Val de Vie Magazine
EYES ON THE WINELANDS Sir Richard Branson discovers Franschhoek Life worth living
SPORTSMAN TO BUSINESSMAN Ryk Neethling gives away his Olympic gold medal
ROAMING THE AFRICAN PLAINS Summer 2015
A safari that gets you closer than ever before
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A BEAUTIFUL JOURNEY Francois Pienaar and Elana Meyer set their sights on the marathon that’s more than a race
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CONTENTS
EYES ON THE WINELANDS Sir Richard Branson discovers Franschhoek Life worth living
SPORTSMAN TO BUSINESSMAN Ryk Neethling gives away his Olympic gold medal
ROAMING THE AFRICAN PLAINS Summer 2015
A safari that gets you closer than ever before
A BEAUTIFUL JOURNEY Francois Pienaar and Elana Meyer set their sights on the marathon that’s more than a race
On the cover Ryk Neethling Photography Craig Kolesky Editorial Ryk Neethling Janette Griesel Fashion Janette Griesel Photography, hair and makeup Sian Chapman Model Derryn Lester Contributors Clinton van der Berg Greg Lederle Jazz Kuschke Luke Alfred Mark Pettipher Tshepang Molisana Val de Vie marketing director Ryk Neethling Advertising sales Janette Griesel Janette.Griesel@valdevie.co.za Managing, design and production Mark Pettipher MPDPS (PTY) Ltd mark@mpdps.com Production editor Dalene van Niekerk Designer Dirk Knoesen Printing RSA Litho Val de Vie Magazine is published for Val de Vie Estate Elements Management (PTY) Ltd Val de Vie Estate R301/Jan Van Riebeeck Drive Paarl 7647 South Africa Contact Tel +27 (0)21 863 6100 Fax +27 (0)21 863 2741 Email info@valdevie.co.za Web Valdevie.co.za
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The Val de Vie journey
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The trophy list
12 By design 20 Full circle 25 Breaking new ground 30 The fairest of them all 36 A well-matured friendship 40 The marathon that’s more than a race 44 Tread carefully 46 Out of Africa 52 Haute summer 62 Caution: strong coffee 66 Double-barrel investments 70 Cultivating beauty 76 The AfrAsia Bank Cape Wine Auction
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78 Fit for kings and queens 82 Oh so “Clicquot” 88 UB40 at Val de Vie 91 The Market at Val de Vie 92 Sport of kings 95 Cintron Pink Polo 100 A good year ALL RIGHTS RESERVED No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in an electronic system or transmitted in any form or by any means electronic, digital or mechanical, including scanning, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the written permission of the publisher and copyright owners as featured.
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30 “The Cape Winelands
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are home to some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in South Africa. The air is pure and the fertile
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land is vast, with a rich culture and some of the best educational institutions in the country. No wonder the region is one of the most soughtafter places to live in the world.� Ryk Neethling
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The Val de Vie journey I
’m often asked how I went from almost drowning as a five-year-old to being an Olympic champion. Obviously it took a lot of hard work and sacrifice – but most importantly it was the result of a mind-set
of doing something to get better every day. It’s probably the most valuable lesson I learnt in my sporting career, and it is with that mind-set that we approach the editing of this magazine: the journey of excelling in everything you do. The goal has always been to get better with every edition, and I am very happy with the result of our eighth edition. We focus on the remarkable places and people of the Cape Winelands, undoubtedly
It’s probably the most
one of the most beautiful regions in the world. This is something we’ve always known, but it was especially gratifying when the worth of our beloved valley was validated by The New York Times
valuable lesson I learnt
naming Cape Town the number-one place to visit in the world in 2014 – and also when arguably the world’s most famous entrepreneur, Sir Richard Branson, announced his purchase of the iconic Mont Rochelle
in my sporting career, and
in Franschhoek. We take a closer look at Mont Rochelle and discover how two of South Africa’s favourite sporting
it is with that mind-set
heroes joined forces to uplift the Cape Town Marathon with ambitions of positioning it as one of the world’s major running events to rival those of New York, London and Berlin. This edition covers a range
that we approach the
of South Africa’s key individuals, from the hottest musical talents such as Black Coffee to the story of the four “Epicureans”, a well-matured friendship forged through the love of wine and good food.
editing of this magazine
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I hope you enjoy the read, and I look forward to seeing you in the Valley of Life soon.
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The trophy list The six events worth experiencing in person Words by Jazz Kuschke
In an age of satellite television and web-based live streaming, we can pretty much watch any sporting event in real time. But no matter how high-definition your display or how crisp your sound, it’s not quite the same as that “in-the-stadium” experience. Here’s our pick of events from around the world that are worth getting off the couch and onto a plane for
Singapore F1 GP September, Singapore The Singapore Grand Prix on the Marina Bay Street Circuit was the inaugural F1 night race and the first street circuit in Asia. If that’s not enough reason to go, consider the fact that every race since 2008 has featured at least one Safety Car, which means there is always drama at this one. Aside from the racing, there is lots to experience around the event – like the F1 Rocks concert.
Hong Kong Sevens
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Late March, Hong Kong
World Series games, features a one-day women’s
It’s the big daddy of all festival-style rugby
tournament and juniors playing curtain-raisers – it
tournaments, and still the one all others (our own
is in the stands where the real action happens. Rugby
very successful Cape Town Tens included) are
fans from around the world make the annual
measured by. The Hong Kong event is considered
pilgrimage to the South Stand, where they dress up
the premier tournament on the IRB Sevens World
and make merry for most of the three-day event. It’s
Series and the one all the big nations want to win,
loud, cosmopolitan and very, very happy. Outside the
so you’re guaranteed the finest in running rugby.
stadium, the “Sevens Village” is where it all happens
But while the competition on the pitch is fierce – the
– because naturally the festivities don’t end when the
tournament spans three days and, aside from the
day’s matches are over…
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Red Bull X-Fighters Madrid Late June, the Bull Ring, Madrid
But it’s the legendary Plaza de Toros de Las Ventas
Created back in 2001, Red Bull X-Fighters has
in Madrid, Spain that’s seen as perhaps the most
become the biggest freestyle motocross tour on the
exciting venue in which to experience the thrill of
planet. The competition-format tour features the
the X-Fighters.
world’s best riders performing seemingly impossible
This amazing bullring has been on the calendar
manoeuvres on specially constructed tracks in iconic
for more than a decade and has seen some ground-
locations across the globe.
breaking performances.
The year 2014 saw the tour visit South Africa for
These included Robbie Maddison showing off
the first time, with a unique event in front of the
the spectacular Volt (body varial) that earned
Union Buildings in Pretoria – and the city of
him victory in the 2010 event as well as Frenchman
jacarandas is still buzzing from the sounds of 350
Tom Pagès performing a bike flip in 2014 – the
two-stroke engines, and hoping for the return of an
first time that trick had ever been performed
even bigger event in 2015.
in competition.
Ryder Cup Every second September, Europe or the US The Ryder Cup – a biennial men’s golf competition between teams from Europe and the US held on alternating continents every two years – is the one golfing event that attracts the most non-golfing spectators. Perhaps it is the history (it first took place in 1927), the beautiful venues or the fact that it is a team-style event featuring the world’s best players. Europe won the 2014 event (their third successive victory) at the Gleneagles Hotel in Perth and Kinross, Scotland in 2014. The 2016 Ryder Cup will be held at Hazeltine National Golf Club in Chaska, Minnesota from 30 September to 2 October. val de vie
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Pipeline Masters December, North Shore of Oahu, Hawaii
It is also the scene of the final event on the
Every year between November and February, a
Association of Surfing Professionals World Tour
20-kilometre stretch of coastline on the Hawaiian
– the Billabong Pipe Masters, the place where
island of Oahu becomes the centre of the surfing
the world title is usually decided. The thundering
universe. The “North Shore” comes alive as swells
waves break in close proximity to the beach, giving
born from Pacific storms are wind-groomed over
spectators, judges and photographers front-row
thousands ocean kilometres before unloading all
seats to what is simply the most awesome spectacle
their energy on the coral and volcanic reefs.
in the surfing world. Even if you have never held
The spot of Ehukai Beach, commonly known
a surfboard in your hands and have no clue what
as the Banzai Pipeline, is the ultimate, creating
board wax smells like, you’ll be moved by sitting on
some of the world’s most perfect – but also most
that beach. But then, do you really need an excuse
– dangerous tubes.
to go to Hawaii?
Wimbledon First two weeks of July, All England Club, London The Wimbledon Championship is the oldest tennis tournament in the world. As the only one of the four Grand Slams that takes place on grass courts, it is also seen as the most prestigious. Tickets to this very traditional affair are difficult to come by, with a ballot opening in December of the year prior to the event. Figures from 2011 suggest that there were four applicants for every ballot ticket. But then, Wimbledon and the French Open are the only Grand Slam tournaments where fans without tickets can queue on the day of the match and still get seats on the show courts. So take a chance and go for the strawberries and cream, to watch the big names in full swing – and to get behind an underdog and be a part of the crowd that carries him or her through a match. 10
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By design Dramatic but harmonious, Stefan Antoni’s reputation for transforming interior spaces with raw simplicity extends across the globe, from Cape Town to Ibiza – and investors in Val de Vie’s Polo Village are wooed by his trademark style Words by Debbie Hathway
M
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odern design can easily become austere and
Associates’ work now being conducted on foreign
clinical. The real art lies in the ability to create
shores, on all continents.
a living space that has soul and charm, yet keeps the
Partners Mark Rielly and Michele Rhoda say that
harmony of the uncluttered and the uncomplicated
their clients know exactly what they want and often
sophistication of contemporary design.
approach the practice to produce it simply because
The architectural and interior design firm Antoni
they haven’t seen it done before. When it comes to an
Associates was created 16 years ago as an extension
architectural concept, many clients request flowing
of the architectural brand of SAOTA – and it has
spaces and open-plan living. For example, they will
perfected the essence of this art. Its forte is balancing
ask for double-volume spaces with seamless pocket
contemporary design with natural elements to create
doors that slide away below the barrier between
a seamless flow from interior to exterior.
inside and outside.
This practice is known for creating dynamic
When creating a liveable, homely environment,
and dramatic spaces and memorable experiences
that is where the interior architecture design and
as people seek out what has been dubbed “the Cape
decor come in. In order to ensure synchronicity
Town look”. Getting this architectural and design
between the architecture, the interior spaces and
synergy just right is the reason for half of Antoni
the decor, the design team works with the layering
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ABOVE A typical example of their trademark style, the De Wet residence
of textures, finishes and colours to create contrast that makes the space more inviting.
in Clifton, Cape Town, South Africa;
The firm’s portfolio of companies includes the
SAOTA and Antoni Associates
furniture brand Okha. Not only do they do new designs but they also take existing structures and
RIGHT Pearl Valley, Winelands,
completely redefine them into tailored spaces to
South Africa; Antoni Associates
provide a unique and luxurious interior. While the group has been involved in high-end property developments around the globe, it is the more commercial and larger-scale developments that have offered it new opportunities. “Our clients in the Chinese super-cities, for example, are especially interested in the indooroutdoor experience, which a lot of people aren’t used to designing,” says Rhoda. “That’s what we’re best at.” The challenge to keep ideas fresh at the top end of the residential marketplace is left to inspiration gleaned from designers’ experiences, observations and even dreams. “It’s the location that makes every project different, whether it’s the mountains
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V - design of China, the winelands of Franschhoek or the quaint suburb of Tamboerskloof near Cape Town’s City Bowl,” says Rielly. “We allow the surroundings to influence the interior – but in a very subtle, considered way.” Some of Antoni Associates’ most-praised projects showcase this very concept. The voluminous space creates a gallery feel and flows seamlessly to the exterior. The barriers between in and outdoor dissolve over infinite views of the ocean as though a home were floating above the Clifton shores. The angular and geometrical lines are offset by softer meandering curves combined with natural textures to mimic organic form. Garden courts are also becoming more popular, creating calming, intimate spaces within the home. Apart from “owning” the indoor-outdoor trend on the Atlantic Seaboard, Stefan Antoni and Antoni Associates have been tasked with taking their signature design expertise to the winelands. The Val
“It’s the location that makes every project different, whether it’s the mountains of China, the winelands of Franschhoek or the quaint suburb of Tamboerskloof near Cape Town’s City Bowl,” says Rielly. “We allow the surroundings to influence the interior – but not in a very subtle, considered way”
de Vie Polo Village is the first new development to be released since the conception of Val de Vie Estate, and has proved to be a quantum-leap departure from convention. The challenge was to create a charming village feel within the current aesthetic, but with its own identity. “Mostly we are asked to develop contemporary buildings with organic shapes or horizontal designs
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V - design LEFT Val de Vie Polo Village, Winelands, South Africa; Antoni Associates and Okha BELOW Silverhurst, Cape Town, South Africa; SAOTA and Antoni Associates OPPOSITE Pearl Valley, Winelands, South Africa; Antoni Associates
with flat roofs,” says Antoni. “At Val de Vie, we accentuated the pitched roof by using very strong vertical lines, which make the polo pads feel more grand.” This concept allowed them to incorporate double-volume glazing, extending it all the way to the pitch of the roof, where the timber rafters remain exposed in the top luxury pads to promote a warmth and generosity of space. With that end in mind, the bottom units have dropped bulkheads and a living area opening out onto a private terrace. “The success of the design depends on how you treat the detail to make it special,” says Rhoda. “You need to be seduced by the space, but also be able to live there as a family.” The village layout is guided by the estate’s landscaping aesthetic so that residents feel part of Val de Vie and are not enclosed in a separate estate. In addition, the pads are orientated so that the open spaces are protected from the prevailing winds, and face the best surrounding mountain views. val de vie
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THIS IMAGE Silver Bay, Shelley Point, South Africa; SAOTA and Antoni Associates BELOW De Zalze,Winelands, South Africa; Antoni Associates
The “Polo” Pads have been in high demand since their launch, with only 60 exclusively designed suites made available in sizes of 68, 96 and 112 square meters. With the upcoming hotel to be built by one of South Africa’s top luxury hotel groups, Legacy Hotels and Resorts, owners will have the option of including the suites in the hotel rental pool, which will be the only part of the estate that will be available for short-term rentals. The hotel planned to shoulder with the famed Polo Pavilion will be one of Legacy’s crown jewels in a portfolio of 28 luxury hotels across Africa. More imminent is the forthcoming expansion on the recently purchased land between Val de Vie and Pearl Valley. “We are discussing designing various plots according to a more modern design aesthetic,” says Antoni. “They will be a little more contemporary, with a French countryside feel.” The launch of this exciting new development will begin in 2015. 18
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Full circle
Having toiled for most of his life in pursuit of his Olympic dream, swimming champion Ryk Neethling is poised to do the unthinkable: give away his gold medal Words by Clinton van der Berg
I
t’s an extraordinary gesture by Ryk Neethling, but
Darian Townsend broke the world 4x100m relay
anyone who knows his remarkable narrative, so
record to capture gold and delight a nation.
