THE HURST CAMPUS TO DEBUT AT THE CAPE TOWN GOOD FOOD & WINE SHOW 2013

May 20, 2013

Ronan Boucher

The Hurst Campus, South Africa’s only Paul Bocuse internationally accredited tertiary training centre for young culinary and hospitality management talent, will make its debut at the annual Good Food & Wine Show in Cape Town this year. Ronan Boucher, popular chef and lecturer at its hip and happening’ Cape winelands campus will join his students and the star-studded line-up of celebrity chefs presenting workshops and demonstrations at the show’s Real Food Theatre sponsored by Woolworths. Here hands-on cooking workshops and demonstrations will be presented throughout the show, with a very topical focus on natural sustainable ingredients, and an emphasis on awareness of where one’s food comes from.

Chef Boucher and The Hurst Campus will take the floor to end the show on a high note on Sunday 26 May at 16:30. Twenty four participants will be given the opportunity to explore their ‘inner chef’ by cooking up three delicious seafood dishes with Chef Boucher in front of a ‘live’ audience. From sea, and farm to table, high quality ingredients have been sourced from reputable local suppliers, and all produce meets the stringent sustainability guidelines that are an integral part of the ethos of The Hurst Campus.

During the preparation of his three mouth-watering dishes: Chargrilled Line Fish Fillet with papaya salsa, buttered spring onions and pumpkin tortellini; melt-in-the-mouth Norwegian Salmon Gravlax; and Seafood Casserole brimming with a mouth-watering medley of prawns, mussels, line fish and calamari; this talented chef and teacher will be showcasing the specialist training that has shaped the careers of many South African chefs. These include celebrity chefs like Chris Erasmus of Pierneef La Motte Restaurant in Franschhoek, and Tiaan van Greunen, the Executive Chef at Reubens at the Robertson Small Hotel, who are both among the alumni of The Hurst Campus. Bookings for the 60-minute demo can be made through Computicket or go to http://www.goodfoodandwineshow.co.za for bookings and more details about the Good Food & Wine Show.

At 42, Irish-born Boucher has notched up more than 21 years of experience at Five Star establishments such as the Westbury and Savoy Hotels in London, and the Park Hotel Virginia near Dublin in Ireland, where his responsibilities included training and grading students for the catering industry. He joined the teaching team at The Hurst Campus in 2009, and has since earned a reputation as an intuitive and caring mentor, with a wonderful sense of humour to boot.

The Hurst Campus, previously known as The Culinary Academy, is recognised as a leader on the African continent, and was recently selected to join an elite group of top Hospitality Management and Culinary Arts schools and Universities across the world, as the first African member of the World Wide Alliance of the famous Institut Paul Bocuse. This has opened up invaluable networking opportunities for students, along with the chance to further evolve, grow and improve their skills to internationally accepted standards by way of its global exchange programme. The introduction of a new Diploma in Hospitality Management, set to be introduced in 2014, that will equip students with one of the best all-round industry qualifications available, is yet another reason why this hospitality school is smoking hot and cooking in the winelands!

THE HURST CAMPUS
Tel: +27 21 875 5854/64
Email: info@thehurstcampus.co.za
http://www.thehurstcampus.co.za
Follow on @TheHurstCampus
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Ends

Issued by FIVESTAR PR
Media Enquiries: Janie van der Spuy
Tel: +27 21 462 1677
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On behalf of THE HURST CAMPUS
Rebecca Hurst
Owner and Director
Tel: +27 21 875 5854/64
Email: Rebecca@thehurstcampus.co.za
http://www.thehurstcampus.co.za

THE HURST CAMPUS MAKES ITS ENTRÉE ONTO SA’S LARGEST STUDENT EXPO

May 16, 2013

007

Rebecca Hurst 2013

The Hurst Campus will be exhibiting for the first time at The Student Expo to be held at the Cape Town International Convention Centre on Friday 17 and Saturday 18 May. The Hurst Campus, previously known as The Culinary Academy, is an internationally accredited tertiary training centre for young culinary and hospitality management talent. It is is recognised as a leader on the Africa continent, and offers an invaluable training ground for those with a yen for a career in the country’s burgeoning hospitality industry.

The annual Student Expo is the largest meeting ground of parents, students and industry players in South Africa, attracting over 20 000 students from over 1 000 schools across the country. It’s a one-stop-shop for prospective and current students to explore every element of further education and student life. The range of exhibitors provides young people with the chance explore career opportunities on the local and international front, network with potential employers and gather information about courses that interest them. The Expo will be open from 9am to 7pm on the Friday, and from 9am to 4pm on the Saturday.

