Cheers - Nov/Dec 2015 (Vol.21)

TASTE TEST ALCOHOL-FREE BEERS: Becks, Bavaria, Clau haler & Erdinger

Nov Dec 2015 Vol.21

brought to you by T www.topsatspar.co.zaCOMPLIM

ENTARY

HEAVEN ON EARTH , wine tripping the Hemel en Aarde valley

TIGHT LINES:Fish on the fly

a copy of THE BANTING BAKER by Catherine Speedie

WINHem

el en Aarde valley | Country cocktails | Alcohol-free beers | Festive food

| www.topsatspar.co.za

Nov|Dec 2015|21

WATER SAFETY

101, avoid drowning &

danger

a copy of THE a copy of THE BANTING BAKER by BANTING BAKER by Catherine SpeedieCatherine SpeedieSpirits

of SummerSpirits COCKTAILS & COUNTRIES

Not for Sale to Persons Under the Age of 18.

FLYING FISH CHILLED GREEN APPLE HAS ALL THE BITTERNESS OF BEER BREWED OUT, AND APPLE FLAVOUR BREWED IN.

GO ON, TRY IT FOR YOURSELF!

Flavour!Add some

9461_SAB_Flying Fish_Spar Tops Magazine Advert_210x275mm_FINAL.indd 1 2015/08/21 1:06 PM

Not for Sale to Persons Under the Age of 18.

FLYING FISH CHILLED GREEN APPLE HAS ALL THE BITTERNESS OF BEER BREWED OUT, AND APPLE FLAVOUR BREWED IN.

GO ON, TRY IT FOR YOURSELF!

Flavour!Add some

9461_SAB_Flying Fish_Spar Tops Magazine Advert_210x275mm_FINAL.indd 1 2015/08/21 1:06 PM

Nov Dec 2015 Vol.21 www.topsatspar.co.za

42 In bathing mode A timeline of costumes43 DIYUltra simple Christmas trees44 EntertainmentBooks, CDs and DVDs46 ThingamajigsDesirable doodads

22 Road tripping The Hemel-en-Aarde valley

28 Zero beer Taste without consequence

32 Patriotic cocktailsState of the nations38 On the fl y Fishing for more than

compliments

contentsFLY

FISHING38

22Road

tripping

contentscontentsFISHING

beerTASTING28

4Editors LetterSomething big is brewing6News Avondale's world class bubbly,

Johnnie Walker's joyful campaign, 250 years of Hennessy Cognac and walking on the biodynamic side with Waterkloof wines.

12 Tinus TalksUsing your sixth sense14 Fundi Melvyn Minnaar on tasting for

TOPS at SPAR

16 Wine faithfulsBrands to trust

32COCKTAILS

1

2 www.topsatspar.co.za Nov Dec 2015 Vol.21

51 TOPS nosh Silwood Kitchens latest menus

56 Book giveaway The Banting Baker by Catherine Speedie

62 Man met n pan Emile Joubert se perfekte braaibroodjie

64 Blogspot A present from Teresa Ulyate

66 Web presenceDesign and health68 Taking responsibilityWater safety in summer

conte

nts46

Thinga-majigs

WINOne of two

copies of The Banting Baker

56

70 Highlights of Next Issue and Competition winners

71 The Grocery Li

72 LoopdopBronkhorstbaai laat waai

56recipes

@cheersmag @CheersMag

www.cheersmag.co.za


51 TOPS nosh Silwood Kitchens latest menus

56 Book giveaway The Banting Baker by Catherine Speedie

62 Man met n pan Emile Joubert se perfekte braaibroodjie

64 Blogspot A present from Teresa Ulyate

66 Web presenceDesign and health68 Taking responsibilityWater safety in summer

conte

nts

46Thinga-majigs

WINOne of two

copies of The Banting Baker

56

70 Highlights of Next Issue and Competition winners

71 The Grocery Li

72 LoopdopBronkhorstbaai laat waai

56recipes

@cheersmag @CheersMag

www.cheersmag.co.za

The CROC word and associated logos are trade marks. Diageo 2015

NOW IN STORE

Not for Sale to Persons Under the Age of 18. Drink Responsibly.


EDITORIAL - Fiona McDonald

NOT SUCH SMALL BEERSmall beer, as an expression, means something

that is unimportant.

FIONA MCDONALD is a trained journalist who has spent the last 20 years writing about wine and more recently, about whisky too.

The origin of the expression comes from the days when small beer or small ale

usually contained very little alcohol and

was weak. Manual labourers, so Wikipedia

reliably informs us via the Internet, used to

slake their thirsts by downing pints and pints

of small beer daily, up to ve litres a head.

But the recent headlines in the business

pages has been anything but small beer.

Quite the contrary: the worlds largest

brewer, AB InBev, made a takeover bid

for SABMiller that had people gasping

over their pints. Its seriously BIG beer

after all, they o ered $100 billion for our

home-grown brewing giant! The amount

of money o ered is staggering when

converted to South African rands. It runs

into trillions! In fact, the really shocking

thing is that the o er is larger than South

Africas annual national budget.Analysts

believe the reason AB InBev o ered a 40%

premium on the current SABMiller share

price was because of the latter

companys strength in Africa. News24

reported that up to one third of SABMillers

pro ts come from Africa and this

continent is the fastest growing beer

market in the world.

Prior to accepting the o er in principle,

SABMillers board initially rejected the

bid stating that even at $100 billion, it

undervalued the company.

SABMiller is the crown jewel of the

global brewing industry, SABMiller

chairman Jan du Plessis said in a

statement, (it is) uniquely positioned to

continue to generate decades of

standalone future volume and value

growth for all SABMiller shareholders from

highly attractive markets.

With the company active in 17 di erent

countries in Africa as well as with

substantial interests in China as well as South

America SABMiller has come a long way

in 120 years. Its origins stem back to the

Witwatersrand gold rush in 1886 with thirsty

miners among their earliest enthusiastic

consumers of Charles Glass brews.

Should South Africas competition

commission not place any obstacles in the

path of this deal, it would become the

third-largest corporate takeover ever and

would also mean that one in every three

beers drunk worldwide would be from this

newly merged brewing giant.

Plato said he was a wise man who

invented beer. And an even wiser one who

invested in SAB shares many years ago

Enjoy the festive season!

Cheers, Fiona

STOCKISTS SPAR Good Living items are available at your nearest SPAR outlets. www.spar.co.za,www.spree.co.za & www.yuppiechef.comCOMPETITION TERMS & CONDITIONSCompetition submissions should reach us no later than 11th December 2015. The Prize/s is as indicated, no alternatives or cash will be provided. The decision of Integrated Media will be nal and no correspondence will be entered into. Under no circumstances shall Integrated Media, TOPS at SPAR, SPAR or its appointed representatives and the prize donors be liable to anyone who enters these Prize Draws for an indirect or consequential loss howsoever arising which may be su ered in relation to the Prize Draws. By entering these competitions you make yourself subject to receiving promotional information. Entrants are deemed to have accepted these terms and conditions. Prize Draw Rules: The prize draw is only open to consumers who must be over 18 years of age and resident in South Africa. Employees of Integrated Media and TOPS at SPAR, SPAR and their respective advertising, media and PR agencies, as well as the family members, consultants, directors, associates and trading partners of such organisations and persons are ineligible for the draw. Participants can only win one competition every 3 issues.

teamPublisher Shayne [email protected]

Editor Fiona Mc Donald [email protected]

Art Director Megan Meri [email protected]

Advertising Eloise [email protected]

Editorial Assistant Molly [email protected]

PR & Promotions Ashlee [email protected]

Photography Ashlee Attwood & Thinkstock.com

Contributors Cli ord Roberts, Melvyn Minnaar, Teresa Ulyate, Ashlee Attwood, Mohun Schulz, Emile Joubert, Tinus van Niekerk and Gerrit RautenbachHead O ce | Cape Town Tel: 021 685 0285 Suite WB03 Tannery Park23 Belmont Road, Rondebosch, 7700Postal Address: PO Box 259, Rondebosch, 7701

Printing | Paarl Media Cape

Published by | Integrated Media for TOPS at SPAR

TOPS at SPAR | Jess Nicholson Group Promotions & Advertising Manager - Liquor


EDITORIAL - Fiona McDonald

NOT SUCH SMALL BEERSmall beer, as an expression, means something

that is unimportant.