strongly rooted in his Free State heritage, will
The 10-year anniversary recently passed. It was
understand. He will be donating his medal to Grey
a largely uneventful day for Neethling, although
College in Bloemfontein, his alma mater and one of
he couldn’t resist a night-time SMS to Schoeman:
South Africa’s most prolific sporting schools. A space
“Jy’s ’n yster nou en was een in die verlede,” which,
has already been cleared in the hallowed halls of the
roughly translated, means: “You’re the man now and
famous establishment in the hope of inspiring young
you were the man back then.”
boys – and honouring an older one.
percolated a long time in Neethling’s mind. In 2012,
Neethling. The grand old school is in his bloodline,
he first had the idea to hand it over, perhaps to be
having hosted generation after generation of family
auctioned for charity. But that was limiting, especially
members, and it helped cultivate the excellence that
given his self-styled philosophy of wanting the medal
so strongly defines the former swimmer.
to always “work” for him, whether at a personal or
Neethling is long retired from his 2004 exploits in
business level.
Athens, but his champion’s mind-set has seamlessly
Which led him to the doors of Grey College,
transferred to business and other pursuits. Once a
chiefly because it played such a critical role in his
winner, always a winner, it seems. Past Olympic
upbringing. The school always demonstrated what
champions have been known to sell or auction off
he calls “the right stuff ” – not least its ability to
their medals, but Neethling is believed to be the first
transform boys to gentlemen.
South African to donate his in this way. There is
Neethling shares a special relationship with Johan
a generous open market for Olympic memorabilia
Volsteedt, the long-serving headmaster, who was
internationally, gold medals being the Holy Grail,
elated when Neethling broached the subject. A space
and he could presumably have cashed in had he opted
was prepared and a date set in February 2015 for
to go this route.
a handover ceremony.
You’d think Neethling wouldn’t let his medal out
Neethling concedes that it was a very emotional
of his sight, but the truth is rather more prosaic: it is
decision, chiefly because it would mean giving up a
housed in a safe and he hasn’t looked at it for years.
part of himself; something that meant more to him
He knows it’s there, he’s proud of it (as are we), but
than just about anything.
he doesn’t feel the need to move it through his fingers
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The thought of what to do with his medal has
Grey was more than just a place of learning for
“I haven’t looked at the medal in
for affirmation. He’s moved on, even if his name
seven or eight years,” he says. “It’s a big
will be inextricably linked with the 2004 Olympics
move [giving it away], but it’d be
where he, Roland Schoeman, Lyndon Ferns and
much more appreciated
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“I haven’t looked at the medal in seven or eight years. It’s a big move [giving it away] but it’d be much more appreciated in a setting like that, especially among young minds – and not just Grey boys but visiting teams as well”
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At the Val de Vie stables admiring an athlete of a different kind. Ryk has fallen in love with life in the winelands
“It’s a symbol of a lot of hard work and sacrifice and what is possible. It’s a reminder of what dreams, hard work, sacrifice and luck can accomplish. I wake up every day with
in a setting like that, especially among young minds
It’s also a thank you, to show my gratitude. Hopefully
– and not just Grey boys but visiting teams as well.”
it can be an inspiration, the medal that keeps on giving.
It’s a rare gift, too, because short of visiting
I would love a future star to say he went to the
the International Olympic Committee museum
Olympics because he saw the medal and felt inspired.”
in Lausanne, Olympic medals are not generally in plain sight.
Aged 37, Neethling now has what elite athletes never do at their peak – perspective. He can look
“The medal represents everything,” said Neethling
back at a charmed life shot through with highlights
who, you sense, is still processing his decision. “It’s
and acclaim. Although he will always be known first
a symbol of a lot of hard work and sacrifice and what
and foremost as a champion swimmer, he has moved
is possible. It’s a reminder of what dreams, hard
on, emphatically and successfully.
that in my head. I’m not
work, sacrifice and luck can accomplish. I wake up
His passion for achievement and attitude to see
every day with that in my head. I’m not a swimmer
failure as the key stepping-stone to success has put
a swimmer any more; I’m a
any more; I’m a businessman. But I use these lessons
him in good stead to perpetually excel in business.
every day. I use them from the past for the present
He is a shareholder and head of marketing at Val de
and the future.”
Vie, and is involved in the development of a five-star
businessman. But I use these lessons every day. I use them from the past for the present and the future”
The few people Neethling has thus far shared the news with have been dumbstruck by his decision,
sales and is brand custodian – a Jack of all trades.
although it’s fair to say they’ve come around to his
Having learnt many lessons from elite sport,
way of thinking. “At first they’re like ‘no way’. Then
Neethling also helps manage the careers of Cameron
I explain and they say ‘amazing’,” he says.
van der Burgh, triathlete Richard Murray, and
A recent trip to the University of Arizona, where
athletes Anaso Jobodwana and Luvo Manyonga.
he was based in his peak years, elicited a similar
Plus he has four swim schools, which have already
reaction. But Neethling knew he had got it right
yielded a number of national champions.
when legendary swim coach Frank Busch told him it was a great idea. He had a similar response from his father, Ryk Sr. “My dad was very proud,” he says. “It’s something the family will have there for many generations. 22
hotel on the estate. He also dabbles in wine, house
There is bound to be a lump in his throat when he visits Bloemfontein in February, but Neethling’s overriding emotions are more likely to be pride and happiness. It’s what he has always given us.
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Breaking new ground There has been a new emergence in the property development industry that sees lifestyle and residential projects catering for every need, from commercial to large farms, within a safe and secure environment. As with any such “ground-breaking” venture, realising a dream requires vision. We take a look at some of the visionaries who have birthed what we like to call “super-estates” in South Africa Words by Tshepang Molisana
I
n the same way that you first discover the feeling
division of the Hong Kong-listed Shanghai Zendai
of sand between your fingers and quietly watch
Group, says that an estimated R84-billion will be
mounds take shape at your feet, the “Renaissance” real
spent in transforming the 1 600 hectares of land
estate developers have paved the way for a rebirth.
near Johannesburg into the anxiously awaited
Like the Renaissance thinkers of the 14th century, an
Modderfontein New City.
elite super-school of property developers has begun the
“The growth of South Africa’s middle class
work of breathing new life into South Africa’s landscape.
demands that a new integrated approach to
The real-estate renaissance has gained momentum by
development is adopted,” says Diepenbroek. An
harnessing innovative technology, progressive building
analysis recently released by Standard Bank estimates
methods and dynamic investment strategies. Four such
that the African middle class has tripled in size over
examples are Val de Vie Estate, Modderfontein New
the past 14 years. According to Standard Bank
City, Steyn City and Waterfall Estate.
senior political economist Simon Freemantle, who
Chinese investment Zendai Development South Africa has been grabbing
“The growth of South Africa’s middle class demands that a new integrated approach to development is adopted”
wrote the report, the boom shows no sign of slowing down.
BELOW An artist’s impression
A high-density “smart” city built on information
headlines with large-scale investments in recent months.
technology
Anthony Diepenbroek, CEO of the South African
(complimenting the existing Gautrain rapid rail)
and
integrated
transport
systems
of Modderfontein New City. The construction in northeast Johannesburg kicks off early next year
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ABOVE Although it hasn’t yet
with a highly considered development plan will relieve
focus for the developers. Steyn City comprises
reached occupation phase,
the population pressures. Modderfontein will be the
of two private schools, two private hospitals,
developers have already invested
future home of an estimated 100 000 people, with
multiple office parks and about 11 000 homes. The
R6-billion in the landscape and
one of the most extensive open “green” urban areas
lake and woodland park are demonstrative of the
in Gauteng.
ways in which Steyn City is built on the premise of
infrastructure of Steyn City BELOW Security has been a
Developers are recognising that building an
major factor in the migration
estate that merely offers residential products will
to gated communities
mean that homeowners will have to travel to access
In order to fulfil their vision of a “live, work and
providing a lifestyle that is based on community and quality of life.
BELOW RIGHT Waterfall Estate
facilities and very often need to commute to work.
play” lifestyle estate, the developers at Steyn City
in Johannesburg has become the
A planned “city” offering with mixed land use
have made R6-billon in infrastructure investments
largest property development to date
covering a broader spectrum of living will therefore
to date. Steyn City “is rising out of the rubble” and,
cut down on monthly transport expenses and
through the combined efforts of property developer
create a more convenient and attractive living and
Plumari and billionaire insurance magnate Douw
working environment.
Steyn, the estate already has a formidable reputation,
Live, work and play Giuseppe Plumari, the CEO of Steyn City Properties
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even though the development hasn’t yet reached its occupation phase.
has stated that because of the enormous scope of
Estate living
the development, job creation and local community
Waterfall Estate has emerged as the largest property
empowerment opportunities within the neighbouring
development in South African history, combining
Diepsloot and Cosmo City regions are key areas of
almost 10 000 residential units with an impressive
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combination of commercial property developments.
Sustainability
ABOVE Val de Vie has a strong focus
More than 17 years of pioneering efforts by the
Val de Vie Estate is a joyous celebration of life.
on quality of life that’s in keeping with
development team have lead to international
Ryk Neethling and Janette Griesel carefully lay out an
its name, which means “Valley of Life”
recognition that has set a new standard for luxury
ambitious plan for the Estate’s future while paying
mixed-use developments.
homage to its past.
“Once completed, Waterfall will comprise of
Like those early Renaissance thinkers, the
villages,
developers at Val de Vie were required to “think
business parks, a Netcare hospital, five-star hotels,
differently”. By readjusting their vision for the land,
Reddam House private school, as well as commercial
the developers have uplifted the local community,
and convenient retail elements that include the
provided them with access to water, and strategically
largest shopping mall in Southern Africa, the Mall
invested in a long-term vision that has proven to be
of Africa,” states Mark Corbett, CEO of Century
both environmentally and socially sustainable.
secure
residential
estates,
retirement
The search for the perfect piece of land inspired
Property Developments. Beyond facility convenience, lifestyle trends are
Martin Venter’s almost decade-long dream. When the
becoming more active and dynamic. Participating
land upon which Val de Vie is built was first acquired,
in multiple sports and outdoor activities provides an
the “sandpit” (as it appeared in aerial shots) was starved
escape – or, rather, a relief from the fast-paced and
and desolate, and required a dynamic point of view.
high-pressure work environment. Features at Waterfall include 37km of walking and
“We breathe new life into desolate land,” the Val de
pristine green belt along the riverside, a five-hectare
Vie marketing team says as we nostalgically peer
lake for non-motorised water sports, a 5 000m²
through more than a decade of Val de Vie history.
clubhouse, a fibreoptic connection and piped LP gas
The Paarl valley – and in particular the land upon
to each stand, and security that is managed at the
which Val de Vie is built – was once home to the
highest level while maintaining a sense of personal
French Huguenots. Various aspects of Val de Vie’s
freedom for residents.
heritage have inspired some of its characteristic
an
integrated
live/work/play
architecture
and
charm.
Several
international
environment, Waterfall is quickly becoming the
property awards have cemented the intelligent use of
preferred address in Gauteng for people who value
land, and today even the cobblestone paving dances
a full and varied lifestyle, offering a spacious, secure
with romantic perfection.
environment for their family, up-market living and true property value growth,” says Corbett.
Renaissance thinkers, the developers at Val de Vie were required to “think differently”. By readjusting their vision for the land, the developers
Heritage and beauty
biking trails that meander through 300 hectares of
“Promoting
Like those early
Besides naming the wine cellar L’Huguenot, as a multi-use development, Val de Vie respectfully
have uplifted the local community, provided them with access to water, and strategically invested in a long-term vision that has proven to be both environmentally and socially sustainable val de vie
Super Estates_SUBBED.indd 27
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V - property ABOVE AND BELOW Val de Vie before and after shots. “Here,” Ryk Neethling, Val de Vie’s marketing director, says as we look at images of “a glorified sandpit”. “Here is where it all began”
looks to the past while intelligently forging new
An idyllic country charm in the pearl of the
partnerships that have radically changed the lay of
winelands provides a lifestyle that is supported by
the land. In this way, like all Renaissance thinkers,
some of the world’s loveliest gourmand retreats.
the developers have built a dream on science and
South
centred it around human-focused design thinking.
sophistication with a love for the country. In the
super-estates
have
married
“When we first began developing the property, an
same way that bold masters like Da Vinci painted
equestrian estate was an interesting challenge,”
hidden smiles, there are gentle ways in which these
Neethling says. “We needed a way to compact the
bold developers have breathed new life into our
land, provide sound irrigation practices, and provide
beautiful land.
a safe lifestyle for families.”