The team from The Hurst Campus will be on-hand at their stand to inform visitors about the inspired vision, training programmes and modern teaching methods employed at their ‘hip and happening’ campus in the Cape winelands. Says Director Rebecca Hurst: ‘Earlier this year we announced the news of our exciting ‘Campus Evolution’ that will roll out over the next few years, starting with our rebranding as The Hurst Campus. The time is right to introduce our new face to the world, and the Student Expo offers us a fantastic platform to reach gifted and capable young people who are interested in a career in the hospitality industry. Our goal is to inspire them to join the pool of well-known chefs, business owners, and rising new stars who started their careers as graduates from our campus. We are privileged to count among our alumni celebrity chefs such as Chris Erasmus of Pierneef La Motte Restaurant in Franschhoek and Tiaan van Greunen, the Executive Chef at Reubens at the Robertson Small Hotel, and hospitality entrepreneurs like Xoliswa Tyeya, the owner of Xsitefoods.

Among the exciting new innovations that will be shared with delegates at the Expo, is the introduction of a new and evolved Diploma in Hospitality Management set to be introduced in 2014 that will equip students with one of the best all-round industry qualifications on the continent. The course is innovative, practical and versatile, and designed to prepare students for a wide variety of careers, as well as industry-related entrepreneurial ventures. Plans are also in place for the campus to move to its own privately owned premises in the Cape winelands, where students will have the option of living on the farm and getting involved in a range of culinary activities, including growing their own vegetables.

Earlier this year The Hurst Campus was selected to join an elite group of top Hospitality Management and Culinary Arts schools and Universities across the world, becoming the first member of the World Wide Alliance of the famous Institut Paul Bocuse on the African continent. This global partnership opens the door to a plethora of networking opportunities for students, along with the chance to evolve and grow and improve their skills to internationally accepted standards – just one more reason to drop by their stand at the Student Expo this year to find out why this leading training college is smoking hot and cooking in the winelands!

THE HURST CAMPUS
Tel: +27 21 875 5854/64
Email: info@thehurstcampus.co.za
http://www.thehurstcampus.co.za
Follow on @TheHurstCampus
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Ends

Issued by FIVESTAR PR
Media Enquiries: Janie van der Spuy
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On behalf of THE HURST CAMPUS
Rebecca Hurst
Owner and Director
Tel: +27 21 875 5854/64
Email: Rebecca@thehurstcampus.co.za
http://www.thehurstcampus.co.za

FANCOURT’S FAMILY RESTAURANTS TO SERVE UP GREAT VALUE WINTER SPECIALS

May 16, 2013

Morning Glory

Fancourt will be serving up a tempting selection of gourmet treats and special offers on the winter menus at its two elegant family restaurants, La Cantina and Morning Glory until the end of August.

La Cantina Restaurant offers diners from George and nearby towns an authentic taste of Italy, with a choice of two tasty Special Offers from Chef de Cuisine Vito Fanizzo’s inspired repertoire. Warming up Tuesday evenings, the Tuesday Rib Special is a sizzling portion of Tuscan Style Spare Ribs served with crisp French fries and a fresh side salad at just R89. To kick-start weekends, the Friday night ‘Kidz Night’ Special offers two children under the age of 12 a taste of pizza heaven, with an order of their favourite pizza with up to three yummy toppings, at absolutely no charge between 18:00 and 22:30, when dining with two adults.

The relaxed ambience of La Cantina makes it perfect for interactive functions such as Vino Mondays – a series of complimentary wine tasting sessions that are the perfect preamble to a delicious evening meal here. The dining experience is not only complemented by a superb wine list featuring award-winning South African wines, but includes special features such as a pizza counter where children may build their own pizzas, an outdoor dining area, as well as a private dining room for bigger families or groups. La Cantina serves a delectable buffet breakfast from 06.30 to 10.30 and dinner from 18.00 to 22.30, seven days a week. Booking is essential.

At Morning Glory restaurant Executive Chef Viktor Malek has a created a trio of excellent value dining offers to savour while soaking up the glorious views of the Outeniqua golf course. Wednesdays present the popular chef’s Cape Lobster and Beef Fillet – a mouth-watering surf ‘n turf treat comprising a 250g serving of Cape Lobster and a 180g portion of tender Beef Fillet served with garlic butter, peri-peri aioli and a sizeable portion of chunky fries, as well as a fresh side salad at R249 per person. Thursday night is Sushi Night when guests may indulge in double helpings of their favourite raw fish delicacies at the Sushi Bar between 18:00 and 19:00, with the Sushi Two-4-One offer.

