment.” In keeping with the theme, the kitchen is also open plan; and the clamour, steam and fast-moving chefs are all the decoration the restaurant needs. George is no stranger to accolades; he’s raked in numerous awards for both this restaurant, and previously for Jardine, his iconic city restaurant (which is now closed). As a server pours ice cold Jordan Chenin Blanc into my glass (most Jordan wines are offered by the glass), I consider that with the inspiration on offer to him, it’s hardly surprising. As if to underscore the thought, I notice birds of prey circle above in the blue bowl of sky, their wings cutting geometric slices, from where I sit at the edge of the terrace overlooking the dam. Lunch is a two- or three-course affair. The menu bears the day’s date and, George confirms, it changes daily. “We literally call our fishmonger and vegetable supplier every morning and work with only the freshest ingredients. This is an exciting way of cooking as it produces fresh, tasty food, but it also keeps us on our toes. My kitchen team is small: me plus six young chefs.

We work hard and bounce ideas off each other to get the best combinations and presentation.” The plating of my asparagus starter is poetic—as if paying homage to the scenery—emerald green asparagus stems are offset by vividly purple flowers. It’s served on a grainy wood slab with a dressing of chopped boiled egg and mustard. “Our surroundings are a big influence on our cooking,” says George, “and we grow a lot of our own vegetables and we forage on the farm.” My partner’s plate is equally as pretty, though more of a cubist painting than my asparagus impressionist work. Dusky squares of springbok and artichoke terrine are positioned on a stripe of cranberry with ovals of celeriac puree in-between with juicy pickled blueberries and the same edible flowers. The mains are just as attractive. My dish is a delightful, buttery East Coast sole with broad bean fricassee, but my companion has the star of the show. On his plate are strips of aged Chalmar beef sirloin with a bone marrow crust, soaking into unctuous gravy. The dish is finished off with butter poached turnip, glazed marrow and

roasted shimeji mushrooms. Despite playing second fiddle in the looks department, it’s one of the best things I’ve tasted this year. We cool our gastronomic heels with a chilled strawberry soup and panna cotta, and a honey and poppy seed soufflé for dessert. Another good option for dessert would be a ‘trip to the cheese room’. “It’s called a ‘trip to the cheese room’ as guests are taken there to choose what sounds interesting to them,” explains George. The room is temperature controlled and stores 12 to 16 local boutique cheeses. Jordan Restaurant deals in the spectacular; from the views that pour into the open plan building, to the wine that, well, pours into the glass and to the food that’s as pretty as a painting.

George Jardine on lunch The best way to enjoy lunch is to start early. Sit down at noon and start with a glass of bubbly. My current favourite is Silverthorn’s The Green Man. Take time to enjoy the food and then finish off the afternoon with a cheese platter and port. Organise a designated driver or call a taxi, so you can relax and enjoy some interesting wines with your food. Make no plans for dinner and go home to relax some more.

Lunch is R275 for two courses and R320 for three. Jordan Wine Estate, Stellenbosch Kloof Road, Stellenbosch. Call to book your table on 021 881 3612

THE MONTH

MY STYLE

the month Pass with

Flying Colours Robyn Anne Powrie, of Robyn-Anne Designs, shares her tips on Matric Dance and ‘Huisdans’ dresses and outfits:

Matric dances and university ‘huisdanse’ are a seasonal rite of passage for all young people in the Boland area and it pays to consider using a boutique designer to custom-make your eveningwear. With a little time, and often for less money than you’d expect, a designer is able to bring your ideal dress, and your dreams, to life. Compliment your dress with a tie for your date in a matching colour or the same fabric as your dress. Contact Robyn on 082 227 1175, or robynannedesigns@gmail.com or visit robynanne.withtank.com

Ryk neethling The Cape Winelands is filled with famous faces whether they come here to play or stay. The golden boy of South African swimming, Ryk Neethling, traded the hustle and bustle of the city for the serenity of the Winelands. He can be found at Val de Vie where he heads up Marketing. We recently caught up with him on life in the Winelands...