28
Africa’s
The super-estates and the developers behind them
The Val de Vie social calendar is the crown jewel
have ambitious aspirations, and it is this kind of
in the Cape’s diary of elite events. Home to the Veuve
visionary Renaissance-like thinking that has moved
Clicquot Masters tournament and several other
mankind
noteworthy events that begin with the Pink Polo in
innovative minds to “think differently”. It is little
October, Val de Vie provides a polo experience up to
wonder, therefore, that the developers in the Valley of
international standards, comparable to the likes of
Life have followed their urge to dream and to breathe
New York and London.
new life into desolate land.
forward
and
taught
generations
of
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V - world’s best
For the
ultimate
secure estate living in the Cape Winelands, contact us.
Hayley Van der Merwe 082 926 8587 I Inga De Villiers 082 884 8492 Ronel Pienaar 082 556 2433 I Jordan Greenhalgh 083 298 1481
val de vie
29
021 871 1480 I www.pamgolding.co.za/valdevie Super Estates_SUBBED.indd 29
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val de vie
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The fairest of them all
“My philosophy is that if I have any money, I invest it in new ventures and not have it sitting around.” UK billionaire Sir Richard Branson has found such a new venture – and a little piece of heaven – in one of the most beautiful corners of South Africa: Franschhoek Words by Michelle Marais
J
ust under an hour’s drive from Cape Town,
Edition property portfolio. Before entering into the
Franschhoek’s world-class wines and award-
sales agreement, Branson expressed his elation by
winning restaurants – as many as eight out of South
saying that he was thrilled with the transaction as
Africa’s “top 100” restaurants are found here – have
Mont Rochelle will offer tourists a “must visit” South
established the town as the culinary capital of the
African winelands experience.
Republic. This, along with its breathtaking scenery
Virgin Limited Edition, the luxury portfolio of
and warm hospitality, has resulted in the verdant
Virgin Hotels Group Ltd, is Branson’s collection of
valley becoming a sought-after tourist destination,
exclusive retreats around the globe. They include Necker
and subsequently catching the eye of influential
Island (the British Virgin Islands), Kasbah Tamadot
foreign investors.
(Morocco), The Lodge (Verbier, Switzerland), The Roof
One such investor is the flamboyant Sir Richard
Gardens and Babylon Restaurant (London), Necker
Branson, who has succumbed to the allure of this
Belle (a luxurious 30m catamaran), Mahali Mzuri (a
exquisite valley and recently acquired Mont Rochelle
tented safari camp in Kenya), and two properties in
Hotel and Mountain Vineyard. The luxury estate
South Africa: Ulusaba Private Game Reserve near
is the latest addition to his eclectic Virgin Limited
the Kruger National Park, and Mont Rochelle.
MAIN IMAGE Mont Rochelle Hotel and Mountain Vineyard RIGHT Richard Branson has shown his support for and interest in South Africa often. Together with Nelson Mandela and Peter Gabriel, he started the international non-government organisation called “The Elders” in 2007. The group consists of public figures noted as elder statesmen, peace activists and human-rights advocates
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“We’ve seen a rise in demand for Ulusaba, and felt it was a good opportunity to introduce another property, offering a
“The Virgin Limited Edition properties are very special, and each African property has been chosen for its individuality and location,” Virgin Limited Edition spokesperson Claudia Moore said. And what a location Mont Rochelle has! The luxury estate comprises a picturesque 22-bedroom hotel located atop a hill in the Klein Dassenberg range, and a private vineyard, planted in 1994,
different experience. Mont
encompassing 40 hectares. “We’ve seen a rise in
Rochelle is an ideal
opportunity to introduce another property, offering
complement to a safari
is an ideal complement to a safari excursion to South
excursion to South Africa
demand for Ulusaba recently, and felt it was a good a different experience,” said Moore. “Mont Rochelle Africa – and we look forward to combining a stay at Mont Rochelle with getaways to our private game
– and we look forward
reserve, Ulusaba.”
to combining a stay at
Africa, who facilitated the preliminary agreement of
Mont Rochelle with
Tara Whiting and Marius Botha of Acquire sale, believe Branson’s investment is evidence that South Africa is thriving as a tourist destination.
getaways to our private
Whiting has said that she’s positive that Virgin
game reserve, Ulusaba”
for Mont Rochelle will result in something
Limited
Edition
and
Branson’s
future
plans
magical, and attract even more tourists to this gastronomic hot spot. Branson’s investment comes after a similar investment Analjit
by
Singh,
Indian who
billionaire
acquired
entrepreneur
three
adjoining
Franschhoek farms – Dieu Donné, Von Ortloff and Klein Dassenberg – for about R80-million.
32
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He also purchased a substantial stake in the multiple
ABOVE The Country Kitchen and
Platter five-star awarded Mullineux Family Wines in
main restaurant, Miko, provide the
the Swartland.
perfect setting for fantastic gourmet
Today, wine tourism is one of the fastest-growing
meals with breathtaking views
and most lucrative sectors of the global tourism
LEFT Mont Rochelle has 22 rooms,
market. Wines of South Africa (WOSA) reports
including six suites, all arranged
that wine tourism contributes about R4,3-billion
around the main building and
annually to the country’s tourism revenue – an
boasting valley views
indication that South African wine exports are at an all-time high. Add to this the fact that winelands estates still offer good value (even more so when compared to the wine regions of France, Italy or the Napa Valley), and it comes as no surprise that the world’s power players are grabbing every opportunity to invest. Val de Vie Estate itself is testament to the growing interest of foreign investors. In 2013, the estate became the site of the first-ever Chinese investment in the South Africa wine industry. val de vie
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ABOVE The hotel includes a health
Perfect China, a 51% shareholder in Perfect Wines
commercial farms were sold for between R9-million
spa, a gym and a heated outdoor pool
of South Africa, purchased the wine cellar as well
and R30-million.
as the attached 25-hectare wine farm and historic
Since October last year, about 42 farms to the
But aside from the commercial and hospitality development opportunities available to buyers,
A weakened rand and continued economic uncertainty in Europe have further fuelled interest in Cape wine farms from both local and foreign buyers over the past few months.
many investors (in their search for a tranquil
Wine and culinary tourism is a growing niche
total value of almost
country lifestyle), opt for lifestyle farms purely for
sector of the tourism market worldwide, and
residential purposes. These lifestyle farms, many
Franschhoek is certainly gaining recognition as
R235-million were
with untapped potential, are offering some of the
possessing some of the most impressive restaurants,
sold. Smaller lifestyle
best value currently.
beautiful winelands and fine wines that measure up
Increasingly, the Cape Winelands – with their
stands were sold for
against the best in the world.
culturally diverse people and country feel – are also attracting a slew of property buyers intent on
Did you know?
upwards of around
becoming permanent residents. These include a
lF ranschhoek was established in 1688 by 176
R2-million each, while
wholesome lifestyle and environment in which to
nine larger lifestyle and commercial farms were sold
34
manor house.
growing number of families in search of a raise children, investors looking for a healthy return on their real-estate assets, empty-nesters, and retirees. Since October last year, about 42 farms to the
for between R9-million
total value of almost R235-million were sold.
and R30-million
about R2-million each, while nine larger lifestyle and
Smaller lifestyle stands were sold for upwards of
French Huguenot refugees. lF ranschhoek is the Dutch translation for “French Corner”. It was originally named Olifantshoek, for the large number of elephants that used to roam the valley. lT he Bastille Festival has been celebrated in the town every July since 1994, the year of the first South African general election.
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With a production of only eight barrels, winemaker Schalk Joubert keeps a craftsman’s hand on this classic Bordeaux-styled wine. Made and blended in the cellars of Rupert & Rothschild outside Franschhoek, the elegantly simple bottles are available at selected wine boutiques and restaurants. Epicureanwine.co.za
36
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A well-matured friendship Epicurean: devoted to the pursuit of sensual pleasure, especially to the enjoyment of good food and comfort Words by Samantha Perry Photographs by Daniel Parker
I
t has long been believed that epicureans are
Booking a table at the exclusive Maximillien
passionate in their pursuit of pleasure and beauty
restaurant at the DaVinci Hotel & Suites in the
in all their forms. In fact, this pursuit and devotion
heart of Sandton, three of the key founders, Mutle
are always most prevalent when it comes to their
Mogase, Mbhazima (Sam) Shilowa and Moses (Moss)
love of good food and even better wine. Which is,
Ngoasheng (with Ron T Gault absent) joined us for
in fact, the very pursuit that heralded the creation of
an afternoon of reminiscing, laughter and celebration
Epicurean Wines.
in true epicurean style.
According to its founders, Epicurean was created out of a love of good wine and a desire to share this
The beginning
with good friends. The wines are not boastful in
Epicurean Wines produced its first bottle back in
appearance or branding; they do not embellish on
2002. However, it would seem that the friendship
fancy trappings or gimmicks, relying instead on
between the three founders extends much further
their elegance, nose and (ultimately) flavour to wow
back. While they say it’s only a decade or so before
and delight.
then, the interaction within the trio is electric, and
We took some time to get to know the founding epicureans, to get an understanding of how and why they found themselves in the world of wine-making, and what the future holds.
ABOVE Sporting a rather notable repertoire, Moses “Moss” Ngoasheng is a cigar and whisky lover, a graduate of Nelson Mandela’s ‘’university’’ from back in the days of Robben Island, and a former economic adviser to the Presidency
conversation – like good wine – has no problem with flowing freely. “We have a lot of friends in the wine business,” says Mogase, who is executive chairman of Vantage val de vie
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V - wine-making Capital in his other life, and the unofficial
Making good wine requires more than just
spokesman/facilitator of the group. “We discussed
friendship or passion, though. “In a venture such as
the qualities and merits of various wines whenever
wine-making you don’t just need to be friends,” says
we got together. Eventually, we were challenged
Shilowa, a former premier of Gauteng and politician.
to do it ourselves. So during one of our evenings
“Yes, you need to click – but because you are making
at a wine club that we belonged to at the time
wine, you need a better understanding of what wine
(the Single Bottle Club), we had a discussion with
you are going to make. If your respective tastes in wine
Johan Rupert.
are too different, you’ll have a big problem.”
“To be honest, we were actually trying to become BEE partners in his wine business but because of
Discerning palates
various structural complications, that couldn’t
The four are globetrotters, and this has also fuelled
happen. However, he did offer us facilities to make
their desire to produce top-quality wine. “I guess
our own wine.”
travelling the world, drinking different wines, both
And the rest is vintner history. ABOVE Moss Ngoasheng
The team
South African and those from the global stage, means you develop a better sense of appreciating all types of wines,” says Shilowa.
BELOW Mutle Mogase is the co-
Today, Epicurean wines are made in the Rupert
This all ties in with what Mutle says was a desire
founder and executive chairman
& Rothschild cellars by cellar master and CEO of
to make a wine that would reflect just how good the
of Vantage Capital Group, an
Rupert & Rothschild Vignerons, Schalk Joubert.
wines that South Africa as a country is able to produce
investment and finance house.
The first Epicurean wine was released in 2002; at
are. “It is as a result of this that the palate of the wine
One of the only remaining black-
the time of writing, the 2010 vintage was just about
has evolved over time and, today, is probably a lot
to be released.
more an old-world palate than a new-world palate,”
controlled independent private equity firms in South Africa, Vantage
“One of the critical things about our group
Capital has funds under management
and this business is that we are driven primarily by
One could say it is this attention to detail and the
comments Mutle.
and investment of more than R2,5-
trying to produce a very specific, top-quality wine
friends’ quest for perfection that has led Epicurean
billion. As the spokesman, facilitator
that meets some very exacting standards of how
only to release its wine when it is, according to the
and explicator of the outfit,
we believe wine should be enjoyed,” says Mogase.
wine-making team, ready to drink. As previously
Mbhazima Shilowa laughingly
“The business itself however came directly out of
alluded to, they are only releasing the 2010 vintage in
our passion for creating a wine.”
2014 – because they believe it is only ready now.
refers to Mogase as “my PR”
“Older wines tend to have less harshness to their taste and are more palatable in general,” says Ngoasheng, Safika Holdings chairman and former economic advisor to president Thabo Mbeki, who brings a quieter authority to the eclectic group of friends. “With older wines, the tannins have settled and are as a result much softer. That’s one of the things that you find with South African wines – some age well and some don’t. We tend to drink them when they’re young and still galloping.” But putting together a group of such differing personalities can make for an interesting business venture. It is with this in mind that the team emphasises that decision-making at Epicurean is as individualised as its founders are. “We’re the kind of group where if Moss thinks of something and he thinks it’s great, we’re not going to have a discussion of ‘you were not here, so how could you decide’,” says Shilowa. “We’re more likely to look at what is on the table and evaluate it according to its merits.” 38
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V - wine-making LEFT Three is a company – or, in this case, four. The fourth USborn member of the wine quartet is former banking executive Ron Gault, who headed JP Morgan as CEO of business development in Johannesburg in the mid-1990s. At the Maximillien Restaurant in Sandton, the three Epicureans reflect on their wine venture in the Cape Winelands, ultimately inspired by their coming together as friends. As Epicurus said, “We should look for someone to eat and drink with before looking for something to eat and drink, for dining alone is
Deciding on Epicurean
It is also a passion Shilowa shares, and the two of
A typical example of this was deciding on the name
them go to at least one of the Masters tournaments
of the wine label. “For my sins,” Shilowa says, smiling,
every year. Mogase is into Formula One racing, and
BELOW The “Epicurean of note”:
“I found myself with Mutle out in the Maldives. And
rates Singapore and Nürburgring as his favourite
co-founder of the Congress of
when you are there, you are pretty much caught there;
racing circuits.
the People and its former deputy
you’re not going to leave and go shopping. You’re
leading the life of a lion or wolf”…
president, Mbhazima Shilowa
stuck together for the days you are there, on an island,
The wine
with not much else to do.
