Vergelegen Celebrates Harvest with Rustic Farm Feasts
Vergelegen Wine Estate in Somerset West celebrated the end of its abundant grape harvest with two rustic feasts held in a newly repurposed venue – an old farm building that once served as the estate’s dairy. Guests were treated to a taste of the estate’s rich heritage with a trip through the vineyards, where they enjoyed Vergelegen’s Heritage Cap Classique and had the chance to hand-pick their own grapes. The event culminated in a hearty farm-style dinner, complete with live music by the CeeKay acoustic cover band, paying homage to the estate’s natural beauty and warm hospitality.
Stryt Peanut Butter Brandy Launches in South Africa This May
Stryt, a peanut butter-flavoured brandy, will be launched in South Africa this May. Created using Postill Brandy, grape spirit, and natural grape sugar concentrate, Stryt has a 30% ABV (60 proof) and a flavour profile combining peanut with warm brandy notes. Priced under R350.00 ($20.00), it is positioned as an affordable premium product. The brand is the first release from the partnership between Next Generation Beverages and The Doré Collective.
Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel Elevates Afternoon Tea with a Sensory New Menu
Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel in Cape Town, has refreshed its iconic Afternoon Tea experience by adding 14 new teas curated by South Africa’s first certified tea sommelier, Craig Cupido. The expanded selection includes an array of teas from across the globe, highlighting cultural heritage and deepening the experience of tea as both a craft and a luxury. The menu now includes a commemorative blend celebrating the hotel’s 125th anniversary, featuring a unique mix of South African botanicals. Guests can also enjoy a range of delightful pastries and savoury treats, perfectly paired with Cupido’s bespoke teas for an elevated afternoon of indulgence.
BASA Champions Beer Culture and Responsibility at Fools & Fans Festival in Greyton
The Beer Association of South Africa (BASA) sponsored the eighth annual Fools & Fans Festival in Greyton, where over a thousand beer enthusiasts gathered to celebrate South Africa’s diverse brewing culture. The festival featured commercial and home brewers, highlighting BASA’s commitment to responsible consumption while showcasing the best of local beer. The Home Brew Competition was a major highlight, as 180 participants competed for top honours. Lee Carpenter won the prestigious People’s Choice Award, demonstrating the growing passion for South African beer. BASA continues to support initiatives that promote creativity, community, and responsibility within the beer industry.
Vergelegen Releases Limited Edition Pear Eau de Vie 
Vergelegen Wine Estate in Somerset West has released its first limited edition pear eau de vie, crafted from Clapp’s pears grown on the estate. This clear fruit brandy, created by fermentation and distillation, showcases the pure, fruity characteristics of the pears. The eau de vie was distilled by the renowned Dalla Cia family in Stellenbosch and is available in a limited run of only 1000 bottles. Priced at R650 per 500ml, the eau de vie is available at the estate’s wine-tasting centre and online shop.
