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Franschhoek Garden Festival Awaits!

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The Franschhoek Open Garden Festival, scheduled to take place from 3 – 5 November, 2023, promises to be a paradise for garden enthusiasts seeking a delightful array of attractions and enchanting experiences.

Immerse yourself in the captivating beauty of our festival as you savour traditional teas and homemade scones on the picturesque lawns of La Cotte Farm, served by the esteemed ladies from Fleur de Lis.

Explore enchanting gardens, while sipping champagne, indulge in wine tastings that celebrate the local terroir, and discover an array of local products inspired by our indigenous plants. Delight in the aroma of freshly baked sourdough bread, and browse through a wide selection of plants available for purchase, allowing you to bring a piece of this enchanting experience to your own garden.
Step into a world of horticultural wonder and inspiration with captivating talks presented by esteemed horticulturists.

All proceeds from the festival will be dedicated to supporting Fleur de Lis, a Home for the Aged, and acquiring vital medical equipment for our local Emergency Response services. Your presence at the festival is not just a delightful experience, but also an impactful gesture of compassion and support for our community.

Tickets via Web Tickets

Transnet to Improve Cape Town’s Port for Fruit Exports

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Hortgro, the South African deciduous fruit industry organization, welcomes the commitment of Transnet Port Terminals (TPT) to address problems at the Port of Cape Town.

This follows a meeting that was held in Paarl recently between TPT and fruit industry stakeholders. TPT said that they are working on contingency plans to ensure that the upcoming fruit export season runs smoother than in recent years given plans to ensure that equipment failure is prevented, whilst pro-active maintenance contracts and inventory of spares have been put in place. TPT is confident that equipment breakdowns will be addressed more quickly given that mechanics and spares will be on site.

The deciduous fruit export season starts in November and lasts until May, with peak export weeks expected from week 52 to week 10. “It is considered one of the busiest times for the Cape Town Terminal during this period.

“We welcome their commitment, but the proof will be in the pudding,” said Hortgro Executive Director, Anton Rabe. “We will, as in the past, work together with TPT and proactively share information and meet regularly to monitor events and to prevent bottlenecks and other problems in a pro-active manner.” He added that many producers and logistical service providers have experienced severe financial losses in recent years due to port congestion. This cannot happen again.”

A Western Cape government study on problems at the Cape Town Port indicated that, in addition to bad weather and wind delays, the way trucks accessed the port was problematic, as well as issues with container handling equipment breaking down. Problems with rubber-tyred gantry cranes (RTG) have also been identified as a contributing factor.

TPT said in a letter that 13 RTG’s are currently available, with 7 new ones on order that will be delivered by mid-November. When the season starts, there will be 28 operating RTG’s. RTG’s are essential equipment and are used to move containers from container piles or from trucks.

Benguela Cove Takes Centre Stage at Best Of Wine Tourism Awards 2024

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Benguela Cove Takes Centre Stage at Best Of Wine Tourism Awards 2024

The Great Wine Capitals Global Network has announced the winners of the 2024 Best Of Wine Tourism Awards, receiving 551 applications from 11 Capitals worldwide. Throughout the year, 75 Regional winners were unveiled in their respective Capitals, acknowledging exceptional achievements in wine tourism. Celebrating its 20th edition this year, the awards aim to showcase excellence in global wine tourism, inspiring innovation, and enhancing visitor experiences in the wine industry.

The prestigious ceremony took place at the Beau-Rivage Palace during the Network’s Annual Conference, where renowned wine destinations gather to celebrate innovation and excellence in wine tourism. These awards recognize the outstanding contributions of vineyards, wineries, and wine-related businesses to the world of wine tourism.

The 2024 Global Winners represent the pinnacle of wine tourism across the Great Wine Capitals:
Benguela Cove – Cape Winelands, (South Africa), Alkina Wine Estate – Adelaide, (South Australia), La Casa Cosme Palacio – Bilbao-Rioja, (Spain), Château Giscours – Bordeaux, (France), BAM La Voie des Sens – Train du Vigneron – Lausanne, (Switzerland), Steins Traube – Mainz-Rheinhessen, (Germany), Alpamanta Winery – Mendoza, (Argentina), Quinta do Bomfim, Merenda na Vinha – Porto, (Portugal), Napa Valley Vine Trail – (San Francisco) – Napa Valley, (USA), Casas del Bosque Winery – Valparaíso – Casablanca Valley, (Chile), and Farina Wines – Verona, (Italy).