Their wines are, today, highly rated by The Wine
– a mantra made all the more
insists on “elegance over power”
“So you wake up, you have breakfast, you read, you
Advocate; several have achieved ratings of 91 to 94
remarkable by the fact that he
have lunch, you read, you have dinner, and if you want
points. If you are “in the know”, you will realise
is (essentially) the man behind
to go out for a walk, you walk – but that’s really it.
just how impressive an undertaking that is.
the R20-billion Gautrain project
It was during that period that the wine had been made
According to Shilowa, they are also aiming to
but we hadn’t yet decided on what to call it. So we
get their wines into the top restaurants – globally –
took the time away to discuss it, and by the time we
which is no small feat. “The idea is to have a list of
came back, we had managed to settle on the name
restaurants and individuals that bottles go straight
Epicurean. Why? Because Epicurean describes what
to once they land at Meridian (which markets and
we’re trying to do.
distributes Epicurean),” he says.
“Let me elaborate: on the cork it says Epicureans,
Before they started producing in the Rupert
because that defines the producers. In short, we make
& Rothschild cellar, they had considered buying
the wine so we can to enjoy it. The rest [of the look]
a wine farm, but in the end they decided that
was simply a question of making sure the label was
they wanted to be wine producers, not property
simple but not the same as everyone else’s.”
managers. Buying a farm isn’t out of the question
The travel crew
for these entrepreneurs, though. “There’s got to be a home for the wine at some stage as we get onto
Beyond the wine, the team has a myriad individual
the international stage,” says Mogase. “We’ve had
passions. One of these passions, shared by all the
a look.”
Epicureans, is a desire to travel the world, and see
“It’s a big commitment,” Ngoasheng says.
and experience new places, tastes, sights and – of
Judging by the extent and duration of their
course –wines.
friendship, commitment isn’t something they’re
Shilowa rates Paris as his favourite city – for the
afraid of, so we will have to wait and see. Until
food and restaurants, naturally. Ngoasheng is on a
then, do whatever you have to to get your hands
mission to play the top 100 golf courses in the world
on a bottle of Epicurean: it is a bold, interesting
(and this list keeps changing as the courses do). So
wine that hits so many of the right notes. It simply
far he’s managed 90 – we were beyond impressed.
won’t disappoint. val de vie
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The marathon that’s more than a race “Sport has the power to change the world … it has the power to inspire. It has the power to unite people in a way that little else does.” The words of Nelson Mandela still ring clear. Sport brings people together. Whether on opposite sides of the field or on the same side, it challenges us to reach for victory. It took the Cape Town Marathon to bring together two sporting greats to rise to such a challenge. Luke Alfred chats to former Springbok rugby captain Francois Pienaar and Olympic medallist Elana Meyer about their dream for the Mother City Words by Luke Alfred
A
lthough it is already 12 years old, only recently
chutzpah, and the marathon can only go from strength
has the Cape Town Marathon been given the
to strength. “You’ll find that all of the big international
unconditional institutional and commercial backing
marathons have their associations,” says Pienaar.
it deserves. Sanlam has come on board as a sponsor
“Boston is about community; London is about
– the race’s official title is the Sanlam Cape Town
charity; New York is about the intrigue of running
Marathon – and Francois Pienaar and Elana Meyer
into the Bronx in one of the greatest cities in the
have become intimately involved with the race’s future
world. We want the Cape Town marathon to be
as ambassadors. Meyer’s involvement comes through
about beauty, and about the story of contemporary
her academy, Endurocad, and Pienaar’s through his
South Africa.”
peerless capacity to turn seemingly ordinary events
With a slightly altered and more “scenic” route,
into healthy commercial propositions via his company
taking in everything from Woodstock to Cape Town
Advent Sport Entertainment and Media.
Stadium and the foot of the Castle, as well as a
With the help of WP Athletics and the City of Cape
very handy weekend on which to run the marathon
Town, and with sensitivity being shown to several
in the first flush of spring, the idea is to first
local charities such as Peace and Sport and the Anna
make Cape Town Africa’s premier marathon and
Foundation, the Cape Town marathon is now on a
one of the world’s most iconic. There were just
firmer footing than ever before. Add Cape Town’s
under 5 000 participants in this year’s marathon
natural beauty, a handy spot on the international
and Pienaar is looking for the numbers to grow
marathon calendar and some vision and commercial
exponentially in the years to come.
MAIN IMAGE Cape Town has been named number one on the New York Times’ “52 Places to Go in 2014” RIGHT WP Athletics president Jakes Jacobs, Olympic medallist Elana Meyer, chief executive for Sanlam Brand Yegs Ramiah, and former Springbok captain Francois Pienaar
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V --on on the the run run
“We’re looking for 15 000 athletes in year two,
programme. Sometimes it’s finding a place at university
ABOVE World-record-holding
with 10 000 of those in the Peace Run [before the
or monitoring their progress after they’ve gone through
Kenyan Willy Kibor ran to victory
main event],” he says with his trademark confidence,
rigorous biomechanical and psychological tests.
in the 42,2km Sanlam Cape Town
noting that after Africa has been conquered, the
Sometimes it amounts to little more than showing
Marathon in a time of 2h10m45s
Cape Town marathon can progress to being a looked-
neglected athletes interest, care and love.
ABOVE RIGHT The Sanlam Cape
forward-to regular feature on the international
Town Marathon offers the highest
marathon calendar.
Meyer has seen rapid progress from the athletes associated with Endurocad, filling the vacuum that
purse for a South African standard
Never one to settle for mediocrity when shooting
the constant dysfunction at Athletics South Africa has
marathon, with total prize money
out the lights will do, Pienaar sees potential growth
created. Athletes need heroes, and events in which to
exceeding R1,6 million
coming from the UK, Europe and, intriguingly, China,
showcase their talents and inspire their dreams. The
BELOW The marathon will take
with Meyer saying the organisers want it to transcend
marathon aims to do just that. Meyer and Pienaar’s
runners on the “scenic” route,
its status as a race. “We’d like to see it as an experience,”
initiatives are also part of a more intriguing social
highlighting the city’s beauty
she says. “We want people to run the marathon and
and sporting trend in contemporary South Africa.
and historical landmarks
combine it with a holiday. To visit the winelands and
With the poor governance of sport a consistent issue
the beaches, and turn it into an adventure.”
and federations finding their way into the headlines
The idea to resuscitate the Cape Town marathon
for all the wrong issues, individuals, groups and
happened almost by accident. Meyer consulted Pienaar
members of civil society are taking it upon themselves
with view to exchanging ideas about her running
to do what in a normal society should be the work of
academy and the discussion moved into other areas.
the federations. John Perlman’s Greenfields project,
Meyer makes the point that once upon a time South
an initiative to roll out football facilities (and provide
Africa had truckloads of marathoners who ran under
kit and equipment) to communities in neglected and
2h15m for the standard marathon, but those days are
far-flung areas would be one example of this growing
long gone. “In the last two decades we degenerated,
trend, and there are countless others doing selfless
and now it’s the Kenyans and Ethiopians who
work for the greater good.
dominate. This is an area of so much natural talent in South Africa, and it needs to be harnessed.”
42
Pienaar and Meyer are aware that they have distinct advantages when it comes to promoting
With traditional structures and federations all but
events such as the Sanlam Cape Town marathon.
having collapsed, Meyer’s academy has, to a small
They’re instantly recognisable and trustworthy, and
degree, taken up the slack to improve the lot of
have an enviable pedigree.
talented distance athletes around the country. Using
With the two of them intimately involved with
social media to publicise its cause, it identifies athletes
the Cape Town marathon as ambassadors, the event’s
and helps and guides them. Help can take the form of
future looks rosy. In fact it’s a no-brainer that the
finding work (Meyer uses the example of a talented
event will, in the years to come, have the same kind of
cross-country runner from Robertson working at a
cachet and status as the Boston marathon, the oldest
local Virgin Active) or putting them on a training
of all city marathons at 117 years, still holds today.
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V - on the run
We ’l l tak e car e of it
As our insurance broker, Nuvision has been involved with Val de Vie from day one of the development. We are grateful for the level of service and professionalism received over the years. There is great value and comfort in knowing that our insurance needs are being looked after by a helpful and knowledgeable team. - Sarel Rossouw, Financial Director of Val de Vie Estate
M a r a t h o n B u i l d i n g , Vi n e y a r d s O f f i c e E s t a t e , 9 9 J i p d e J a g e r , B e l l v i l l e , 7 5 3 0 T
0 8 6 100 0040
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C
082 462 7004
E
inf o@nuvision.c o.z a
W
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2014/11/27 5:14 PM
V - expertise world’s best
Tread carefully when investing directly in listed UK or US stocks Many South Africans decide to take the plunge into offshore investing for a variety of reasons. However, be sure to inspect the waters before you dive. Despite the bullish
By Carien Strauss, fiduciary and tax specialist at Sanlam Private Wealth
returns enjoyed by the South African markets in
swings and exchange control restraints in order to
a variety of reasons, whether it is to protect against
find the perfect stock pick in a global investment
political and economic risk or to benefit from growth
arena that could provide for superior returns. This
believe that developed
opportunities not accessible locally. Despite the bullish
may prove to be no easy task and requires specialist
markets will outperform
returns enjoyed by the South African markets in
knowledge in various areas. Many investors are well
recent years, most experts believe that developed
versed in this field and have executed their
markets will outperform emerging markets such as
investment plan close to perfection, with due
South Africa in the next few years.
consideration given to the estate duty implications
recent years, most experts
emerging markets such as South Africa in the next few years 44
I
nvesting offshore can be an attractive prospect for
Investing offshore has, however, always been a
thereof. Or so they believe.
tricky proposition for South Africans. They are
Unfortunately, investors dabbling on international
required to navigate swiftly between currency
shores are, more often than not, blissfully unaware
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V - expertise that foreign inheritance taxes may be applicable.
South Africa provides for an exemption from estate
Neglecting to take cognisance of these taxes may
duty for any assets bequeathed to a surviving spouse.
deal your estate plan a deathly blow.
The UK has a similar provision, provided that both
Both the US and the UK levy estate or
spouses are either domiciled in the UK or domiciled
inheritance taxes at a rate of 40% on assets, which are
outside the UK. The exemption is limited to
classified as “situs” assets even though these
£325 000 where the deceased is UK domiciled
assets are owned by non-residents. As such,
and the surviving spouse is not.
due consideration should be given to the effect of foreign taxes in your estate plan. This area of expertise
The position in the US
is very complex, and this article will largely focus on
The US currently levies estate taxes on non-US
listed UK or US shares.
persons (largely anyone without a US passport or a
The position in the UK A share is generally regarded as a UK situs asset
green card, and living outside the US) at a maximum rate of 40% on the combined value of most US situs assets exceeding US$60 000.
if the share register relating to that particular
Therefore, if you own US shares in excess of
share is held in the UK. For practical purposes,
US$60 000 that were issued by a US corporation
most UK listed shares will therefore qualify as
(irrespective of where the share register is kept),
situs assets.
the shares would be subject to federal estate tax at
The UK levies inheritance tax at a rate of
Contrary to the UK, no relief is available if the
where the value exceeds the nil rate band (currently
asset is bequeathed to the surviving spouse unless
£325 000). Most investors are shocked to learn
he/she is a US citizen.
that the UK share portfolio will also be subject
Although the US and South Africa also have a
to South African estate duty at a rate of
DTA in force governing estate taxes, this generally
20%, should the dutiable estate exceed the
does not provide much relief because the provisions
R3 500 000 abatement.
dictate that South Africa will not have a taxing
Does this then mean that you will pay 20%
a US corporation (irrespective of where the share register is kept), the shares would be subject to federal estate tax at a varying rate ranging from 26% to 40%
with exclusive taxing rights. This will generally result (where the owner of
concluded a double taxation agreement (“DTA”)
US shares is ordinarily resident in South Africa) in
specifically dealing with estate taxes, which broadly
the shares being subject to US federal estate taxes at
results in South Africa having to give a credit
a rate of between 26% and 40% provided the value
for any UK estate taxes suffered on assets situated
of the shares exceeds US$60 000.
So what is all the fuss about?
that were issued by
right on US situs shares, therefore providing the US
Fortunately not! South Africa and the UK have
in the UK.
in excess of U$60 000
a varying rate ranging from 26% to 40%.
40% on any UK situs asset of a non-resident
estate duty in South Africa and 40% in the UK?
If you own US shares
As is the case with the UK, by holding US situs listed shares through a suitable insurance wrapper vehicle, US estate taxes can largely be mitigated.
Unfortunately, the DTA restricts the credit to the amount of the South African estate duty that
For specialist tax advice, contact Carien Strauss at
would have been payable in South Africa – i.e.,
cariens@privatewealth.sanlam.co.za, or consult your
20%. The end result is that South Africa will not
financial adviser.
subject the UK listed shares to estate duty – but the UK will surely do, and at a rate of 40%. This is
Note from Glacier International: International
double the amount of inheritance tax most investors
estate duty issues do not apply if investors hold the
planned for.
assets within the Global Life Plan.
