MAY 2014Fixing Fhk Pass

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Banking on bread

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Gearing up for Open Gardens

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Q&A with Inesa van Rooyen

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Branson buys Franschhoek propertyVirgin Limited Edition, Sir Richard Branson’s luxury

collection of award-winning retreats, has purchased Mont Rochelle Hotel and Mountain Vineyards. It joins another South African property, Ulusaba Private Game Reserve, in the eclectic portfolio.

Sir Richard Branson commented: “I’m thrilled to be able to announce that we are in the process of purchasing Mont Rochelle and what I’m sure will be a ‘must visit’ winelands experience in South Africa and a fantastic addition to the Virgin Limited Edition portfolio.”

While already a stunning property, following final purchase proceedings the hotel will close to undertake some refurbishment with a view to re-opening in August 2014.

Franschhoek Community Sports Centre breaks ground

The first sod was officially turned on 15 April for the long-awaited Franschhoek Valley Community Sport Centre (FVCSC) in Groendal that will open in early 2015. The facility will provide a state-of-the-art multi-purpose indoor pitch, training and meeting rooms, a resource centre, showers and kitchen facilities.

The project is spear-headed by Hope Through Action (HTA), a UK and SA registered charity, that supports disadvantaged young people, particularly using sport to develop life skills. HTA has been operating a similar facility in Mbekweni since 2010. Across the two facilities, HTA will have invested almost R50-million in these two communities. In addition to the sport centre HTA is constructing a four-classroom school which will be operated by The Kusasa Project.

Philip Green, founder of HTA commented, “We have strong local partners, particularly SCORE, who are responsible for delivering the programmes in Mbekweni, and we are delighted that that relationship will continue in Franschhoek. It has taken four years of effort to develop the plans and raise the necessary funds but we are delighted that the same construction team of Fred Laker, from Lyners Consulting, and Power Construction will be working with us in Franschhoek. We still require some funding to complete the project and I would hope that the local community in Franschhoek would help us to raise the financial support necessary”.

Stellenbosch Mayor, Conrad Sidego, who turned the first sod with Green, said that many people die long before they are buried as their dreams and potential are never realised. He welcomed the facility because “dreams are realised through action” and “the future of South Africa will be determined by the quality of its youth.”

Local celebrity chef Reuben Riffel, one of the project’s ambassadors – along with Ryk Neethling and Gary Kirsten, described the project as “amazing for Groendal”. He cautioned though that it will remain only a building unless the community gets involved and assumes collective responsibility for the centre.

HTA expressed its gratitude to many people who share their vision and who have made this project possible, in particular Western Cape Premier Helen Zille for her invaluable support.

Premier Zille added, “I am delighted that HTA is continuing to invest in the lives of our young people. I have been aware of their projects since 2009 and am impressed by their vision and work of creating opportunities through sport to help young people nurture their talents, develop crucial life skills and improve their lives”.

Philip Greene and Mayor Conrad Sidego turn the first sod for the new sports centre

Mont Rochelle Hotel terrace

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Work in the Franschhoek Pass has been affecting traffic for some months. There were three closures in the pass last year and since March this year motorists have had to deal with ‘stop and go’ road closures.

The mudslides at Akkerdraai and further along where a retaining wall was washed away have necessitated urgent attention. The Western Cape Department of Roads has contracted SMEC, a civil engineering consulting firm, and Penny Farthing, a civil engineering contractor, to refurbish the drainage and clear the culverts of the whole pass and attend to the mud and rockslide problems in a R20 million contract. It is both a maintenance and an improvement exercise.

The Tatler spoke to George Kustner, consulting engineer at SMEC, about the project. He said that apart from the drainage problems in the pass they were attending to the ‘high frequency events’ – the places where regular problems occur, areas that pose imminent risks. Akkerdraai, the first hairpin bend from the Franschhoek side, has experienced mudslides on more than one occasion during heavy rains. When it rains the slope above the road gets saturated and becomes unstable and slides down onto the road. This material is then removed to reopen the road which undermines the slope making

it more unstable resulting in further slippage of material onto the road. To solve the problem, vegetation is being cleared from the area where the cracks are after which terraces are created. Then holes are drilled 100 down from horizontal to the face of the mountain to accommodate 12 meter soil nails. The soil nails, steel bars 25mm in diameter, are inserted and the holes are grouted up. This is done to stabilise the slope against further slippage. Wire mesh and shotcrete cladding are put in place, to which the soil nails are attached, before the terraces are planted. The shotcrete will be coloured with pigment to match the surrounding rock. A botanist is consulted on the planting of suitable indigenous flora to create a screen and allow the area to blend in with the surrounding vegetation.

