Okay, I am technically jumping ahead in my ‘alphabet of SA wines’ (seeing that “S” is for “Saronsberg”), but given our current situation with the lockdown restrictions, and the fact that we’ve been given the reprieve of intra-provincial travel at least, I thought I will share this with you. My friends who live in the Western Cape are in the fantastic position of being able to enjoy and explore a little more in that part of our beautiful country.
Let’s dive right in.
We’ve been long-standing fans of Saronsberg Cellars. I remember spending some quality time at their RMB WineX stall with the passionate Mandy Dewing a good couple of years ago. We sipped the entire range and finding it quite challenging to pick a favourite. (And why should we pick favourites if everything is perfection, not so?)
Our first visit to Saronsberg was in 2016. From this photo (taken on that day with a cellphone nogal), you can just see that the setting is simply magical.
This piece by the legendary South African contemporary sculptor, Angus Taylor, is called “Uit Klip uit Water” (“From Earth From Water”). You can see this iconic and inspiring figure on some of Saronsberg’s wine labels as well. With her dress made from stones from the Tulbagh area, she is the fertility goddess of wine and beauty (my interpretation). Every time I stand in front of her, I can just feel her energy. Yes, I know it sounds airy-fairy. Truth though!
Pure serenity.
The cellar is equally imposing. This architectural masterpiece is so impressive, it even featured on the front page of “Modern Wineries of South Africa” by Hugh Fraser.
f
This sophisticated building houses the cellar, as well as the art gallery and the tasting room.
A note about the art collection at Saronsberg. This display hosts an impressive array of South African artworks and art pieces, ranging from the historic to the contemporary. What makes this collection so unique (apart from how well-curated and comprehensive it is), is that you get the opportunity to view these pieces in a much more informal display. The artists featured reads like a ‘who’s who’ of the art scene, a collector’s dream. You can read all about it here: https://www.saronsberg.com/art
(Apologies, I know this is an image-heavy post, I just can’t help myself).
The tasting room is a welcoming space, no-frills or fuzz (apart from the fact that you are of course surrounded by the magnificence of the art on display and the elegance of the building itself), focusing on what tasting rooms are for, to taste wine. We immediately felt at home and that we’re in good hands. The love for the wine presented and shared is so obvious, as it should be.
After/during your tasting, you can enjoy the view on the stoep, sipping a glass or two of your favourite Saronsberg wine and nibbling on a cheese platter. Blissful!
During our visit last year, we got the wonderful opportunity to stay over at Saronsberg’s Vineyard Cottages. For the sake of disclosure, we were hosted by Saronsberg. It was our last stop on our annual Winelands holiday, and a much needed ‘wind down’ after two weeks of travelling and exploring, giving us the chance to wave a fond goodbye. Our stay at these lovely self-catering cottages was so comfortable and relaxing. On a cold August night, we could cosy up without a care in the world, savour Saronsberg wines and braai in the fireplace.
It was VERY difficult to leave early the next morning. But we are so thankful for the memories.
You can check out Saronsberg’s accommodation options (perfect for local travel), as well as their winter escape package here:
https://www.saronsberg.com/accommodation
https://www.saronsberg.com/winter-escape-package
Oh, and you can have your wedding there as well! Imagine that: https://www.saronsberg.com/weddings
And while you’re at it, have a look at their wine catalogue as well, order some for delivery once the ban is lifted – it will give you something to look forward to! https://saronsbergshop.com/
I have to give a special shoutout to Mandy Dewing, Saronsberg’s Marking Manager before I sign off. (Mandy, I borrowed this photo from your Facebook page). I honour your love and passion for Saronsberg, the SA wine industry, your customers and your wine lovin’ friends. Stay strong and soldier on. A proudly South African Woman in Wine!