Carien Strauss, fiduciary and tax specialist at Sanlam Private Wealth
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V - experience
It was once written that “If you can only visit two continents in your lifetime, visit Africa twice.” And anyone who has travelled this great continent will share this sentiment – for surely there is no match for its adventure and experiential travel, not to mention exceptional luxury…
Out of Africa Words by Greg Lederle
T
he birthplace of man, the greatest wildlife on the planet and a plethora of cultures that
change with each turn in the road all provide a yearning and allure that has kept many an explorer, poet and author busy beyond the years of their life. Because there is no place like Africa. With this allure burning in our hearts, we began our descent in the light aircraft into one of the greatest wilderness regions on Earth: the Okavango Delta of northern Botswana. After touching down on the short dirt airstrip, we were driven to a camp on the edge of a flood plain. It was to be our home for the next week: we were here for a horse safari. Not much is more exhilarating than exploring and immersing yourself in the nostalgic manner in which this continent was first explored. Mounted high above the grass, riding through unspoiled and untouched countryside on trails carved out by the wild game of the region, we were in the Africa of our dreams. African Horseback Safaris’ Macatoo Camp has done a sublime job in catering for seasoned riders and first-timers who come in search of the essence of what a horse safari is about – its power, its beauty and the equine bond we are all now familiar with, all on the dramatic stage that is the African wilderness. The horses – all male, by the way – range in size from 14 to 17 hands, and offer a choice between English and Trails saddles. The rides are lead by experienced armed guides as they head out into this remarkable ecosystem. val de vie
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Thus knowledge and a trained eye are always at hand in this game-rich region – and it was not long before we were saddled up and riding into the afternoon sun, unsure of what was in store for us. Horses are only ridden once a day in order to allow them to rest; if you have a bond with a particular steed, you can ride the same horse every alternate ride. The afternoon rides are generally more relaxing, heading out for about 1,5 to two hours and (depending on experience) involving mostly walking (with a little trotting) to get you comfortable with your horse. Our first afternoon was a magical outing, with various species of antelope as well as giraffe and elephant providing a magical experience for everyone – especially those experiencing it for the first time from horseback.
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Not much is more exhilarating than to exploring and immersing yourself in the nostalgic manner in which this continent was first explored. Mounted high above the grass, riding through unspoiled and untouched countryside on trails carved out by the wild game of the region, we were in the Africa of your dreams
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V - experience The following morning, just after sunrise, as I walked to the mess tent for coffee and a light
headed off in search of whatever else the Okavango had waiting for us.
breakfast, I almost had my feet taken out from
Over the next few days we spent time riding
under me as a pack of wild dogs came tearing along
the remarkable horses of Macatoo as we tracked
the camp pathway in hot pursuit of an even more
lion and leopard, galloped alongside giraffe and
surprised (and rather fast-moving) bush buck. They
approached
were gone in an instant, and once my heart rate
invisible cloak that being downwind provides.
elephant
bulls
from
behind
had returned to non-fatal levels, I decided to skip
Even the most experienced riders cannot fully
coffee and waste no time before getting into the
prepare for the thrill of riding great horses through
saddle to head out in pursuit of one of Africa’s
the wilderness. Galloping as a group over one of
most endangered and endearing predators.
the many floodplains of the Okavango must surely
Our guide Sekongo Katsotso lead the way as we
rate as one of life’s greatest experiences. Thundering
followed the tracks of the hungry wild dogs. After
hooves, the wind in your hair, the sun on your back
an hour or so, we realised that because the dogs
and water splashing all around you all make any
were hunting, they were moving at a significantly
traditional safari pretty mundane in comparison.
faster pace – so, reluctantly, we left the trail and
There is nothing quite like it.
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the
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V - experience
Greg Lederle is a multiple award-winning guide and the owner and co-founder of Lederle Safaris. Based in South Africa, Lederle Safaris offers tailored safaris throughout east and southern Africa, as well as privately guided safaris for discerning travellers looking for something new, fresh and off the beaten track. Described by Forbes Life as “a warm and effervescent personality”, Greg’s connection to (and appreciation of) Africa and travel is evident in the itineraries offered to the select clientele of Lederle Safaris. Greg lives at Val De Vie with his wife Riana and their two daughters, Sienna and Caira.
With an early departure scheduled for the following morning, we headed out of Macatoo Camp for one last relaxed afternoon ride. We meandered through the unspoiled islands, trails and floodplains of the Okavango in silence, replaying the last few days’ events in our mind’s eye. Deep in nostalgia, we rounded a “corner” – and before us was a pristine, white-tableclothed dining table adorned with candelabras, a fully stocked bar, and a pizza oven inside a termite mound, where one of the finest pizzas I had ever experienced was being cooked. Our magnificent steeds were taken back to Macatoo’s stables with the last light of day as we drank to another perfect African sunset and sat, as the first explorers once did, in the dancing light of a camp fire, and regaled one another with the stories and tales that only Africa can master. This was equine African utopia – and we had immersed ourselves in it…
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V - fashion world’s best
Black and white swimsuit by Seafolly
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V - world’s V - fashion best
Haute Summer Immerse yourself in poolside glamour this summer, and take sophistication to a new level with elegant shapes and silhouettes
“Luxury must be comfortable, otherwise it is not luxury” Coco Chanel
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V - fashion world’s best
JETS black swimsuit with mesh cutouts by Jessica Allen. Gold embellished tasselled jacket by Gavin Rajah. Necklace, stylist’s own
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V - world’s V - fashion best JETS white halterneck swimsuit by Jessika Allen. Tasselled Ndebele necklace by Pichulik
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V - fashion world’s best JETS black swimsuit with open back by Jessika Allen. Gold belt by Ida Elsjé for Gavin Rajah. Bracelets by Pichulik
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Black and white bikini by Zigilane Swimwear. Bracelets by Pichulik
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V - world’s V - fashion best
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V - fashion world’s best Black bikini by Blue Glue. Lace jacket by Gavin Rajah. Necklace by Pichulik
Photography Sian Chapman Fashion Janette Griesel Model Derryn Lester/D Management Hair and makeup Sian Chapman
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V - world’s best
Opening December 2014 Val de Vie Polo Shop Polo Pavilion Val de Vie Estate Paarl Tuesday to Friday 10h00 - 16h00 Saturday & Sundays 09h00 - 13h00 Shop online www.valdeviepoloshop.co.za
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AND OTHER FINE BRANDS
2014/11/27 2:36 PM
V - profile
Soulistic Music Black Coffee’s self-titled debut album in 2005 also saw the formation of his record label and management company Soulistic Music (Pty) Ltd. Over the past nine years, Soulistic Music has built a worldwide network of exclusive track licences and tours, and looks after the concerns of artists Culoe De Song, Tumelo, DJ Kabila, Sai & Ribatone, Soulstar and DJ Shimza.
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V - profile
Caution: strong coffee Award-winning producer and DJ Black Coffee is poised to make a big international impact Words by Michelle Marais
The world at his feet
boundaries of South African vocal house music,
Black Coffee started producing music while still in
rages stronger than ever.
high school, but it was while studying music at the
“When I started out, I never thought it would
Natal Technikon that things became more serious
evolve this far,” he says in that distinctively deep,
when he and two friends turned their backs on the
soulful voice. “I knew I wanted to do this, and it was
books and formed Shana. The group – meaning
the direction I wanted to take, but not to this level.”
“simply hot and naturally African” – went on to
The evolution he’s alluding to is the imminent
release four albums. In 2001, he landed a residency
international release of a new (his fifth) album. “We’ll
at Voodoo Lounge nightclub, a gig that got him
do a release date in February abroad, and a month
set for the road to stardom. But it was really in
later here,” he says. “I’m travelling a lot to play
2003, when he was chosen as one of two South
overseas – Lisbon, Greece, Germany, London (and
African participants in the Red Bull Music Academy
that’s just the past few months). I’m doing a lot of
that Black Coffee became a brand on the South
work overseas, which is why now I’m ready to release
African DJ scene.
an album there.”
“When I started out I never thought it would evolve this far. I knew I wanted to do this, and it was the direction I wanted to take, but not to this level”
He’s since released four solo albums, one live
Other highlights include his residency at Ibiza
DVD and, among various other accolades, won
club Circoloco, which has attracted massive crowds;
four South African Music Awards. It’s a list of
headlining Amsterdam Dance Event (the world’s
achievements that would have most sitting back
biggest club festival); performing in Central Park;
and taking care of business, as he does as the head
and remixing Avicii, Macy Gray and K’Naan tracks.
of Soulistic Music. Not Black Coffee. The creative
He has recently been taken on by London-based PR
yet competitive fire that pushed him to study
agency Purple, whose clients include Adele, Beyoncé,
BELOW The hard work over the years
music “to deepen his overall musical knowledge
Calvin Harris, Lana del Rey, and other big names in
is the evolution of a careful mix of
and develop his listening skills” and push the
the business.
studio sessions and stage time
MAIN IMAGE DJ Black Coffee
Accolades 2005 SAMA Best Urban Dance Album 2010 SAMA Best Urban Dance Album 2010 SAMA Best Male Artist 2010 Men’s Health Best Man 2010 Metro FM Award for Best Produced Album 2010 Metro FM Award for Best Dance Album 2011 Channel O Award for Most Talented Male Artist 2012 Sunday Times Generation NEXT Award
for Coolest DJ
2013 SAMA Best Dance Album 2013 Sunday Times Generation NEXT Award
for Coolest DJ
2014 Sunday Times Generation NEXT Award
for Coolest DJ
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V - profile
ABOVE DJ Nkosinathi Maphumulo,
The evolution of an artist
aka Black Coffee, performed
As big a thing as an international album release
magic when he staged a live show
would be – and it’s hard to ignore the fairy tale
collaborating his house music with
of “from dusty rural Eastern Cape to the world’s
a 24-piece orchestra.
ears” – Black Coffee is rather more concerned about the sustainability of his sound. About taking
RIGHT & TOP RIGHT From Ibiza
it to the big clubs and even beyond, to the festivals.
to New York, Black Coffee has
Which is why his latest single I Will Find You,
joined the big names in the
featuring Cara Frew, has a fresh sound – one that,
international music scene.
while still having the distinctive DJ Black Coffee touch, will be far more at home on the stage at a big festival. “My influences have definitely evolved,” he confirms. “And this (I Will Find You) is different from what I’ve done in the past. Of course there is still my element to it, but I get a lot of comments like, ‘Wow, that’s different’… And that’s exactly what I wanted.” What he wanted didn’t just happen overnight, of course. The hard work over the years is the
“Both are important, but so different,” he says.
evolution of a careful mix of studio sessions and
“In the studio I take time to get ‘in’. I can go for
stage time.
two days there without getting into the zone, whereas on stage, by the second song, I’m in.”
The Black Coffee Foundation Regardless of his achievements DJ Black Coffee has remained humble and firmly grounded to his roots. He’s also dedicated to upliftment and, in this vein, he’s launched a foundation in 2009, aiming to assist the destitute and disabled people of South Africa
His international audience will most likely not know what happens behind the closed studio doors, but there is no doubt that Black Coffee is about to be “in” everywhere in the world. “I have always said that the dream will slowly unfold … until the big day.”
by analysing their needs and providing for those needs
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in a fruitful manner wherever possible. The foundation
Follow Black Coffee
works with different established institutions to reach
the most destitute people. A percentage of all Soulistic
Instagram @realblackcoffee
Music record sales goes to the foundation.
Facebook Facebook.com/realblackcoffee
Djblackcoffee.org
Website
@RealBlackCoffee
Blackcoffee.dj
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We make the easy life even easier
V - profile
At Vodcom Shop Paarl Mall, we go beyond the expected to keep you in contact with all your friends and family. We deliver great service together with every device and accessory you can imagine.
74735/VODA/E
Vodacom Power to you
de vie 65 Vodacom Shop Paarl Mall, Shop 13 and 14, Paarl Mall, Tel: 021 863 4247/8, Fax: 021val863 4249
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V - investment
Double-barrel investments When it comes to investments, what could be more beautiful and more practical than a double-barrelled enhancement to your lifestyle? Words and photographs by Mark Pettipher
D
iscerning investors are looking beyond financial
Holland & Holland was established in 1835, and
instruments or even property to an alternative
the ‘’builders of best guns only’’, Boss & Co
that gracefully holds the value of both antiquity
Gunmakers, was established in 1812.
and art, while keeping a firm grip on functionality
In 2009, a bespoke Purdey would cost you, with
and growth. Gun collecting – specifically rare
today’s exchange rates, at least R1 225 000 and take
acquisitions such as Purdey and Holland & Holland
two years to make. A Holland & Holland was
– is a niche that can pay a rich dividend to buyers
priced at between R710 000 to R1 170 000. But
who have their finger on the trigger. And, as with
the cost of 1 000+ man-hours that can go into the
any specialty investment, finding your trophy means
masterpiece can be avoided by buying vintage for a
hunting with the experts.
fraction of the price.
“My most valuable sale was a Holland & Holland
When the final hammer came down at the end of
heavy calibre deluxe, which I acquired from a
Holt’s Auctioneers’ December 2010 auction, total
private sale in the UK. It sold for R1,7-million,”
sales had hit a record US$2,72-million (R29,75-
says Bennie Laubscher, a rifle specialist who has
million). Among the hot sellers was a pair of Purdey
been dealing in fine firearms for more than 25 years.
shotguns, sold for R1 435 000, while two guns
Born and raised in Paarl, Laubscher has a great
made by Holland & Holland went for R1 400 000.
eye for value and a passion for getting things right.