Further along, a mudslide high up on Middagkrans washed mud and dislodged rocks down onto the road. It blocked drainage thus exacerbating the problem, causing the mud and rocks to slide over the road and wash away the retaining wall. The retaining wall is being reconstructed using gabion baskets and soil nails. Because the mountainside above the road is weathered, water seeps into the rock and oversaturates it, making it heavy and unstable. The continuing rain washes over the

saturated rock, rushing onto the road. As part of the solution, cut off drains are being installed above the road to channel and control the flow of the water. Other potentially problematic slopes will also be made safer with mesh and planted vegetation.

Kustner says a project like this would normally take six to eight months, but in the case of the Franschhoek Pass it is an intensive four month project, scheduled to be completed by the end of June, before the heavy winter rains start.

About 30 people are employed on the project and sub-contractors are making use of local labour. An environmental practitioner and a safety consultant visit the site regularly to make sure protocols are followed. Strict instructions have for instance been given not to feed the baboons who seem to have found new things to explore on site.

Franschhoekers who collect drinking water from the fountain in the pass will notice that the drainage there has been renovated. The blocked pipes have been cleaned and water does not flow uncontrolled down the mountain anymore.

The improved drainage and the securing measures on the slopes will go a long way in preventing future crises. The temporary inconvenience for motorists seems a small price to pay for peace of mind on the pass.

Helen Naudé

2 THE FRANSCHHOEK TATLER May 2014

Inauguration of L’Huguenot cellar at Val de Vie for Chinese wine business

Following on the first Chinese investment in the South African wine industry, the extensively renovated cellar and new home of the L’Huguenot wine brand was unveiled at a gala dinner held at its Val de Vie premises on 1 April.

Perfect Wines of South Africa, a joint venture that was formed in 2011 between businessman Hein Koegelenberg and Perfect China in Yangzhou, has now renovated the Val de Vie cellar facilities to extend to:

· a state-of-the art winemaking facility · a maturation cellar, with capacity for 1500 barrels –

one of the biggest maturation cellars in Franschhoek· a vinoteque that hosts a private wine tasting area,

as well as the earlier vintages of L’Huguenot and De Klerk signature wines, the presidential blend of former state president, F.W. de Klerk.

“We are delighted to have this beautiful new home and modern facilities for L’Huguenot wines, says Chairman of Perfect Wines of South Africa, Hein Koegelenberg. “Nurturing our relationship with China is very important to us, but we also focus on how volume sales in China can benefit the local economy through increased production and job creation.”

All the renovations have been done while keeping in mind the rich French Huguenot history and heritage of wine-making in South Africa. The vinoteque and cellar feature a contemporary take on traditional French architecture and décor with the French Huguenot family crests displayed in the barrel maturation cellar. The historic manor house dating back to 1783 will soon be restored to its traditional splendour in order to host a Huguenot museum.

In 2011 and 2012 the L’Huguenot wine brand was responsible for the export of 2.8 million bottles of wine to China – amounting to about 25% of the

total annual figure for South African wine exports to China. The capacity of the new cellar and the potential of the maturation facility, that equates to 1 million bottles, allow for the production of the premium red wines. Other cellar facilities in the Winelands will still be used for the production of the remaining volumes. The L’Huguenot cellar and vinoteque will be the address of L’Huguenot wines where Joint Venture associates and Chinese partners will be hosted, but the facilities are not open to the public.

Speaking at the gala event on Tuesday night was former state president, F.W. de Klerk and Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Tourism in the Western Cape, Mr. Alan Winde. Mr. De Klerk addressed South Africa’s current position within the world economy and the opportunities for South African trade with China, while MEC Winde focused on the Western Cape, with specific reference to tourism and the important role China has to play in the local industry.

The event was also attended by the CEO of Perfect China, Mr. Woo Swee Lian and a delegation of 240 Chinese representatives, who also participated in a day of harvesting and wine-making on Wednesday, 2 April. As with the 740-strong delegation invited to the Cape in September 2013, the aim of bringing the Chinese representatives to South Africa is to introduce them to the culture of the Winelands and to make them ambassadors for South African wine in order to stimulate wine sales in China as well as tourism to the Western Cape.

