One of the most appealing aspects of Cape Town is its proximity to the wine country, less than an hour’s drive away. More than 100 wineries and numerous dignified Cape Dutch farmsteads dot the spectacular landscape. The unspoiled town of Franschhoek, “French corner” in Afrikaans, was founded in 1688 by Huguenot refugees. Today it is an enchanting place of bookstores, galleries, antiques shops and small bistros.
The indispensable companion to the country’s wines is “Platter’s South African Wine Guide.” Originally the work of John and Erica Platter, this annual publication is now assembled by a team of tasters and writers. The book runs to more than 600 pages, but the information is also available on an app.
The Book on Wine
The indispensable companion to the country’s wines is “Platter’s South African Wine Guide.” Originally the work of John and Erica Platter, this annual publication is now assembled by a team of tasters and writers. About the size of a brick — and at more than 600 pages, about as heavy — “Platter’s” not only lists wineries with ratings and detailed information in an A-to-Z directory, but includes useful recommendations for accommodations and restaurants in wine regions, an overview of the South African wine industry, a glossary of winemaking terms and a portfolio of maps. The information is also available on apps for iPhone and Android.
La Motte Winery's Elegant Restaurant
Named for one of South Africa’s premier artists (Jacob Hendrik Pierneef, who died in 1957), Pierneef à La Motte (R45 Main Road, Franschhoek Valley. Tel. [27] 21-876-8800) is the elegant restaurant of the impressive La Motte winery in Franschhoek. It is owned by another artist, mezzo-soprano Hanneli Rupert-Koegelenberg. One of the finest places to eat in the area, the restaurant has high ceilings and expansive windows looking out to the adjacent garden that lend the interior a wonderful airy feeling. The menu celebrates Winelands ingredients with appropriate wine pairings. La Motte’s vintages are available by the glass.
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