FIONA MCDONALD is a trained journalist who has spent the last 20 years writing about wine and more recently, about whisky too.

The origin of the expression comes from the days when small beer or small ale

usually contained very little alcohol and

was weak. Manual labourers, so Wikipedia

reliably informs us via the Internet, used to

slake their thirsts by downing pints and pints

of small beer daily, up to ve litres a head.

But the recent headlines in the business

pages has been anything but small beer.

Quite the contrary: the worlds largest

brewer, AB InBev, made a takeover bid

for SABMiller that had people gasping

over their pints. Its seriously BIG beer

after all, they o ered $100 billion for our

home-grown brewing giant! The amount

of money o ered is staggering when

converted to South African rands. It runs

into trillions! In fact, the really shocking

thing is that the o er is larger than South

Africas annual national budget.Analysts

believe the reason AB InBev o ered a 40%

premium on the current SABMiller share

price was because of the latter

companys strength in Africa. News24

reported that up to one third of SABMillers

pro ts come from Africa and this

continent is the fastest growing beer

market in the world.

Prior to accepting the o er in principle,

SABMillers board initially rejected the

bid stating that even at $100 billion, it

undervalued the company.

SABMiller is the crown jewel of the

global brewing industry, SABMiller

chairman Jan du Plessis said in a

statement, (it is) uniquely positioned to

continue to generate decades of

standalone future volume and value

growth for all SABMiller shareholders from

highly attractive markets.

With the company active in 17 di erent

countries in Africa as well as with

substantial interests in China as well as South

America SABMiller has come a long way

in 120 years. Its origins stem back to the

Witwatersrand gold rush in 1886 with thirsty

miners among their earliest enthusiastic

consumers of Charles Glass brews.

Should South Africas competition

commission not place any obstacles in the

path of this deal, it would become the

third-largest corporate takeover ever and

would also mean that one in every three

beers drunk worldwide would be from this

newly merged brewing giant.

Plato said he was a wise man who

invented beer. And an even wiser one who

invested in SAB shares many years ago

Enjoy the festive season!

Cheers, Fiona

STOCKISTS SPAR Good Living items are available at your nearest SPAR outlets. www.spar.co.za,www.spree.co.za & www.yuppiechef.comCOMPETITION TERMS & CONDITIONSCompetition submissions should reach us no later than 11th December 2015. The Prize/s is as indicated, no alternatives or cash will be provided. The decision of Integrated Media will be nal and no correspondence will be entered into. Under no circumstances shall Integrated Media, TOPS at SPAR, SPAR or its appointed representatives and the prize donors be liable to anyone who enters these Prize Draws for an indirect or consequential loss howsoever arising which may be su ered in relation to the Prize Draws. By entering these competitions you make yourself subject to receiving promotional information. Entrants are deemed to have accepted these terms and conditions. Prize Draw Rules: The prize draw is only open to consumers who must be over 18 years of age and resident in South Africa. Employees of Integrated Media and TOPS at SPAR, SPAR and their respective advertising, media and PR agencies, as well as the family members, consultants, directors, associates and trading partners of such organisations and persons are ineligible for the draw. Participants can only win one competition every 3 issues.

teamPublisher Shayne [email protected]

Editor Fiona Mc Donald [email protected]

Art Director Megan Meri [email protected]

Advertising Eloise [email protected]

Editorial Assistant Molly [email protected]

PR & Promotions Ashlee [email protected]

Photography Ashlee Attwood & Thinkstock.com

Contributors Cli ord Roberts, Melvyn Minnaar, Teresa Ulyate, Ashlee Attwood, Mohun Schulz, Emile Joubert, Tinus van Niekerk and Gerrit RautenbachHead O ce | Cape Town Tel: 021 685 0285 Suite WB03 Tannery Park23 Belmont Road, Rondebosch, 7700Postal Address: PO Box 259, Rondebosch, 7701

Printing | Paarl Media Cape

Published by | Integrated Media for TOPS at SPAR

TOPS at SPAR | Jess Nicholson Group Promotions & Advertising Manager - Liquor

Grab lifeby the

APPLESSavannas got apples. Have you?

www.savannacider.com

FBA SAV Cheers Nov Ad 275x210.indd 1 2015/10/26 2:31 PM

NEWS

www.topsatspar.co.za Nov Dec 2015 Vol.216

NEWS

But Johnnie Walker whiskys new campaign turns that concept on its head saying that success doesnt have to be an uphill slog. The formula to success is enjoying what you do and taking joy from it. Love what you do and success will follow. The new campaign,Joy Will Take You

Further,was locally introduced at an exclusive event in Johannesburg. Johnnie Walkerrevealed that global research indicates that those who embrace joy in their journeys progress the furthest. As a brand with a 200-year

legacy,Johnnie Walkeris about progress and the journey that one embarks on to achieve success, said Gavin Krenski, brandhouse Marketing and Innovation Director. TheJoy Will Take You Furthercampaign embraces stories of those who have achieved remarkable things as a result of their positive outlook in life. As a result we have identi ed individuals, both locally and globally, who have embodied this philosophy of joyful progress, our JoyWalkers. At this stage we are

delighted to announce our rst South African JoyWalker, Benny Masekwameng, a top chef, beloved mediapersonality and Master Chef SA Judge.Masekwamengs love for cooking

stems from his childhood when his mother ran an informal catering business. The executive chef at Mondo Vino restaurant at Montecasino attributes all his achievements from his passion, dedication and love for his work. I am lucky in life that I have found

success in a eld that I am passionate about, Masekwameng said at the launch. This love has led me to embrace all the wins, whether big or small. I am excited thatJohnnie Walkerhas invited me to share my story and I hope to inspire others to embrace their own journey of success and experience the joy that comes with it. Positive psychology expert and life

coach Justin Cohen said: The obsession with the destination has given way to a joyful appreciation of the journey. As a positive psychology expert, Im thrilled to have the opportunity to share the science on how joy truly does take us further and what we can do to create more of it in our lives.When you take one of the most

iconic lines in branding Keep Walking and bring this perspective of walk with joy to it, you realize that there has been a seismic shift in the zeitgeist.

Joy and Johnnie WalkerIn life, were taught that success is attained after hard work, tenacity, grinding through blood, sweat and tears and overcoming adversity.

Whether it be simple pre-dinner drinks with friends or a celebration Van Lov-erens alcohol-free sparklers are certain to light up the occasion and keep you company throughout the night.Now you can join in the festivities by

popping a Papillon, no matter the occasion a wedding, baptism, birthday party, an important milestone or just because it ts the moment and do so completely alcohol free. The Papillon alcohol-free Sparkling

Blush is made with red muscadel grape juice and has fruity avours of berries and candy oss. Ideal as an aperitif, it is just as excellent with food and especially with desserts, fruit and chocolate.The Papillon alcohol-free Sparkling

White is a white, muscadel driven e ervescent. On the palate youll discover delicious notes of sun-kissed grapes. Its fruity and sweet, and is particularly tasty with fruit and desserts.

Clear conscience & headRobertson producer, Van Loveren, has just released a range of alcohol-free bubblies which are certain to make the season that little bit more festive.

Book a guided tour through the cellar to see where Papillon and the Van Loveren wines are made. Cellar tours take place on weekdays only. To book, phone023 615 1505or send email [email protected].

But Johnnie Walker whiskys new But Johnnie Walker whiskys new

NEWS


NEWS

But Johnnie Walker whiskys new campaign turns that concept on its head saying that success doesnt have to be an uphill slog. The formula to success is enjoying what you do and taking joy from it. Love what you do and success will follow. The new campaign,Joy Will Take You

Further,was locally introduced at an exclusive event in Johannesburg. Johnnie Walkerrevealed that global research indicates that those who embrace joy in their journeys progress the furthest. As a brand with a 200-year

legacy,Johnnie Walkeris about progress and the journey that one embarks on to achieve success, said Gavin Krenski, brandhouse Marketing and Innovation Director. TheJoy Will Take You Furthercampaign embraces stories of those who have achieved remarkable things as a result of their positive outlook in life. As a result we have identi ed individuals, both locally and globally, who have embodied this philosophy of joyful progress, our JoyWalkers. At this stage we are

delighted to announce our rst South African JoyWalker, Benny Masekwameng, a top chef, beloved mediapersonality and Master Chef SA Judge.Masekwamengs love for cooking

stems from his childhood when his mother ran an informal catering business. The executive chef at Mondo Vino restaurant at Montecasino attributes all his achievements from his passion, dedication and love for his work. I am lucky in life that I have found

success in a eld that I am passionate about, Masekwameng said at the launch. This love has led me to embrace all the wins, whether big or small. I am excited thatJohnnie Walkerhas invited me to share my story and I hope to inspire others to embrace their own journey of success and experience the joy that comes with it. Positive psychology expert and life

coach Justin Cohen said: The obsession with the destination has given way to a joyful appreciation of the journey. As a positive psychology expert, Im thrilled to have the opportunity to share the science on how joy truly does take us further and what we can do to create more of it in our lives.When you take one of the most

iconic lines in branding Keep Walking and bring this perspective of walk with joy to it, you realize that there has been a seismic shift in the zeitgeist.