For more information on Perfect China or Perfect Wines of South Africa contact 021 876 8805 or cellar@la-motte.co.za

Mr Hein Koegelenberg, Mrs Hanneli Rupert-Koegelenberg, Mr & Mrs FW de Klerk, Mr Woo Swee Lian

Reuben Riffel joins MasterChef SAAward-winning Franschhoek restauranteur, Reuben

Riffel, will be one of the permanent judges on the popular M-Net cooking series MasterChef South Africa. He joins Benny Masekwameng and Pete Goffe-Wood as his friend and fellow chef, Andrew Atkinson, hands the reins over to him.

“MasterChef South Africa exposed me to a diverse variety of wonderful, talented cooks from all corners of our beautiful country,” said Andrew. “Being on the show was an incredible experience, especially because I was flanked by two great colleagues, Pete and Benny. I can’t think of a better choice than Reuben to join them. We’ve been friends for many years and I have no doubt that he will do the role of MasterChef judge justice.”

Reuben said: “Ever since the first season of MasterChef, my family and I have been big fans. Everyone was so proud of me when I appeared on the show as a guest in Season 1 and I was lucky to spend some time with the contestants. Their enthusiasm and eagerness made me realize how privileged I am to be working in this industry. I’m excited to join my

good friends Pete and Benny in the kitchen, and hope to make a positive contribution to the show. I wish Andrew all the best of luck with his new venture as I’m sure there will be many people that will miss his presence in the series.”

Small winery, big prizeFranschhoek’s smallest winery, My Wyn, has

walked off with a big prize at a German wine competition. My Wyn’s 2008 Shiraz scored 96 points at the PAR Wine Awards South Africa 2014 that were presented at the recent ProWein 2014 wine exhibition in Düsseldorf, Germany. Only one other SA wine out of more than 200 entered fared better – by one point!

The PAR Wine Awards are unusual in that the results are not only determined through a blind tasting, but also take into consideration the results of a technical analysis of the wine.

The panel estimated a surprising shelf life of up to 2020 for My Wyn’s standout entry.

According to the organisers wines scoring 96 or more points are “world class”. The jurors concluded that most of the Cape wines represented were of “remarkable quality.” Head of Tasting Martin Darting said, “The distinctiveness of the South African wines lies in their stylistic diversity, which they owe to the particular climatic conditions in the wine regions.”

My Wyn’s Jacoline Haasbroek said: “I am so delighted for this proof of the principle that ‘small is beautiful’, which also applies to our lovely Franschhoek Valley and its wines.”

The winning wine is at present not available in South

Africa, but can be obtained online at www.winescouts.de, where it retails for 27 Euro per bottle.

For more information on Franschhoek’s smallest winery visit www.mywynfranschhoek.co.za

My Wyn’s German agent, Roland Buss, collects the award certificate won by the My Wyn Shiraz 2008 at the PAR Wine Awards South Africa 2014 in Germany.

Fixing the Franschhoek Pass

Reuben Riffel

Gabion wall under construction

Page 2FixingC1p2l6: insert comma after contractorSmall wineryC1p5 last line: closing quotation marks missingC1p6l1: at present not presently

Email: info@stellenboschblinds.co.za • Fax: 021 886 8516

3THE FRANSCHHOEK TATLERMay 2014

Cellar Restaurant & Terrace

Experience the true marriage of food and wine.

“I’m newly inspired every day. By the view from the restaurant of the valley beyond. By the restaurant itself, with its vaulted ceilings and crystal chandeliers. By the window in the restaurant that gives you a glimpse of the underground cellar and that reminds me of what I’m here to do: To pair amazing food with spectacular wines. So, when I’m

wandering through the kitchen garden, Pinot Noir and Chardonnay are never far from my mind. The wines of Haute Cabrière are my muses. They define every culinary decision; they inspire every new idea. The quest is deceptively simple: to make sure that every bite of food you take is made magical by a sip of matching wine.” – Ryan Shell, Head Chef.

AddressPass Road (R45), FranschhoekCape Winelands

GPS Co-ordinates33°54'51.63"S : 19° 8'7.90"E

Reservations & Enquiries+27 (0)21 876 3688

restaurant@cabriere.co.za

For more information visitwww.cabriere.co.za

Franschhoek Literary Festival promises something for everybody

The 2014 Franschhoek Literary Festival is once again offering something for everybody over the weekend of 16-18 May.

