The first Benguela Cove vines were planted 13 years ago on this 200 hectare lifestyle estate in the Overberg.  The vineyards have a good view of the Atlantic Ocean and the bot River lagoon.  Last night I had the opportunity to taste the latest releases from my favourite, the Méthode Cap Classique, to the Syrah.

Benguela vineyards enjoy the cooling effect of the Atlantic Ocean as well as the different slopes on which the vines were planted and the complexity of 4 different soil types.  Winemaker Johann Fourie christened the new state-of-the-art cellar last year and took in the first 2018 Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes yesterday.  Just a five days later than the 2017 harvest.  These grapes will be pressed and used for Benguela’s bubbly – Joie de Vivre.  If you haven’t tried this elegant Chardonnay/Pinot Noir Méthode Cap Classique I would highly recommend a taste of this “cheerful enjoyment of life”.  The tasting was followed by dinner at the onsite Moody Lagoon Restaurant.  My hake, creamy mash was served with shitake mushrooms and green vegs.  A delicious meal that came beautifully plated.  Menu items are reasonably priced and the restaurant was buzzing for a Thursday evening.  Not far from the restaurant a Pirate Golf Castle will soon open to make visitors linger even longer.

Thumbs up to Johann for producing Cape Whale Coast wines that is truly reflective of our region and also to owners Penny Streeter and Nick Rae for developing the Benguela Cove to reflect a world class tourism destination right here in the Overberg.