From the Cabano’s.

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With Sonia’s birth date approaching, we wish to take this opportunity to thank every single one of you who reached out to us during our mourning process. Thankfully, we have completed the acute grieving, and are now moving on with reality with a soft landing. We will continue to celebrate her healthy times when the pervasiveness dissipated. 

When the _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ changed to __________.

The median mortality age for this terminal pattern is only 27!!!

And even towards the end, when this pervasive pattern that consumed 99% of her attachment and authenticity she knew, we would never abandon her. She knew we loved her more than her own innate ability to love herself.

 

 

It remains tragic. We know
 and always knew, about everything and everyone
 As confirmed by you, to us, in private, leading up to your exit backstage. From the “predators, to the ongoing obsessive, egocentric, narcissistic, enabling perpetuators. ”

We know who you are. Compassion, connection and love is our family’s definition of spirituality. Religion might be a conduit for some, we respect that, but religion can also be the obstacle to attain attachment and authenticity. We also honour your wishes not to post pictures from your modelling days, due to your private conversations with Guillaume and Sabah. Pictures taken of you, with us, during the last 2 years of your life, are off limits too. Except for snaps taken from a distance, as per your request. 

We thank Sonia for all the Gifts she bestowed upon us, including the painful ones. Our garden carries her carbon. Her spirit will produce beautiful abundant wild lemon trees. We have reserved the space in the golden circle for her, the VIP section of Cinema Cabano. Yep, where the music is the loudest, and the visuals the brightest.

Deon, Guillaume, Sabah.❤️❤️❤️

Avondale wine estate launches Africa’s longest mountain bike flow trail!

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Support local. Save local.

[Image of Jonathan Grieve and Minister Marais]
Johnathan Grieve, Proprietor, Avondale Wine Estate
Minister Marais, Minister of Cultural Affairs and Sport, Western Cape Government
This Spring has seen the launch of Avondale Bike Park – the longest mountain bike flow trail on the African continent. Located on Avondale Wine Estate (situated just outside Paarl, on the slopes of the Klein Drakenstein mountains), this 2km trail is a terrain induced roller coaster experience and forms part of the Avondale ‘Outdoor & Active’ offering.

 

Running through several unique and diverse landscapes, riders can expect everything from pine forests to buchu plantations, exciting features such as gap jumps over streams, big berms and so much more. Whilst the flow trail has lots of epic large features, in most cases there is a B-line (chicken run) rendering it suitable for riders of all ages and skill levels.

An epic adventure not to be missed, and true to Avondale’s ethos ‘Terra est Vita’ – meaning ‘Soil is Life’, Africa’s longest mountain bike flow trail came to life as the result of one of the youngest members of the Avondale family, Liam Grieve, and his friends building dirt jumps in his back yard on the farm with that same soil.

“Our wine farm is situated in one of the most beautiful areas of the Cape Winelands,” says Johnathan Grieve, proprietor, Avondale Wine Estate. “Following the impact of Covid19 on the South African wine industry, and economy in general, the last few months has seen us embark on a complete diversification of our offering that has resulted in a number of new activities and experiences now available to the public. The Avondale Bike Park is by far one of the most exciting and, as Africa’s longest flow trail, one of the most significant. We are thrilled to be able to offer our visitors such a unique experience amidst the natural beauty of the surrounding area.”

Avondale Flow Trail Cyclist | Image courtesy of Avondale Wine Estate

The Avondale Bike Park flow trail starts high up in Echo Valley where riders can enjoy magnificent views of Paarl and beyond. It then moves at a high pace through the epic Rock n Roll section that includes some incredible jump opportunities, followed by a cruise through the shady Pine Lake section before moving on to the bouncy terrain of Buchu Bounce. From there, riders will experience Puff Adder Alley, a place of exhilarating jumps and wildlife before finishing with a bang in the End of Eden section.

“The Avondale Bike Park is the first in many more exciting ‘Outdoor & Active’ activities we are planning over the next couple of months,” continues Grieve. These activities include a trail run on 24 September as well as the recently launched ‘Avondale Equestrian Bring & Ride Centre’.