Some authors are visiting for the first time and others return with new books or new stories to tell. First-timers include Penny Lorimer and Helen Walne who will be chatting to Sue Grant-Marshall on Friday, 16 May, while Max du Preez and Deon Meyer count among those returning.

Other writers or personalities to look out for include the ever-popular Francis Wilson, Redi Thlabi – whose Sunday Times Award-winning book “Endings and Beginnings” will be made into a movie – and Tim Noakes.

This year is the centenary of the outbreak of WWI. The topic of war is consequently addressed in a number of discussions, such as “Stormin’ Norman” and “Africa at War” on Friday, 16 May, and “History without the Guns” on Saturday, 17 May.

Politicos will delight in “Mbeki in Hindsight” (Friday) and “ANCiety Attack” (Sunday). Writers and prospective writers may prefer “Masterwriter Australia” (Friday) or “A Writer’s Tools” (Saturday).

Locals may be interested in taking in “Reading the Rocks” on Friday when local geologist Nick

Norman talks about his latest book (“Geology off the beaten track”) with another local geologist, Prof Izak Rust.

Friday evening sees the presentation of the FLF Wine Writer’s Award, while the Sunday Times Literary Awards shortlist will be announced on Saturday evening.

A variety of peripheral events will also be staged. Pieter Dirk Uys will star in “And then there was Madiba!” in the NG Church Hall on Friday and Saturday evening, while Malcolm Gooding will induce wireless nostalgia when he takes to the stage on Saturday evening in “Going Gooding”.

Classical music fans will be sure to find delight in any of the classical music performances being staged by pianist and impresario Christopher Duigan in the Dutch Reformed Church and at Café BonBon.

The festival will again be preceded by the Book Week for Young Readers during which every class in the Franschhoek Valley will be visited by children’s and young adult authors to help inspire a reading and writing culture in the valley.

Details on all the above events and many more can be found at www.flf.co.za. If you haven’t booked your tickets yet you’ll need to hurry up as several events have already sold out!

By-law amendments to tackle informal trading problems

Informal trading seems to be one of those thorny issues that many South African jurisdictions have trouble getting to grips with. Stellenbosch Municipality is no different and is now in the process of amending by-laws for the regulation of informal traders to keep pace with current developments.

When the municipality clamped down on informal traders in Stellenbosch some time ago the result was that several of them moved to Franschhoek to escape the clamp-down. Once here some traders installed themselves on Telkom-owned land outside the post office, which led to an action by law enforcement to remove them and eventually the awful white palisade fence that now surrounds the area. In response the municipality demarcated ten trading positions in Church Street, between the Town Hall and NG Church, for the traders to ply their trade.

Pretty soon though the handful of traders became a host and now there are sometimes as many as 23 traders active in Church Street. To the dismay of residents in the area the traders start noisily erecting the metal frames of

their stalls as early as 05h30 every morning and often only break down their stalls after 18h00 – every day of the week – and with the same noise as when they erect them.

Oddly, the existing 1996 by-law applicable in Franschhoek doesn’t seem to provide for a limitation of trading hours, although there is a ‘nuisance’ provision that could to some extent be used to address some of the problem issues. Law enforcement however seems absent.

A number of associated problems have also developed, ranging from the state of the public toilets behind the town hall that are used by the traders, damage to municipal property where the metal stall frames are illegally stored overnight and concerns about criminal activity under the guise of legitimate trading.

The proposed by-law changes still provide for 10 sites in Church Street, but also include a site at the Le Roux Street entrance to Groendal with provision for another 10 stalls.

The Tatler was unable to obtain a full copy of the proposed by-law from the municipality.

Fundraiser for Inam Educare CentreOn Monday, 14 April, GlenWood Winery hosted

a very successful fundraiser for the Inam Educare Centre, which is currently under construction in the Langrug township.

More than 80 guests attended the event. Entertainment was provided by 20 toddlers who will be attending the new crèche, the Sinothando Gospel Choir, the Gugulethu Tenors, as well as Carol Thorns and Renate Riedeman.

The trustees of the Langrug Childhood Development Trust (Caroline van Grieken-Verburg, Arie van den Berg and David Molorane) were pleasantly surprised by the proceeds of the raffle and auction. A total of R65 600 was raised, which is enough to not only complete the crèche building, but also to furnish and equip it.