In the same year, Sotheby’s also enjoyed a healthy
Concentrating on making custom-made bolt action
December auction, with a buyer paying R1 470 000
rifles, he says that, on average, his rifles would sell
for a single Boss & Co 12-gauge shotgun.
for about R100 000. Like all new guns, they will
Investors don’t exactly make a killing. Valuations
appreciate in value as the years go by. The majority
tend to rise by about three to five percent a year.
of the cost goes into the making of the weapons’
But at least putting money into high-end English
various components, which he makes in his Paarl
shotguns is a safe bet, backed up by Holland &
workshop. Only the billet (the barrel of the gun) is
Holland’s 150 years’ worth of sales records. Gun
outsourced (from the US) – it’s highly specialised
collecting is an “underfed” market where demand
and requires absolute precision to ensure each rifle’s
will always outstrip supply and push up prices.
accuracy. It takes anywhere from three to six months
That’s because very few hand-crafted guns are
just to make the billet; combined with the precision
produced each year. In 2009, for instance, Holland
of hand-building components, a rifle can take up to
& Holland only delivered 88 guns; and Purdey
18 months to complete.
makes only about 30 “Sporters” per year.
Investing in quality
Our double-barrel investment
The Brits set the world benchmark for quality gun
Guns with a special provenance – those once owned
manufacturing as a result of know-how and
by royalty or a champion shooter, for example –
attention to detail that has been passed down
can increase in value at an even greater rate. At the
through generations.
Holt’s auction, a 12-gauge Purdey once owned by
The London-based J Purdey & Sons was
champion US shooter Russell B Atkins (with an
established in 1814 and received a Royal warrant in
estimated value of between R262 500 and R350 000)
1868. Queen Victoria had a pair of Purdey pistols.
sold for R577 540.
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Bennie Laubscher began making gun and rifle stocks as a hobby in the late 1980s, turning his attentions to rifle-making in 1995
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V - investment in the vicinity
Austrian-born master craftsman Armin Winkler carves with precision the delicate tendrils on a custom-made rifle’s lock plate. His skill, honed in Ferlach where the acclaimed art of gunsmithing has been practised for more than 500 years, reflects in his meticulous, exquisite work
The Boss gun that was sold for R1 470 000
The pros of investing in guns
lT rust your sense of style and taste. Article
achieved its record price not because of the
A gun is an investment you can use. While it’s
author Jim Carmichel says if you do, you’ll
quality of the firearm, but because the seller
not recommended to regularly take unique,
still enjoy owning the gun even if it proves
was legendary guitarist Eric Clapton.
antique or collectible guns to the firing range,
to be a lousy investment.
a gun will not lose its value as long as it is
It’s a question of pedigree
well maintained.
lB uy guns that have a proven track record of value. Take the Winchester Model 21,
Why are English shotguns, particularly those
Some weapons are a solid bet. British
says Carmichel: nowadays you’re lucky to
made by Purdey, Holland & Holland and Boss,
shotguns created by makers such as Holland
find a good used 12-gauge for less than
so well regarded? Because game-bird hunting
& Holland increase in value by three to five
R38 000. Parker Brothers doubles in
and “shooting” in the UK has, since the mid-
percent a year. The value can also improve
12-gauge DH Grade now sell for upwards
19th century, come to be seen as a particularly
depending on who previously owned the gun.
of R45 000, whereas you can expect a 28-gauge in the same grade to fetch half as
upper-class English sport. UK manufacturers have grown with the sport, developing teams
The cons of investing in guns
much again. An indicator of the increasing
of craftsmen and honing the techniques
There’s no guarantee that value will increase.
demand for good doubles has been the value
necessary to produce world-beating guns. The
When something is relatively simple to make,
escalation of Winchester Model 21s. If you
finished products are essentially works of art,
supply will ultimately meet demand.
had bought the same gun new 10 or 20
featuring hand-etched, detailed engravings on
Traditional investment vehicles can offer tax
years ago, you would have made a solid
the steel lock plates, and stocks of highly
deductions. As with other collectibles, there’s
10% per annum on your investment, in
polished and oiled walnut.
no tax advantage to investing in guns.
addition to owning and using a shotgun
As a result, the guns enjoy the same sort of
Finally, you’ve got to spend a significant
cachet as those other super-expensive, royalty-
amount of money on the correct, safe and
approved English products, Rolls-Royce and
secure storage.
that says a lot about who you are. lB uy the best you can afford – plus a little more. Higher-grade guns appreciate at a faster rate because there are fewer of them
Bentley cars. Ironically, just as both the car manufacturers are German-owned, Purdey is
How to invest in collectible guns
available. Research the value index of Belgian-
now owned by South African billionaire
If you want to get into this type of investment,
made Browning Superposed shotguns in
Johann Rupert, chairman of Swiss luxury-
be prepared to do the research, so you can
the various grades and you’ll get an example
goods company Richemont and South African
jump on an opportunity when it comes. You
of the incredible return on high-grade guns.
Remgro, among others; while Holland &
also have to have decades’ worth of patience.
Holland is part of French luxury-goods
Don’t lose sight of the fact that old and rare
When investing in used guns, buy only the
conglomerate Chanel. Most buyers of classic
guns were once new, and were bought to be
most pristine examples. (Laubscher recommends
shotguns are British or European, though
used. Take a careful look at guns being built
and favours the British manufactures – Holland
approximately 25% of Holt’s buyers are from
today and decide which of them will be a rare
& Holland, Purdey, Boss and William Evens
the US. Auctioneers are also seeing more
jewel tomorrow.
– and looks for bolt actions.) This will ensure
Russian customers. However, most buyers
An article in Outdoor Life about investing
that, when you choose to sell or upgrade the
from developing economies tend to buy new
in shotguns offered these three tips, which are
gun, the buyer won’t have anything to
guns rather than classic models.
echoed by Laubscher:
complain about … except your price.
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" I k n ow a t l a s t w h at di s t i n gui s he s m a n f ro m a n i m a l s ; f i n anc i al w or r i e s " - Ro mai n Ro l l an d
“Failing to plan is planning to fail..”
Louwrens Smith Group CEO
Werner Swanepoel Marketing Director
Marinus Lourens Branch Manager & Financial Advisor
André Venter Financial Advisor
Kobus van der Merwe Director
life ・ health ・ invest legal ・ insure ・ tax To schedule an appointment contact marinus@optimumgroup.co.za
Optimum Group Offices Countrywide Gauteng • Free State • Northern Cape • Western Cape • Eastern Cape info@optimumgroup.co.za • +27 (0)861 OPTIFIN (6784346)
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Cultivating beauty At Stellenbosch’s Cavalli Estate, you will find a wide spectrum of art forms existing in one masterfully conceived composition Words by Alice Bennett
C
avalli Estate is a departure from the winelands
“iCavalli”, means “the horses” in Italian) to the
vernacular for a variety of reasons. While many
appreciation of exquisite cuisine and local art.
such destinations offer, with great aplomb, a variety
These four pillars together are the beating heart of
of lifestyle pursuits in one venue, few do it in as
the business.
seamlessly executed a manner or with quite the scope and focus as Cavalli.
70
The fifth is the setting. And it is magnificent – which, one might argue, is not that unusual in a
Under the guardianship of managing director
part of the world famed for its staggering natural
Lauren Smith, this magnificent property was
assets. But it’s how the setting has been framed
designed and developed by Smith, herself an
that’s the real achievement. The architecture is, in a
architect, in conjunction with Bouwer Architects,
word, contemporary. “As the new kids on the block,
and in accordance with the guiding principles
it was important for us to acknowledge through
of sustainability, luxury and excellence. These
the design that we do not have a ‘heritage’, as such,”
watchwords have shaped its ethos and permeate
says Smith. “The site was a blank slate with no
every aspect of the business, which is multi-fold.
historical reference, so it was a natural outcome for
The family started the estate to give expression
the design to be rooted firmly in its current context
to all its passions, from wine-making and the
– the here and the now – with location playing the
breeding of world-class horses (the farm’s name,
biggest role.”
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This vision has been made manifest in a dynamic
On a more literal level too, the architecture and
and engaging design that, despite its linear first
landscape were designed to work in harmony.
impression, seems to embrace the landscape –
“Besides my love of nature, the project had its own
TOP Arrive in style, the magnificent view from the helipad.
especially on the restaurant deck, where a dam
impetus, which was to celebrate the beauty of
ABOVE The Equus Building breaks
and the Helderberg mountains beyond form a
something that precedes the winelands – this area
convention in the Cape Winelands.
half-moon around the diners. The scale of the
would once have been a landscape of indigenous
range is such that even the large Dylan Lewis
vegetation,” says Smith. As a result, the design’s
OPPOSITE TOP
human bronze form at the far end of the dam,
direction was very much cued by the landscape
The Cavalli Estate entrance
despite being impressively statuesque, is dwarfed by
itself and features such as a gabion wall filled with
this cinematic scene.
locally quarried stone and an indigenous living wall
OPPOSITE BOTTOM
Indeed, the relationship between the site, the
blur the divide between indoors and out. Internal
Great care went into the design
structure and the art is one of the most compelling
courtyards also constantly bring the focus back
of every aspect of the estate,
aspects of Cavalli Estate. The three elements
to the setting, while carefully planned gardens of
even the paddocks and vines
form a symbiotic relationship that creates a single
fynbos are interspersed between the paddocks, dams
are immaculate.
entity – setting as art, and art as architecture.
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This focus on the landscape isn’t skin-deep. There is a strong green thrust to Cavalli – sustainable design was a priority for Smith from inception. These principles were applied from the drawing board, and design that works with the natural climate rather than in isolation, such as the maximisation of natural light and ventilation, goes towards lightening the estate’s footprint. Perhaps the best example of this is the training facilities for the horses, where innovative, cutting-edge technology goes hand in hand with a holistic approach, and where features that enhance the horses’ performance (optimal temperatures and conditions, minimal dust) are as important as those that allow them to socialise naturally (special areas for rest, work, play). FROM TOP The indoor arena; the outdoor training area; One of the estate’s prize steeds
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V - equestrian Optimal conditions in the kitchen allow chef Henrico Grobbelaar to produce award-winning cuisine at Equus Dine restaurant, which recently won the Eat Out Boschendal Style Award, and which pushes the boundaries while staying true to the core ideals of Cavalli – quality, authenticity and innovation. Much of the produce that ends up on the plate is from the selfsustaining organic garden; the remaining ingredients are sourced locally where possible. Aside from being wholesome and down-to-earth, Grobbelaar’s dishes are a visual treat – beautiful in colour, texture and flavour. “The opportunity to be a pilot project with the Green Building Council of South Africa to be the first Green Star-rated restaurant only served to strengthen our drive for design that fostered sustainability,” says Smith. Below the restaurant is where you’ll find the gallery and boutique. Smith’s decision to excavate and use the space underground was prompted by her desire to keep the profile of the building as discreet as possible. This location also has another effect – the gallery space is quiet, dark, cool and contemplative, the artworks lit dramatically. It’s a perfect bubble in which to engage with and really appreciate art. Curator Carina du Randt is in charge of selecting the artists who show here, and she is mindful of choosing work that speaks to the ethos of the place.
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V - equestrian In the next-door boutique, Kingdom, a very considered and curated selection of South African contemporary design – high-end artisanal luxury pieces – is a nod to the high standards Smith has set. “I believe art and architecture should complement each other and be mutually supportive, with no one aspect undermining another,” she says. This goes for the rest of the business too, and no branch is more important than another for Smith. “Each of the different disciplines gives me an opportunity to impart my creativity,” she says. The fact that each part of the business, when done to its highest level, can be considered an art form is surely no accident. “My obsession for details means I’m constantly seeking to improve and evolve,” she says.
THIS PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP Vladimir Grigoryevich Tretchikoff’s “Poinsettia and Lilies”; the copper “faceted” bar was custom-made according to MD Lauren Smith’s design; the estate terrace at night; “Persphone’s Return”, a work by Cathy Layzell; Hendrik Christiaan Niemann’s “Wheat Harvester” OPPOSITE, FROM TOP The Equus Dine team; pan-seared springbok fillet, one of the dishes available on the restaurant’s menu; Stanislaw Trzebinski’s “Mushroom Coral Crown”
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The AfrAsia Bank Cape Wine Auction Launched in 2014, the AfrAsia Bank Cape Wine Auction was a record-breaking success. During a glamourous lunch, in five short hours, a staggering R7,4-million was raised for the benefit of promoting education in the South African winelands
T
wo hundred and sixty guests flew in from
While the lots flew off the hammer, the guests
all over the world to bid on wine-related
enjoyed exquisite wines and a phenomenal feast
experiences usually not available for purchase. In an
prepared by the talented culinary team of Christiaan
incredible spirit of generosity, the top wine farms
Campbell, Margot Janse and Neil Jewell.
in the country got behind this wonderful initiative and created a truly spectacular experience.