@The_month

DECEMBER 2012

You became the poster boy for swimming in South Africa, but if you hadn’t taken up swimming, what would you have turned to? I got my degree in Industrial Psychology and worked in commercial real estate development in the US. If we didn’t win that gold medal in Athens, I would be developing industrial properties in Arizona and California now! Not all swimmers make it. At what point should a committed, but always in the B-team, swimmer consider trying out for other sports? Defining your own meaning of success is very important. I know Olympic medallists who are unhappy and unfulfilled and “b-team” swimmers who feel they’ve achieved success. It is all relative, I guess. Change when what you’re doing doesn’t fulfil you. Salt or chlorine? In a pool, chlorine; but I do enjoy swimming in the ocean. Who are the emerging swimmers to pay attention to? We have a lot of talent in SA, but at the moment there is nobody who really stands out ahead of the rest. When you’re not in the pool, what else do you like doing? Cycling, running and working out in the gym. I also do some outdoor “strongman” workouts with John McGrath, the strongest man I know. Are you a ‘roady’ or mountain biker? I was generally on a road bike when I lived in the US, but now I’m a mountain bike fan.

As far as running is concerned, what is your fastest 5km? No idea, but in this area that question should have a caveat – “Wind aided or not?” Do you feel you are built for speed or endurance? I was an Olympic Finalist in the distance swimming events at two Olympics but now I am a sprinter! We sense that this might be the birth of a new champion tri-athlete.... Ha... the swim will kill me! What sports do you enjoy watching? Rugby and cricket; and basketball when I lived in Arizona. If you had to choose, would it be Heyneke, Jake or P Divvy? Support the current coach, I say - after all, it’s a tough position. Did you ever play cricket? Sure, at school… Who was the meanest batsman you ever bowled at who became famous? Ha ha... I honestly can’t tell you but I do remember trying to get Boeta Dippenaar out during breaks at school and never succeeding. He batted for a week before somebody got him out! You’re obviously a fan of the Winelands, is it fair to suggest that this is as close as it gets to ‘heaven on earth’? Absolutely, I think Val de Vie and the Winelands is paradise – but it’s not just the place, which is certainly beautiful, it’s the amazing people too002E

Feiran Griede

the month

Healthy levels of debt are thought to be around 200% of GDP – so we have about 100 points to cut and a long way to go

“Pick your side. Pick your HISTORY”

Closing out 2012, and five years into the global recession, Feiran Griede finds it was Asia’s savers that started the rot, and surplus nations like Germany who will end up paying the bill

n the thirty years prior to 2007, debt ratios in the West had risen from a manageable 150% of GDP, to over 300%. “It was bound to end badly,” says Ambrose Evans-Pritchard, writing in London’s Daily Telegraph. We over-borrowed, over-leveraged and hit the point of no return. Borrowing needs a lender, though, and EvansPritchard reckons the “savings glut” was the problem. “The world savings rate crept up to a modern-era high of 24% of GDP – which was too much saving and too little consumption to keep growth, and people, in jobs” he says. The credit bubble, and the subprime crisis that followed, were merely symptoms of this and not the cause of the recession. Asia built up US$10 trillion of foreign reserves from their saving in the preceding decade which found its way into the global bond markets allowing profligate ‘spender nations’ to borrow too cheaply. At the same time, Western markets were flooded with cheap goods, driving down goods inflation and Western Central Banks – in their “thrall to inflationtargeting” - cut short-term interest rates ever lower. Using cheaper labour in China and Eastern Europe, Western multinationals drove up the profit share of GDP to historic highs, concentrating wealth among those who tend to buy shares, property and land

(rather than goods), which was also a formula for asset bubbles. The game could continue only as long as the West was willing to run ruinous current account deficits, stimulating demand but borrowing themselves into dire trouble - or until one of the bubbles burst. So, when the subprime crisis hit and borrowers knew the game was up, they cut back feverishly and slashed spending. ‘Surplus’ countries didn’t take up the slack and so the world contracted. Creditor nation Germany, for example, didn’t offset the squeeze in southern Europe and still exports 5.2% more than it imports. Ditto China and the USA. The irony is that unless ‘excess savers’ acknowledge that world savings are too high, and that a healthy recovery depends on them saving less, it is they that will suffer the effects of purging this “debt mountain”. Healthy levels of debt are thought to be around 200% of GDP – so we have about 100 points to cut and a long way to go. And this won’t be achieved by austerity alone, says Evans-Pritchard, because economic contraction is not an option - much of the debt will have to be written off. “Whether this is done by inflation (1945-1952) or default (1930-1934) will be the great political battle of this decade. Pick your side. Pick your history.”