2024 Best Of Wine Tourism Awards in Cape Town and the Cape Winelands

Congratulations to Benguela Cove, awarded the 2024 Best Of Wine Tourism Awards in Cape Town and the Cape Winelands. As the premier wine tourism destination in the Cape, Benguela Cove has long been renowned for its stunning natural setting, world-class wines, and dedication to providing the ultimate wine tourism experience. This esteemed award recognizes Benguela Cove as the pinnacle of Cape Town’s wine tourism. “We are deeply honoured and excited to hold the title of the 2024 Best of Wine Tourism in Cape Town. We eagerly anticipate continuing to offer our guests the very best of South African wine country.”

In a notable addition, the Network recognized the Vivanco Foundation in Rioja with a prestigious Special Achievement Award. This award is reserved for those who have made extraordinary contributions to wine tourism and has only been presented twice in the Awards’ history. The Vivanco Foundation now joins the esteemed ranks alongside La Cité du Vin in Bordeaux and the World of Wine in Porto, Portugal, as recipients of this exceptional accolade.

HortiDemoCentre: A Hub for Cutting-Edge Horticultural Technology

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HortiDemoCentre: A Hub for Cutting-Edge Horticultural Technology

On 20 October 2023, the HortiDemoCentre at the Department of Agronomy, Faculty of Agrisciences, Stellenbosch University, opened its doors to welcome Queen Máxima of the Netherlands and Mr. Piet Adema, the Dutch Minister of Agriculture, Nature, and Food Quality. Prof. Hester Klopper, Stellenbosch University’s (SU) Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Strategy, Global, and Corporate Affairs, Prof. Danie Brink, Dean of Agriculture, and Dr. Estelle Kempen, lecturer, along with Ms. Peace Quadt, Delphy project manager for the HortiDemoCentre, welcomed Her Majesty Queen Máxima of the Netherlands at the start of her tour of the greenhouse.

Ms. Jancke van Wyk, an MSc student in Agronomy, discussed with the Queen the benefits of the structure selected for the Stellenbosch climate, while Mr. Adaduma Msana, a PGDip student in Agronomy, showed the visitors how nutrient solutions are reused. Ms. Kholosa Nakani, an intern at the HortiDemoCentre, explained to Queen Máxima and Minister Adema how biological methods are used to control pests on the tomato plants.

The HortiDemoCentre specializes in protected horticulture and showcases the best and most cutting-edge Dutch horticultural technology. The centre is working toward becoming a viable business in the long term by implementing innovative Dutch technologies for profitable, productive, sustainable, and climate-smart agronomy.

The centre launched its demonstration of climate-smart technologies exactly one year ago and has since served to train many undergraduate Agri-sciences students, interns, and industry partners involved in greenhouse production.

As partners, Delphy BV, Stellenbosch University, Greener Solutions, Ludvig Svensson, Ridder Group, Rijk Zwaan, Control Union, and Koppert South Africa offer a broad spectrum of knowledge and technology throughout the horticultural value chain.

This project serves as an excellent example of how such a partnership between industry and academia in the two countries can be successful. The centre is unique in the water and nutrient-efficient methods it applies, makes use of rainwater, and bases its crop health management on an integrated pest management system.

In May 2023, the centre initiated a variety of climate-smart training opportunities for students, farmers, and anyone working in the industry and wanting to improve their knowledge on a specific aspect of protected cultivation. The consortium partners will also contribute their unique expertise to these short courses, which will cover topics from Crop Production and Greenhouse Management to Business Skills for Horticulture.

For more information, to register for the courses, and to keep up to date on what is happening at the HortiDemoCentre, please follow us on LinkedIn, visit our website www.hortidemocentre.co.za, or contact Dr. Estelle Kempen at [email protected].

Swartland Sosiaal Wine Festival Returns to Org de Rac Estate

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Swartland Sosiaal Wine Festival Returns to Org de Rac Estate

One of the Swartland’s most enjoyable wine region experiences is returning on 28 October 2023, with the second Swartland Sosiaal Wine Festival.