Van Grieken-Verburg specifically thanked Danielle van der Hucht, Jolinda Aggenbach and Cynthia van den Berg who assisted with the organisation of the

event and all the generous sponsors who donated fantastic prizes for the raffle and sought-after auction items.

www.thelangrugchildren.org

The crèche construction site in Langrug

Informal trading is spreading from Church Street into Dirkie Uys Street

For chef Jean Pierre Smith of Lust Bistro and Bakery bread is more than just something you eat when you’re hungry. It’s no surprise then that his wood-fired oven takes pride of place at the heart of Lust. “Nowadays people eat bread to enjoy its specific taste and character,” he says.

It was the perfect balance between his love of science and his passion for baking that lead him to cultivating his own wild yeast mother – a combination of just the right microorganisms enhanced by the natural, environmental essence of the Cape Winelands. Unlike supermarket-bought sachets of yeast, this one really is alive and he keeps it alive by feeding and nurturing it.

When Jean Pierre speaks about bread, his

eyes light up. He is an esteemed chef who has had many successes as restaurateur and even a stint as chef to David Copperfield and guests – but when you take away the food jargon, he is an easy-going guy who wants nothing more than to feed you fantastic food.

His food journey only started after finishing a B. Comm. degree in Industrial Psychology and travelling to the UK and South Korea. His heart was set on becoming a chef though and he enrolled at the Stellenbosch Institute of Culinary Arts. “I had no set plan … I’m lucky it turned out the way it did”.

His artisan sourdough breads take a minimum of three days to make. From conception to starter dough to firing up the wood-fired oven, he carefully allows the

dough to grow and develop a personality – pedantically focusing on the quality, the authenticity and of course … the taste.

There is, of course, more to Lust than bread. “People who enjoy simple, unpretentious food made with fresh, local produce will love eating at Lust,” says Jean Pierre. The lunch menu offers something for everybody from salads and pizzas to steak and, of course, gourmet sandwiches made with Jean Pierre’s mouth-watering breads. The blackboard offers daily specials – like everything else at Lust they’re simple and without pretense – words that could just as well describe the cheerful chef who presides over Lust Bistro and Bakery.

www.lustbistro.com │ 021 874 8155

4 THE FRANSCHHOEK TATLER May 2014

presented in association with “Les Vignerons de Franschhoek”

Send your answer to: tatlercompetition@gmail.com. The winner will be informed by return mail before 15 May 2014. Prizes have to be collected from the Franschhoek Info Office before end May

2014 or be forfeited.

Dieu Donné Cabernet Sauvignon 2011

Noble HillEstate Blend 2010

ROCA Restaurant’sParmesan and Parsley crusted Springbok Loin with Roasted Sweet potato Puree, Buttered Vegetables and a Cabernet Blueberry Jus

Cosecha Restaurant at Noble Hill’sBacon-wrapped medjool dates in a smoky paprika sauce

This is a full bodied, complex Cabernet Sauvignon with dense violet, blackcurrant, cassis character and earthy, spicy flavours. It will reward those who resist temptation and explore the wine’s maturation potential. This wine was left to mature in French oak barrels for twenty months.Cellar Price: R95

Dieu Donné Tel: 021 876 2493 Email: sales@dieudonnevineyards.comROCA RestaurantTel: 021 876 3384 Email: info@rocarestaurant.co.za

Our estate blend puts to practice the knowledge, dedication and intuition of our entire enterprise. This wine elicits the aromas and tastes of fresh black currant, plum, and a touch of mint. Oak plays a well-integrated supporting role with graphite focus. Cellar Price: R140

Noble HillTel: 021 874 3844 Email: info@noblehill.comCosecha RestaurantTel: 021 874 3844 Email: info@cosecharestaurant.com

Which wine range has a new look?

Makes 1 - 2 PortionMeat and Crust160-200gr Cleaned Springbok Loin, 3tblsp Parmesan, 1tblsp Chopped Parsley, 1tsp Garlic, 50gr Japanese Bread Crumbs, 2tblsp Soft Salted Butter, 2 Eggs whisked for egg wash, Salt and PepperPotato Puree1 x Med-Large Sweet Potato, 50gr butter, SeasoningBlue Berry Cabernet Jus (makes enough for 10 servings)1lt Springbok Demi Glace or Brown Stock, 100gr Carrots chopped, 100gr Onions chopped, 100gr Celery chopped, 100gr Leeks chopped, Bouquet Garni (bay leaf, parsley, thyme,), 80ml Olive Oil, 2 Garlic Cloves, 1 punnet BlueBerrys1btl Dieu Donne Cab Sauvignon 2011MethodTo begin place sweet potato on tray in oven and roast at 180 – 200 degrees C. The Sauce: Place med size 3lt pot on high heat, add olive oil and heat. Add onions, leeks, celery, carrots, garlic and bouquet garni, sautee on high heat for about 20 mins till it begins to caramelise on the bottom of the pot stirring regularly. Deglaze with a cup of the wine, repeat process by reducing wine and deglazing 3 times, on the third