The legendary Sunday Family Buffet Lunch is the perfect way to round off a leisurely weekend, with mouth-watering choices ranging from a sumptuous hot and cold carvery and home-made breads and soups; to crisp salads and vegetables, and a choice of sauces and decadent desserts, at just R175 per person. Children between the ages of 4 and 10 years pay just R60, while kids under three eat for free. This royal feast is served from 12.30 onwards, along with fun activities that include a jumping castle where kids can work off some energy. Booking is essential.

Morning Glory is as popular for its daily gourmet breakfast spread, as for the delicious choice of South African favourites that make their way onto the lunch menu each day, with a delectable a la carte dinner menu on offer from Tuesday to Saturday. As for the irresistible confectionaries at the Sweet Spot, these are the perfect finishing touch for any meal!

Bookings for La Cantina and Morning Glory can be made on Tel 044 804 0000 or email hotel@fancourt.co.za.

FANCOURT
Tel: +27 44 804 0000
Email: marketing@fancourt.co.za
http://www.fancourt.co.za
Follow on @FANCOURTSA
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Ends

Issued by FIVESTAR PR
Media Enquiries: Janie van der Spuy
Tel: +27 21 462 1677
Cell: +27 83 324 5558
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Follow us on @FIVESTARPRZA

On behalf of FANCOURT
Carl Reinders
Director of Marketing & Sales
Tel: + 27 72 614 0294
Email: carlr@fancourt.co.za
http://www.fancourt.co.za

NEW WINTER MENU AT BISTRO SIXTEEN82 INSPIRES WITH CLASSIC BRASSERIE DISHES AND DAILY MENU UPDATES

May 15, 2013

Sous vide Chalmar entrecote

Executive Chef Brad Ball has introduced an inspired new Winter Menu at Steenberg’s Bistro Sixteen82 to offer a smaller selection of dishes that will change regularly. Taking the menu to its traditional roots with the focus on quality dining, each dish will capture the flavours and flair of an authentic French bistro experience, with the option of pairing each dish with a recommended Steenberg wine, available by the glass.

Fine brasserie-style dishes such as slow-cooked Cassoulet and classic Steak au Poivre perfectly matched with Steenberg’s full bodied Shiraz, or Coq au Vin prepared with the chef’s contemporary approach, reflect the new direction. Ball’s Slow Braised Pork Shoulder also finds its way onto the new menu, as a tribute to his love affair with pork. Other choices such as his Mushroom Risotto and Smoked Trout Escalope also make a delicious entrée to the main meal. A dish that is set to be a winner will be the new style Cheese Board where a serving of one local artisan cheese of exceptional quality will be complemented by home-baked breads and fruit and matched with one of Steenberg’s delicious food-wines.

The winter menu personifies the gastronomic savvy that has earned Chef Ball a reputation as a leading bistro specialist, and rocketed Bistro Sixteen82 to one of Cape Town’s Best Bistros by South Africa’s leading ‘foodie’ awards platform Eat Out this year.

‘Going into autumn and winter, I have reduced the menu in order to focus on changing the selection more often and using the best quality produce. This allows us to concentrate on fewer items and show much more skill, providing us the time to produce the kind of quality that we are so proud of in the Bistro Sixteen82 kitchen’, he explains.

The menu is served between 12:30 and 16:00 daily, featuring five Starters, six to seven Main Courses, and a choice of two Desserts. Popular ‘house’ favourites such as the signature salads and the charcuterie platter – a long-time favourite of diners here – will still be available. Alternatively, a front row seat at the Raw Food Bar will offer foodies a mouth-watering choice of morsels such as gravadlax, oysters, pink and red tartars, and signature dish Beef Tataki, along with the chance to interact with the chefs while they prepare each order.

Served from 16:30 until 20:00, tasty tapas has also become a firm favourite at Bistro Sixteen82, and during the winter months, fans may take a gastronomic journey to five different countries across three continents, with Ball’s latest Taking Tapas To… menus. The Winter Tapas Special is well worth considering too, with a choice of any two dishes from the Tapas menu served with a carafe of one of the Klein Steenberg wines, at R90 per person.

With its glorious vineyards setting, relaxed, warm and inviting ambience and spectacular views of the oldest farm in the Constantia Valley, Bistro Sixteen82 is also a great choice for a leisurely breakfast with friends or family, served daily from 09:00 until 11:00.

Bistro Sixteen82 will be closed for its annual break from 1st July until 24th July.