Joy and Johnnie WalkerIn life, were taught that success is attained after hard work, tenacity, grinding through blood, sweat and tears and overcoming adversity.

Whether it be simple pre-dinner drinks with friends or a celebration Van Lov-erens alcohol-free sparklers are certain to light up the occasion and keep you company throughout the night.Now you can join in the festivities by

popping a Papillon, no matter the occasion a wedding, baptism, birthday party, an important milestone or just because it ts the moment and do so completely alcohol free. The Papillon alcohol-free Sparkling

Blush is made with red muscadel grape juice and has fruity avours of berries and candy oss. Ideal as an aperitif, it is just as excellent with food and especially with desserts, fruit and chocolate.The Papillon alcohol-free Sparkling

White is a white, muscadel driven e ervescent. On the palate youll discover delicious notes of sun-kissed grapes. Its fruity and sweet, and is particularly tasty with fruit and desserts.

Clear conscience & headRobertson producer, Van Loveren, has just released a range of alcohol-free bubblies which are certain to make the season that little bit more festive.

Book a guided tour through the cellar to see where Papillon and the Van Loveren wines are made. Cellar tours take place on weekdays only. To book, phone023 615 1505or send email [email protected].

But Johnnie Walker whiskys new But Johnnie Walker whiskys new

DIGITAL

MAG

Availab

le onl in

e now!

www.c

heersm

ag.co.z

a

Access Cheers mag on the move - on your mobile, tablet or laptop. Swiftly browse through the latest recipes, articles, tastings or enter the most recent competitions. And there's more...

NEWS


NEWS

This wine is only made in exceptional years and 2015 vintage is the rst time its made from the grapes of a single vineyard block. The wine can be drunk now or cellared for ve to eight years. It is best served with green Thai dishes, tomato-based food, sh and other seafood, and poultry.

The new Zonnebloem Limited Edition Sauvignon Blancs special de ning characteristic is its strong granadilla Tropical tones

This wine is only made in exceptional years and 2015 vintage is the rst time

drunk now or cellared for ve to eight years. It is best served with green Thai

The new Zonnebloem Limited Edition Sauvignon Blancs special de ning characteristic is its strong granadilla

avour. This tropical attribute comes from the grapes of a single vineyard block outside Stellenbosch which has always displayed this characteristic. So much so that it has become known as the Granadilla Block!

Scottish Leader

soars in SA Since unveiling its new look and enhanced blends last December,

Scottish Leader has seen double digit volume growth in South Africa,

the second biggest market for the brand globally. This is in spite of the

decline of the Scottish whisky category in the country.

As part of the campaign, Scottish Leader has commissioned gra ti artist Pre x to create 3D street artwork at the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town, and at Newtown Junction in Johannesburg. These will remain visible until the end of

the festive season. The brand is launching an

Instagram page, @ScottishLeaderWhisky, and will be engaging with three popular South African instagrammers, Ockie Fourie (@theworldsyoungestman), Craig Howes (@craighowes) and Thabiso Tshabalala (@the_analogue_guy). The three will be taking pictures in their unique, personal style but

keeping with the a new perspective brand theme, using the hashtag

#NewPerspective. Scottish Leader will also be giving away R50000 worth of consumer

prizes on its Twitter platform, @ScottishLeader. The prizes range

from Apple Mini iPads and iPhones to Persol sunglasses and Fossil watches.

The hashtag for this digital drive will

be #FollowTheLeader. Scottish Leader Original is available

from leading South African liquor outlets.

The hour long walks guided,

and unearth a biodynamic

bastions way of life on the

crest of the Schapenberg,

where it works in harmony

with nature to produce its

pure, untamed wines.

The aim of these walks is to

show visitors how it is really

done and explain the

philosophy behind the

concept of biodynamic and

organic farming.

Christiaan Loots is the driving force behind Waterkloofs cutting edge

biodynamic endeavours and environmentally responsible farming methods.

It took him and his green brigade 10 years to transform the once depleted,

conventionally farmed land into the healthy, sustainable life-force it is today.

The walks will be on o er until the end of April 2016 and cost R100 per person.

Pre-bookings are essential and a maximum of 12 guests per walk is allowed.

It starts at 10am and dont forget to wear sunscreen, hat and comfortable

walking shoes!

Or extend your Winelands walking experience and treat yourself to a relaxed

wine tasting and Waterkloof Platter after a morning spent amidst fynbos and vines

at R250 per person.

For more information on these walks or pre-bookings contact Waterkloof Estate at

021 858 1292; email [email protected] or visit www.waterkloofwines.co.za.

Also engage with the estate on Facebook and Twitter @WaterkloofWines.

Circle of Life biodynamic walks For a di erent kind of walk, Waterkloof Estate, the sustainable wine farm on the out-skirts of Somerset West, invites nature lovers and eco enthusiasts to lace up for its new, monthly Circle of Life Biodynamic Walks and learn about its green philosophy.

NEWS


NEWS

This wine is only made in exceptional years and 2015 vintage is the rst time its made from the grapes of a single vineyard block. The wine can be drunk now or cellared for ve to eight years. It is best served with green Thai dishes, tomato-based food, sh and other seafood, and poultry.

The new Zonnebloem Limited Edition Sauvignon Blancs special de ning characteristic is its strong granadilla Tropical tones

This wine is only made in exceptional years and 2015 vintage is the rst time

drunk now or cellared for ve to eight years. It is best served with green Thai

The new Zonnebloem Limited Edition Sauvignon Blancs special de ning characteristic is its strong granadilla

avour. This tropical attribute comes from the grapes of a single vineyard block outside Stellenbosch which has always displayed this characteristic. So much so that it has become known as the Granadilla Block!

Scottish Leader

soars in SA Since unveiling its new look and enhanced blends last December,

Scottish Leader has seen double digit volume growth in South Africa,

the second biggest market for the brand globally. This is in spite of the

decline of the Scottish whisky category in the country.

As part of the campaign, Scottish Leader has commissioned gra ti artist Pre x to create 3D street artwork at the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town, and at Newtown Junction in Johannesburg. These will remain visible until the end of

the festive season. The brand is launching an

Instagram page, @ScottishLeaderWhisky, and will be engaging with three popular South African instagrammers, Ockie Fourie (@theworldsyoungestman), Craig Howes (@craighowes) and Thabiso Tshabalala (@the_analogue_guy). The three will be taking pictures in their unique, personal style but

keeping with the a new perspective brand theme, using the hashtag

#NewPerspective. Scottish Leader will also be giving away R50000 worth of consumer

prizes on its Twitter platform, @ScottishLeader. The prizes range

from Apple Mini iPads and iPhones to Persol sunglasses and Fossil watches.

The hashtag for this digital drive will

be #FollowTheLeader. Scottish Leader Original is available

from leading South African liquor outlets.

The hour long walks guided,

and unearth a biodynamic

bastions way of life on the

crest of the Schapenberg,

where it works in harmony

with nature to produce its

pure, untamed wines.

The aim of these walks is to

show visitors how it is really

done and explain the

philosophy behind the

concept of biodynamic and

organic farming.

Christiaan Loots is the driving force behind Waterkloofs cutting edge

biodynamic endeavours and environmentally responsible farming methods.

It took him and his green brigade 10 years to transform the once depleted,

conventionally farmed land into the healthy, sustainable life-force it is today.

The walks will be on o er until the end of April 2016 and cost R100 per person.

Pre-bookings are essential and a maximum of 12 guests per walk is allowed.

It starts at 10am and dont forget to wear sunscreen, hat and comfortable

walking shoes!