Beneficiaries from the 2014 event include the Pebbles Project, the MAD Charity, the Click
The event commenced on the evening of 14
Foundation as well as 10 other charities, all of
Warwick Estate and trustee of the
March with the “Barrel Tasting and Auction Preview�
which are focused on education in the winelands
AfrAsia Bank Cape Wine Auction,
at the glamorous Waterford Estate in Stellenbosch.
from many different angles, from infant development
celebrates a successful event
Guests had a chance to preview the lots and taste
to technological innovation, the provision of a
BELOW Michael Jordaan, Wendy
the barrels going up on auction, and to meet the
leadership
Appelbaum and Charles Banks share
auction ambassadors.
endowments. The AfrAsia Bank Cape Wine Auction
ABOVE Mike Ratcliffe, owner of
academy
and
tertiary
educational
On 15 March, the main event was hosted at
is a long-term vision, and through the continued
was raised for charity by 260 guests
the magnificent Delaire Graff Estate, in a glass-
generosity and support of the participants, it will be
from all over the country
fronted marquee that overlooked the dramatic
able to keep changing lives. The auction aims to
Banhoek valley.
develop long-term partnerships with the selected
a moment. A staggering R 7,2-million
charities and grow with them over time. More information is available at Thecapewineauction.com/charities Five trustees govern the board of the AfrAsia Bank Cape Wine Auction, bringing a broad spectrum of business experience to the Trust. Each is an expert in his or her own field, and they are united by a common philanthropic goal. The trustees
include
Wendy
Appelbaum,
Siobhan
Thompson, Ken Kinsey-Quick, Michael Jordaan and Mike Ratcliffe. The purpose of these trustees is to guide the allocation and channelling of funds, 76
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V - greater cause and to maintain complete transparency in all of the procedures at all times. The funds are allocated on the basis of maximum impact to charities that have shown that they are sustainable, properly managed and audited, and whose administrative costs are in order. Follow-ups are conducted by the trustees to ensure the money is being utilised in the manner for which it is intended. In terms of the requirements of the Trust Deed, they have appointed PricewaterhouseCoopers as independent auditors of the trust to provide assurance to the stakeholders on the financial affairs of the trust. The AfrAsia Bank Cape Wine Auction is proud to be associated with an outstanding group of esteemed partners and ambassadors committed to this noble cause, and thanks them for making their time and resources available to turn this dream into a reality. The auction ambassadors – the life blood of the Cape Wine Auction – comprise a select group of high-
ABOVE Ryk Neethling, Nerine and Francois Pienaar, and Florian Gast
profile wine-industry personalities who conceive, create and donate the auction lots: an astonishing
BELOW Vanessa Sabbatini, Laurence Vallet, Suneeta Motala and Nthabiseng Mgengenene
line-up of once-in-a-lifetime offerings.
from AfrAsia Bank
More information is available at: Thecapewineauction.com/ambassadors The AfrAsia Bank Cape Wine Auction is delighted to announce that the 2015 event will be hosted at the magnificent Boschendal Estate. Tickets to the auction are only available through the auction ambassadors. With only 300 tickets available, online bidding is the key to the Cape Wine Auction creating a new highwater mark for a charitable fund-raiser. The 2015 event promises to be just as spectacular as the 2014 debut was, and the excitement is already building. For more information, contact: Jessica Henrich (auction director) Email jess@thecapewineauction.com Phone +27 (0)83 469 2975 Web Thecapewineauction.com Facebook Facebook.com/TheCapeWineAuction Twitter Twitter.com/capewineauction
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Fit for kings and queens “Wine is a gift from the heavens, cultivated by man and drunk by kings. Polo is a game invented by man and played by men with hearts of kings” – Author unknown
T
rue to its name, the Polo Club Restaurant at
Following this occasion, Dish Food & Social
the exquisite Val de Vie Estate overlooks an
played the special role of catering for Val de Vie’s
immaculate polo field where matches are regularly
founder and CEO Martin Venter and his wife Lizelle’s
held in the warmer months of the year, from October
wedding in 2008. It was at this celebration that the
to April, offering guests a unique dining experience.
door to a collaboration that is now in full force was
Having created an inviting and family-friendly
first opened.
atmosphere, the restaurant is by no means exclusive
Working together with Dish Food & Social in
to kings and queens, but rather, elicits a sense of
putting every detail of the wedding together perfectly
royalty in the hearts of its diners.
was Simone de Wet – the talented and passionate events
On par with the excellence that Val de Vie Estate is synonymous with is the Polo Club Restaurant’s
coordinator who is now a shareholder and managing director of the Val de Vie Events business.
frequently refreshed menu. The secret “ingredient”
“I was approached by Martin just a few months
of this dining establishment’s success is one that Val
after the wedding to consider setting up an events
de Vie is happy to share: Dish Food & Social, the
business,” she says. “Needless to say, I grabbed the
catering company that took up the reins at Polo Club
opportunity and launched Val de Vie Events in
Restaurant in June 2014.
March 2009.”
Owned by husband and wife Oscar and Andrea
Impressively, she did so at the age of 22 – and
Foulkes, Dish Food & Social was established 14 years
the business has been thriving ever since. De Wet’s
ago. “What started out as a hobby quickly developed
zeal for the business and the development of
into a business,” Andrea explains. “I feel lucky to do
others stems from her personal journey, characterised
what I am passionate about.” When the oohs and
by ambition and determination. Organising an
ahhs of friends that Andrea had cooked for turned
average of 110 events at the estate per year, there
into requests to cater for parties, and then into a
is no doubt that she and her team of 10 have a flair
more widespread demand, she knew it was time to
for efficiency.
use her skills for something more than a pastime.
Restaurant trading hours Mondays
closed
Tuesdays
9am – 4pm
Wednesdays
9am – 8pm
(Bar and restaurant close at 8pm) Thursdays
9am – 10pm
Fridays
9am – 10pm
Saturdays
9am – 4pm
Sundays
9am – 4pm
To avoid disappointment, bookings are essential: Tel +27 (0)21 863 6174 Email restaurant@valdevie.co.za Event enquiries Tel +27 (0)21 863 6191 Email events@valdevie.co.za Web Valdevie.co.za
A driver of excellence, De Wet sets all that is great
Dish Food & Social now has 80 staff members
apart from that which is good when it comes to each
working across various establishments. A dedicated
event, and this can clearly be seen in the incredible
team is involved with catering for events at Val de
output of the business. “We’re a servant-hearted
Vie, another at the Polo Club Restaurant and others
team,” she says. “We take careful note of each client’s
at the Sidedish Theatre Bistro at Theatre on the Bay,
requirements and pay close attention to detail to
and at the Red Table Restaurant at Nederburg.
ensure that the day is precisely what the client
Although Dish Food & Social only recently
envisioned.” With such passion for quality, you can
assumed responsibility for the restaurant and all
rest assured that the Dish Food & Social and Val de
catering for events held at Val de Vie, it has walked
Vie Events partnership takes the greatest of care to
a meaningful journey with the estate. “Seven years
make certain that every event is outstanding.
ago, when Val de Vie’s official opening event took
Whether you are planning a corporate function,
place, I had the privilege of being the first person
birthday celebration, wedding or any other event,
to switch on the oven in the Polo Club Restaurant’s
you can expect as much brilliance from these teams
kitchen,” Andrea says.
as there is beauty at Val de Vie Estate. val de vie
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“Coffee makes it possible to get out of bed. Chocolate makes it worthwhile” – Author unknown
Executive Chef and Pastry Chef, Emma Hepburn There’s no denying that chocolate is one of the finest pleasures in life. But its creamy glory dims in comparison to Emma Hepburn’s handiwork (which, in all fairness, often includes chocolate). From bourbon-poached pears with almond brittle, burntbutter ice cream and whisky pearls to chocolatealmond slices served with white chocolate rooibos mousse, honeyed nuts and cardamom syrup, her range of delights is truly sumptuous. One glance at her dishes shows that this talented young lady is passionate about cuisine, particularly of the sweet kind – and one bite shows her excellence. Hepburn’s journey began at Silwood School of Cookery, where she completed her studies in 2007, followed by practical work experience at a five-star lodge in Namibia, where she fulfilled the role of junior sous chef and assisted with staff training. Thereafter, over a period of 18 months, she gained further experience as a private chef in Cape Town for local and international clients. In 2009, she grabbed the opportunity to join Dish Food & Social. “I feel like part of the furniture now,” she says with a smile. “It has been an exciting step becoming involved at the Polo Club Restaurant; we’re putting together some great ideas for guests to look forward to.”
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Val de Vie Events
VAL DE VIE ESTATE, situated in the beautiful Paarl-Franschhoek Valley is a landmark of unsurpassed beauty. Here dreams are transformed with zeal and fervency, from unexplored possibilities to magical experiences. We cordially invite you to celebrate your dream day in the VAL DE VIE POLO PAVILION, a spectacular entertaining area with a magical ambience. Life worth living! To view our venues or for more information please contact us t +27 21 863 6191 e events@valdevie.co.za w www.valdevie.co.za Follow us on f Val de Vie Estate t @valdevieestate i @valdevieestate val de vie
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CORPORATES
CONFERENCES
YEAR END FUNCTIONS
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Oh so “Clicquot”
S
ynonymous with flutes of champagne and exquisite couture fashion, the Veuve Clicquot
In keeping with tradition, Bentley was both associate sponsor and official vehicle partner
Masters Polo Cape Town 2014 set a new benchmark
at this year’s Veuve Clicquot Masters Polo 2014,
as a world-class luxury event in South Africa.
hosting the world land-speed record holder, Wing
Notable VIPs in attendance included Minister of
Commander Andy Green, as a special guest in the
Sport Fikile Mbalula, Tokyo Sexwale and world land-
VIP lounge. Despite the presence of Bentley’s
speed record holder Andy Green; local celebrities
flagship luxury performance automobile, the
Cindy Nell, Jimmy Nevis and Tanya van Graan;
Mulsanne, as well as the recently launched Flying
More images and info
international supermodel Katryn Kruger; and
Spur, it was the new Bentley GT Speed convertible
at Valdevie.co.za.
fashion icons David Tlale, Malcolm Kluk and
parked side by side with two rare Bentley Blowers
For sponsorship and
Christiaan Gabriel du Toit. Guests enjoyed an
that stole the show.
ticket enquiries, email
afternoon of stylish decor, chilled Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label champagne and gourmet canapés.
Drawing inspiration from polo’s global presence
events@valdevie.co.za.
and rich cultural heritage, the prestigious Veuve
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V - events Clicquot sponsors some of the world’s leading polo events, including the Manhattan Classic in New York City, the LA Polo Classic, the UK’s Gold Cup and the Veuve Clicquot Masters Cape Town. The latter is the only event of its kind in Africa, and draws both local and international spectators. D’Oré, the official fashion partner for the day, showcased some of the world’s top luxury fashion brands, such as Emilio Pucci, Escada, Cavalli, Armani Collezione, Rupert Sanderson, Elie Tahari, Hervé Léger and Vanessa G, in a quintessential runway show. Like any other sport, polo is best savoured live – so all eyes were fixed on the games of polo played on the day. With an added opening exhibition match, a first for the tournament, and the final eight-goal tournament comprising of top local and international players, play was organised by HRH Prince Malik AdoIbrahim of Nigeria and saw a nail-biting finish, with winning team Veuve Clicquot, captained by Johan du Plooy, narrowly beating team Nigus with a 6/5 victory.
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UB40 at Val de Vie One of the most talked-about concert tours in South Africa, the UB40 tour featuring Ali Campbell was presented by DSTV and Seed Experiences who, once again, showcased top- notch production of world-class events to fans in both Cape Town and Johannesburg And what a thrill it was to host such an
the 6Â 000-strong audience echoed the songs
unforgettable performance by the reggae
throughout the venue.
legends at Val de Vie Estate.
After the sun set, the moment arrived:
Fans young and old reunited, singing
UB40 featuring Ali Campbell and fellow
and dancing along to their all-time favourite
founding members Astro and Mickey Virtue
UB40 hits. With a backdrop and setting that
took to the stage with the crowd in full cheer.
already enhanced the experience, the show
The band performed their top songs, ensuring
kicked off with an energetic performance by
fans got to relive the UB40 tunes they have
pop reggae act Trenton and Free Radical,
always loved.
followed by a highly entertaining show put on by local favourites Hot Water.
The mix of a beautiful venue, nostalgic music and great vibes ensured the celebrations
Special guests Mango Groove reminded
in Paarl reached a new level as UB40 showed
everyone of their unmatched talent as Claire
why they remain one of the top live music acts
Johnston performed all the classic hits while
in the world.
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Mickey Virtue, Ali Campbell and Astro were all smiles backstage after a phenomenal performance at Val de Vie
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singh&sons PNG/5237/VALDEVIE
www.pongracz.co.za
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HE Market The AT
A delightful celebration of family Sundays and a life worth living! Val de Vie invites you for polo and bubbly at the monthly Sunday Markets
V
al de Vie Estate invites visitors to take in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere while
browsing delightful offerings, from food and wine to clothing and jewellery, among other eye-catching items, at its monthly Sunday market. Visitors can also look forward to a unique experience as polo matches are held at each market day during the summer. Only 35 minutes from Cape Town, the market is a fun outing for families who want to break away from city life or simply to enjoy a refreshing change of scenery. It’s the perfect day getaway. The market is held on the Polo Pavilion’s terraces, and offers shady spots and an indoor space where visitors can unwind and enjoy the live band and the excitement of the polo match while sipping bubbly. There is also entertainment for children to look forward to – and the fun is a surprise as activities change every month. In keeping with the standard that Franschhoek has set as the country’s gastronomic capital, the Market at Val de Vie does not fall short of the culinary reputation that the region has earned. Visitors can look forward to treats such as freshly squeezed juices and smoothies, light lunches and sweet indulgences, as well as wine, local beer and bubbly. The afternoon can also be extended into evening at the adjacent Polo Club Restaurant. To find out about upcoming market dates, visit Valdevie.co.za. The market is open from 10am to 3pm. Entrance is free. val de vie
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V - TBA events While the TBA is a registered breed society, it is also South Africa’s premier horse auction company, selling more than 1 500 horses every year under the Bloodstock South Africa banner. The R4-million paid for a son of the late champion racehorse and sire Jet Master is a South African record for a yearling sold at auction. Many champions have been sold by Bloodstock
South
Africa,
which offers sales throughout the year, with the prestigious National
Yearling
Sale
in
April taking pride of place.
Sport of kings T
Increasingly,
horse
auctions
have become associated with social events, and the Val De Vie Yearling Sale is the newest addition to Bloodstock South
horoughbred racing and breeding has existed in
Western Cape and, to a lesser extent, KwaZulu-Natal
Africa’s auction roster.