This festival, characterized by wholesome country hospitality and enjoyment, is a must-event that will take place at the renowned organic wine estate, Org de Rac, situated outside the town of Piketberg, just a 90-minute drive from Cape Town.

“Swartland Sosiaal is back with a bang,” declares founder and organizer Carien Hugo-Waring. “The event received a wonderful response last year, and we’re thrilled to be back, this time at one of our region’s most famous wineries. And, before anyone asks, the event will conclude long before the final kick-off of this year’s Rugby World Cup at 21:00. In fact, Swartland Sosiaal will be the perfect place to warm up and stock up!”

Activities will take place at Org de Rac’s grand manor, lawns, and veranda. The event will feature pop-up food stalls, picnics, live music, and, of course, the opportunity to taste the offerings of Swartland’s exceptional wineries, along with a few extras.

Apart from the option to build your own picnic basket, Swartland Sosiaal will offer a cellar tour and barrel tasting experience, a Serious Sipper’s Lounge that includes three tutored masterclass tastings, and a Cap Classique and oyster bar.

In addition to Org de Rac, participating wineries include Swartland establishments such as Riebeek Wine Co, Pulpit Rock Wine, Huis van Chevallerie, Leeuwenkuil Family Vineyards, Arbeidsgenot Wines, Winkelshoek Wynkelder, and Wildehurst Wines. Also joining the festivities are Brookdale Estate in Paarl, and Deetlefs Wine Estate near Worcester.

Simonsvlei: Where Winemaking Artistry Meets the Enchanting Landscapes of Paarl

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Simonsvlei: Where Winemaking Artistry Meets the Enchanting Landscapes of Paarl

Nestled in the heart of the illustrious Cape Winelands, Simonsvlei stands as a testament to the rich tradition of winemaking in South Africa. This picturesque estate has been a beacon of excellence in the world of wine for generations, blending age-old traditions with innovative techniques to produce exceptional wines that embody the essence of this fertile and breathtaking region.

A Legacy of Tradition and Innovation

Simonsvlei’s story is one of time-honoured tradition, coupled with a commitment to innovation that has set them apart in the world of winemaking. When visiting the estate, you will be greeted by the rolling vineyards and awe-inspiring landscapes of Paarl, a region renowned for its viticultural heritage.

The winemaking journey at Simonsvlei is a testament to the dedication of generations past and present. Here, winemakers have mastered the delicate art of blending traditional methods with modern technologies, resulting in wines that capture the very essence of their terroir.

An Enchanting Tasting Experience

One of the highlights of a visit to Simonsvlei is the opportunity to explore their inviting tasting room. It’s a place where wine enthusiasts and novices alike can embark on a sensory journey through a range of exceptional wines. What makes this experience even more special is the variety of thrilling pairing options available, catering to all palates, including those of the youngest members of your group.

As you savour each sip, you’ll find yourself transported to the vineyards that surround you. Simonsvlei’s wines are a reflection of the unique microclimates and terroirs that make this region so renowned in the world of wine. Each bottle tells a story of meticulous craftsmanship and an unwavering commitment to quality.

A Culinary Oasis: ONS Restaurant

No visit to Simonsvlei is complete without indulging in the culinary delights offered at ONS Restaurant. Nestled within the charming setting of Simonsvlei, this restaurant is a place where exceptional dishes, heartfelt hospitality, and unforgettable moments converge.

The menu at ONS Restaurant is a testament to the culinary prowess of the region. Here, fresh, locally-sourced ingredients are transformed into dishes that delight the senses. Whether you’re pairing your meal with Simonsvlei’s wines or exploring the carefully curated beer selection, your taste buds are in for a treat.

Beer Tasting at Karoo Craft Breweries

For those with a penchant for beer, Simonsvlei has a special treat in store. Embark on a beer tasting journey at Karoo Craft Breweries, an experience that will enhance your understanding of the art of beer crafting. Sample a range of artisanal beers that showcase the creativity and skill of local brewers. After your beer tasting adventure, Bennie’s Bistro is where you can savour a delightful bite to eat. The menu is designed to complement the diverse flavours of the beers you’ve just explored, making it the perfect conclusion to your beer-centric escapade.

