The Stellenbosch Wine Route is the oldest wine route in South Africa, comprised of some of the finest vineyards on the continent, and an upcoming festival gives visitors the opportunity to sample the best of the bunch. The Stellenbosch Wine Festival (July 30 - August 2, 2009) takes place at the Paul Roos Centre in Stellenbosch, near Cape Town, and features more than 500 wines and events that highlight the flavors of the wines as well as the foods they complement so well. Among the more notable events are daily vertical vintage tastings, where visitors learn to discern the fine distinctions between three vintages of Vergenoegd reds and other varietals, as well as Lunch in the Valley, a spectacular winemakers lunch that takes visitors on an afternoon journey through the picturesque Devon Valley, stopping by the Clos Malverne, Middelvlei, and Stellakaya vineyards, with one course served at each. You won't want to miss the winemakers dinner on July 30, where host John Faure will explain how the different vintages of Vergenoegd Cabernet Sauvignon - including several that are not commercially available - pair with the gourmet dishes prepared by super-chef Michael Israel, owner of much-lauded Pomegranate restaurant. Your taste buds have never had it so good. The festival is a short drive from the Westin Grand Cape Town Arabella Quays.
[image via wineroute.co.za]