time add stock and remaining wine and place on med. heat to simmer and reduce. Once reduced it will barely coat the back of a spoon, strain through fine sieve and add blue berries and simmer for 30mins or so until sauce consistency is achieved.Whilst sauce is reducing and potato is cooking - Place all the crust ingredients, except butter, into a blender and blend until nice, green colour is obtained. Add butter and blend again until crust is texture of moist sand. Check to see if the potato is soft yet, if it is remove from oven, cut open and scrape out the flesh with a spoon, blend the flesh with butter and strain through fine sieve to make puree, season if necessaryTo crumb the venison, simply season and brown your venison loin either on a grill or in a pan. Then dunk the venison into egg wash and coat with the crumbs then egg again and crumbs again. Your meat is now ready to be cooked on a flattop or in a pan with a little butter on a medium to high heat till golden brown crust is achieved. To finish the meat to med or med rare place it on a tray in the oven for approx. 4-6mins.Serve with steamed buttered veggies, potato puree and blueberry jus.

Ingredients:Medjool dates, pittedDried Spanish chorizo, thickly slicedQuality smoked streaky baconCiabatta toast

Smoky paprika sauce:Blackened and peeled capsicum peppers300 ml passata15 ml smoked paprika

Method:Make the smoky paprika sauce by blending ingredients and simmering mixture over low heat. Insert a slice of chorizo into each pitted medjool date. Wrap each date with ½ slice of smoked streaky bacon and secure with a toothpick. Grill until bacon is crispy, turning several times. Pour warm smoky paprika sauce into a small bowl. Place three cooked dates into the sauce, removing toothpicks. Serve with ciabatta toast. Rub the toast with with garlic for additional flavouring.

Tel: 021 874 3844 Email: info@cosecharestaurant.com

Banking on bread

Lust’s chef-patron JP Smith

“Water-white with a gleam of green and dozens of little bubbles in the bottom of the glass, smelling almost aggressively of grapes, filling and seeming to coat the mouth with sharpness, sweetness and scent. The greatest of them, long-lived, pale gold, piquant, profound yet frivolous… are the wines that beg to be compared with music and poetry”.

The above is how the Rieslings of Germany’s middle Mosel at Bernkastel are described in Hugh Johnson’s ‘The World Atlas of Wine’. This description does paint a fine picture, if a bit effusive, as a description for a wine compared to the more no-nonsense “This wine has a yellow straw colour and musky flavours on the nose”.

I meet folk who both take wine seriously and not so seriously. The former claim familiarity with wine descriptions, the latter tend to disregard these, even to the point of ridicule. Let’s face it; some descriptions may be taken seriously or not so seriously. Apples, pears, guavas, strawberries, peaches and other fruits crop up frequently. On the spice side we have mint, pepper, cinnamon, cloves etc. An old favourite to surprise, or even shock, is to allude to ‘wet dog’ or ‘wet socks’.

Shiraz is often referred to as reminding one of ‘sweaty saddle’ with a hint of ‘white pepper’. I have many times stood in a stable with a horse that has been out for a

gallop. Remove the saddle and there you are: a pungent aroma of healthy sweat and dirty straw. But is that the identifying characteristic of Shiraz?

I find a great similarity in varietals most of the time, but then most aspects of wine are subjective. Chardonnay (wood matured) should bring to mind citrus and bananas. Pinotage, a bit of nail varnish (acetone). Sauvignon Blanc is identified by a healthy dose of ‘newly cut grass’ or ‘cat’s pee’. An extra swirl or two of the glass should confirm? Some aromas remain elusive to description and end up with odd identities like, ‘sauerkraut’, ‘burned toast’ or ‘plastic’.

Some years ago one Franschhoek winery made a Chenin Blanc that had such heavy overtones of guava that some people actually thought that guava flavouring had been added!