Invest in

yourself

Dave Rundle is impressed by one school’s commitment to take health seriously

wo years ago Bridge House School, in the Franschhoek Valley, set about revamping its sports strategy with a 10- to 15-year plan that incorporates not only core sports, but aims to draw attention to the importance of a healthy and active outdoor lifestyle. Those who live in the Franschhoek area, and the Winelands in general, are fortunate to live in an unbelievably beautiful area and so the formulation of

the school’s Outdoor and Active Series was an obvious fit. The launch of the Series started last year with the Fittest School Campaign and was followed with the addition of The Bridge House Mile, which took place on the 4th of November. The inaugural Bridge House Mile, presented by ‘Glacier by Sanlam’, was an open water swim on the new Berg River dam and took place on an incredibly beautiful day, albeit that the crystal-clear water was a little chilly at 17°C! The event included a 200m, a 400m and the mile swim and a total of 362 entries were received, including Olympic triathlete, Kate Roberts (featured in the DECEMBER 2012 edition of The Month), Paralympian, Achmat Hassiem and South African open water swimmer, Daniel Marais. Kate Roberts, the winner of the wetsuit division, was clear about her take on the event, on the day. “This has been an amazing event. You guys live in an incredibly beautiful part of the world and I am blown away by what has been staged here. The organization

was amazing and the spirit of the school and what it is trying to achieve was very clear. Watch out Midmar, here comes the Bridge House Mile!” Members of the school were also very happy to see Ryk Neethling, Olympian and Marketing Director of the Val de Vie estate, at the event. Many of the Bridge House children train at the Ryk Neethling Swimming Academy at Val De Vie and he was delighted to see them all do well. The vision of the school is to tag other sports onto this event - such as a mountain bike race and a trail run. What could be better than a weekend of sport in Franschhoek? On behalf of the community of the school, thanks must go to the organising staff and teachers for all their hard work and to the main presenting sponsor, ‘Glacier by Sanlam’, for their contribution - as well as Pick n Pay, Val de Vie and Three Streams for their assistance. Start training now and join me next year at The Bridge House Mile 2013!

THE MONTH

DECEMBE

2012

the month

WHAT’S ON? IN DECEMBER 2012

NOW UNTIL 1 DEC / FROM 10AM / CAPE TOWN / MUMBO JUMBO Solo art exhibition by

Michael Taylor. Whatiftheworld Gallery, Argyle Street, Woodstock, whatiftheworld.com/exhibitions

until 12 3 DEC

12 DEC – 9 JAN / 10AM – 12.30PM / CAPE TOWN / SNOWMAN BUILDING

UNTIL 3 DEC / FROM 9AM / CAPE TOWN / MERCILESS Experimental art

exhibition by Veronica Wilkinson. Alliance Francaise, Loop Street, 021 423 5699

7 DEC / 8.30PM / DURBANVILLE / DAN PATLANSKY Enjoy the music of SA’s

blues guitar maestro as he kicks off his nationwide tour. R110pp, Die Boer Theatre, Chenoweth Street, 021 979 1911, dieboer.com/program

7 DEC / 5PM / PAARL / CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT AT LABORIE Food,

Christmas goodies and carols to keep young and old entertained and inspired. Kids R20, adults R50pp, Laborie Wine Farm, Taillefer Street, laboriewines.co.za

2 – 4 DEC / 6PM – 10PM / FRANSCHHOEK / ‘MAGIC OF BUBBLES’ MCC AND CHAMPAGNE FESTIVAL Enjoy local Cap Clas-

siques, Champagnes and food from Franschhoek’s best restaurants. The theme is ‘Black and White’ with prizes to the best dressed. R200pp includes tasting glass and coupons, Franschhoek Huguenot Monument, 021 876 2861

8/9

8, 9 DEC / 9AM – 5PM / PAARL / CAPE SUMMER SUN FEST Visit lions, croco-

diles, wine and fruit farms and end with a riverside braai, live music and ‘family sports’. R135pp, summercrawl.com

Lost for something to do with the kids? Real snow means real fun – and memories to warm any heart. R5pp, The Ice Station, GrandWest Casino and Entertainment World, 021 535 2260, icerink.co.za

UNTIL 21 DEC / FROM 6PM / CAPE TOWN / TABLE MOUNTAIN SUNSET SPECIAL Return tickets up the cable-

way are half-price from 6pm – kids R50, adults R102.50pp. Tafelberg Road, tablemountain.net

26 14-17 14 – 17 DEC / GREYTON / DIRTOPIA MTB FESTIVAL Night rides, trail rid-

ing, downhill events and something for everyone and age. Tarentaalkraal on Middelplaas Farm, 021 884 4752, dirtopia.co.za