 

As well as being home to the award winning FABER Restaurant (Top 30 Restaurants in South Africa, Best Garden Restaurant in Africa, Most Unique Experience in Africa and Best Restaurant View in South Africa), other ongoing activities to be enjoyed on Avondale Wine Estate includes the OCHRA Deli (selection of produce from local like-minded suppliers, complete with ready-made frozen FABER meals and the full range of Avondale wines),the Avondale Eco Wine Safari (set in the actual vineyards), Avondale Garden Bar in the warmer months, Avondale Farm Walks on Saturday mornings and Avondale Picnics on the beautiful lawns surrounded by the best Mother Nature has to offer.

Open to the public from 11 September (weather dependent) Avondale Bike Park – Africa’s longest mountain bike flow trail promises to be an epic adventure and unforgettable experience. To book and find out more, please visit: https://www.avondalewine.co.za/experience-avondale/avondale-bike-park/

Slow Cooker Oxtail with our Instant Pot!

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In a surprising turn of events… Cape Town’s weather has turned on its head.

Again!

Between shedding fifty layers of clothes in the brisk morning and hurriedly shoving them on after two hours, I’ve barely had time to savour a snug meal by the fire. Such a pity, too, as the oppressive heat will be sure to compensate in short weeks to come.

To comfort my woeful self during this harsh winter, I decided to use my mum’s nifty Instant Pot Smart Cooker. I also noticed a sale going on @home for Instant Pots – definitely a must buy if you are a home cook with a crunch time schedule!

We have a slow-cook oxtail stew that’s been smothered with salt, pepper, fresh thyme from the garden, and dried oregano. The aromas filling the house are beyond tempting. I’m

Step-by-Step visual for Instant Pot Slow Cooker Oxtail Stew | Via Canva

just about ready to take a fork and eat straight from the pot itself.

Luckily, I have the power of restraint. And I would hate to not share the recipe. 

If you have an Instant Pot Duo Slow Cooker, then use the ingredients as followed. If you are simply using a Dutch oven or a pressure cooker pot, adjust accordingly. The process is as simple as anything!

The stew itself is incredibly thick, sticky, and delicious. The oxtail cartilage has a thick and viscous chew to it that becomes soft in your mouth. The meat becomes a warm, fork-tender pillow that is best served with cauliflower rice or normal white rice. I recommend adding no seasoning additionally, as this rich dish can be a superstar for flavour on its own.

Additionally, we served this dish with a winter salad and broccolini. The freshness cut a sleek contrast from the stew and allowed a bit of a breather for the palate. I found that having some fresh rocket with feta as well as parmesan broccolinis was a compatible pairing. Winter salads and roasted vegetables are an all-time favourite in our household, so we try to include it in as many meals as we can. Especially with butternut, feta, fresh bell peppers and rocket with a slight drizzle of balsamic vinaigrette. Per-fection!

Seeing as my family lives for winter meals, we tried to have this last for as long as possible. If the amount of meat becomes overwhelming, however, feel free to substitute for other vegetables such as carrots or parsnips to add flavour and remove the sheer volume of oxtail.

I’m going to stick with it, as the serving yields roughly 2 servings per person in a household of five. Not excluding a cheeky guest, mind you!

Ingredient list made with Canva for Instant Pot Slow Cooker Oxtail Stew.

Admittedly, eating until I had to unbutton my jeans was lovely. I’m sure you can relate once you dig in. Post pictures of your attempt at this recipe and tag me, @eatdrinkcapetown_ on Instagram or Facebook. I would love to see your versions, especially if you tried this dish without an Instant Pot!

Now, for the dishes…

Hurrah for Syrah & Shiraz at Jordan Stellenbosch!

What can we all relate to more than the beauty of a delicious burger? A celebratory lunch, a comfort meal, a sentiment that has every belly dancing with glee. We adore Jordan Stellenbosch. The food, the ambience, the wine, the service. *Sigh* Can we live there, yet?

Every moment spent at the estate is followed with a warm, fuzzy feeling inside. And it’s not just from the marvellous wines!