Or extend your Winelands walking experience and treat yourself to a relaxed

wine tasting and Waterkloof Platter after a morning spent amidst fynbos and vines

at R250 per person.

For more information on these walks or pre-bookings contact Waterkloof Estate at

021 858 1292; email [email protected] or visit www.waterkloofwines.co.za.

Also engage with the estate on Facebook and Twitter @WaterkloofWines.

Circle of Life biodynamic walks For a di erent kind of walk, Waterkloof Estate, the sustainable wine farm on the out-skirts of Somerset West, invites nature lovers and eco enthusiasts to lace up for its new, monthly Circle of Life Biodynamic Walks and learn about its green philosophy.

What's happening

Nov Dec 2015 Vol.21 www.topsatspar.co.za 9

NEWS

Spectral spiritHes still licensed to kill and thrill! Movie theatres throughout the republic will be packed from the end of November when the

latest episode in the long-running James Bond series hits local screens.

Since 1962 there have been 23 di erent movies with many experts rating the most recent few a remake of Casino Royal,

Quantum of Solace and Skyfall, all starring Daniel Craig, as the most tense, taut and darkly exciting of all.

A cryptic message from Bonds past sends him on a trail to uncover a sinister organization. While M battles political forces

to keep the secret service alive, Bond peels back the layers of deceit to reveal the terrible truth behind SPECTRE.

Bond of course made the vodka martini shaken, not stirred famous and luxury vodka maker Belvedere has latched

onto this, releasing two custom-made limited editions to celebrate the release of the 24th lm in the franchise, Spectre.

In an unprecedented move, Belvedere has replaced the iconic Belvedere Palace with the famous MI6 headquarters.

Belvederes signature blue palette will be switched for a distinctive green, mirroring the secret spy agencys ink of choice,

creating a truly memorable collectors edition of 100 bottles. A 007 twist will also be applied to Belvederes iconic Silver Saber

bottles, known for their cutting edge, metallic aesthetic and illuminating technology.

Belvedere Vodka president, Charles Gibb said: James Bond is recognized as the most admired and in uential tastemaker

in the world. Were delighted that Belvedere will be partnering with SPECTRE, our largest global partnership to date.

Dwight Caines, president of Theatrical Marketing for Sony Pictures, said: James Bonds cool attitude and stylish

sophistication have always gone hand-in-hand with his choice of vodka martini. Belvedere is a perfect match.

Excellent choice, Mr. Bond.

Belvedere 007 SPECTRE BottleThe limited edition Belvedere 007 SPECTRE Bottle features the iconic James Bond gun barrel. A closer look reveals the mark of the SPECTRE organization and a recipe for the timeless Shaken Not Stirred 007 martini.

Belvedere MI6 BottleThe Belvedere MI6 Bottle replaced the iconic Belvedere Palace with the famous MI6 headquarters and switches the signature blue palette for a distinctive green, mirroring the secret spy agency's ink of choice. Only 100 collector's edition Belvedere MI6 Bottles were produced. *Not available for purchase.

Belvedere 007 Silver Saber BottleThe 1.75L limited edition Belvedere

007 Silver Saber Bottle features elegant lines and a polished

metallic nish. Etched by laser, the iconic 007 mark illuminates in an homage to the cutting

edge style celebrated by Belvedere and Bond.

NEWS

Spectral spirit

About the bottle designs...HT

TP://W

WW.BELVE

DER

EVODKA

.COM

HTTP://W

WW.BELVE

DER

EVODKA

.COM

NEWS


NEWSHennessys 250!Africa is home to 165000 dollar millionaires. Is it any wonder then why the continent has become the focus of business for so many luxury brands?

MD: Africa/Middle East at Mot Hennessy,Pascal Asin says to be a successful international luxury brand one needs to adopt a business model speci cally adapted to the consumers needs, wants and concerns. The luxury consumer in Africa is

hungry for experiences that resonate with them on a very personal level. Hennessy helped create and capture these moments: The typical African consumer is the young aspirational man who, at the end of his day or week, wants to enjoy Hennessy with his friends and colleagues to celebrate their journey to success."When Hennessy rst explored the

African market in the early 1990s, whisky and traditional brandy were the most popular spirits and Cognac as a liquor category was non-existent. We were not only faced with the

commercial dilemma of having an almost non-existent market, but one where consumers werent even willing to waver on the label of spirits they

enjoyed, let alone the type of spirits, said Asin.With the Hennessy family

involved in the business over eight generations, its a Maison that prides itself on its lineage, time-tested processes and ability to adapt much like the approach of Hennessys founder in 1765. Asin said Richard Hennessys

philosophy and practice of adopting and adapting to the environment still rang true for the brand today: Richard was Irish by birth but, when he moved to France, he took on the authentic ways of Cognac to create the worlds most superior cognac. Its this mind-set that has made Hennessy a success around the world and, more recently, in Africa.Asin has supervised the Hennessy

brand growth in Africa for over a decade: Its more than just a business model its about transmitting the legacy of an iconic brand in such a way that the local market adopts and

welcomes it as their own. Hennessy celebrates 250 years and

its Never Stop. Never Settle campaign is a celebration of the relentless African spirit. Succeeding in Africa doesnt happen overnight the African consumer intrinsically knows it and we understand it. Its the African consumers and our local partners who are continuously pushing the limits that are driving us forward to continue our legacy for another 250 years.

adapt much like the approach of

philosophy and practice of adopting and adapting to the environment still Adapting to su

it local aspirations is behin

d Hennessys

successful decade in Afric

a Pascal Asin maintains.

Set up and organised by the worlds leading authority on Champagne, Tom Stevenson, the competition has attracted some of the most prestigious names in wine from around the world, making Avondales success even more exciting and noteworthy. The Paarl-based winery won not only Best South African Sparkling Wine overall, but also walked o with the trophies for Best Blanc de Blanc MCC and Best Organic MCC, making them triple-winners and the most successful South African sparkling wine in this competition to date. The competition is judged by Tom Stevenson along with Essi Avellan MW and Dr

Tony Jordan, and is the rst and only terroir-driven competition judged exclusively by internationally renowned Champagne and sparkling wine experts. Open to e ervescing wines of every style produced anywhere on the planet, all wines are judged blind and evaluated strictly within the context of their origin and style.

World beating bubbly Avondale, one of South Africas leading organic and biodynamic wine farms, is delighted to announce they are the winners of three top awards at the second Champagne & Sparkling Wine World Championships.

NEWS


NEWSHennessys 250!Africa is home to 165000 dollar millionaires. Is it any wonder then why the continent has become the focus of business for so many luxury brands?

MD: Africa/Middle East at Mot Hennessy,Pascal Asin says to be a successful international luxury brand one needs to adopt a business model speci cally adapted to the consumers needs, wants and concerns. The luxury consumer in Africa is

hungry for experiences that resonate with them on a very personal level. Hennessy helped create and capture these moments: The typical African consumer is the young aspirational man who, at the end of his day or week, wants to enjoy Hennessy with his friends and colleagues to celebrate their journey to success."When Hennessy rst explored the

African market in the early 1990s, whisky and traditional brandy were the most popular spirits and Cognac as a liquor category was non-existent. We were not only faced with the

commercial dilemma of having an almost non-existent market, but one where consumers werent even willing to waver on the label of spirits they

enjoyed, let alone the type of spirits, said Asin.With the Hennessy family

involved in the business over eight generations, its a Maison that prides itself on its lineage, time-tested processes and ability to adapt much like the approach of Hennessys founder in 1765. Asin said Richard Hennessys

philosophy and practice of adopting and adapting to the environment still rang true for the brand today: Richard was Irish by birth but, when he moved to France, he took on the authentic ways of Cognac to create the worlds most superior cognac. Its this mind-set that has made Hennessy a success around the world and, more recently, in Africa.Asin has supervised the Hennessy

brand growth in Africa for over a decade: Its more than just a business model its about transmitting the legacy of an iconic brand in such a way that the local market adopts and

welcomes it as their own. Hennessy celebrates 250 years and

its Never Stop. Never Settle campaign is a celebration of the relentless African spirit. Succeeding in Africa doesnt happen overnight the African consumer intrinsically knows it and we understand it. Its the African consumers and our local partners who are continuously pushing the limits that are driving us forward to continue our legacy for another 250 years.

adapt much like the approach of

philosophy and practice of adopting and adapting to the environment still Adapting to su

it local aspirations is behin

d Hennessys

successful decade in Afric

a Pascal Asin maintains.

