Spring is here and Christmas is around the corner.  Unbelievable but true.  With many good wines around Hermanus it is easy to have a party.  But end of year parties are extra special and I need something extra special to celebrate that I’ve made it to the end of this not-so-easy 2016.

Hermanuspietersfontein  are getting their plans sorted to ensure they have what it takes to see Hermanus visitors through the jolly season.  With building renovations on the way and a revamped Saturday Wine & Food Market they will be ready before Christmas. Plans include offering interesting activities at their cellar which is conveniently positioned at the start of the Hermanus Wine Route.  Activities include:

• Daily cellar tours at 11:00 and 15:00. Have a look at the barrels, tanks and foudres that are essential to the wine making process. Tours presented at R50 per person and group sizes limited to make sure the experience is personal.
• Vertical tastings to experience different vintages of the same varietal. Taste the influence of age on wine.  Your lips won’t lie.
• Savour the unfinished product by sipping from a barrel sample.
• Seasonal produce plated by nearby restaurant, Source, and sold for R125 to accompany the wine tasting. These platters will change regularly and should see 2 persons through to the next meal.

Hermanuspietersfontein’s vineyards are situated between Stanford and Napier in Sondagskloof with cottages on the farm.  For a country escape book one of four cottages and enjoy laid-back time-out.

Winemaker Wilhelm Pienaar is all for connecting with wine lovers and offering a cellar and tasting experience to add to happy memories.  Make sure you book your space to hear the enthusiastic Wilhelm share his wine stories.

PS:  Don’t know what a Foudre is?  Foudre is French for a large wooden barrel that can hold between 20 – 120 hectoliters in wine for maturation.