Jordan Stellenbosch wine, ‘The Prospector’ |Photo courtesy of Jordan Wine Estate, Stellenbosch

The Prospector burger and Syrah special this weekend is a perfect end to a long week. We have all felt the dreadful Capetonian weather impart a dreary atmosphere on our moods. I, for one, did not even want to leave the house.

The prospects of the divine special not only ushers us into supporting our thriving local wine industry. It encourages us to get outside. When we step foot into The Cellar Door, it is as if the world melts away like butter from a freshly-toasted bun. Similar to the lip-smacking Prospector burger. Those fries are crunch city, yeowza.

Jordan Stellenbosch Burger & Wine |Photo courtesy of Jordan Wine Estate, Stellenbosch

Can you say, “Get in my belly!” with us?
Tuck into @jordan_wines once-off weekend special, “The Prospector” burger and wine combo, as we raise a toast in support of Shiraz Day, this coming Saturday! I think some Shiraz would brighten up my weekend any day.

The Prospector Burger & Syrah Special at Jordan


From Friday 20th August until Sunday 22nd August dine out on 2 ‘The Prospector” Burgers and a 750ml bottle of The Prospector Syrah 2018 for only R400!
Their Syrah has notes of peppered charcuterie, chipotle and red fruits that lends itself to a variety of meat-based dishes and cooking techniques. The burger is made with a succulent a grass-fed Usana beef patty topped with shiraz onions, bacon and Boerenkaas and served with a generous portion of triple cooked chips & a garlic aioli. Not only is that a mouthful, but mouthwateringly delicious.
Chef Thys Esterhuysen from Jordan knows that a well-made beef burger is a thing of beauty! The balance of bread, using a good quality beef patty, cooking and preparation techniques, and final assembly are all important to get right. It’s no wonder this is The Cellar Door’s best-selling meal, it is too good to be true!

For more exciting information, follow their Instagram page @jordan_wines as well as their website, for bookings. Their number is open for calls to book, too!

Book here | https://bit.ly/2XwpHQh | 021 881 3004

The Galileo Open-air Cinema is Back!

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The Galileo Open-air Cinema is synonymous with summertime happiness in the Mother City, bringing movie magic to majestic venues, paired with delicious food and impeccable views.

Due to Covid and government regulations, their beloved Picnic screenings have been suspended until further notice, but fear not, The Galileo has safe and fun alternatives for you to still enjoy a unique movie experience.

The Galileo Royale is the brand-new spin-off to the popular Galileo screenings and takes place every Wednesday until the end of April.

Lap up luxury and the Royale treatment with a one-hour live music performance, movie under the stars, comfy backrest, cosy blanket, welcome drink, appetiser and popcorn – all included in your ticket price of R290 pp.

This intimate affair will only cater for a limited number of movie-goers so pre-booking is essential.

The spectacular string of venues includes The Cellars-Hohenort Hotel, Suikerbossie, Casa Labia and Radisson Blu Hotel Waterfront. If you were a fan of their Picnic screenings before, then this will certainly be your new go-to.

The Galileo Drive In continues each week from Friday to Sunday with a range of blockbuster hits and family favourites. Park your motor and cuddle up with your loved ones, with pillows and blankets in the boot.

Pre-order a selection of goodies with your tickets or bring along your favourite snacks for a memorable night out.

This retro movie experience takes place across the southern & northern suburbs and will be available throughout winter as well.

Visit their website https://thegalileo.co.za/ to view the movie schedule and to book your tickets for an incredible evening of cinematic delights.

Ticket prices: The Galileo Royale costs R290p pp which includes entry, live music entertainment, the movie, a comfy backrest, cosy blanket, welcome drink, a tasty appetiser & a small serve of popcorn.

The Galileo Drive In costs from R75-R125 pp.

For more information contact: 071 471 8728 |

Email hello@thegalileo.co.za

And follow them on Social Media
Facebook: /GalileoCinema (https://www.facebook.com/GalileoCinema)
Twitter: @Galileo_Cinema (https://twitter.com/Galileo_Cinema)
Instagram: TheGalileo (https://www.instagram.com/thegalileo/)

Press release by The Galileo

Spier Seven Days a Week!

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Spier Hotel in the Stellenbosch Winelands, has a brand-new selection of delicious eating options for local diners. Each dish is made with top-notch ingredients and all offer incredible value.