Set up and organised by the worlds leading authority on Champagne, Tom Stevenson, the competition has attracted some of the most prestigious names in wine from around the world, making Avondales success even more exciting and noteworthy. The Paarl-based winery won not only Best South African Sparkling Wine overall, but also walked o with the trophies for Best Blanc de Blanc MCC and Best Organic MCC, making them triple-winners and the most successful South African sparkling wine in this competition to date. The competition is judged by Tom Stevenson along with Essi Avellan MW and Dr

Tony Jordan, and is the rst and only terroir-driven competition judged exclusively by internationally renowned Champagne and sparkling wine experts. Open to e ervescing wines of every style produced anywhere on the planet, all wines are judged blind and evaluated strictly within the context of their origin and style.

World beating bubbly Avondale, one of South Africas leading organic and biodynamic wine farms, is delighted to announce they are the winners of three top awards at the second Champagne & Sparkling Wine World Championships.

NEWS

From the House of Van Ryns in Stellenbosch, a gold medal for the Van Ryns Fine Cask Reserve 15 year old, and a silver for the Van Ryns Distillers Reserve 12 year old, while the Robertson-based

Klipdrift Distillery also proved its mettle with Klipdrift Black Gold claiming a silver medal. This brandy has components of potstill brandies which have been aged up to 21 years, resulting in a multifaceted

brandy which continues to earn Klipdrift international acclaim.

First established in 1994, this years Concours Mondial de Bruxelles was held in Guiyang, capital

of South West Chinas Guizhoi province and attracted nearly 1 400 spirits from 43 countries, vying for recognition at one of the worlds most authoritative spirit competitions. The Concours

Mondial exists to provide consumers with wines and spirits and has earned its reputation by selecting

renowned judges of proven expertise. South Africans can rightfully be proud of our ne

potstill brandies which continue to shine on a global stage. This award comes just in time to select one

which suits your tastebuds and raise a brandy balloon on Heritage Day in honour of generations of brandy

makers and their traditions, said Distell brandy ambassador Nick Holdcroft.

Bragging rights for brandy

A trio of South African potstill brandies were awarded top honours by international benchmarking competition, Concours

Mondial de Bruxelles.

NEWS

Bragging rights


TINUS TALKS - Tinus van Niekerk

SIXTH SENSEIts well documented that the tongue picks up five basic flavours salty, sweet, bitter,

sour and umami. Now theres a sixth

Wine consultant TINUS VAN NIEKERK has been instrumental in tweaking TOPS at SPARs wine o ering.

Do you know that if you invite 10 friends for lunch its likely three will be unable to appreciate the broccoli,

Brussels sprouts and rocket, cappuccino or

the dark chocolate fondant dessert? Why?

Because they are non-tasters, not able to

taste bitterness. And did you know that the

avours in fatty foods and the mouth-feel

of fruit-fat in a truly excellent wine are

genuine? In our avour world fattiness

has indeed arrived as a unique sixth

primary taste.

We dont all occupy the same worlds of

aroma and taste. Listening to some

elaborate descriptions during wine tastings

can be intimidating, even amusing. Its

because the interpretation of a smell is

highly dependent on the context in which

it was rst experienced and its subsequent

associations. Which also makes it

meaningless to other wine drinkers, proving

nothing in recommending wines.

In fact, the ratings of wine experts may

be useless for many consumers; not all

wines are created equal, neither are all

wine lovers. One persons acute sense of

taste may mean nothing to another

making expert recommendations

irrelevant to those consumers not born with

the ability to discern small and subtle

di erences in tastes.

There arethousands of taste buds

located on the human tongue and on

the top, bottom and sides of the mouth,

with as many as 100 taste receptors found

on eachtaste bud. Experiencing avours

depends on how the chemicals in the wine

interact with the tongue receptors and the

blending together of the basic tastes. One

way of testing tasting is to sample the

odourless chemical propylthiouracil

(known as PROP). Its used to measure a

reaction to bitterness. Acute tasters will nd

PROP extremely bitter, while those with

normal tasting abilities will nd it slightly

bitter or tasteless.

Fundamental di erences in tasting

ability are attributed to genetic and

biological factors, and enhanced by

training and experience through careers

within the wine, food and perfume

industries. Scientists divide all people into

three categories: supertasters, medium

tasters and non-tasters. Supertasters have

a much denser distribution of taste buds

than medium and non-tasters,

experiencing food richer and tastier than

other people. Approximately 25% of

people are known to be supertasters,

50% are medium tasters, and 25% are

non-tasters.

The four basic tastes of sour, sweet, salty

and bitter have been known for

centuries.Then a fth basic taste umami,

described as savoury found in foods such

as meat and tru es, was identi ed.

Recently scientists identi ed a sixthprimary

taste by discovering that receptors in our

mouths recognize fat as a unique and

independent sensation, contributing to the

mouthfeel and associated creaminess.

Fat is rather unappealing but if

manipulated correctly by reproducing and

introducing acceptable substitutes, it will

allow for taste to be enhanced. Imagine

whatitll mean for avour when it can be

sprinkled on any dish, from salads to

poultry, sh and beef. Not only will it a ect

how the food tastes but how it feels and

that could change the way we drink.


TOPS FUNDI - Melvyn Minnaar

WINE 101Have you ever wondered what

lies behind the selection of TOPS at SPARs Fundi range?

One of the fundis, Melvyn Minnaar spells it out here.

It was a pretty hot day out there in the winelands. But we, the TOPS at SPAR wine fundis, had the

comfort of air-conditioning inside the

conference room. At least the

temperature, the water bottles at hand

and dry crackers would ease the tasting

journey about to begin.

Soon, in ights of six to 12 glasses, 75

to 90 di erent wines would be

presented blind to the six of us. We

would have no clue about any and

every wine. Only what our eyes, noses

and mouths picked up, would matter.

In a double-blind tasting like this, the

colour in the glass may or may not be

the rst marker; at least one could see

whether the wine is white, red or a

bubbly. But this colour scrutiny business

doesnt really help much.

A nifty nose and a tenacious tongue

are the hard-working tools in this

exquisite endeavour. Wine evaluation,

like this, is both a heady pleasure and a

sobering challenge. It tests memory,

experience, and perhaps most

importantly, ones sensual perception.

Everything Ive tasted, drunk,

enjoyed or disliked in a wineglass

before, come into play in this game to

nd the winners.

So there we sat, a few hours later, red

mouthed, blue tongued, page after

page of notes and scores, and hopefully

a job well done. A selection, monitored

by the auditors, had been made.

Afterwards, observing the line-up of

the chosen their labels now fully

exposed we shared a sense of

accomplishment. We six had more or

less agreed on the best; real tasting

team work.

When it was all tied up, I checked my

notes and scores against the

afternoons list. How did I fare scoring

blind? Did I miss out on a wine that

ought to have done better? Personal

reward is the small satisfaction of

getting some of it right. Tasting wine

remains a wondrous journey.

A couple of months later, Im in my

TOPS at SPAR. A customer takes from

the shelf one of the bottles we gave

the nod to that hot day. Suddenly the

taste, vaguely lodged in my memory,

trips my mind. What a thrill.

MELVYN MINNAAR is an experienced art critic as well as taster and veteran wine writer.

Soon, in ights of six to 12 glasses, 75 to 90 di erent wines would be

presented blind to the six of us. We would have no clue about any and every wine.

Only what our eyes, noses and mouths

picked up, would matter.

Above: The Fundi te

am in action. From

left, TOPS at SPARs

Mark Robinson, Me

lvyn Minnaar, Neil

Pendock,

Tinus van Niekerk,

Samarie Smith and

Christian Eedes.

Tried & trusted

RESPECT, TRUST AND

LOYALTY are concepts which many aspire to but which few achieve. In the ever more

crowded fi eld of wine, theres ill space for belief in products that have never let the market down and which continue to inspire

confi dence. Fiona McDonald reports.

WINE

Call the TOPS HOTLINE0860 313 141

Available at TOPS at SPAR and

SPAR stores

Tried & trusted

RESPECT, TRUST AND

LOYALTY are concepts which many aspire to but which few achieve. In the ever more

crowded fi eld of wine, theres ill space for belief in products that have never let the market down and which continue to inspire

confi dence. Fiona McDonald reports.