Steenberg Vineyards
Tel 021 713-2211
info@steenbrg.co.za
http://www.steenberg-vineyards.co.za
Blog: http://www.totallystoned.co.za
Follow on twitter @SteenbergWines
Follow on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/Steenbrg

FANCOURT’S LA CANTINA RESTAURANT BRINGS THE WINELANDS TO THE GARDEN ROUTE ON ‘VINO MONDAYS’

May 6, 2013

La Cantina Interiors 05

Fancourt’s popular Italian-styled family restaurant La Cantina has teamed up with local wine experts to present Vino Mondays on their weekly events line-up, offering local and visiting food and wine enthusiasts the chance to get a taste of some of South Africa’s finest wines.

The complimentary tasting events showcase cultivars and varietals from different vineyards every week, to bring the Cape winelands to the Garden Route. Events take place in the restaurant between 18:00 and 19:00 and will be led by a local representative of each respective winery, who will share fascinating insight into the production and blending of their different varietals and vintages.

Vino Mondays will be popular with local and international visitors staying at the two Fancourt hotels, but will also appeal to wine and food aficionados from George and nearby towns who are keen to discover exciting new wines as a preamble to a delicious evening meal at their favourite family restaurant!

The May Vino Mondays programme kicks off on the 6th with a tempting Pongracz Sparkling Wine and Chocolate pairing presented by the Plaisir de Merle Wine Estate in the Paarl Winelands. On 13 May, it’s the turn of Anthonij Rupert Wines, a range lovingly crafted by winemaker Niel Bester on the historic L’Ormarins wine farm beneath the jagged peaks of the Groot Drakenstein Mountain in Franschhoek. De Grendel Wine Farm on the picturesque Durbanville Wine Route takes the spotlight on 20 May with a selection of their latest vintages, and rounding off the month of May on the 27th, is a tasting of the well-rounded Sauvignon Blancs and Bordeaux blends created by winemaker Bartho Eksteen at the Hermanuspietersfontein Wine Farm in Hermanus.

La Cantina has put together two more tasty Special Offers to warm up the winter months, available from May until the end of August. It’s definitely the place to be on Tuesdays when the Tuesday Rib Special, a tasty portion of Tuscan Style Spare Ribs served with crisp French fries and a fresh side salad is on offer at just R89. To rev up the weekends, the Friday night ‘Kidz Night’ Special offers two children under the age of 12 a taste of pizza heaven, with an order of their favourite pizza with up to three yummy toppings, at absolutely no charge between 18:00 and 22:30, when dining with two adults.

Chef de Cuisine Vito Fanizza is at the helm of the authentic, modern and elegant Italian dining experience offered at La Cantina. Raised in Italy, Fanizza’s approach is as fresh and inspired as the menus he conjures up, and he brings invaluable local and international experience to the table from previous appointments at Sun City’s Cascades and Palace Hotels; the Langeler Room at the San Lameer Golf Estate on the Kwa-zulu Natal South Coast; and Trattoria Del Pescatore in Leeds in the UK, to name a few. His team consistently dish up a delectable buffet breakfast and a la carte dinner menu in the relaxed and informal atmosphere that makes this venue perfect for interactive functions, including Vino Mondays. The dining experience strikes the perfect balance between tradition and innovation, and is complemented by special features that include a pizza counter where children may build their own pizzas, an outdoor dining area, as well as a private dining room for bigger families or groups. La Cantina serves breakfast from 06.30 to 10.30 and dinner from 18.00 to 22.30, seven days a week. Booking is essential.

Bookings for La Cantina can be made on Tel 044 804 0000 or email hotel@fancourt.co.za.

FANCOURT
Tel: +27 44 804 0000
Email: marketing@fancourt.co.za
http://www.fancourt.co.za
Follow on twitter @FANCOURTSA
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FANCOURT TO SERVE UP STYLISH GOURMET AND SPA TREATS FOR MOTHER’S DAY

April 30, 2013

Fancourt Roman BathHenry White's InteriorsLa Cantina Interiors 05

Fancourt will be serving up a fabulous basket of gourmet and spa indulgences to celebrate the most special women in our lives this Mother’s Day (Sunday 12 May).