Children are welcome too! Open between 08.00 and 17.00, the Spier Hotel Kids’ Club has childminders on hand to ensure your children are kept happy, safe and entertained while you dine.

These delicious deals are available until 31 March 2021:

ALFRESCO Lunches Mondays to Thursdays between 12:00 – 17:00: A two-course feast for just R195 per person! Take a seat at your table in the tranquil garden.

Starters include options like braaied broccoli panzanella or creamy mussels, before moving on to a hearty, farm-inspired main course such as slow-roasted pork belly, a beef short rib pie and for sweets, almond arancini.

BURGER SPECIAL on Thursdays from 12:00: For just R99, enjoy a big burger with a complimentary glass of wine or apple spritzer. What would you go for: the grass-fed beef burger, the buttermilk-fried chicken or the coriander falafel instead?

BRUNCH on Saturdays between 11:00 – 13:00: some beguiling savoury and sweet options include Eggs Benedict on rosti (potato pancakes), Wild Mushrooms on Toast, and Sourdough French toast with fried banana, drenched in maple syrup. For just R225 pp, your brunch includes a basket of pastries and bottomless Mimosas or Spier Secret Sparkling.

But wait! There’s more!

WINELANDS PLATTER Saturdays from 12:00 –17:00: R245 for a very more-ish platter for 2, the perfect light lunch or lazy late afternoon snack. The platter includes Farmer Angus’ charcuterie and beef pastrami, Camembert and blue
cheese truffles, along with a selection of spreads, pickles and preserves.

TOP TIP: FREE KIDS’ PIZZA on Saturdays from 12:00:

For each adult main meal ordered, your child gets a free tasty pizza. Classic margherita or chicken and cheese? Let them decide!

SUNSET SESSIONS on Friday 26 February, and also on 12 & 26 March, from 16:00 – 19:00: Sip some sexy sundowners and tuck into seriously stylish, flavour-packed tapas on Spier Hotel’s rolling lawns with the sleek acoustic sounds of Supernova serenading you.

HARVEST LUNCH on Sundays between 12:30 – 15:00: A hearty Sunday feast for just R295 pp. Inspired by classic farmhouse cooking, this menu changes weekly, depending on what fresh, seasonal produce is available.

Each main course features a homemade pie and a hearty Sunday roast, with delicious sides.

Desserts include true South African classics like Malva Pudding, Apple Crumble or Bread and Butter pudding.

To book, contact reservations@spier.co.za or call 0218091100

Spier Hotel is open for dinner every night of the week. So if you’re in the mood for going out on Sunday or Monday evening, look no further! The Spier Hotel Restaurant is open from 07:30-11:00 for breakfast, 12:00 – 17:00 for lunch and 17:00 – 21:30 for dinner. Times may change according to government regulations.

For your health and peace of mind, extensive measures have been put in place for the health, safety and peace of mind of diners. This includes regular cleaning and fewer tables spaced further apart. (You can find out more about Spier’s COVID-19 precautions on www.spier.co.za)

www.spier.co.za

Press release by Scout PR

Constantia Glen’s New Sauvignon blanc

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With the reopening of the Constantia Glen tasting room, be the first to stock up on the new Sauvignon Blanc vintage and take in the sweeping views while savouring generous platters or linger over lunch or early supper.

Constantia Glen Sauvignon Blanc 2020 is beautifully refined and elegant with a mineral edge and crisp acidity. Initial aromas of lemongrass and lime lead to a bolder, more tropical spectrum enlivened by hints of blackcurrant, citrus and elderflower.

Constantia Glen is ready to welcome back guests with familiar favourites to enjoy with their signature cool climate wines. The cheese and charcuterie platters or iconic wood-fired Flammkuchen (flatbread) pair perfectly with Sauvignon blanc. The menu also offers more substantial meals for lunch and dinner. Constantia Glen’s famous Austrian beef goulash served with SpĂ€tzle, seared beef fillet or the beer battered kingklip are just some of the dishes that await you.

When purchasing wines directly from the cellar door, take advantage of the Curated Case Collection and take home a selection of estate wines including the elegant Bordeaux reds, Constantia Glen THREE and FIVE as well as the newly released Sauvignon Blanc 2020.

