WeeklySA_AdminIn a glittering celebration of heritage and innovative luxury, Glenfiddich showcased a unique fine-dining experience, honoring the release of its exquisite, limited 31-Year-Old Grand Château whisky.
Set against the stunning backdrop of Johannesburg at the prestigious Four Seasons Hotel, The Westcliff, the three-day affair transformed the venue into an unforgettable immersion into artistry, flavour and elegance.
Glenfiddich’s partnership with Chef Katlego Mlambo (PICTURED), who invoked his maverick spirit to create masterful French fusion cuisine, set the stage for a culinary journey that redefined fine dining.
“Creating a menu for the Grand Château experience involved infusing the essence of French finesse with the Scottish roots of Glenfiddich,” said Chef Mlambo, who captured the allure of a menu that perfectly blended sophistication with playful twists. Each dish was meticulously crafted to enhance the intricate notes of Glenfiddich’s spirit, embodying the richness and legacy of the whisky.
Lifa Bakana, Brand Manager at Edward Snell & Co., spoke passionately about the vision behind the Grand Château experience and said that the idea was to create a world that captured the spirit of Glenfiddich’s Grand Château – a place where culture, history and modern luxury merge seamlessly
EVENTS
SA’s 366th Wine Birthday
On Sunday, the South African wine industry will host a glittering Wine Birthday evening at the One & Only Cape Town, to celebrate its 336 years of winemaking.
The evening will roll out celebrations of epic proportions, along with annual decadent festivities, 366 years after the first bottle was crafted in the Cape, to the accompaniment of cheers to the legacy of winemakers, wine farms and wines, past and present.
A collection of 22 wine farms from across the province, including favourites from Paarl, Franschhoek, Stellenbosch, Constantia and even Wellington, will come together under one banner to celebrate the art of wine.
With live music, art, and fashion adding to the ambiance, the celebration takes place from 4pm to 8pm and is open to all who wish to join (guests must be 18 years of age or older to granted entrance). The cost is R750 per person and are available via Webtickets or email reservations@oneandonlycapetown.com.
CAPE WINE AUCTION
The Cape Wine Auction, one the country’s premier annual charity events, roars back to life with passion and purpose to host yet another memorable event at Laborie Estate in Paarl on February 1.
The Cape Wine Auction is a global showcase of South Africa’s finest wines – all for a great cause. The Cape Wine Auction 2024 raised over R10 million for charity at this year’s event and has now accumulated over R135 million since the first auction in 2014.
Each year the event is held in a different farm, giving guests the chance to explore new and magnificent venues. The event starts at 12h30.
STELLENBOSCH HARVEST PARADE
The Stellenbosch Harvest Parade is returning to the streets of Stellenbosch on February 1.
The parade sees farmers, workers and wine lovers mount colourful floats and paint the town red to herald towards another fruitful wine grape season. Bring friends and family and join in the human train through the historic streets. The parade gets underway at 09h00, leaving from the famous Toy and Miniature Museum, and weaves its way beneath the oaks before arriving some 30 minutes later at the Stellenbosch Town Hall.
Here, the mayor will award the best float as well as the occasion’s most spirited team.
After a short thanksgiving ceremony, the parade will continue its way, sharing the joy of the year’s harvest as it goes.
The Stellenbosch Harvest Parade takes place with the support of the region’s wineries, Stellenbosch Wine Routes, Stellenbosch Municipality, and Kwikspar Paul Roos. No booking is necessary.
Muratie Harvest Fest
The annual Muratie Harvest Festival, a memorable harvest festival celebrating Muratie’s 340th anniversary, takes place over two days at the Stellenbosch winery on February 1 and 2. Award-winning wines steeped in history, cheese platters, and seasonal dishes prepared at farm’s kitchen will be available to savour, including joining in unique experiences like grape stomping, tractor rides, vineyard walks, and live music. Relax with lawn games or indulge in wine tastings – all set against the stunning landscape of Muratie. This special weekend promises fun, flavours, and festivities for all. Visitors will be able to relax under our ancient oak trees while enjoying live performances by the KJBB Band on both days.
Pre-book for a unique wine tasting experience in our Tasting Room (additional charge). Gates open at 10h00. General tickets cost R295 and children under 12, R100.
PRETORIA’S BEER FEST
On South African National Beer Day, Capital Craft will host “Bottomless Beer#SANBeerDay on February 1, to which beer lovers are invited to join in for some bottomless beer and a celebratory vibe.
Entry is R300 a person, and guests will choose from any local beers on tap, plus plenty of extra floating beer options. They will receive a branded beer glass – theirs to keep as a memento of the day. They will also be handed a “Printed Beer Tick List” – to track their tasting journey and discover new favourites. The line-up comprises a full beer list available closer to the time. Organisers say guests should expect more than 40 beers on tap on the day.
There will also be a full menu of drinks, food and treats. The vibe starts at 10am and lasts until 11h30. The venue is Shop 20, Greenlyn Village Centre, corner of Thomas Edison and 12th Street East, Menlo Park in Pretoria. Telephone: 081 877 6924. – Compiled by Len Maseko
