WeeklySA_AdminBacksberg Family Wines has launched its latest culinary experience, “Braai with Backsberg”, at the estate’s picturesque Franschhoek tasting room from tomorrow.
Hosted every Saturday throughout summer, this immersive experience pays tribute to the heart of South African living—celebrating the simple pleasures of good food and fine wine, enjoyed against a spectacular Winelands backdrop. Presented buffet-style and welcomed with a complimentary glass of Backsberg wine on arrival, the lunch follows a relaxed, thoughtfully timed flow. Guests arriving from 12:30 will receive their welcome wine, flame-grilled mains are served at 13:30, and the dessert of the day is available from 14:30.
The menu features a rotating selection of dishes accompanied by two fresh garden greens, priced at R350 per person. Vegan and vegetarian options are also offered, ensuring there’s something to delight every palate. Debuting just in time for the festive season, the new offering embodies the warmth and generosity of true South African hospitality. Guests can enjoy a relaxed alfresco lunch that brings an authentic taste of home to both locals and visitors, reimagining the traditional Winelands meal as laidback, abundant, and unmistakably Backsberg.
“We are so proud to launch this new offering,” says Backsberg Family Wines marketing manager, Morné van Greunen. “It’s something truly unique in the valley — a way to honour our roots and the five generations of winemaking history that define Backsberg. It delivers a more wholesome, heartier approach to dining than the traditional platter, while offering a relaxed, approachable alternative to Franschhoek’s celebrated fine dining scene.”
EVENTS
Graham Beck-Maslow Picnics
Sandton’s social calendar draws to a glittering close as The Maslow hosts its final Sunday Society Picnic of the year on December 14.
Set on the lush garden lawns of the hotel at 146 Rivonia Road, the event invites guests to “sparkle and shine in the sunshine” with bold sequins, metallics and festive flair.
Couples can look forward to an indulgent afternoon from 13h00, raising glasses of Graham Beck bubbly while enjoying an abundant spread featuring harvest table favourites, hearty hot mains and a selection of gourmet picnic snacks.
Priced at R1 600 per couple, the experience is positioned as one of Sandton’s most sought-after festive outings — and with limited availability, early booking is strongly encouraged.
The Sunday Society Picnic series has become a signature on Johannesburg’s lifestyle circuit, and this final edition promises a celebratory end to 2025’s social season.
Vibes in the Vines
Diemersfontein Wine Estate in Wellington will set the scene for a relaxed summer afternoon as it hosts Vibes in the Vines with singer-songwriter Wesley Clark on December 14.
The free-entry concert begins at 12h30 on the estate’s picturesque grounds along Jan van Riebeeck Drive (R301), offering visitors a perfect blend of live music, good food and fine wine. Guests can look forward to Clark’s mellow acoustic set, delicious offerings from SMUL Restaurant, and a selection of Diemersfontein’s signature wines.
Designed as a family-friendly outing, the event also features a dedicated kiddies’ play area, making it an ideal day out for all ages. Pack your picnic blankets, gather your friends and family, and settle in for a memorable afternoon of vineyard vibes.
PICNIC UNDER THE STARS
To welcome the festive season, Nederburg has lined up a series of new “Under the Stars” evening picnics on their farm in Paarl in the Western Cape next month.
The winery’s promises guests three unforgettable nights – all to be enjoyed on its lawns after sunset, in relaxed, music-filled settings that capture the easy magic of a South African summer.
Each picnic basket is thoughtfully curated to showcase local, seasonal flavours – a true taste of the Cape Winelands. Among other teats, guests can expect a feast that begins with local cheeses, marinated olives, and seasonal fruit, paired with house-made onion marmalade and crisp lavash.
The experience is open to everyone – couples looking for a romantic night out, families wanting to make the most of the holidays, and friends simply seeking a beautiful evening together. The expansive lawns provide plenty of space for kids to play, and well-behaved dogs on leashes are welcome too. Bring your own blanket or low chairs, find your spot beneath the stars, and let the evening unfold.
Each Under the Stars event features live local music to set the tone: Newton & Co on December 13; Johan van der Merwe on December 20; Juan Casey on December 27. Pre-booking via Dineplan is essential. Tickets cost R385 per person. Vegetarian and kids’ baskets available.
Boschendal Festive Wine & Market
Boschendal Estate in Franschhoek will transform into a festive wonderland on December 15, as it welcomes guests to its Wine and Christmas Market — an evening of fine wine, gourmet flavours and family-friendly cheer.
The event begins at 17h00 on the historic estate along Pniel Road, Groot Drakenstein.
For R220 per person, visitors receive eight wine-tasting coupons, a signature Boschendal tasting glass and a festive headpiece to help set the holiday mood. Children enter for free, with organisers encouraging young guests to bring along a Santa Shoebox as their “ticket” to support those in need this Christmas.
The market promises an enchanting atmosphere with artisanal stalls, gourmet treats, live music and a wide selection of Boschendal wines to enjoy under the summer evening sky.
Perfect for families and wine lovers alike, the Boschendal Wine and Christmas Market offers a spirited start to the festive season in the heart of the Cape Winelands.
Spier’s Christmas Picnic
Spier Wine Farm in Stellenbosch is offering a serene and flavour-filled way to celebrate Christmas this year with its Festive Picnic on December 25.
Hosted from 12h00 at the scenic Spier Picnickery along R310 Baden Powell Drive, the experience promises a leisurely afternoon under the estate’s ancient oaks or beside the tranquil Eerste River.
For R995 per person and R350 per child under 12, guests will enjoy gourmet picnic baskets brimming with seasonal delights, crafted to showcase the best of summer’s harvest. The picnic is designed for effortless enjoyment — allowing families and friends to skip the kitchen stress and revel in good food and great company in one of the Winelands’ most picturesque settings.
With Spier’s festive picnics known to sell out quickly, organisers are encouraging early bookings to secure a spot for this relaxed and memorable Christmas celebration.. – Compiled by Len Maseko