La Cantina, the popular Italian-styled family restaurant at the hub of this premier leisure and lifestyle resort in George, will be offering a sumptuous Mother’s Day Buffet feast, prepared by Fancourt Head Chef Viktor Malek, at R235 per person. With a mouth-watering array of hot and cold dishes to tempt the palate, including a mustard-crusted beef topside and crackling pork leg from the Carvery; sizzling hot-pots; tasty salads; farm fresh breads with butter and cream cheese; and oh-so-sinful pastries and desserts; this is a treat to melt every mother’s heart. Children 11 years and under pay just R125 to tuck in to the delectable spread, and little ones under the age of three eat for free. With plenty of activity to keep the youngsters entertained, mom and dad can sit back and relax with a glass of wine – compliments of Fancourt, while soaking up the familiar ambience. The Mother’s Day Buffet is served from 12.30pm onwards and booking is essential.

Alternatively this is also the perfect occasion to treat mom to a meal fit for royalty at Henry White’s, the classic dining restaurant at Fancourt’s charming Manor House. Talented Sous Chef Regan Wilson will be serving up a superb 4-course Lunch that captures the textures and tastes of the season. His mouth-watering menu starts with an appetizing Lobster Bisque Amuse Bouche, followed by a tangy Three Cheese Tart Starter served with baby fig chutney and nut powder. The Passion Fruit Sorbet is the perfect neutraliser to prepare the palate for the delectable Main Course, a tender portion of Grilled Beef Fillet, topped with cauliflower cream and green vegetables tossed in salsa verde, with bone marrow jus and avocado butter, as the perfect accompaniment. To round off the meal, the chef’s Baked Plum Tart Dessert with macadamia nut ice cream is a sweet finale. At R325 per person, it’s a fitting meal for the queens of our hearts. Henry White’s offers an extensive wine list to complement the fine fare served here, so why not order her a glass of her favourite wine, to round off an idyllic afternoon.

Mothers can be treated to some all-round pampering during the month of May at the luxury Fancourt Spa, where two special packages are on offer. The Pure Indulgence for Mom (145 Minutes) is a blissful combination of hand, foot and face treatments for mothers and daughters to enjoy together at R690 per person. Beginning with a D’vine Pinotage Facial to give her delicate skin a youthful boost; followed by a moisturizing Paraffin Hand Mask – a heavenly combination of an Exfoliation, soothing Hand Massage and cleansing and toning Mask that will leave her hands feeling soft and silky smooth; this indulgent experience ends with a Crystal Foot Journey designed to get the feet ready for winter and looking fabulous.

The Mother’s Day Pamper Deluxe treatment (135 Minutes) is great value at R850, beginning with a Cleansing Foot Ritual to wash away toxins, leading into an expertly applied Full Body Massage, with an aromatherapy Decleor Spa Facial to complete the top-to-toe makeover. A delicious ‘Welcome’ drink will have every mom feeling like a million dollars from the moment she arrives.

Adding to the sensory experience at this tranquil spa where calming music and the subtle fragrance of Frangipani incense heighten each sensation, is complimentary use of the heated Roman bath and Jacuzzi with relaxation area, as well as the sauna and steam rooms, extending an open invitation to linger a little longer…

To book a table at La Cantina or Henry White’s Restaurant please call Kim Chotia on 044 804 0441 or email kimc@fancourt.co.za.
For Spa bookings please contact the Fancourt Spa on 044 804 0113 or email spa@fancourt.co.za.
http://www.fancourt.co.za

FANCOURT
Tel: +27 44 804 0000
Email: marketing@fancourt.co.za
http://www.fancourt.co.za
Follow on twitter @FANCOURTSA
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BUSHMANS KLOOF RECOGNISED BY PMR.AFRICA FOR BOOSTING THE CAPE WEST COAST ECONOMY

April 29, 2013

Bushsmans Kloof Reserve and Wellness Retreat Lodge Exterior

Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve & Wellness Retreat has won two top accolades in the 2013 ‘PMR.africa West Coast Leaders and Achievers Awards’, which took place at the Protea Hotel Saldanha on 25 April 2013. The Relais & Châteaux lodge won the top Diamond Award in the categories of ‘Executive Accommodation’ and ‘Private Game Farms/Reserves’, in recognition of the significant work it has done to enhance the economic growth and development in the Cape West Coast region over the past 12 months.

The competition survey was conducted by PMR.africa, a well-established professional market research and risk management company, valued amongst companies, institutions and governments in South Africa, as well as several other countries on the African continent.
Respondents to the PMR.africa survey comprised of CEOs, MDs, business owners, company directors and managers and senior government officials based on the Cape West Coast. Companies and institutions were rated against several criteria, including levels of managerial expertise; implementation of corporate governance; brand awareness; and levels of innovation.