As a special re-opening offer for the entire month of February, Constantia Glen is offering an online case special. Purchase 5 bottles and the 6th bottle is free!

This special is available exclusively online so you can buy wine from the comfort of your own home. Constantia Glen Sauvignon Blanc 2020 is available at a cellar door price of R195. For online purchases visit Constantia Glen wine orders online

In keeping with Alert Level 3 regulations, the Constantia Glen tasting room is open from Sunday to Thursday from 10h00 to 18h00, Fridays and Saturdays from 10h00 to 21h00. There is limited seating, so booking ahead is recommended via

Constantia Glen bookings or

enquiries@constantiaglen.com or call 021-7955639.

Press release by GC communications

Spier Launches New Low-alcohol Wine!

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Spier 5.5% Chenin blanc Sonia Cabano blog eatdrinkcapetown
Spier’s new low alcohol, low kilojoule Chenin blanc 5.5%

The best of both: Spier 5.5% introduces a new range of quality wines with less than half the kilojoules AND the alcohol!

Highly-acclaimed Stellenbosch
winery Spier just launched a Chenin Blanc and a Shiraz containing less than 50% of the alcohol and kilojoules.The Spier 5.5% range takes its name after the alcohol percentage of the wine, and both were specially developed to meet the needs of a growing number of wine lovers who don’t want to sacrifice a glass of good wine while following a healthier
lifestyle.

Win? Win!
“Our winemaking team is constantly finding ways to innovate responsibly, fulfilling the evolving needs of our customers,” explains Spier’s acclaimed Cellar Master, Frans Smit. “After much careful development, consideration and finessing, we’ve found a way to maintain the premium, layered wines our customers have come to expect from Spier. At only 36 calories per 100ml, we are confident that the Spier 5.5% wines will satisfy wine lovers’ tastebuds with the added benefit of considerably lower
alcohol and kilojoules.

Spier 5.5% Shiraz Sonia Cabano blog eatdrinkcapetown
Spier 5.5% Shiraz

This means the new range contains 50% less alcohol and kilojoules of a Spier wine of the same varietal or 13.5% table wine.

An excellent choice for business meetings or just a busy day.

Light and fruity, Spier 5.5% arrives just in time for spring and early summer sunshine as a refreshing poolside or picnic accompaniment. These fun-loving wines have a responsible side too: the lower ABV makes it an ideal choice for a business lunch or busy day.

Spier 5.5%’s lower alcohol journey began in the vineyard. Specific sites with light, sandy soil were chosen, and harvesting was timed perfectly so that grapes were picked at a lower sugar level and natural acidity. Both these approaches naturally result in lower alcohol wines.

During the fermentation process at Spier’s cellar, a portion of the alcohol was removed at a low temperature in a vacuum, by using the latest spinning cone technology. This gentle process reduced the alcohol while preserving the flavours and aromatics of the wine.
Following this, fermentation was completed with the remaining natural sugar and nutrients.

The result? A truly satisfying taste with lower kilojoules and
alcohol.

ABOUT THE WINES:

Spier 5.5% Chenin Blanc:

This unwooded Chenin Blanc offers the characteristic flavours and complexity that the varietal is known for. Naturally lighter in style, it’s crisp and fruity, with flavours of pear and apple, and hints of litchi. Enjoy chilled on its own or with light summer
salad.

kJ/100ml: 149kJ

Cal/100ml: 36kCal

Spier 5.5% Shiraz:

Full of flavour and complexity,
this unwooded and naturally light Shiraz has a juicy layering of subtle spice, red fruit and mulberry. Great on its own or with grilled meat and seasonal vegetables.

kJ/100ml: 153kJ

Cal/100ml: 37kCal

The Spier 5.5% wines are available from R65.00 – R75.00 from the Spier tastingroom, online via shop.spier.co.za or selected liquor outlets.

www.spier.co.za

Press release by Scout PR

Love Local at The President Hotel This Summer!

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No travel blues got to you?

Well, here’s some good news to cheer you up!

