Muratie’s Harvest Festival, an annual highlight on wine lovers’ calendars, is just two weeks’ away, taking place on March 16 and 17, for two days of grape-stomping and wine experience. The two-day showcase of tranquil and abundant farm living takes place under the ancient oaks that guard this historic wine estate nestling in Stellenbosch.

Visitors are promised enjoyment of Muratie’s award-winning wines to the accompaniment of the Farm Kitchen’s delectable food offerings, while listening to live music. In addition, tractor rides, historic tours of the werf and the cellar, and of course grape stomping, await all wine enthusiasts. The Tasting Room will be offering curated tastings at an additional charge – booking is essential       Details of the day are: doors open at 10h00; table seating on a first come, first serve basis; bring your own picnic blankets for the lawn area; kitchen opens from 10h00 until 15h30 (selected menu available). Included in the price are grape stomping activity; wine tasting; tractor rides; historic tours; live music; tickets cost R250 (adults) and kids under 12 R100. Buy tickets here: https://www.muratie.co.za/muratie-event/harvest-festival-2024/#tribe-tickets__tickets-form

EVENTS

HOSTEX OPENS SUNDAY

Hostex 2024, takes place at the Sandton Convention Centre from March 3 to 5, is expected to draw hundreds of visitors from the local hospitality industry and the public.

The 2024 expo is segmented into six districts – Equipment Africa, Food & Drink Africa, Tea & Coffee Africa, Contract Furnishings Africa, Technology Africa, and Sustainability Africa.

Hostex 2024, the trade show that has been connecting buyers and sellers of products and services since 1986 – combining a proven 34-year track record with educational features, over 250 exhibitors from more than 25 countries & thousands of innovative products.

The Wine Bar, a new wine zone at Hostex 2024, will be one of the highlights, featuring top wine producers and products. This will be a unique platform to showcase and celebrate the nation’s rich wine culture. The who’s who in the retail, foodservice and hospitality sectors will be there to make their mark. 

LEOPARD’S LEAP FEST

Franschhoek’s premier wine estate – Leopard’s Leap – hosts its Summer Wines Festival next Saturday.

A popular, family-oriented destination, Leopard’s Leap boasts sociable tasting facilities, a versatile food offering and, of course, the charm of a beautiful landscape. The winery was conceptualised at the turn of the century by winemaker and businessman Hein Koegelenberg.

The brand has a formidable footprint in the global market today and is represented in more than 40 countries with dedicated marketing teams and distribution across Asia, the UK, Europe, North America and Africa.

Tastings start at 11h00 and end at 15h00 but the party continues till 17h00 with wine sales and live music. Tickets will be available soon. 

GROOTE POST’S JOZI DATE

Cape’s west coast vineyards – Groote Post – will make a beeline for Gauteng later this month to host an evening of wine tasting at Joburg’s landmark Rand Club. The tasting will take place on March 20, starting at 7pm. Groote Post, owned by the Nic Pentz family, is a historic 18th century farm in Darling. The area boasts unique and cool climatic conditions of the Darling Hills, which yield good fruit.

The wine tasting at the Rand Club’s main bar will be hosted by Peter Pentz from Groote Post. The tasting is free for members, R200 for non-members. Tickets available via Quicket 

Pretoria wine fest

The annual Fijnwyn Bubbles Wine & Food Market returns to Pretoria on March 23, for another bubbly-fuelled fun day east of the capital city. The venue is 99 Luiperd Street Tiegerpoort, Pretoria East, and activities start at 11am. Tickets cost R200 a person.

Visitors will immerse themselves in the enchanting world of bubbles from 25 prestigious wine farms but the celebration doesn’t stop there – explore a symphony of varietals, including rich reds, crisp whites, and vibrant rosés, carefully crafted by 25 renowned wine farms. Indulge in delectable bites from street food vendors, creating a culinary experience that caters to every palate. Live music is all set as the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable day with family and friends.

Go Wellington Fest

March 21 sees the official launch of the new Go Wellington Wine Route and its initiatives, including the first Go Wellington Family Festival. The event takes place at the Old Tannery, a charming shopping district developed on the premises of the former Western Tanning & Boot Company of 1871.

On offer is the opportunity to sample wares from over a dozen of the Go Wellington Wine Route members, a variety of food stalls, children’s activities as well as live music. Meanwhile, Go Wellington’s new digital platform provides eye-popping foretaste of things to come for those planning to visit the off-the-beaten-track wine-growing enclave.  The www.gowellington.co.za contains links to a dizzying array of experiences available. Details of the festival are; starts from 10:00  and ends 18:00; location is Old Tannery on the outskirts of Wellington towards Hermon. Tickets: R150/adult and R50/child (under 18) via Quicket.

WINE OF COLOUR FEST

WineofcolourSA Food & Wine Show is gearing to give Gauteng wine lovers an unforgettable experience when it opens doors at Silverstar Casino in Krugersdorp on April 6 and 7.

This two-day event will showcase the best in wine and food from around South Africa. On offer will be a selection of exquisite wines and delicious food from some of the country’s best winemakers and chefs.

Relax and take in the atmosphere of the show as you sip on your favourite tipple and sample the delights of the local cuisine. With an array of entertainment to enjoy including live music and performances, this is sure to be an event to remember. Highlights: Taste a selection of the best wines and food from around South Africa; performances from some of the country’s best artists; a vibey atmosphere of the show; and discovering new wines and food from local winemakers and chefs. Tickets cost R100 to R300 a person. The show starts at 11am.

SOWETO SPIRITS FEST

Spirit Fest SA will take place at one of Soweto’s hottest hospitality venues, Disoufeng Pub & Restaurant, in Zone 10, Meadowlands on March 30. Tickets cost R100 and R300. The show starts at 11am. #SpiritFest is about celebrating the world’s best spirits! Join the fun at Disoufeng Pub for a local and global showcase of premium spirit brands in the heart of Soweto. – Compiled by Len Maseko