South Africa for more than 200 years since being
and the Eastern Cape.
It is due to take place at the Val
introduced in 1792 by British colonists, when the first
In keeping with South Africa’s obsession with
recorded races took place on Green Point Common!
sporting excellence, the country been a source of many
Sunday 22 February.
The sport of horse-racing really took root during
champion racehorses over the years. The story began
An exciting aspect of the sale is
the second half of the 19th century with the gold and
at Royal Ascot with the 1907 renewal of England’s
a
diamond rush and the massive wealth that followed.
premier speed race, the King’s Stand Stakes, in which
Africa’s prime yearlings being
Racecourses were established in major cities and a
Camp Fire II prevailed over the swiftest horses in
sold on Saturday night as part
programme of races was established over the next 100
Europe. But it wasn’t until 1996 that the first “South
of a prestigious gala dinner.
years, many of which remain today, including the
African” was able to accept an invitation to race in
Gr.1 SA Derby, the greatest test of the thoroughbred
international company in Hong Kong. History was
racehorse. Although the Thoroughbred Breeders
being made when the strapping Gr.1 Durban July
Association (TBA) of South Africa was founded in
winner, London News, became the first horse to be
1921, the decision to build its own Sales Complex
exported under the EU ratified South African Export
was only taken in the 1970s for the benefit of its many
Protocol to give a length-and-a-half beating to Gr.1
members. The 600-stable complex is situated near Rand
competitors from around the world. Others soon
Airport on the outskirts of Johannesburg and ranks
followed and the likes of Victory Moon, Jay Peg,
among the finest horse auction facilities in the world.
Iridescence, JJ The Jet Plane, Soft Falling Rain and
South
African
breeders
only
built
strong
Vercingetorix have since excelled internationally.
foundation families in the boom years after 1945, in
Whether you own your own racehorse, take a
particular during the heyday of the wool business
flutter on the races or simply enjoy the unique social
when great thoroughbred studs were established in
events, racing truly is the “king” of sports.
the Karoo. Famous stud farms emerged, such as the Karoo-based Vogelvlei Stud of the Birch Bros, Henry
de Vie Polo Club House on
select
session
of
South
The TBA is proud to uphold the tradition of selling South Africa’s finest thoroughbred racehorses in world-class facilities, and ensuring the highest standards of integrity. Tel +27 (0)11 323 5700 Email enquiries@tba.co.za Website Tba.co.za BELOW Jet Master, a champion sire BELOW LEFT Jay Peg wins the Gr.1 Dubai Duty Free © Social photography: Liesl King; Jet Master: John Lewis; Jay Peg: Andrew Watkins
Nourse’s Dwarsvlei Stud and Mauritzfontein Stud, which was developed by the late Harry and Bridget Oppenheimer outside Kimberley, now in the care of their grand-daughter Jessica Slack. More recently, the concentration of breeding operations moved to the 92
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VAL
VIE Yearling SALE DE
22 February 2015 Val de Vie Estate, Franschhoek (Including a Select Session) The French are world-renowned for the style of their racing and thoroughbred sales. You don’t have to go to Deauville for a certain ‘je ne sais quoi’ - come to Franschhoek for the weekend of the Val de Vie Yearling Sale
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V - events
Cintron Pink Polo
The Cintron Pink Polo, powered by Vodacom, set the stage for the polo season in a stylish affair that is only to be expected at Val de Vie Estate
O
ctober is the month of pink, which was evident in the pretty pastels and a medley
Funds raised by the Cintron Pink Polo, which is owned and organised by Val de Vie
of pink shades as local and international guests
Events and Edith Unlimited, will be used to
attended the fifth edition of the Cintron Pink
assist women with practical and medical needs in
Polo at Val de Vie.
their fight and recovery from breast cancer.
Guests of this annual equestrian fundraiser
CANSA proactively aims to encourage women
for the Cancer Association of South Africa
to get themselves tested. They also provide free
(CANSA), fittingly held during breast-cancer-
transportation for patients who need to go to
awareness month, enjoyed a glorious afternoon
clinics and hospitals for checkups, treatments
of riveting polo matches, the latest in fashion,
and follow-up appointments. Funds will also
and refreshing Cintron cocktails on the lawns
be used to purchase temporary breast prostheses
of Val de Vie Estate.
for women who have had a mastectomy.
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VV --events events
Cancer fighter Rachelle Barioli, winner of the Cintron Pink Polo VIP experience competition in association with KFM, was hosted by the marketing director of Val de Vie Estate Ryk Neethling and event organiser Edith Venter. With all eyes fixed on the game, the two polo team sponsors – Cintron and Gaggenau – put forward a world-class polo match, featuring Springbok players Tom de Bruin and Le Roux Hendriks. During the half-time break, everyone was invited to stomp the divots and enjoy the Aston Martin motor show, with flagship luxury performance automobiles paraded side by side giving guests the chance for a close inspection.
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Team Cintron walked away with the trophy with a 6/5 score. Joined by Julius Baer, the leading Swiss private-banking group, as the official banking partner, and with Gaggenau as the event’s sub-sponsor for the third year running, guests were spoiled with perfectly chilled Pongrácz MCC, Val de Vie wines and gourmet canapés. Jenni Button, the official fashion partner, showcased the latest ready-to-wear designs in a fashion show on the polo fields. Drawing inspiration from the fashion element of polo, Elle magazine awarded prizes to the best dressed at the end of the afternoon. Sisley and GHD kept guests looking perfect all day, treating everyone to a truly prestigious beauty experience. Also featured next to the beauty stations was a Polo World popup store full of polo gear for all the lovers of the sport. Guests mingled well beyond sunset in what was considered the best Pink Polo event yet.
More images and info at Valdevie.co.za. For sponsorship and ticket enquiries, email events@valdevie.co.za. 98
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Aiming for precision At Vodacom we strive to give you the best shopping experience every time. From expert support staff to finding your perfect device.
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Vodacom Power to you
Visit any of the following stores and get the most out of your connection: Vodacom Shop Bayside Vodacom Shop Canal Walk Vodacom Shop Cape Gate Vodacom Shop George Courtenay Street Vodacom Shop George Pick n Pay Centre Vodacom Shop Golden Acre Vodacom Shop Kenilworth Vodacom Shop N1 City Vodacom Shop Oudtshoorn Vodacom Shop Paarl Mall
Pink Polo_SUBBED.indd 99
Tel: Tel: Tel: Tel: Tel: Tel: Tel: Tel: Tel: Tel:
021 557 8022 021 552 7423 021 982 6781 044 874 1667 044 871 5516 021 419 8424 021 671 8873 021 595 1311 044 272 0337 021 863 4247
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Data stores near you: Tel: 041 363 3078 Tel: 041 363 0696 Tel: 021 532 0710 Tel: 044 887 0145 Tel: 044 695 2811 Tel: 041 368 9057 Tel: 021 914 2910 Tel: 021 949 9792 Tel: 021 914 2460 Tel: 021 903 0815
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Tel: 021 557 5397 Tel: 021 555 3580 Tel: 021 674 5314 Tel: 011 784 4283 Tel: 021 914 9743
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events best V - world’s
ABOVE Julius Baer is a long-standing supporter of sports across the world and is the title sponsor of the Julius Baer Beach Polo World Cup in Sylt, Germany. In 2014, Julius Baer of the Cintron Pink Polo, held at Val de Vie Estate every October
good year AAgood year
Celebrating its 125th anniversary in 2015, leading Swiss private-banking group Julius Baer looks forward to continuing its growth story
“If contact between people is based on trust and
and sporting activities around the world. In line
absolute integrity, then it is of benefit for both
with this support, the bank focuses on activities
sides.” These are the words of the man who laid
that share the same fundamental values, such as
the foundation for the private banking group that
commitment to exceptional quality and a tradition
still carries his name today, and has increased its
of excellence.
presence to more than 25 countries and more than 50 locations world-wide.
Polo is one of the world’s oldest sports. It combines tradition with dynamism, discipline with
Founded in 1890, Julius Baer focuses exclusively
team spirit, and commitment with excellence. It is
on the demands of sophisticated private clients,
therefore a natural synergy for Julius Baer to be
family offices and external asset managers from all
involved with major tournaments, including the
around the world. Making headlines with chief
Beach Polo Cup in Dubai as well as being title
executive Boris Collardi at the stern, the bank landed
sponsor of the Julius Baer Beach Polo World Cup
one of the most ambitious acquisition deals in the
in Sylt, Germany.
“If contact between
last decade. The acquisition and integration of Merrill
Optimistic about its new relationship with South
people is based on trust
Lynch International Wealth Management outside the
Africa, Julius Baer has chosen Val de Vie Estate as its
US has propelled Julius Baer forward and set the ball
introduction to the African continent, having hosted
rolling on their growth strategy.
its own exhibition match in 2013 as the title and
and absolute integrity,
With a legacy of providing the highest quality
team sponsor, and having returned again in 2014 as
then it is of benefit
of service that stands 125 years, Julius Baer values
an official bank partner of the famed Cintron Pink
for both sides”
its heritage and has been actively committed
Polo held at Val de Vie every October as the kick-off
for generations to sponsoring important cultural
match to the season.
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V - world’s best
Michael My occupation: Architect My dream: A +4 handicap My name:
J ul iu s B a e r , b e c a us e a s a pu r e pl a y pr iv a te b a nk th e y e n a b l e m e to ta k e o b je c ti ve de c is io n s My private bank:
The leading Swiss private banking group. Since 1890. www.juliusbaer.com val de vie 101
Julius Baer is present in over 40 locations worldwide. From Dubai, Frankfurt, Geneva, Guernsey, Hong Kong, London, Milan, Monaco, Montevideo, Moscow, Nassau, Shanghai, Singapore to Zurich (head office). Julius Baer_SUBBED.indd 101
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V
PROPERTY SALES
VILLA PETITE PARADIS
R 4,850,000.00
French Provencal with loads of charm and character. The exquisitely crafted wrought iron front door welcomes one into a hallway leading to a lovely lounge area. Al fresco pagoda patio with pull out awnings to relax, rejuvenate and enjoy the manicured garden.
EXQUISITE & CONTEMPORARY
R 7,200,000.00
Nature in your own front garden! North-Facing onto the Val de Vie Nature Reserve. The glass entry foyer welcomes you to home wrapped around a private lawn-courtyard. Enjoy the open- volume and open-plan contemporary design that boasts a delightfully large covered veranda with decked pool next to the seated Braai-pit area. VA L D E V I E P R O P E RT Y SA L E S O P E N 7 DAY S A W E E K c 083 775 6350 t 021 863 6101 e property@valdevie.co.za 102 val de vie
3 Bedrooms 3 Bathrooms 2 Garages Building Size 293 m2 Plot Size 633 m2
4 Bedrooms 5 Bathrooms 2 Garages Building Size 450 m2 Plot Size 1107 m2
Best Multiple Unit Development in Development South Africa 2013 Best Multiple Unit in South Africa 2013 Best Single Unit Best Development in Development Africa 2014 in Africa 2014 Single Unit
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PROPERTY SALES
A STUNNING HOME
R 3,695,000.00
An enchanting entrance leads you into a lovely welcoming lounge and dining area with an exceptionally modern kitchen. All three bedrooms also have ensuite bathrooms with spectacular views of the mountains. A large covered patio with a built in braai, enjoys the privacy of a fully walled garden and pool area.
MODERN LIGHT & BRIGHT
R 6,950,000.00
A stunning brand new north-east facing home in a truly spectacular position. Privately located and surrounded by magnificent settings of the lakes, uninterrupted mountain views and rolling lawns that flow onto the water. Exquisite modern finishes of top quality throughout; the kitchen is fitted with SMEG appliances. VA L D E V I E P R O P E RT Y SA L E S O P E N 7 DAY S A W E E K c 083 775 6350 t 021 863 6101 e property@valdevie.co.za
V
3 Bedrooms 3 Bathrooms 2 Garages Building Size 251 m2 Plot Size 600 m2
4 Bedrooms 4 Bathrooms 2 Garages Building Size 370 m2 Plot Size 814 m2
Best Multiple Unit Development in South Africa 2013 Best Single Unit Development in Africa 2014
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PAARL-FRANSCHHOEK WESTERN CAPE | SOUTH AFRICA
POLO
ILLAGE
Artist’s Impression
Artist’s Impression
A brand-new FERRARI CALIFORNIA 30 will go to one lucky buyer at the Val De Vie POLO VILLAGE Terms and conditions on www.valdeviepolovillage.com
Buy a luxury
STEFAN ANTONI ‘POLO PAD’
from R1.835m 60 luxury boutique ‘Polo Pads’ and Residences, with top Security, Amenities & 24-hour private Concierge
Levy R1 850 | 68 m 2 | 296 m | 112 m 2
t +27 (0) 21 863 6101 c +27 (0) 83 775 6350 e polovillage@valdevie.co.za | www.valdeviepolovillage.com Val de Vie Estate, R301, Jan van Riebeeck Drive, Paarl, 7646 Artist’s Impression
104 val de vie
Best Multiple Unit Development in South Africa 2013 Best Single Unit Development in Africa 2014
Dining Polo_SUBBED.indd 104
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c o n s t r u c t i o n
quality CONStRuCtiON
www.brickartconstruction.co.za
tuRNkey PROjeCt MaNageMeNt www.guardianprojects.co.za
iNteRiOR DeCORatiNg www.interiorconcepts.co.za Office: Valentia farm, Val de Vie estate, Paarl ShOw hOUSe: 337 Thoroughbred Street, Val de Vie estate, Paarl M: +27 83 641 8887 T: +27 72 648 5876 GPM Contents ADVERTv2.indd SUMMER 2015.indd 4 5
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