Staycation President Hotel Sonia Cabano blog eatdrinkcapetown
Summer Staycation at The President Hotel

The President Hotel invites locals to enjoy their hospitality by offering a super staycation saver this summer.
From only R495 pp per night, until end of March 2021, you get to enjoy all that this gorgeous seaside hotel has to offer.

Check-in, chill out, eat to your heart’s content, sip on something cool and refreshing, relax, swim,
sleep, repeat!

Atlantic View President Hotel Sonia Cabano blog eatdrinkcapetown
View of the Atlantic ocean from The President Hotel

The views across the Atlantic ocean are enough to put a pep in your step.

Ask about their other specials:
Linger Longer at the pool | Daycations | Get your car washed while you wait or work |Easter | Fun Family Fridays

Linger Longer

Parents can work while kids play? Everyone gets a night off? Or maybe it’s just pool access you’re after – either way, The President Hotel have rooms from only R615 pp per night. No cooking, no cleaning, just fun with the family.

Book here if you’d like to Linger Longer #AtThePresident: BOOK NOW

Or if you’d like to come on Saturday or Sunday and add in lunch, book our lunch inclusive offer here: BOOK NOW

Breakfast is included for both!

Daycation

For those who just want to head straight for the pool, you can book a cabana for only R485.

Be their guest and get access to all the hotel facilities on offer at The President!

Pool President Hotel Sonia Cabano blog eatdrinkcapetown
Pool at The President Hotel

BOOK A DAY ROOM/CABANA ROOM for R485. Get access to a shower, changing room, room service, amenities and hotel facilities including the pool! Price excludes food and drinks. From 9am to 4pm, maximum of 2 adults and 2 kids.

Please note:
* No external food and beverages permitted.
* Room allocations will be done as per availability on day of booking.
* Refundable towel deposit will be charged.

BOOKING IS ESSENTIAL so WhatsApp them on 0660384521

Book directly by emailing reservations@presidenthotel.co.za or phone 021 4348111 to make your reservations.

About The President Hotel:

Conveniently located in Bantry Bay close to Cape Town city centre, nestled along the shores of the Atlantic Ocean, the President Hotel offers 350 spacious rooms and apartments, all featuring the latest technology and stylish design from where you can experience breathtaking sights, thrilling activities and inspiring experiences.

Sophisticated luxury and personal service come standard, while local style, authentic artwork and innovative design set the hotel apart as one of the most-loved destinations in the Mother City.

Website The President Hotel

Telephone :
+27 21 434 8111

Email : reservations@presidenthotel.co.za / events@presidenthotel.co.za

Facebook :
https://www.facebook.com/PresidentHotelCapeTown

Instagram : @thepresidentct

Twitter : thepresidentCT

Press release by Adverb

Stellenbosch Wine Route Awaits You!

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Vineyard, Stellenbosch Wine Route

Now that the alcohol ban has been lifted (hooray!), let’s remind you of 8 good reasons to visit the Stellenbosch Wine Route:

Simon van der Stel, the second governor of the Cape, founded the town of Stellenbosch in 1679. Today, this historic university town is the most famous wine region in South Africa.

Quoin Rock Cellar, Stellenbosch Wine Route Sonia Cabano blog eatdrinkcapetown
Quoin Rock Cellar, Stellenbosch Wine

Here are eight reasons why you should add the City of Oaks to your (wine) bucket list.

It’s the biggest and oldest wine route in the country. That means plenty of choices!

Beautiful Stellenbosch Sonia Cabano blog eatdrinkcapetown
Beautiful Stellenbosch

The Stellenbosch Wine Route is a prime destination for international tourists and South Africans alike.

Founded in 1971, the legendary Stellenbosch Wine Route is home to over 200 wine estates and made up of five sub-routes, divided according to wine styles, climate and location. These include the Greater Simonsberg, Stellenbosch Berg, Helderberg, Stellenbosch Valley and Bottelary Hills.

148 wine farms are open to visitors, many of them home to historical farms with impressive landscaped gardens, beautiful Cape Dutch manor houses, luxury hotels and B&Bs as well as world-class restaurants
such as GĂ„te, the fine-dining restaurant on the Quoin Rock Wine Estate.