Bushmans Kloof draws guests from all over the world, as the ultimate wilderness experience to escape, rest, heal and be one with nature. The owners rehabilitated 7 500 hectares of severely neglected farming land in the Cederberg, and turned it into one of the most breathtaking nature experiences in the world. Bushmans Kloof preserves and protects 150 species of birds, 35 species of mammals (several of which are listed on the Red Data list), and 755 indigenous plant species in the area, including the world famous Rooibos tea plant which only grows in this region. As custodian to over 130 ancient San rock art sites, some of them dating as far back as 10 000 years, Bushmans Kloof pioneered the utilisation of rock art as a unique selling point for tourism in the region, paying homage to the ‘lost’ history of the Bushmen and their plight.

Since its inception Bushmans Kloof has also played a crucial role in supporting the remotely located, impoverished community in the area through job creation, supporting local business, employment and extensive training programmes offered, but also through educational initiatives to reach the wider community. It has furthermore been largely instrumental in the pilot project to involve the local farming community to ultimately create the Cederberg Biosphere Reserve.
The PMR.africa Diamond Awards are the latest in Bushmans Kloof’s list of diverse accolades, ranging from the guest experience offered, to its conservation projects. In recent months the lodge also received a Virtuoso Sustainable Tourism Leadership Award (2012) and was voted one of the ‘Top 20 Travel Experiences in the Middle East, Africa and the Indian Ocean’ in the Condé Nast Traveller UK Readers’ Awards (2012).

BUSHMANS KLOOF WILDERNESS RESERVE & WELLNESS RETREAT
Tel: +27 (0)21 437 9278
Email: info@bushmanskloof.co.za
Become a fan of Bushmans Kloof on Facebook
Follow Bushmans Kloof on Twitter
Visit the http://www.bushmanskloof.co.za website

STEENBERG CELEBRATES ITS STAR CULTIVAR WITH A SAUVIGNON BLANC ODYSSEY (Saturday 18 MAY 2013)

April 25, 2013

Steenberg Magna Carta 2010

On Saturday 18 May, Steenberg will celebrate its signature cultivar – Sauvignon Blanc – with an annual event that will be known as the Steenberg Sauvignon Blanc Odyssey. Renowned as one of the top white wine cellars in South Africa, Steenberg is best known for this varietal, which first put the celebrated winery on the map. Sauvignon Blanc thrives in the cool Constantia climate where the South-Easter brings Atlantic sea breezes to the fragrant Cape Floral Kingdom set against the Stone Mountain, to create a unique terroir that lends great structure and a strong sense of place to Steenberg’s Sauvignon Blancs.

The Steenberg Sauvignon Blanc Odyssey on Saturday 18 May will be an integrated sensory occasion for media, trade partners and consumers. Starting at 12.30 with a glass of Steenberg’s legendary Methode Cap Classique on arrival, the focus of this culinary and tasting voyage will be a tutored Sauvignon Blanc Tasting led by John Loubser (General Manager) and Winemaker, JD Pretorius. Five different flights will feature the different styles of Sauvignon Blanc on the local and international front – including a flight showcasing Steenberg’s different styles, and their versatility and longevity. This is intertwined with a sumptuous 5-Course Course Sauvignon Blanc and Food Pairing luncheon at Catharina’s, the farm’s modern fine-dining Restaurant.

Eager to showcase his favourite cultivar, Pretorius says: ‘There is so much more to Sauvignon Blanc than the racy, fresh and crisp white wine we enjoy fresh off the harvest. It surfaces in many different styles, and makes a fantastic blending partner, and in the case of Constantia Sauvignon Blancs, has amazing ageing potential when it develops weight and serious complexity’.

Within its portfolio, Steenberg offers no less than four different styles of Sauvignon Blanc and a blend thereof. The cultivar therefore dominates its total vineyard plantings and is an integral part of Steenberg’s icon wine, Magna Carta, where Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon meet to create a complex, elegant wine with enticingly perfumed aromas of orange blossom, tangerine and green figs. Steenberg’s Sauvignon Blanc Reserve too is a multi-award winning wine that is a true expression of Steenberg’s terroir, with its delicate freshness on the palate and beautiful creamy lingering aftertaste. The classic, signature Steenberg Sauvignon Blanc consistently shows mineral and great complexity, with Steenberg H.M.S. Rattlesnake Sauvignon Blanc positioned as the farm’s barrel fermented option. The lighter, more tropical style of the Klein Steenberg Sauvignon Blanc completes Steenberg’s hand-crafted range of Sauvignon Blancs.