WINE

Call the TOPS HOTLINE0860 313 141

Available at TOPS at SPAR and

SPAR stores

Old faithfuls


Every 35 to 120 minutes it erupts for a full 90 seconds to ve minutes. And it hasnt wavered in more

than 150 years, attaining its full height of

30 to 60 metres every time. Little wonder

that this geyser is called Old Faithful.

This closely studied and monitored

cone geyser can be found in

Yellowstone national park in Wyoming,

America and was given that name in

1870 because it was such a

dependable natural phenomenon.

As a consumer there is nothing worse

than walking into a local supermarket or

liquor store and facing an overwhelming

selection of wines, many of which you

have never heard of, let alone ever

tasted! So what are the Old Faithful

wines that are tried and trusted, wines

that you can depend on come rain or

shine, braai or the boss for dinner?

Nederburg has to top the list. Its been around as a brand since the 1940s

and is the biggest brand of South

Africas largest wine producer, Distell.

Whether you are in a steakhouse in

Bloemfontein or B&B in Nieu-Bethesda,

Spur in Scottburgh or tavern in

Soshanguve you are bound to nd a

bottle of Nederburg wine and itll

probably be Nederburg Baronne or

Edelrood if its red or Lyric or Stein on the

white side. The fantastic thing about

Nederburg is that you know what youre

getting. Itll be a decent drop, drinkable

to the last and it wont cost you a fortune,

even if its on a restaurant wine list with

the attendant mark-up.

Nederburg has more to o er than these

staatmakers: be a bit adventurous and

try some of the wines from their other

ranges like the Heritage Heroes where

some interesting and unusual grapes are

used in a deliciously non-threatening way.

Who wouldnt want to taste a bottle

called Beautiful Lady with its semi-sweet,

grapey avours? It might be a di erent

story if the consumer was faced with a

bottle labelled Gewrztraminer! Many

dont even know how to pronounce it,

let alone know what its supposed to

taste like

Also in the Distell stable are similar

examples of reds that can be found

almost anywhere Chateau Libertas, the wine thats been around for nearly 80 years, Tassenberg and then the whole Zonnebloem range of Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinotage,

Laureat and more, as well as other Cape

Legends products.

The Malan family of Simonsighave farmed

their vineyards for multiple

generations.

WINE

Two other wine producers who are

100% Old Faithfuls are the family-owned

and run Simonsig and Backsberg, both of which were among the founders

of the Stellenbosch Wine Route way back

in the 1970s. The Malan family of Simonsig

have farmed their vineyards for multiple

generations. It was established in the

1950s with their rst own label bottling

having taken place in 1968. Patriarch

Frans Malan was a pioneer, not only of

the wine route concept in South Africa,

but also of ageing wines in small barrels.

Johan Malan still heads up the

winemaking team while Francois farms

the vineyards with an eagle eye.

Paarl producer Backsberg is fondly

remembered for its Dry Red, a blended

red wine that used to go well with

everything from braaied ribbetjies and

chops to a big roast sirloin. Its range has

grown over the years and they now o er

a huge variety of wines, running the

gamut from bubbly to Viognier, Pinotage,

Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon and a

white blend containing interesting grapes

such as Roussanne. Backsberg even

produces kosher wine!

If its hot and you want a crisp white

which is really going to hit the spot, it has

to be one of two things: Graa orDu Toitskloof Sauvignon Blanc.

Graa rst reached the market in 1993

and celebrated its 30th birthday in tting

fashion at the Strandloper near

Langebaan in November 2013. It was a

wine consciously made to appeal to a

broad range of tastes, loosely modelled

on a Portuguese Vinho Verde. Catchy

advertising and marketing made it a hit.

(Who can forget the all singing-dancing-

sharing-eating wine or those adverts with

crabs and cray sh?) Its a white that ticks

all the boxes ample fruit, good refreshing

acidity, lovely body and enough interest

to be able to partner a snoek o the

braai, a mussel potjie or a Caesar salad in

an upmarket restaurant! And in our

current era of things being all hipster and

retro, theres something seriously cool and

funky about drinking Graa!

Sauvignon Blanc is a massive hit and

they dont get much bigger or more

The Malan family of Simonsighave farmed

their vineyards for multiple

generations.

WINE

Two other wine producers who are

100% Old Faithfuls are the family-owned

and run Simonsig and Backsberg, both of which were among the founders

of the Stellenbosch Wine Route way back

in the 1970s. The Malan family of Simonsig

have farmed their vineyards for multiple

generations. It was established in the

1950s with their rst own label bottling

having taken place in 1968. Patriarch

Frans Malan was a pioneer, not only of

the wine route concept in South Africa,

but also of ageing wines in small barrels.

Johan Malan still heads up the

winemaking team while Francois farms

the vineyards with an eagle eye.

Paarl producer Backsberg is fondly

remembered for its Dry Red, a blended

red wine that used to go well with

everything from braaied ribbetjies and

chops to a big roast sirloin. Its range has

grown over the years and they now o er

a huge variety of wines, running the

gamut from bubbly to Viognier, Pinotage,

Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon and a

white blend containing interesting grapes

such as Roussanne. Backsberg even

produces kosher wine!

If its hot and you want a crisp white

which is really going to hit the spot, it has

to be one of two things: Graa orDu Toitskloof Sauvignon Blanc.

Graa rst reached the market in 1993

and celebrated its 30th birthday in tting

fashion at the Strandloper near

Langebaan in November 2013. It was a

wine consciously made to appeal to a

broad range of tastes, loosely modelled

on a Portuguese Vinho Verde. Catchy

advertising and marketing made it a hit.

(Who can forget the all singing-dancing-

sharing-eating wine or those adverts with

crabs and cray sh?) Its a white that ticks

all the boxes ample fruit, good refreshing

acidity, lovely body and enough interest

to be able to partner a snoek o the

braai, a mussel potjie or a Caesar salad in

an upmarket restaurant! And in our

current era of things being all hipster and

retro, theres something seriously cool and

funky about drinking Graa!

Sauvignon Blanc is a massive hit and

they dont get much bigger or more


Old faithfuls

In our current era of things

being all hipster and retro,

theres something seriously cool

and funky about drinking Graa

enjoyable than Du Toitskloof. Or o er

better value too. This winery near

Rawsonville at the foot of the Du Toitskloof

mountains which tower majestically

between Worcester and Paarl used to be

a co-operative cellar, with 12 members. It

moved with the times, transitioning from a

co-op to a modern winery and changing

its line-up from sweet hanepoot jerepigo

and muscadels to more consumer friendly

dry wine styles. It was also helped by the

input of British supermarket wine buyers

who snapped up the winerys bulk

o erings for the export market, sharing

their knowledge on what the drinking

public wanted and adapting accordingly.

And on the slopes of the Helderberg

outside Stellenbosch is the wine brand

which many a wine enthusiast will admit,

led them down the path to

more serious wines and that

wine is Alto. Its a wine farm

which has only ever had ve

winemakers in a century

starting with Manie Malan,

succeeded by Piet du Toit

who handed over the reins to his

Springbok rugby player son Hempies.

Then it was the quiet and unassuming

Schalk van der Westhuizen who took

charge before handing over the

responsibility to his son, Bertho,

in May 2015.

We are fortunate in South Africa to

have reliability and dependability in such

good supply on our wine shelves. Reach

out with con dence next time you visit

your local TOPS at SPAR.

Not for Sale to Persons Under the Age of 18. Not for Sale to Persons Under the Age of 18.

ADVERTORIAL

Glen ddich 12 Year OldThe worlds most-awarded single malt

Scotch whisky is creamy with a long,

smooth and mellow nish. Golden in colour,

it is distinctively fresh and fruity with a hint of

pear that develops into butterscotch,

cream, malt and oaky avours.

Glen ddich 14 Year Old Rich OakA single malt Scotch whisky with an

original nish; 14 years in ne, virgin

American and Spanish oak casks

combined with precision timing and

handling to bring a rich and sweet vanilla

taste with an exquisite silky texture.

Glen ddich 15 Year OldThis golden whisky with a red hue draws

inspiration from the sherry bodegas of

Spain and Portugal. A complex aroma of

sweet heather honey and vanilla

fudge combined with rich, dark fruits

this silky smooth malt reveals satisfying

layers of sherry oak, marzipan, cinnamon

and ginger.

