WeeklySA_AdminA subsidiary of ANC stalwart and businessman Tokyo Sexwale’s Mvelaphanda Holdings, Bloemendal Wine Estate, situated in Durbanville Wine Valley near Cape Town, will go on auction on May 28 , starting with a R250-million reserve price.
The boutique wine farm grows various wine grapes, including Chenin Blanc, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinotage and Cabernet Sauvignon. It is one of the largest wine farms in the region, reaching up along the Kanonberg and Tierberg Mountains.
Bloemendal was established in 1702 to provide fresh produce to Cape Town and the Dutch East Indian Company ships travelling on the spice route to and from India. Kanonberg, translated to “canon mountain” was the site where canons were fired to signal to Cape Town that fresh produce was ready to collect. The farm was officially registered as an Estate in 1987. The estate’s wines garnered worldwide recognition over the years.
In 2008, Jannie van der Westhuizen’s grandson, then-owner and winemaker Jackie Coetzee, sold the estate to businessman Tokyo Sexwale’s Mvelaphanda Holdings. A total of 17 years later, the company is selling the estate as a going concern. Rawson Auctions will run the auction.
Buildings on the farm include various restaurants, conferencing facilities, houses, and dwellings. It also features the popular Bloemendal Trail Park, along with a bicycle service centre and kids party venue. Listing is on Property24. – wine.co.za
EVENTS
GRAPE ESCAPE FEST
Wine Concepts will host their 5th annual Grape Escape Wine Festival at Moyo Restaurant, Kirstenbosch, Cape Town, on May 29.
Following the success of previous festivals, this year’s event promises to be an exclusive evening of exceptional wine tasting. The festival will feature an exciting and diverse selection of wines from uncommon varieties and blends, including Cinsault, Albariño, Mourvèdre, Grüner Veltliner, Sangiovese, Nebbiolo, Barbera, Chenin Blanc, and Chenin-driven blends, as well as captivating Rhône varieties such as Viognier, Roussanne, Syrah, Grenache and more.
Attendees will have the opportunity to taste the best offerings of these varietals and blends from 40 of the country’s top wine producers – all to the accompaniment of snacks will be served throughout the evening to perfectly complement the tasting experience. The event starts at 6pm and ends at 9pm. Tickets cost R45O per person via Quicket (includes entrance, wine glass, tastings, and snacks).
MENLYN WINE MEANDER
A celebration of the art of wine takes place at Pretoria’s Central Square Menlyn Maine on May 24.
The organisers are planning a delightful afternoon filled with live music and over 15 exquisite wines to taste. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or just looking for a fun day out with friends and family, this event is perfect for everyone. What visitors to the show can expect is music performances by local artists; sampling a diverse selection of wines from renowned vineyards. The event starts at 11am. Tickets, costing R150 per person, available via Webtickets. Central Square Menlyn Maine is situated on 180 Amarand Avenue, Waterkloof Glen, Pretoria.
JOBURG BUBBLY FEST
The highly popular Johannesburg Cap Classique, Champagne & Bubbles Festival 2025 returns for a two-day fiesta at Inanda Country Club, Sandton, on May 24 and 25.
Tickets cost R450 per person via Webtickets.
This exclusive event brings together lovers of sparkling wine to celebrate the finest bubbles from South Africa and France. Designed for both connoisseurs and enthusiasts, the gathering offers an intimate setting to enjoy a variety of sparkling wines in a refined and festive atmosphere.
Attendees can enjoy bubbly tastings, live music, and thoughtful details like welcome drinks, tasting coupons, and special gifts for select ticket holders. The event invites guests to immerse themselves in a world of Prosecco, Cap Classique, and Champagne!
SOUTH COAST WINE FEST
KwaZulu-Natal’s North Side Wine Festival will present a tasting adventure for local wine lovers on the south coast town of Port Shepstone on May 24. The event will be held at Umthunzi Hotel, Umtentweni in Port Shepstone. Tickets cost R350 per person via Quicket. The event starts at 12noon. Indulge your senses as you embark on a wine tasting adventure like no other. Over 20 prestigious wine farms, each offering a unique expression of terroir and tradition. With over 100 wine tastings to delight your palate, immerse yourself in the artistry of winemaking and discover new favourites with every glass. From crisp whites to robust reds, each sip will transport you to the vineyards where these exceptional wines were born.
The festival will be taking place at 4 distinct venues Jaxx Restaurant, Schooners Restaurant & Bar, Umthunzi Hotel and The Cellar at Honeywood. Enjoy complimentary shuttle services from Shelly Beach, ensuring seamless transitions between venues and allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the festivities without worrying about transportation. The event will be a celebration of wine, music, and culinary delights. Tickets include commemorative glass and access to all tastings and venues.
BEEREX AFRICA
BeerEx Africa, a conference and expo on beer, will take place in Cape Town from May 22 to 24.
The event, which will be taking place at the Makers Landing at The Cruise Terminal, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, is expected to attract brewers from across the continent.
BeerEx Africa will encompass a conference and expo for brewers and beer enthusiasts from across the continent. Attendees have the option to attend the expo only or opt for a package, including the one-day conference as well as the two-day expo, which showcases innovative products from local companies alongside major international suppliers.
The event is held in conjunction with the African Beer Cup, the biggest beer competition in Africa, attracting more than 250 entries from across the continent.
Vaal Wine Expo
The Vaal Wine Route will host a day of wine tasting along the banks of the Vaal River in Vanderbiljpark on May 31.
The 22and expo will present South African farms that will be showcasing top local wines to sip and savour plus to buy direct at cellar-door prices.
The venue is Stonehaven-on-Vaal, Rosebush Lane, Zuurfontein, Vanderbijlpark. The event starts at 12 noon. Tickets cost R300 a person.
BUBBLY BY THE DAM
Champagne Tasting on the Dam is expected to draw Gauteng lovers to the countryside enclave of Haartbeespoort, about two hours’ drive west of Johannesburg, on May 31.
The event, starting at 11am, takes place at Bubbles Champagne Garden, corner Danie and Waterfront Street, Schoemansville.
This is one of its kind annual champagne tasting on the dam! Enjoy the bubbles at an elegant venue Bubbles Champagne Garden situated at Hartbeespoort.
In collaboration with a variety of the best champagne brands we present an unforgettable experience. Entertainment and good food galore.
Tickets cost R480 a person via Webtickets and includes champagne tasting coupons for the champagne on show and a flute. Dress code for the day is shades of blue. – Compiled by Len Maseko
