Weekend Argus (Saturday Edition)
Eikendal’s 2016 harvest awaits all
EIKENDAL Estate’s annual Weintaufe harvest celebration takes place tomorrow from 10am. A highlight will be the official christening and tasting of the 2016 chardonnay which will take place at noon.
Eikendal shone last year among the country’s chardonnay producers, excelling with a top score of 94 points in the Prescient Chardonnay Report.
The estate’s offering was lauded for its refined freshness and elegance with strong regional and varietal integrity, but without overripe or overbearing flavours, so this will be a special chance to taste the new vintage.
“What started out as an intimate ceremonial blessing to celebrate the end of the harvest at Eikendal 35 years ago, has evolved into a not-to-be-missed highlight on the social calendar, attracting a cool crowd each year,” said winemaker Nico Grobler.
After the official baptism of the new wine, guests will be able to sample it straight from the barrel and partake of market-style food prepared at Cucina di Giovanni restaurant.
In between the eating and drinking, guests can take part in activities like tractor rides, cheetah viewing, lucky draws, golfing action at the dam and grape stomping.
The lawns in front of the cellar and restaurant have plenty of space for children to run around and tire themselves out. Other attractions for the little ones include a jungle gym, jumping castle, making their own cookie pizzas and face painting.
Grownups can sip their wine – or chardonnay and MCC sorbets from the ice cream stand – and relax while listening to music by Newton & Co.
“What better way to spend a Sunday than sipping on great wine, snacking on soul food and soaking up jazz and blues tunes in a relaxed atmosphere? Bliss!” said Grobler.
Tickets are R50 at the gate, which include a glass and tasting from the barrel. Under-18s get in free. Remember the sunscreen and pack a picnic blanket.
● Formoreinformationcall 0218551422,oremailcounter@eikendal. Tco.za.EikendalisontheR44between StellenboschandSomersetWest.