The Franschhoek Cap Classique and Champagne Festival ‘The ‘Magic of Bubbles’,

Presented by Mastercard

 30 November & 1 December 2013

Don’t miss the highlight of the year’s festive calendar –  the Franschhoek Cap Classique and Champagne Festival ‘The ‘Magic of Bubbles’, Presented by MasterCard takes place in the picture-perfect Franschhoek Wine Valley over the weekend of 30 November and 1 December 2013.

Visitors can anticipate an unrivaled culinary showcase in the grand marquee situated on the lawns surrounding Franschhoek’s iconic Huguenot Monument, while local winemakers offer the finest Méthode Cap Classiques (MCC) to emerge from the wine cellars of South Africa.

”MasterCard is delighted to present this priceless gourmet experience to visitors coming from around the country,” says Philip Panaino, Division President, MasterCard, South Africa. “What better way to enjoy the natural beauty and heritage of Franschhoek than while sampling exquisite, locally-produced food and Cap Classiques at the Franschhoek Cap Classique and Champagne Festival.”

Well-known MCC producers participating in this popular festival include Pierre Jourdan, Morena, Môreson, La Motte, Boschendal, Leopard’s Leap, Noble Hill, Plaisir de Merle, Anthonij Rupert Wines, Graham Beck Wines, Krone, Pongracz, Simonsig, Steenberg and Villiera. Some of France’s best Champagnes will be represented by brands such as Billecart Salmon, Champagne Guy Charbaut and Veuve Clicquot.

Adding to the excitement of this year’s festivities visitors can look forward to meeting celebrated Veuve Cliquot winemaker, Pierre Casenave, who will be making an appearance at their stand each day between 12pm and 1pm. The Veuve Clicquot Champagne House situated in Reims, France is internationally recognized as producing one of the world’s finest Champagnes. A meet and greet certainly not to miss out on.

With the winemaking methods virtually the same in the Champagne and Franschhoek regions, the success of a winemaker’s labours comes down to the terroir from which they source their grapes and their finely honed skills – something that South African winemakers have mastered throughout the years.

Visitors to the festival will be treated to an array of gastronomic delights presented by the local restaurants that have firmly entrenched Franschhoek’s status as one of the world’s premier culinary destinations. Some of the participating fine dining restaurants include well-known establishments, amongst others, such as Bread & Wine, The SalmonBar, Haute Cabrière, Le Franschhoek, L’Ermitage and Mont Rochelle.

A short wander down the main road in Franschhoek will uncover world-class shops and boutiques for an intimate and relaxed shopping experience, while the many winefarms within easy reach of the village add to the appeal of a weekend of celebrating Cap Classiques.

Those wishing to spend the night will be spoilt for choice with accommodation ranging from the finest bed and breakfasts to luxurious boutique hotels, all nestling in a picturesque and secure environment.

The theme for this year’s festival is black and white, with an emphasis on spots and stripes. In keeping with a tradition that is now as much a part of the festival as is the bubbly, a prize will be awarded to the best dressed couple on each day.

Tickets cost R200 per person and include access to the festival which is open between 12pm and 5pm on 30 November and 1 December, a complimentary tasting glass and tasting coupons. Additional vouchers can be purchased on the day. Children under 18 years will be allowed free entry to the festival.

Book directly through www.webtickets.co.za, but hurry as tickets are limited! Use your MasterCard card to pay and receive a 10% discount on your ticket purchase, as well as a 10% discount on purchases made at the festival.

For more information visit www.franschhoekmcc.co.za, and follow us on Twitter @Franschhoek_SA.