 

A Celebration of Pinotage

If you plan your visit during the month of October, you’re in for a special treat at Simonsvlei. This is the time when the estate celebrates their Pinotage wines. Pinotage is a grape variety with a unique South African origin, created in 1924 by Abraham Izak Perold, the first Professor of Viticulture at Stellenbosch University.

Perold’s mission was to combine the robust qualities of the Hermitage grape with the finesse of Pinot Noir, and the result was Pinotage. This month, you have the opportunity to delight in our wine selection. The Vineyard Selection Pinotage boasts delightful notes of plum, berry, and coffee. Alternatively, explore the enticing, un-wooded Lifestyle Pinotage, which harmoniously blends black cherry and plum pudding with a touch of spices.

For those seeking a unique experience, the Simonsvlei Ja Mocha Pinotage offers an enticing journey through sweet caramel and dark chocolate, with underlying coffee notes. If you prefer a lighter option, our Lifestyle Pinotage Rose is perfect, with hints of strawberry and candyfloss, and subtle fruity flavours like cranberry and pomegranate, suitable for any occasion.

In conclusion, Simonsvlei is a place where the artistry of winemaking meets the enchanting landscapes of Paarl, South Africa. It’s a place where tradition and innovation converge to create exceptional wines that tell the story of a region rich in viticultural heritage. With a diverse range of tasting experiences, a culinary oasis at ONS Restaurant, and a celebration of Pinotage, a visit to Simonsvlei is a journey into the heart of South African wine culture, a journey you won’t want to miss.

For more information contact
+27 (0)21 862 3040
[email protected] or
visit www.simonsvlei.com

Bottelary Hills Conservancy: All set for for Garden Town Stellenbosch

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Bottelary Hills Conservancy: All set for for Garden Town Stellenbosch

The Bottelary Hills Renosterveld Conservancy (BHRC) in the heart of the Cape Floral Kingdom – the smallest and most diverse botanical kingdom in the world with 8,600 plant species, of which 5,800 occur nowhere else, will be showcasing its natural beauty during Garden Town Stellenbosch. The initiative aims to nurture tourism and the experiential economy for the holistic benefit of all.

Garden Town will run from 27 October – 5 November 2023 with an elaborate programme to allow visitors to enjoy the horticultural wonders and floral artistry, embark on culinary journeys, and enjoy outdoor adventures. Included in the line-up for the first time this year is the Bottelary Hills Renosterveld Conservancy with an array of nature experiences.

DE MORGENZON OPEN GARDEN (27 October – 5 November):

DeMorgenzon has no doubt that a biodiverse and ecologically sensitive environment produces infinitely better grapes, and the beauty of their gardens is captured in every bottle of their wine.

VINEYARD WALK IN DEVON VALLEY:

Enjoy a guided 5.5-kilometer circular walk through the picturesque Devon Valley with tastings and treats along the way at Kunjani Restaurant, JC le Roux, and Devon Valley Hotel on 29 October.

HAZENDAL GARDEN TOUR:

Enjoy a 1-hour guided walk on 31 October to explore the historic Hazendal Wine estate in all its glory, including the Marvol gallery, classic car collection, pristine gardens, and historic buildings, followed by a wine tasting accompanied by a cheese or charcuterie platter.

MOOIPLAAS GUIDED HIKE:

Enjoy a guided 3-hour hike and wine tasting on 4 November, led by Tielman Roos. Mooiplaas private nature reserve was registered in 1995, and in 2020, Mooiplaas became the first WWF Conservation Champion in the Bottelary wine ward. The 5.6-kilometer circular hiking trail meanders through the 70-hectare Mooiplaas private nature reserve with its rich plant life and beautiful views.

DOG-FRIENDLY TRAIL RUN:

If you are looking for a fun, relaxed day of running or walking in the beautiful Stellenbosch winelands, the TrailFun run on 4 November on Bellevue Wine Estate is the perfect choice. This is an ideal entry-level run with easy to navigate up and down sections along the various route options that include a 5km, 10km, 15km, and 21km.

MTB RIDE:

Mountain bike enthusiasts are invited to spend the morning of 5 November cycling in the Bottelary Hills, wrapping up Garden Town 2023 with the Ride4Renosterveld MTB Challenge. Riders can choose between two distances that both start and finish on the Protea lawn at Jordan Wine Estate. The 12km (370m elevation) includes a stop at the Polkadraai Bike Park, while the moderate 25km route runs across several member farms with stunning views.