UNTIL 15 DEC / 8.15PM / CAPE TOWN / I DON’T WORK ON SUNDAYS Marc

Lottering sees the funny side of life in SA. From R80pp, Baxter Theatre, Main Road, baxter.co.za

16 DEC / 7.30PM / CAPE TOWN / CHRISTMAS CONCERT Richard Cock

leads a Christmassy programme of choral and instrumental pieces as well as popular carols. R90pp, St George’s Cathedral, stgeorgescathedral.com

26 DEC / 12.30PM – 8PM / CAPE TOWN / FESTIVAL OF CHARIOTS East meets

West with a colourful 20m chariot, music, food, clothing, face painting and more. Starts from Sea Point Civic Hall, 021 686 1179

27 DEC

27 DEC / 6PM – 7PM / V&A WATERFRONT / MACSTANLEY The band

performs from ‘Lucid, Alive and Dreaming’ – FREE, Waterfront Amphitheatre

jan

23 DEC

2 JAN / 10AM – MIDNIGHT / CAPE TOWN / TWEEDE NUWE JAAR STREET PARADE Enjoy all the colour and

23 DEC / 5.30PM / CAPE TOWN / KIRSTENBOSCH SUMMER CONCERT: PRIME CIRCLE

Enough said! R110pp, webtickets.co.za

19 DEC / 9AM – 1.30PM / CAPE TOWN / TOUR OF CAPE TOWN’S WATER, ABOVE AND BELOW GROUND Ex-

plore aspects of the city’s history in relation to its water sources. R150 to R550pp, start at top of Deer Park Drive, fo8.co.za

noise associated with the Cape’s iconic Minstrel bands. Starts Kuizergracht, with good viewing from Darling, Adderley and Whale streets, capetown-minstrels.co.za

UNTIL 12 JAN (NOT 24, 25 DEC) / 8PM / CAPE TOWN / MILESTONES TO THE MILLENIUM Mike McCullagh and

team play through five decades and a string of legendary hits. R78pp, GrandWest Roxy Review Bar, 021 789 2731

If you’d like to feature an upcoming event in The Month, please send no more than 100 words, and at least one hi-res image, to whatson@themonth.co.za DECEMBER 2012

the month What’s On? Picnics

Summer in the Winelands means school holidays, the Festive Season, lazy days and picnics. Why not treat yourself and your family to one of these highly recommended options?

Solms-Delta Krismiskoortjies

15 AND 16 DEC / 6PM / FRANSCHHOEK / Enjoy a fes-

tive friends and family-oriented evening of Christmas carols and rural gospel songs at the SolmsDelta wine estate. Bring your own picnic blanket and basket, or order a delicious picnic basket for R145 pp, from the estate’s Fyndraai restaurant. Wine and Cape snacks such as samosas, frikkadelle, mini pies and milk tarts and koeksisters will be available to buy on the night. Music starts 7pm. R50pp, children under 12 enter for free, picnic basket bookings to be placed before 12 noon on Sat the 15th. Entrance bookings are recommended as places are limited. All bookings: restaurant@solms-delta.co.za or call Henry or Thozi 021 874 3937 Ext 115. solms-delta.co.za

Perfect Picnics at Uitkyk

MONDAYS TO FRIDAYS / 9AM – 5PM | SATURDAYS AND SUNDAYS / 10AM – 4PM / STELLENBOSCH / Get your family

and friends together for a delightful picnic at Stellenbosch wine estate Uitkyk and relax on the sprawling lawns surrounding the estate’s neo-classical 1788 manor house, while the kids keep themselves entertained on the Dreamweavers jungle gym. Gourmet picnic baskets, serving two, are on offer for R300, and include a bottle of wine from the estate’s Flat Roof Manor lifestyle range. Expect artisanal fare such as home-baked breads, spreads, cheeses, bobotie spring rolls, sausage skewers, cold meats, savoury tarts, crudités with tzatziki, salad, fruit, dark moist chocolate brownies and mineral water. Baskets must be booked 24 hours in advance (contact Bianca Brand on 021 884 4416 or bbrand@distell.co.za) or you’re are welcome to bring your own picnic baskets, in which case a R50 entrance fee is applicable. The fee is, however, waived if more than R100 is spent on wine purchases at the estate’s tasting centre.