Glen ddich 18 Year OldEvery batch of this

expression is

individually

numbered and

watched over

carefully. Its the

result of 18 years

of careful attention and many more of

whisky-craft knowledge and experience.

A rich delivery of luxurious dried fruit,

candy peel and dates, it is a warming,

rewarding and distinguished single malt.

We live in a busy world, leading busy lives; with dreams to realise and goals to achieve, friends to make and friends to keep. Were connected

to everyone and everything around us. As this excitement and achievement happens all around us and to us, we slowly start to feel a void, for something lost in the noise a quiet moment to ourselves. So tonight, do something that feels real, thats about you. Be yourself, by yourself. Its not about what you need but what you deserve. Its about putting the rush of the world aside and theres no better way than to

create an everyday single malt moment.

Tonight, take a solitary moment to celebrate your uniqueness. Sit back and re ect on your personal path to success.

The Balvenie DoubleWood 12 Year OldA single malt that gets its distinctive

characteristics of sweet sherry notes,

layered with honey and vanilla, from

being matured in two wood types. A

smooth, mellow taste with beautifully

combined avours of nutty sweetness,

cinnamon, spiciness and delicate hints of

sherry for a long and warming nish.

The Balvenie Caribbean Cask 14 Year OldAn exciting new

expression, matured

in traditional oak

whisky casks for

14 years and

nished in casks that previously held

Caribbean rum. The result is a rich and

creamy to ee on the nose with a taste

thats rounded with vanilla and sweet

oak, developing a fruity character over

time with a lingering softness.

The Balvenie DoubleWood 17 Year OldThe DoubleWood 17 Year Old is an elder

sibling full of spicy character. But it is

distinctly di erent, with deeper notes of

vanilla, hints of green apple, creamy

to ee and striking richness and

complexity. Tastes of sherbet spice,

toasted almonds and cinnamon, layered

with rich creamy to ee notes.


ADVERTORIAL

Glen ddich 12 Year OldThe worlds most-awarded single malt

Scotch whisky is creamy with a long,

smooth and mellow nish. Golden in colour,

it is distinctively fresh and fruity with a hint of

pear that develops into butterscotch,

cream, malt and oaky avours.

Glen ddich 14 Year Old Rich OakA single malt Scotch whisky with an

original nish; 14 years in ne, virgin

American and Spanish oak casks

combined with precision timing and

handling to bring a rich and sweet vanilla

taste with an exquisite silky texture.

Glen ddich 15 Year OldThis golden whisky with a red hue draws

inspiration from the sherry bodegas of

Spain and Portugal. A complex aroma of

sweet heather honey and vanilla

fudge combined with rich, dark fruits

this silky smooth malt reveals satisfying

layers of sherry oak, marzipan, cinnamon

and ginger.

Glen ddich 18 Year OldEvery batch of this

expression is

individually

numbered and

watched over

carefully. Its the

result of 18 years

of careful attention and many more of

whisky-craft knowledge and experience.

A rich delivery of luxurious dried fruit,

candy peel and dates, it is a warming,

rewarding and distinguished single malt.

We live in a busy world, leading busy lives; with dreams to realise and goals to achieve, friends to make and friends to keep. Were connected

to everyone and everything around us. As this excitement and achievement happens all around us and to us, we slowly start to feel a void, for something lost in the noise a quiet moment to ourselves. So tonight, do something that feels real, thats about you. Be yourself, by yourself. Its not about what you need but what you deserve. Its about putting the rush of the world aside and theres no better way than to

create an everyday single malt moment.

Tonight, take a solitary moment to celebrate your uniqueness. Sit back and re ect on your personal path to success.

The Balvenie DoubleWood 12 Year OldA single malt that gets its distinctive

characteristics of sweet sherry notes,

layered with honey and vanilla, from

being matured in two wood types. A

smooth, mellow taste with beautifully

combined avours of nutty sweetness,

cinnamon, spiciness and delicate hints of

sherry for a long and warming nish.

The Balvenie Caribbean Cask 14 Year OldAn exciting new

expression, matured

in traditional oak

whisky casks for

14 years and

nished in casks that previously held

Caribbean rum. The result is a rich and

creamy to ee on the nose with a taste

thats rounded with vanilla and sweet

oak, developing a fruity character over

time with a lingering softness.

The Balvenie DoubleWood 17 Year OldThe DoubleWood 17 Year Old is an elder

sibling full of spicy character. But it is

distinctly di erent, with deeper notes of

vanilla, hints of green apple, creamy

to ee and striking richness and

complexity. Tastes of sherbet spice,

toasted almonds and cinnamon, layered

with rich creamy to ee notes.


Edward Snell

The Balvenie PortWood Aged 21 YearsA marriage of rare Balvenie is transferred

to port casks. It leads us to a perfume of

fruity and ripe raisin notes, backed by a

nutty dryness. Re ned with remarkable

character its creamy and silky with fruit,

honey and spice taking you gently to a

long, nutty nish.

Tonight, put down your phone and pick up a book. Delve back into the literary exploits of your youth. Youll nd something more than just a book

Glen Grant The Majors ReserveNamed for James

Grant himself, this

soft, slightly dry single

malt whisky has a

creamy fruity taste

with a nutty nish.

Experience a rich,

smooth and fruity single malt with a hint of

spice to it.

Glen Grant 10 Year OldAwarded the best 10-year-old expression

in the world for three consecutive years,

its a younger single malt that can stand

for itself. Medium and dry on the nose, it

has an intense palate with a long, soft

and nutty nish. Like its age, it is a gentle,

elegant Speyside Single Malt with a hint

of hazelnut.

Glen Grant 16 Year OldMatured for 16 years, an intense, smooth

bouquet of rich orchard fruits from the

Glen Grant gardens. Its soft and fresh

with an intensely fruity, long and lingering

nish. A solid single malt that is both clean

and crisp with a rich fruity feel.

Tonight, enjoy the almost forgotten art of writing a letter to someone special. Take the time to put paper to pen, and enjoy the rewards..

Bruichladdich The Classic LaddieMatured by the shores of Lochindaal in

American oak casks, its as smooth as

pebbles in a pool. Its sunlight colour hints

at a nose of freshly cut wild buttercups,

daisies and cherry blossoms, with a pop

on the tongue and the fresh feel of an

Atlantic breeze.

Bruichladdich Port CharlotteAn elegance of spirit

accompanies this

gently matured

single malt. Rich, with

a depth of character

and the smouldering heat of peat res, its

like feeling in control while riding the

perfect storm. The nose gives an

anticipation that leads graciously to

waves of the smoothest, warmest,

smokiest ood of avours. A long-living

and heart-warming nish that touches the

very soul.

Bruichladdich Black Art 1990Made with mystery and curiosity for the

sake of it, the composition of casks a

mystery to all bar its creator. Its a

desert-sunset coloured single malt that

will get you lost among the subtle hints of

lemon and lime dancing with deep notes

of honey. A bold taste, lled with purpose

as it touches your lips, with a rewarding,

accomplished nish of grilled peach and

white apricot. Working with the very nest

American and French oak to explore that

most esoteric relationship between spirit

and wood, Black Art is master distiller, Jim

McEwans personal voyage into the heart

of Bruichladdich.

Bruichladdich OctomoreA young, de ant single malt that makes

no excuses for its experimental nature. Its

a whisky of pride and passion that brings

a sense of sea spray on your face with

black peppercorn and water mint. Old

avours of toasted rye bread and walnuts

crash with fresh lime and poached apple

for a nish of warmth and spirit.

So whatever you do to create your quiet moment theres only one thing you still need to turn it into the occasion it should be. One more thing to let you take control and set that time aside Tonight, drink a Single Malt.


ROAD TRIPPING

Celestial terroir


ROAD TRIPPING

Celestial terroirNov Dec 2015 Vol.21 www.topsatspar.co.za 23

For a magical hideaway with exceptional wines, look no further than the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, writes Clifford Roberts.

Celestial terroir

Hemel-en-Aarde valley


ROAD TRIPPING

It's hard not to feel a tinge of excitement. If you dont know about the Hemel-en-Aarde

valley, you could easily miss the turn-o

in the excitement of approaching

whale viewing central: Hermanus just

down the road. Its the bane of those

wineries no doubt eager for feet

through the cellar door, but at the same

time you cant help feeling that elation

which comes with discovery every time

you successfully nd the pass.