Nearly 15100 hectares of vineyards cover the gently rolling hills of Stellenbosch. From the lower slopes of Simonsberg Mountain in the north to Helderberg in the south, the exposed hills and sheltered valleys of this unique terrain allow for all sorts of grape varieties to be cultivated.

Stellenbosch has the ideal climate for growing grapes.

Vineyards in the region are blessed with the perfect grape-growing climate. Hot and dry in summer, wet and cool in winter. Depending on the soil, some winemakers irrigate their vineyards while others choose not to.

The surrounding mountains give the vineyards varying degrees of exposure to wind and sun and a cool breeze comes from False Bay in the afternoons. This helps to slow the ripening process, creating intense fruit flavours in the grapes.

For this reason, white-wine varieties are often planted closer to the ocean.

Quoin Rock’s 2018 Namysto Sauvignon Blanc, for example, is made from grapes planted high up on the Simonsberg mountain to benefit from the sea breeze.

Cabernet Sauvignon is the most planted grape variety in Stellenbosch.

Because of the hot, dry summer climate, Stellenbosch wine estates are the ideal producers of premium red-wine grapes, making Cabernet Sauvignon the region’s most popular cultivar.

Cab Sauv is often combined with Merlot to create ‘Bordeaux Blend’ wines, i.e. a blend of wine made from a combination of two or more of the classic Bordeaux varieties: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, Carmenùre and Malbec.

Quoin Rock’s 2015 Red Blend was made from Cabernet
Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot.

Quoin Rock, Stellenbosch Wine Route
Quoin Rock, Stellenbosch Wine Route

The estate’s winemaker, Schalk Opperman, crushes and ferments individual grape parcels in open-top, stainless-steel tanks before
transferring them to French oak barrels where it’s left to mature for 20 months.

The resulting wine is layered with a red fruit profile.
Cranberry comes through strongly on the nose followed by a complex, dense, juicy celebration of fruit, wood, red-berry and tomato, creating the perfect marriage between Old and New world.

Stellenbosch is where Pinotage was born!

Pinotage is the second most widely planted red grape variety in South Africa and South Africa’s unique signature variety. It was created in 1925 from a crossing of the Pinot Noir and Cinsault wine grape varieties by Professor Abraham Izak Perold, the first professor of Viticulture at Stellenbosch University.

Sixteen years later, Charl Theron de Waal (known as CT de Waal), produced the first barrel of Pinotage wine.

Nearly all vines in Stellenbosch grow in the “Cape Floral Kingdom”

The Cape Floral Region is one of the smallest and richest plant areas in the world. Comprising less than 1% of the African continent, 70% of the plants that grow in this UNESCO-listed biodiversity hotspot are not found anywhere else in the world.

The region measures 553 000ha and was declared a World Heritage Site in 2004.

The fynbos biome at Quoin Rock Wine Estate is celebrated for its diversity and endemism and the estate’s fine-dining restaurant, GĂ„te is well-known for creating innovative dishes inspired by the unique flavours of their surroundings.

95% of Stellenbosch wines are made sustainably.

Did you know that over 95% of the wines produced in the
region are committed to sustainable, eco-friendly wine production?

The integrity and sustainability ‘seal’ was launched in South Africa in 2010 and refers to a label that appears on each container of wine. This ‘seal’ guarantees that the wine has been produced sustainably, that it was bottled in the country and that it is 100% South African.

Chenin blanc is the most planted white grape.

Originating from the Loire Valley of France, Chenin blanc is
a white wine grape variety. It has high acidity which means it can be used to make everything from a sparkling wine to a well-balanced dessert wine and it is the most widely planted variety in South Africa.

The grape, historically known as
Steen, may have been one of the first to arrive in South Africa, planted by Jan van Riebeeck in 1655.

Knorhoek Wine Estate, Quoin Rock’s sister farm, is well-known for their 2019 Chenin Blanc.

It’s a well-balanced wine with hints of lime, pineapple and gooseberry. This is an easy-drinking white that was fermented in a combination
of concrete ‘eggs’ and French oak barrels with blending done after seven months’ maturation.

Book your wine tasting at Quoin Rock Wine Estate

Press release by On The Marque PR