For more information visit www.bottelaryconservancy.co.za

McGregor Bridge Officially Reopened: A Triumph of Community Efforts

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McGregor Bridge Officially Reopened: A Triumph of Community Efforts

Critical infrastructure at the approach to the McGregor bridge was destroyed on Monday 25 September when the Western Cape was hit by heavy downpours. The destroyed infrastructure leading up to the bridge cut off the main access road to the nearest town of Robertson.

It is planned for the road to be fully accessible to traffic at the close of business on Tuesday, 17 October 2023. The efforts by the two spheres of the Western Cape Government supported by the agriculture sector and civil society organisations exemplified the values of a government that works for you.

Inspired by this feat Minister Simmers said, “It is truly inspiring to note the gallant efforts of every individual and organisation who contributed to the success of this restoration project. The reopening of this access road will be a significant relief to the economic activity of this town and region with the resumption of the movement of goods and services. The agricultural sector has been severely affected by the damage to this infrastructure.  We needed to rebuild this approach at a rapid pace and under safe conditions.”

Many parts of the province are still reeling from the devasting floods, with some key roads inaccessible. The Western Cape Department of Infrastructure’s personnel are working around the clock attending to damaged road infrastructure. However, communities and commuters to be patient with the teams on the ground, as construction of all sites needs to be implemented under strict safe conditions.

Premier Alan Winde said, “Our teams on the ground have been working round the clock to repair this bridge as well as all public infrastructure damaged in the flooding. Our priority has been to reconnect communities and restore economic activity, especially as we head into the festive season. We have shown that by working together with urgency we can overcome the immense challenges. I would like to thank all role players who have worked hard to repair this road infrastructure which is an important lifeline for communities in this region.”

Minister Simmers added, “The whole of government and society approach has been key in this project, and we continue to exercise this in all the floods affected areas. While we continue to restore damaged roads, I ask that our road users adhere to all road signs as this is for safety reasons.”

It is of critical importance that the road is not used before the road is reopened and road closure signage removed to avoid any damage to materials that may not have cured. Such damage could lead to a closure again to redo the works. The road may look completed but as long as road closure signs are in place, the road should not be used.

Western Cape’s Commitment to Food Security: Leaving No One Behind

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Western Cape’s Commitment to Food Security: Leaving No One Behind

On 6 October, 2023, Western Cape Minister of Agriculture, Dr. Ivan Meyer, launched Food Security Month during a World Food Day event in Kranshoek, Plettenberg Bay. World Food Day, observed on 16 October, commemorates the establishment of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations. This year’s theme is “Water is Food, Water is Life ‘Leave No One Behind.'”

Minister Meyer emphasized the ongoing commitment of the Western Cape Government to address the challenges of food insecurity and malnutrition. He highlighted that the Western Cape Department of Agriculture takes concrete actions to celebrate World Food Day, emphasizing the importance of leaving no one behind.

Leading up to World Food Day 2023, the Department’s One Home, One Garden Initiative benefited 123 households in Kranshoek, Crags, KwaNokuthula, New Horizon, and Wittedrift. This initiative encourages households to establish their vegetable gardens, promoting food security rather than unsustainable food relief. Participating households receive the necessary resources to start their vegetable gardens in their own backyards, with the goal of ensuring affordable, available, and accessible nutritious food for domestic consumption.

Additionally, seven households were trained in poultry production and will receive support for their poultry projects once the Avian Flu crisis in South Africa has been resolved. Recipients of materials and training are equipped with the skills needed for successful project maintenance.

Furthermore, four community vegetable gardens were implemented at various locations, supported with infrastructure, production inputs, gardening equipment, and advisory services.

The Western Cape Department of Agriculture, with the support of sponsors and staff, also mobilized donations for a ‘Food Mountain’ distributed to five local NGO/NPOs that primarily serve children, women, youth, the elderly, and people with disabilities.

Minister Meyer urged citizens to start household gardens to produce fresh, nutritious food, emphasizing the One-Home-One-Garden Initiative’s partnership with municipalities, NGOs, and Faith-Based Organizations. He concluded by encouraging responsible water resource management, including rainwater harvesting, to sustain food gardens and reduce dependence on municipal water, reinforcing the vital connection between water and food security.

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