The Franschhoek Wine Valley has been blessed with an abundance of much needed rain this past season. Not only is the Berg River dam full, but the valley is looking absolutely spectacular. The trees are in full bloom as their blossoms symbolise the first signs of Spring and the vineyards are looking healthy and green, as they embrace the warmer weather. Vineyards at Noble Hill
This calls for celebration and what better opportunity than raising a glass of Franschhoek bubbly than on 1 September, which is not only the first official day of Spring, but it also happens to be Cap Classique Day. Celebrated both nationally and internationally as a leading Méthode Cap Classique (MCC) region, not only is Franschhoek home to some of SA’s finest MCC’s, but we also have the country’s first MCC route, with more than 24 MCC producers. Boschendal Methode Cap Classique
Spring is also the perfect opportunity to sample new release wines. Diarise the weekend of 14 and 15 September for our annual Franschhoek Uncorked Festival. Welcome in the warmer weather as you travel from farm to farm sampling some of the superb wines the valley has become known for. Participating wineries will be showcasing some of their crowd favourites as well as a handful of new release gems. Franschhoek Uncorked
With a few festival specials on offer now is the ideal time to stock up for the end of year holiday season. Not only will they be pulling out the stops to showcase their finest offerings, but expect to find some added attractions to ensure a truly memorable Uncorked visit. Franschhoek Uncorked
Pre-booked tickets, valid for both days, cost R180 per person, which can be purchased via www.webtickets.co.za. Tickets purchased on the day, at the participating wine farms, will cost R200 each. For the detailed programme and accommodation specials contact the Franschhoek Wine Valley offices on 021 876 2861 or visit www.franschhoekuncorked.co.za.
Ending September on a high note will be the final Franschhoek Mystery Weekend, which takes place over the weekend of 27 and 28 September. Ideally suited to couples your weekend is pre-planned from check in to check out, and holds the promise of surprise, relaxation and pure indulgence. For bookings or queries please contact Carmen Arendse on mysteryweekend@franschhoek.org.za.
The bonus of this weekend is that it also allows for ample time to take a leisurely stroll up Franschhoek’s main road, where you’ll uncover a plethora of retail gems. These include art galleries as well as stylish clothing and exquisite décor boutiques. Don’t leave Franschhoek without making time to browse one or two of these gems, guaranteed to have something for you to take home as a reminder of your time in the valley. Indian Summer, Franschhoek
September is also Tourism Month. The purpose of Tourism Month is to encourage South African locals to explore their country in an effort to showcase the importance of tourism to the economy of South Africa. With school holidays upon us and another long weekend in store towards the end of this month (Heritage Day on 24 September) why not plan your trip to Franschhoek now. Be it a day visit, an overnight stay or a weekend escape, Franschhoek has something for everyone. For a list of things to do in and around the valley visit our website www.franschhoek.org.za. Rupert & Rothschild Tasting
Cheers to a fabulous September!
FRANSCHHOEK IS OPEN!
Our Main Road village entrance is now clear, and the majority of our beloved wine estates, restaurants, and shops are flinging their doors open with open arms to welcome you! If you need to get in touch, please email us at office@franschhoek.org.za, or call or call Leandre: 0839512159 or Carmen: 0733372510, as our main phone lines are currently down.
Our dedicated disaster management teams are working hard to restore our beautiful valley to its former glory, and the outpouring of support from our community has been nothing short of awe-inspiring.
Please note that The Franschhoek Wine Tram is currently operating on the Groot Drakenstein side only, offering their Navy and Orange lines.
If you’re looking to lend a hand, why not consider making a donation to FRANCO? They’re currently providing assistance to 87 individuals who have been displaced, including 55 adults and 32 children. Your support, big or small, will make a world of difference!
*Please also note that the Franschhoek Pass remains closed until further notice.