It is up to the customer to decide if the presence of ‘mocha’ or ‘chocolate’ or ‘blackcurrants’ (cassis), or whatever makes the wine more attractive to the wallet or palate.

Getting back to the label on the bottle, there is often a suggestion that you should recognise certain tastes and aromas. It is up to you as to whether or not you agree, but don’t forget, the power of suggestion should never be underestimated!

5THE FRANSCHHOEK TATLERMay 2014

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Raters rate South AfricaIn a previous column I introduced Maura Nolan, who

was arranging to bring over some of America’s top golf course judges (known as Raters in the USA) and they have just been and gone.

How pleased I am to report that as a collective they rated not only the golf courses, but also South Africa as a whole, absolutely remarkable and totally surprising.

The first evening, spent at the Five Flies Restaurant in Cape Town, allowed me to greet and meet the lively, friendly and boisterous group of twenty-two. I was asked to give an overview of golf in South Africa and give some insight on the courses they were destined to play. I have to admit I waxed lyrical about Erinvale, Pearl Valley and Arabella, the first three courses they were due to play, and I emphasised greatly the scenic beauty and punctuated this with talking of the splendid mountain surrounds of each course.

On all three days of play the golfing gods were in a bad mood and low grey cloud cover, with intermittent rain, spoiled any aforementioned views of the mountains. The Americans took great delight in telling they didn’t believe me any more! “Mountains – what mountains?”

My credibility was further punctured as we arrived for a late lunch at the Ernie Els wine estate after the round at Erinvale, as the clouds would not allow even a glimpse of the splendid views I had promised were to be memorable. One good moment, however, was that Michael Alan Miller, a member of this lively group, had a Hole-in-One at the first par three he played in Africa and he insisted on buying a case of Ernie’s best wine for the coach ride back to Cape Town. I was informed all were drunk prior to arriving back at their hotel.

Still on a cloudy day we had a wonderful welcome, lunch and wines at the Anthonij Rupert Wine Estate. This was held in the stately Manor House, with its Yellowwood floors, beautiful wooden beam ceilings and furnished in the style of the mid-nineteenth century.

A magnificent oval table with the capacity to seat twenty-four people, allowed for a very lengthy and delicious lunch perfectly enhanced by the estate’s fabulous wines and wonder of wonders on departure the sun had graciously appeared. The breath-taking views of the exquisite gardens and the surrounding countryside immediately restored my credibility.

The group went on to visit Pinnacle Point, Oubaai, play Fancourt, all in the Garden Route, St Francis Links in the Eastern Cape and ended their golfing rating duties at Leopard Creek bordering the southern part of the Kruger National Park.

Suffice to say we did show them the best, but these golfing experts, while surely realising how good our golf courses are, will I know recall the remarkable experiences they had off course.

Michael Alan Miller scored a hole in one at Erinvale

Anthonij Rupert – Long table – Long lunch

Celebrate with 2011 La Motte MCC Champagne has celebration at its core -

turning any occasion festive with its infinite stream of charming bubbles. Although it has a French origin and romantic pronunciation, Champagne shares its celebratory associations with its namesakes around the world - Cava (Spain), Prosecco (Italy), Méthode Cap Classique (South Africa) - sparkling wines made in the traditional French way, but not within the specific region of Champagne.

The release of its 2011 La Motte Méthode Cap Classique Brut is also a celebration of La Motte’s range of award-winning still wines. Not only is it fitting for a wine estate to celebrate achievements with an own label MCC, but it also adds lustre to special occasions and everyday festivities.

With Franschhoek’s affinity for Champagne cultivars and with Chardonnay and Pinot Noir vineyards on the estate planted in 1997 and 1985 respectively, La Motte’s access to quality grapes has ensured 5 excellent MCC vintages.

Natural acidity was low in the 2011 vintage and therefore no dosage was added to the wine. The 2011 La Motte MCC is a natural Brut with a fine mousse and fresh character. Crisp apple, roasted nuts and the yeastiness of freshly-baked bread ensure complexity and versatility as a food partner. Ideal with oysters and crayfish, this vintage also works well with pastries, light meals such as salads, carpaccio and fish.

The wine consists of 55% Chardonnay of which 7% was fermented in a new barrel and 45% Pinot Noir of which 12% was fermented and matured in an old 500-litre barrel.