jc le roux And finally, if you’re planning your own picnic and are in need of some fizz, we’re delighted to hear that The House of J.C. Le Roux has reopened! FROM 3 DEC / STELLENBOSCH / Enjoy Le Good Life again after the 3rd, when The House of J.C. Le Roux, South Africa’s leading home of sparkling wine, reopens its doors with a glamorous new look and bubbly to spare! The inviting new outside deck or the flirty pink La Fleurette Room are sure to become the hot spots for bubbly lovers this season, where the ever popular bubbly and marshmallow, meringue and nougat pairings are sure to keep the tongues wagging. The golden La Vallée Room and the elegant Scintilla lounge add options to those in search of the perfect setting to savour the estate’s award winning Cap Classiques, such as the 2012 Amorim Méthode Cap Classique Challenge winner, J.C. Le Roux’s Scintilla 2003. If you’re likely to need to line your tummy, the restaurant at The House of J.C. Le Roux boasts a stunning new under cover terrace seating area and a summer gourmet braai area. The restaurant is open for breakfast and lunch, and the latter sees sparkling wine and oyster pairings take centre stage. The restaurant is open from 9am – 4pm with breakfast served between 9am and 11am and lunch from noon – 3pm. To reserve a table or for information on cellar tours and tastings, call 021 865 8200 or visit jcleroux.co.za

Summer Picnic Season at Hartenberg Wine Estate DEC / STELLENBOSCH / The lush lawns of the

Hartenberg Wine Estate are ready for long, inviting al fresco lunches, the odd game of croquet or boules, and perhaps even some shut-eye. Imagine Repas a la ferme and you’ll get the idea. Whether you choose to sit at tables or lounge on cushions under the trees, expect to be spoilt with freshly baked farm bread, snoek pâté, beetroot and cumin dip, rosemary focaccia, a pistachio studded lamb, pork and chicken terrine, salads and something for chocolate lovers… The new picnic menu, at R145 per person, includes a half bottle of a selection of Hartenberg’s wines or local grape juice while children have their own menu and a fun play area to keep them entertained. As an alternative to the picnics, Hartenberg’s black board menu offers of choice of dishes daily to complement the wines of Cellarmaster Carl Schultz and his team. Hartenberg Wine Estate is situated on the Bottelary Road (M23) off the R304 to Stellenbosch. For bookings, call 021 865 2541, email info@hartenbergestate.com or visit hartenbergestate.com. THE FINE PRINT The views expressed in this magazine do not necessarily reflect the opinions of The Month or its affiliates. Having said that, we generate practically all

of the material printed in each edition ourselves; please don’t reproduce any part of it without the Editor or Publisher’s permission (we’re generally quite generous – so just ask).

The Month subscribes to the South African Press Code and if you feel we’re not living up to that, please call the Press Ombudsman on 011 484 3612. We regard our sources as

reliable and verify as much of what we print as we can, but inaccuracies can occur and readers using information in The Month do so at their own risk.

THE MONTH

social

the month

Sue de Groot, Neil Pendock and Sam Rodgers enjoyed the festivities at the Diners Club Winemaker of the Year awards recently, and so did Mdudzi and Mimi Mtshali, and award winners Anri Truter (Young Winemaker of the Year) and Winemaker of the Year, Razvan Macici

Right and bottom right: Platter’s 2013 SA Wine Guide is now available and a must-have for many visiting the Winelands. Seen here are some of the accolade winners in this year’s iteration: Francois Conradie (Superquaffer of the Year Award for the Melck’s Shiraz Cabernet Sauvignon 2011 from Muratie Estate); Gottfried Mocke and Emul Ross (Winery of the Year Award for Cape Chamonix); Andries Burger (White Wine of the Year Award for Paul Cluver Noble Late Harvest 2011) and Andrea and Chris Mullineux (Red Wine of the Year Award for the Mullineux Family Syrah 2010). The three heavy weights are Michael Fridjhon (MC at the launch) Philip van Zyl (editor) and Andrew McDowall (publisher)

Social Scene

Guests and media were treated to fine weather, delicious food, heavenly wine and the hospitality of Delaire GM, Johan Laubser at the release of Delaire Graff’s Laurence Graff Reserve 2009. At R1650, it’s best left to hide in your cellar for a while, but once you open it, you’ll get as many smiles as you see on this page, and then some!

DECEMBER 2012

The Minister of Tourism, Marthinus van Schalkwyk, is seen with Cape Wine Academy students at La Motte, mid-November, where he launched a Sommelier Training Programme and was taught the art of Sabrage, by Marilyn Cooper of the Cape Wine Academy. No Ministers were harmed in staging this picture.

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