During the Sauvignon Blanc Odyssey workshop Pretorius and Loubser will be characterising, differentiating and mystifying Sauvignon Blanc, with emphasis on its value as a blending partner and its phenomenal longevity. Entwined with the various flights will be a selection of dishes prepared by Executive Chef Garth Almazan, challenging Sauvignon Blanc to the extreme with the likes of Steak Tartare, Risotto, and Veal Picatta to name but a few.

The Steenberg Sauvignon Blanc Odyssey presents a rare and enjoyable occasion for wine enthusiasts to kindle an appreciation for Sauvignon Blanc, and to leave with a much better understanding of this versatile cultivar. Tickets to this top quality food and wine event are R600 per person and pre-booking is essential. Reservations: Jackie Quail on jackie@steenbrg.co.za, or 071 248 5373.

Steenberg Vineyards
Tel 021 713-2211
info@steenbrg.co.za
http://www.steenberg-vineyards.co.za
Blog: http://www.totallystoned.co.za
Follow on @SteenbergWines
Follow on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/Steenbrg

Steenberg Hotel
Tel 021 713-2222
http://www.steenberghotel.com
Follow on @SteenbergHotel

Ends

Issued by FIVESTAR PR
Media Enquiries: Janie van der Spuy
Tel: 021 462 1677
Cell: 083 324 5558
Email: janie@fivestarpr.co.za
Follow us on @FIVESTARPRZA

On behalf of STEENBERG
Anetha Homan
Steenberg Marketing Manager
Tel: 021 713 2211
http://www.steenberghotel.com
http://www.steenberg-vineyards.co.za

STEENBERG BRINGS POP-UP RESTAURANTS TO THE CONSTANTIA VALLEY THIS WINTER

April 23, 2013

Bistro Sixteen82 Chef Brad Ball

Chef Chris Erasmus Pierneef a La Motte

Steenberg is bringing the latest foodie trend to the Constantia Valley this winter, with the introduction of ‘On Invitation’ – six different Pop-up Restaurant events that will offer adventurous foodies a range of quality dining experiences.

The global Pop-up Restaurant concept has taken the world by storm, and in South Africa too has captured the imagination of chefs and diners alike. The popularity of these ‘underground supper clubs’ that sometimes take place in unusual venues, has challenged chefs to have fun and try some bold new menu ideas to deliver a gastronomic journey that is a little ‘out of the box’!

Steenberg’s imaginative ‘On Invitation’ culinary affairs will be co-hosted by Brad Ball, Executive Chef at Steenberg’s winery restaurant Bistro Sixteen82. He is excited to add a fresh spin to this global trend by partnering with six of Cape Town’s celebrity chefs to deliver top quality ‘pop-up’ feasts in the private dining room of this winery. Taking place between May and October, the element of surprise will be paramount, and each event a slice of ‘foodie theatre’, as the menu will only be revealed, dish by tantalizing dish, during the course of each event.

The chef for the next event too, will only be announced a month in advance via Steenberg’s various social media platforms, Facebook and Twitter. With a line-up of top calibre chefs including Franck Dangereux of The Foodbarn in Noordhoek; renowned London chef Henry Vigar of La Mouette in Sea Point; Executive Chef of the Mount Nelson Hotel Rudi Liebenberg (named Sunday Times Chef of the Year 2012); and visionary chef Bertus Basson of Overture Restaurant in Stellenbosch; guests can look forward to menus brimming with mouth-watering gastronomic creations. The line-up will also include Bistro Sixteen82’s own accomplished Head Chef Brendon November, and Vanessa Marx of Dear Me to showcase their individual style and skill.

‘On Invitation’ kicks off on Wednesday 29 May, with celebrated chef Chris Erasmus of Pierneef á La Motte in Franschhoek leading the way for the star-studded line-up of chefs to cook up their ‘mystery menu’. Diners can look forward to a 5-Course Menu designed to challenge and tempt the palate, prepared to perfection by this creative chef, with each dish perfectly matched with wines from Steenberg Vineyards. R425 secures a seat around the long Chef’s Table and with only 18 places available, pre-booking is essential. Dates for the following two events have been confirmed for Wednesday 26 June and Wednesday 31 July, and pre-bookings may be made for these too, but the chefs remain a surprise.

Ball says that ‘On Invitation’ at Steenberg promises to be a daring, yet sophisticated showcase of culinary flair. ‘Guests can look forward to having their taste buds thoroughly seduced. I would like to offer a platform for fellow chefs to just go wild with their creativity outside of their normal working space. I therefore believe this is going to be a revelatory adventure for each chef and for the lucky guests who join us!’

