We traded the city lights for fireflies and the sound of beeping cars for crickets

Our home away from home was the luxurious L’Avenir Country Lodge (pronounced “love in here”). Nestled in the valley below Simonsberg Mountains, L’Avenir Country Lodge offers some of the best views of the Stellenbosch Winelands. [caption id="attachment_17146" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Reception Area[/caption]

HAVE YOU DONE A BRANDY TASTING AT VAN RYN'S?

There’s something about enjoying a tot of Brandy on a cold winters day , and that's exactly what we did by visiting Van Ryn’s Distillery. My friend being a Brandy enthusiast accompanied me on the visit, eager to learn more about the Van Ryn’s Brandy. One of the best things about Winter is finding new and creative ways to beat the Winter blues. A comforting tot of brandy on a cold Winter’s day is necessary, especially when its freezing outside. My friend and I recently visited Van Ryn’s Distillery to learn more about the craft and taste their range of brandy.  

Behold the changing leaves and enjoy the crisp breeze

Greeted by a kaleidoscope of colours and memories of harvest 2018, the “The De Meye Estate” is a remarkable family-owned boutique winery, situated in the lush Mulservlei area. [caption id="attachment_17016" align="aligncenter" width="768"] Entrance at De Meye Wines[/caption]   This unique little spot has been the home and farming ground to the Myburgh family for five generations. In the earlier years the family used to farm with cattle as the area was popular for cattle farms. The estate is named after the De Meye river in Holland, the birthplace of the first Myburgh, who came to farm in South Africa in 1665.

A taste of the South African food culture

   We sneaked out for dinner that evening (normal for parents with toddlers) finding ourselves immersed in the energy of the Stellenbosch dining scene. The restaurant offers off street parking but you might want to park far away to take in the views and ambiance.

I was interview by Megan Badjies on 25th  MAY 2018 to get my opinion on millennials and their sipping preferences. "It’s hard to keep up with millennials and their trends. One minute they’re into black food, the next they’re all sipping on blue wine." Link below https://www.iol.co.za/lifestyle/food-drink/drink/how-wine-producers-are-keeping-up-with-the-millennials-15144063   Tell me what...

EAGLES NEST WINES

Eagles Nest was initially purchased by the Mylrea family in 1984. Unfortunately, the harmful fires of the year 2000 did extensive damage to the farm. It was later revived and varieties that are most suitable for the unique terroirs were planted. During the colonial period, there was a section of land along the Constantia mountain range, used as a refreshment station between Wynberg and Hout Bay. Currently the farm produces wines such as Shiraz, Merlot, Viognier and the Little Eagle Rose amongst others, which is a testament to the unique terroir and attention to detail.  

Quality Wines and Family Friendly

Constantia Uitsig has a vibrant history of wine production, but it prides itself on its commitment to a green building, farming practices and its bio-diversity. The farm aims to become a haven for both indigenous flora and bird populations. Methods utilised by Constantia Uitsig includes the use of cover cropping, mulching and integrated pest management programmes. The flowers are a central part of the farm, enhancing it aesthetically but also drawing insects to the farm which reiterated its commitment to green farming.

The experience at Buitenverwachting was beyond my expectation!

My visit on Saturday was nothing short of incredible. From the minute I drove into the estate, I saw the golden vineyards, signifying the change of season. If you drive slow enough, you’ll catch a glimpse of the historical manor house. [caption id="attachment_16635" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Autumn in the Vineyards[/caption]  

Bubbling Cocktails & Sunsets at Chinchilla

My #ChinchillaMoment is bubbling cocktails, crisp sea air and the most epic sunset- Chinchilla Rooftop bar opened their doors in November 2017 and quickly became the summer hotspot at The Promenade on Victoria Road. Fast forward the autumn and it’s still the trendiest spot to watch the sunset and mist roll in.

Are you in a pickle about which wine will pair well with your fish?Photo Credit : Cape Malay Cooking

Easter Weekend, or as fondly nick-named by some as “Pickled Fish Weekend”, is fast approaching and if like me, you are eagerly waiting to learn what the “Catch of the Day” will be - I’ve got a few wines that might make eating fish for the entire weekend less daunting. Pickled fish is the South African food traditionally eaten at Easter time together with Hot Cross Buns.