“In July 2003 I photographed former President Nelson Mandela for the first time. This was a special commission for the inauguration of The Mandela Rhodes Foundation and the sitting took place at The Rhodes Trust in Oxford, England. This was to be the start of my long association with the Foundation and President Mandela. During our session on … Read more
As we near the end of our extended lockdown we await news of what our new normal may be. While we wait, Franschhoek Wine Valley locals continue to do their bit for those less fortunate as well as keep the region top of mind for those who will one day once more visit our beautiful … Read more
The Val de Vie Foundation, a non-profit organisation that supports people in under resourced communities in the Paarl-Franschhoek Valley, is collaborating with multiple stakeholders in a response to the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic. Thousands of people in the Valley are unable to work, have lost their jobs or can’t get to feeding schemes during … Read more
It was an Easter weekend with a difference. Traditionally many South Africans take advantage of this (really) long weekend to travel to nearby destinations to escape and unwind from the hustle and bustle. However, the new norm is to stay indoors and stay safe and resulted in Franschhoek locals remaining safely in the confines of … Read more
There is no time like the present to reach out to your community to show how much you care. Since the start of lockdown we’ve seen an outpouring of community initiatives and acts of goodwill to help those in need during this time of uncertainty. From volunteers, essential service providers and restauranteurs, we want to … Read more
With a loyal Italian fan base, local resident ‘artist extraordinaire’ Pigcasso was recently approached by an Italian art agency to donate a piece of his spectacular artwork. This work of art forms part of a collection to be auctioned on eBay, with the proceeds of all the artworks going towards assisting with the relief efforts … Read more
Black Elephant Vintners recently featured on BBC News. Watch the video below as Lerato Mbele talks to three South African entrepreneurs who are hoping to shake things up in the wine industry. The former bankers have turned to wine-making, and are hoping to make an impact in the sparkling wine market.
In this ever-changing environment, Together Franschhoek, symbolises the strength in community collaboration that the Franschhoek Valley is known for! Assisting the community in establishing food distribution points throughout the valley, through the supply of fresh produce and ingredients, the installation of handwashing stations, and ensuring that social distancing measures and guidelines are in place, the … Read more
After serving 30 years as the Viticulturist/Winemaker for GlenWood Vineyards, DP Burger will be handing over this responsibility to his Assistant Winemaker, Natasha Pretorius. DP will oversee the smooth running of the farm in his capacity as Cellar Master and General Manager. GlenWood Vineyards is situated in the heart of the Franschhoek Wine Valley and … Read more
Virgin Limited Edition’s South African Hotel & Mountain Vineyard Mont Rochelle, is thrilled to announce the appointment of Arek Witaszek as its new Executive Head Chef. Arek joins the team at Mont Rochelle after holding the position of Executive Head Chef at the award-winning five-star Relais and Chateaux property – Asara Wine Estate & Hotel in … Read more