There are a range of new experiences to be had at wineries in the Hemel-en-Aarde region near Hermanus.
Wineries here are renowned for their Cap Classiques, Pinot Noir, and Chardonnay, although its cool climate is the reason for great success in many other wines too.
Among the highlights of new experiences to look out for, are:
1. Be transported by wine and food at Creation
If the YouTube video of Creation Wines’ latest food and wine pairing experience is anything to go by, visitors are in for a magnificent experience. See it here. It incorporates an exhibition titled Re-turn, by artist Kathy Robins. The food itself is inspired by the harmony and balance of the natural elements, with health in mind. The menu is dominated by plant-based dishes although local fish, free-range chicken, and springbok also feature. See the full explanation here.
For information: 028 212 1107 or www.creationwines.com
2. La Vierge serves up tapas with a view
The views from the restaurant at La Vierge have made the winery a popular destination. It now has a new tapas menu, with dishes ideal to enjoy with the fine wines La Vierge produces from its vineyards here and Babylon Farm a few minutes up the road. La Vierge is open Tuesday to Sunday, from 11:00 to 16:00.
For information: 028 313 2007 or www.lavierge.co.za.
3. Be inspired at Bosman Hermanus
The Hermanus location of Bosman Family Vineyards launched a series of inspired living workshops this year. On August 4 is a workshop presented by artist Adèle Fouché; September 1, a heritage-inspired cooking demonstration by chef Nic van Wyk of Kokkedoor fame; November 3, a cooking demonstration by Hermanus’s “Queen of Vegan” Emilia Knight; and, December 1, a workshop on Christmas “table-scaping” and wreath-making by event specialist and florist Bernice Baumgarten. Costs to attend the events vary between R600 and R650pp each. Book via the website, here.
For information: 076 300 0819 or www.bosmanhermanus.com.
4. Give back with the Hemel en Aarde Wine Valley
The producers of the Hemel-en-Aarde have come together in support of Mandela Day on 18 July. In addition to each producer’s own pledges of 67 minutes to an organisation of their choice, the wineries are asking for support of worthy causes in the area.
By purchasing a ticket for R67 each, you can stand a chance to win a collection of sought after Hemel-en-Aarde wines. The more tickets you purchase, the bigger your chances of winning an incredible selection of 67 bottles of wine from the Valley. More info here.
All proceeds will be donated to the schools in the Hemel-en-Aarde as well as the education of young wine professionals in our area that need funding to further their studies in wine.
5. Warm ye cockles at Benguela Cove
Benguela Cove winery lies on the coastline of the Walker Bay region and always warrants a stop, even if only to give the kids a break at its outstanding child-orientated facilities. The restaurant’s winter special, however, will have you staying for a little longer this season. The offer includes glühwein, fondue, and ciabatta and wine tasting at R320 for two. It’s available every day, from June to the end of August.
For information: 087 357 0637 or www.benguelacove.co.za.
6. Hike the Hemel-en-Aarde with Glamtrails
Hiking operator Glamtrails offers four different hiking trails between wineries in the Hemel-en-Aarde Wine Valley in addition to a hike between the Old and New Harbours in Hermanus. The winery hikes are all graded 2 ‘Tiring’ which is just one level up from ‘An Easy Stroll’ and cover between 2km and 7km each. On the Fernkloof to Bouchard Finlayson trail, hikers will enjoy a wine tasting at Hamilton Russell and wine & taste pairing at Bouchard Finlayson.
For information: 083 444 5267 or info@glamtrails.com