The idea with ‘On Invitation’ is to take people out of the comfort zone of their traditional dining-out environment, and introduce them to different taste sensations that aren’t at all limited by their own preferences. The venue at Steenberg is the ideal private space for guests in which to chat comfortably, and interact with the chef, so that they walk away having made some new friends who share a unique, magical memory with them.

To book a seat for ‘On Invitation’ with Chris Erasmus’ Pop-up dinner, please call Alex on 021 713 2211 or email info@steenbrg.co.za – and remember to keep an eye on Steenberg’s Twitter and Facebook platforms for updates on the next chapter of ‘On Invitation’.

Steenberg Vineyards
Tel 021 713-2211
info@steenbrg.co.za
http://www.steenberg-vineyards.co.za
Blog: http://www.totallystoned.co.za
Follow on twitter @SteenbergWines
Follow on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/Steenbrg

Steenberg Hotel
Tel 021 713-2222
http://www.steenberghotel.com
Follow on twitter @SteenbergHotel

GET FIT WITH YOUR VERY OWN ‘SPORTS BUDDY’ AT THE TWELVE APOSTLES HOTEL AND SPA

April 22, 2013

12A Sports Buddies 01

Cape Town’s The Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa is renowned for the passion and enthusiasm of its staff, who live by the guest philosophy of ‘no request too large, no detail too small’. With the introduction of the new Sports Buddy programme, that dedication reaches sporty new heights, as staff now literally ‘go’ the extra mile for guests.

Keeping up with your exercise routine while travelling is no easy feat, which is where the Sports Buddy programme comes in – Twelve Apostles employees have their gym kit and trainers on standby at the hotel, ready to be a guest’s ‘sports buddy’ for a few hours. Training with a partner helps guests to stay motivated and makes a workout away from home inspiring and fun. The programme has mutual benefits, as the exercise sessions also keep hotel staff fit and healthy!

An added advantage is that as a local ‘insider’ the Sports Buddy will be glad to share their a wealth of knowledge about the surrounding areas, introducing the Twelve Apostle guest not only to Cape Town’s secret spots, but also to and best tracks and routes to enjoy a good workout.

Guests may choose from several complimentary Sports Buddy activities, such as cycling to Chapman’s Peak along one of the world’s most scenic coastal routes; hiking in the Twelve Apostles mountain range or, for more experienced hikers, further afoot in the World Heritage Site; or going for a run along Victoria Road, either to Camps Bay or Hout Bay Harbour. For a gentle workout for both body and mind, sports buddies can borrow a yoga mat and pick one of many tranquil spots in and around the hotel to practice.

At an additional charge, guests can also challenge their sports buddy to a game of squash at the squash club; or play a round of golf – The Twelve Apostles Hotel is close to several world class golf courses, including the Metropolitan Golf Club next to the V&A Waterfront.

Sports Buddy Enquiries – It is highly recommended that guests book their Sports Buddy in advance. Please note that squash and golf sessions require at least seven days advance booking. For more information contact The Twelve Apostles Hotel’s concierge on +27 (0) 21 437 9047 or email concierge@12apostles.co.za

THE TWELVE APOSTLES HOTEL AND SPA
Tel: +27 (0)21 437 9000
Email: bookta@12apostles.co.za
Become a fan of The Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa on Facebook
Follow The Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa on Twitter
Visit The Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa website

About The Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa

The Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa, situated on Cape Town’s – if not the world’s – most scenic route, recently celebrated its 10th birthday. Well established as the city’s leading boutique hotel, The Twelve Apostles Hotel prides itself in offering guests that ‘personal touch’. Providing a convenient complimentary shuttle service, guests are five minutes from the most beautiful beaches and Camps Bay, 15 minutes from the city centre and V&A Waterfront, and within easy reach of many vineyards within the Cape Winelands. Helicopter transfers are also available to offer an exhilarating experience flying over the spectacular peninsula.

Poised above the Atlantic Ocean, the five-star Cape Town hotel is situated at the water’s edge of a marine reserve, boasting frequent whale and dolphin sightings. Surrounded by nature only, the hotel is flanked by the majestic Table Mountain and the Twelve Apostles mountain range within the Table Mountain National Park. The interior design is inspired by its namesake, creating a fresh, calming environment that artfully combines sophistication with simplicity, comfort and elegance.

Guests are spoilt with spectacular views of the ocean and mountain views in each of the 70 bedrooms and suites, including the Presidential Suite, each superbly designed to provide the utmost comfort and style.

The hotel boasts two swimming pools perched above the ocean; its award-winning health and beauty spa; Azure Restaurant, the Café Grill, and The Leopard Bar; a 16-seater private cinema; and meeting, events & wedding facilities for up to 90 guests.


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