Its been this way for centuries, and

has in part shaped the history of this

narrow causeway between the

Babilonstoring and Kleinriviersberg

mountains. In its early years you came

to these misty climes to hide away or

be hidden, hence the establishment of

a leper colony here in the 1820s.

It didnt last. The lepers were moved

to Robben Island and gradually more

people made the discovery of this rural

byway. At one point, farmers realised

the valleys potential for vineyards and

especially its suitability for amongst

others pinot noir, chardonnay and

pinotage. Even more of us have found our way here as the number of wine farms

has grown with the reputation of its soils and climates for producing great wine.

Now, the imminent completion of a four year-long road upgrade to the R320

that will mean you can travel the length of the valley, and all the way to Caledon

on tarmac, will make it even easier.

Still, the Hermanus honey-pot is sure to stay the main attraction, leaving the true

gem of this magical valley to those in the know.

Its an overcast day when I take the turn-o past the Hemel-en-Aarde Wine

Village complex to meander upwards, rst through the Eucalyptus forest with

steep inclines on either side. Then, the rise becomes more gradual and the trees

give way to vineyards.

This part of the Hermanus Wine Route is o cially designated under the Walker

Bay wine district and comprises three wards Hemel-en-Aarde valley and Upper

Hemel-en-Aarde valley, both established in 2006; and, Hemel-en-Aarde ridge,

which came about in June 2009.

Lining the road and its gravel branches are South African wine champions,

among them Hermanuspietersfontein, La Vierge, Newton Johnson and Ataraxia,

thanks to the pioneering work of regional pioneers like Hamilton Russell Vineyards.

The other top producers like Stellenbosch-based Tokara have vineyards here while

Ataraxia wines can be found in a small building reminiscent of an old chapel. The wines, too, are heavenly.


Hemel-en-Aarde valley

it is also home to a massive vine

library of the Bosman Family

Vineyards and Lelienfontein Vine

Growers of Wellington.

Only some of the producers are open

to visitors, and a few others by

appointment only. You may encounter

the names of places such as

Ashbourne wine estate, Jakobs

Vineyards, Mount Babylon and Seven

Springs Vineyards, but theyre not

openly accessible to the public.

It can get quite confusing when

visitors see the name of a farm on some

maps, but cant gain access, says

Frieda Lloyd of the Hermanus Wine

Route. Our o cial map tries to avoid

that. For the general visitor to the

Hemel-en-Aarde valley, we provide

details of those producers with cellar

door experiences.

The reason for the occasional

di erence between maps comes down

to de nition. For example, some maps

might exclude producers who fall

outside the legislated boundary of a

particular wine ward. In other cases,

producers are categorised according

to the nature of their operations, such

as the source of their grapes.

Our rst and furthest stop is the

hilltop tasting room at Creation where

Carolyn Martin joins us for the newly-

launched tapas and wine pairing

menu. She shows us pictures of the

former sheep farm when she and Swiss

The Hemelen-Aarde valley is renowned for its chardonnay and pinot

noir wines with pioneering producers

Hamilton Russell Vineyards and Bouchard

Finlayson having focussed on these Burgundian grapes.

Subsequent producers such as Ataraxia,

Sumaridge and Newton Johnson, for example, have also enjoyed

success and cemented the area's reputation for producing some of the

countrys best examples.

Rolling vineyards as far as the eye can see took over from sheep pastures at Creation Wines and the tasting room and winery are usually abuzz with activity.

Creation tasting room

ROAD TRIPPING


husband Jean-Claude bought it in the

early 2000s. They set about establishing

vineyards. The winery and new tasting

room was completed in 2010.

From the table, Carolyn points out

each vineyard across the valley

responsible for the wine in our glasses.

Far away, a handful of workers tending

the budding vines disappear as theyre

enveloped in a grey curtain of rain.

The vineyards here get above

average rainfall as a result of the

mountains, and cool breezes thanks to

proximity to the sea. But the geography

of the valley floor means a dearth of

microclimates too, Carolyn points out.

They take advantage of it by farming

some 11 different grape varieties.

The increasing popularity of the

valley shows up in Creations visitor

numbers 45000 last year and growth

this year to March, is up one third on

the previous period.

Soon, were back on the road,

stopping to take in the magnificent

view and chardonnay from Sumaridge;

browse the multiple award-winning

wines and unusual barrel art at

Bouchard Finlayson, one of the two

pioneering wineries in the valley; and

sip bubbly at La Vierge.

Of course, the valleys not just about

wine and there are numerous

comfortable and secluded options for

accommodation to fit most budgets. It

would be surprising in such beautiful

surroundings had there not been a big

focus on conservation and making the

most of the environment. Creation, for

example, offers a guided fynbos and

vineyard walk. Elsewhere, you can hike,

explore the treetops on a zipline and

ride horses.

Just before sunset we find ourselves

on the wall of the De Bos dam, still at

this time of the day. Its mirror surface

dramatically reflects both hemel en

aarde heaven and earth, the name

believed to have been given by early

Moravian missionaries who settled here.

Stop & goTravellers along the 20km stretch of road with wine farms in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley can visit

13 producers:

ATARAXIA (www.ataraxiawines.co.za)

BOUCHARD FINLAYSON (www.bouchardfinlayson.co.za)

CREATION (www.creationwines.com)

DOMAINE DES DIEUX (www.domainedesdieux.co.za)

HAMILTON RUSSELL VINEYARDS (028312 3595)

HERMANUSPIETERSFONTEIN (www.hpf1855.co.za)

LA VIERGE PRIVATE CELLAR (www.lavierge.co.za)

NEWTON JOHNSON (www.newtonjohnson.com)

RESTLESS RIVER (BY APPT ONLY; www.restlessriver.com)

SOUTHERN RIGHT (028312 3595)

SPOOKFONTEIN (www.spookfontein.co.za)

SUMARIDGE (www.sumaridge.co.za)

WHALEHAVEN (www.bottegafamilywine.co.za)

By the time we arrive at our cottage

at High Season Farm, dinner is waiting

a picnic basket delivered by The

Eatery restaurant. First however, we

pause on the wide veranda to watch

the last light drain from the sky above

the peaks.

Our discovery is complete.

The formidably dynamic duo of Carolyn and JC Martin who have laboured on making Creation wines a force to be reckoned with.

ROAD TRIPPING


husband Jean-Claude bought it in the

early 2000s. They set about establishing

vineyards. The winery and new tasting

room was completed in 2010.

From the table, Carolyn points out

each vineyard across the valley

responsible for the wine in our glasses.

Far away, a handful of workers tending

the budding vines disappear as theyre

enveloped in a grey curtain of rain.

The vineyards here get above

average rainfall as a result of the

mountains, and cool breezes thanks to

proximity to the sea. But the geography

of the valley floor means a dearth of

microclimates too, Carolyn points out.

They take advantage of it by farming

some 11 different grape varieties.

The increasing popularity of the

valley shows up in Creations visitor

numbers 45000 last year and growth

this year to March, is up one third on

the previous period.

Soon, were back on the road,

stopping to take in the magnificent

view and chardonnay from Sumaridge;

browse the multiple award-winning

wines and unusual barrel art at

Bouchard Finlayson, one of the two

pioneering wineries in the valley; and

sip bubbly at La Vierge.

Of course, the valleys not just about

wine and there are numerous

comfortable and secluded options for

accommodation to fit most budgets. It

would be surprising in such beautiful

surroundings had there not been a big

focus on conservation and making the

most of the environment. Creation, for

example, offers a guided fynbos and

vineyard walk. Elsewhere, you can hike,

explore the treetops on a zipline and

ride horses.

Just before sunset we find ourselves

on the wall of the De Bos dam, still at

this time of the day. Its mirror surface

dramatically reflects both hemel en

aarde heaven and earth, the name

believed to have been given by early

Moravian missionaries who settled here.

Stop & goTravellers along the 20km stretch of road with wine farms in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley can visit

13 producers:

ATARAXIA (www.ataraxiawines.co.za)

BOUCHARD FINLAYSON (www.bouchardfinlayson.co.za)

CREATION (www.creationwines.com)

DOMAINE DES DIEUX (www.domainedesdieux.co.za)

HAMILTON RUSSELL VINEYARDS (028312 3595)

HERMANUSPIETERSFONTEIN (www.hpf1855.co.za)

Cheers - Nov/Dec 2015 (Vol.21)

Documents

Transcript of Cheers - Nov/Dec 2015 (Vol.21)