Franschhoek Uncorked

Say goodbye to the grey moods of winter and celebrate the start of spring by heading off to the picturesque Franschhoek Wine Valley over the weekend of the 1st and 2nd of September for the annual Franschhoek Uncorked festival. Franschhoek wineries in and around the scenic valley welcome the fresh, new season, using the opportunity to showcase their exciting new vintages and releases.

As an added attraction to this year’s celebrations visitors can look forward to bespoke tastings presented at the following wineries:
• Anthonij Rupert Wines
• Grande Provence Heritage Wine Estate
• Holden Manz
• La Bri
• La Vigne, Home of Four Paws Wines
• Leopard’s Leap Family Vineyards

Booking is essential as space is limited, and can be done directly through the wineries, at an additional cost. For contact details visit www.franschhoekuncorked.co.za, which will also be updated on a regular basis with new participants.

Pack the car and set off for the winelands with its fresh country air and exquisite views whilst travelling from farm to farm. Be sure not to miss some of the live entertainment on offer as you plan your voyage of discovery of the region’s superb wines and delectable culinary treats. With most of the Franschhoek wineries participating in this fun festival, there promises to be something for everyone, which includes cellar and vineyard tours, food and wine pairings, art exhibitions as well as a fresh food market, to name but a few.

Music fans can expect to be kept entertained with a variety of live shows, ranging from talented jazz musicians and blues bands to French inspired music, with local musicians providing the ‘local is lekker’ flavour. Car enthusiasts will be thrilled with a rare exhibition of über-luxury cars at Anthonij Rupert Wines, L’Ormarins Estate, and include favourites such as Aston Martin, Porsche, Maserati and Ferrari.

To assure you of an unforgettable experience, visitors to the festival will be issued with an Uncorked Access Pass, at a cost of R100 per person. Available directly from www.webtickets.co.za, participating wineries, or through the Franschhoek Wine Valley offices, the pass includes a tasting glass and free wine tasting at these wineries for the duration of the weekend.  Tickets purchased via Webtickets must be exchanged for Uncorked Access Passes at either Vrede en Lust or Allèe Bleue Estate. Children under 18 will be allowed free entry and unfortunately pets are not allowed.

As the festival organisers practice responsible drinking and driving a list of shuttle service companies can be found on the festival website, and is excluded from the festival fee.

For more information contact the Franschhoek Wine Valley office on 021 876 2861 or visit www.franschhoekuncorked.co.za. Follow us on Twitter at #fhkuncorked for regular updates.

Turn this social calendar highlight into a weekend of discovery. Book into one of the town’s luxuriously quaint, yet affordable B&B’s or guest houses, and discover all that Franschhoek has to offer. This should also allow you ample time for a leisurely stroll down the main road, uncovering world-class shops and boutiques, allowing for an intimate and relaxed shopping experience. For more information on accommodation and sightseeing suggestions visit www.franschhoek.org.za.

So, with something for everyone we invite you to come and indulge yourself as you witness the country’s gourmet capital blossom and come alive.