The 2011 La Motte MCC underwent secondary fermentation in the bottle and was left to mature on the lees for 31 months. Bottles were disgorged in December 2013. Only 4500 bottles were released and are exclusively available from the cellar door.

www.la-motte.com 021 876 8000

6 THE FRANSCHHOEK TATLER May 2014

THE BUBBLE

An exceptional entertainment offering for weddings, corporate events and private functions.

info@redcello.co.za082 480 3964

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Private Training StudioWe specialise in Residential & Farm Sales,

Commercial, Rentals, Developments & Financing.

To discuss your needs with a Sales Partner please contact Janice or Kate Hicks:

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Office phone: 021 876 4570

Shop 7, 62 Huguenot Road, Franschhoek(Next to Huguenot Fine Chocolates)

Standard Bank’s master plan for Pearl ValleyA development master plan which recognises the

powerful trend towards a sophisticated community-based country lifestyle will see Pearl Valley Golf & Country Estate reach its full potential under the stewardship of new shareholder Standard Bank.

A clear indication of Standard Bank’s commitment to the success of the project is the appointment of its former head of real estate asset management, Rory Roriston, as managing director of Pearl Valley Golf Estates (Pty) Ltd, developer of the award-wining Pearl Valley Golf & Country Estate, located between Paarl and Franschhoek.

During a 30-year career at Standard Bank Roriston managed the development of multi-billion Rand projects in South Africa and Africa, including the R2.7 billion development of Standard Bank’s head

office in Rosebank, Johannesburg.“Standard Bank performed a full analysis of Pearl

Valley and, after recognising the potential value and substantial upside that the development offers, they have committed to the completion of the Pearl Valley Master Plan,” said Roriston.

“Pearl Valley’s current product offering is already exceptional. The completion of the Master Plan will build on this, thus creating a viable and sustainable estate that provides a high quality living experience for its occupants as well as sound investment returns.”

In line with Pearl Valley’s ongoing dedication to enhancement, future plans include the possible expansion and upgrade offacilities like the gym, spa and equestrian centre. New developments on the estate may include a hotel and residences that

are priced to suit different lifestyles, thus enabling more home owners to realise their dreams of secure country living.

The current development phase at Pearl Valley offers several real estate investment options, including the purchase of vacant land directly from the developer, or the purchase of an existing home from either the developer or a re-sale.

The numerous existing amenities on the estate provide a self-contained country lifestyle experience combined with the peace of mind granted by state-of-the-art 24-hour security. With an award-winning Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course, popular Club House, excellent golf practice facilities, spa, gym, equestrian centre, tennis courts, swimming pools, children’s play areas, petanque courts, hiking, running

and cycling trails, Pearl Valley Golf & Country Estate is an outstanding destination for residents and visitors to safely live, play and relax, while offering prospective property buyers the opportunity to find exceptional value in the Cape Winelands.

Cape of Good Hope Altima Sauvignon Blanc 2013 shines at Top 100

The Cape of Good Hope Altima Sauvignon Blanc 2013, from the Anthonij Rupert Wyne portfolio, was selected as one of the Top 100 Wines in South Africa, anounced at a gala event on 10 April. Top 100 SA Wines is recognised as one of the leading fine wine competitions. The competition has proved to be extremely useful for winning vineyards, helping them to secure a larger and growing share of sales and brand awareness, both locally and internationally.

The competition once again saw record entries this year with 491 of the country’s top wines entered. The wines were judged by an esteem panel, chaired by Tim Atkin MW. He was joined on the judging panel by Greg Sherwood MW, Jamie Goode, Jenny Ratcliffe-Wright CWM, Justin Knock MW, Richard Kershaw MW and tasting director Higgo Jacobs. The Altima Sauvignon Blanc was one of six white wines in its category awarded the prestigious title.

Already an award-winning wine, having earned a spot as one of the Top 10 wines in the 2013 FNB Sauvignon Top 10 Wines Competition, it forms part of a range which comprises terroir-specific wines created in recognition of South Africa’s 350-year-old vinous heritage. The Altima vineyard is situated in a pristine valley north of Villiersdorp and is surrounded by a steep mountain range that rises

1km from the valley floor. During the winter months these mountains are typically covered with snow and, coupled with the elevation of 600m to 700m, equates to a very cool climate. This unique terroir produces wines with a high natural acidity and upfront aromas. The vineyards produce an intense Sauvignon Blanc with a fresh expression of passion fruit, citrus and tropical flavours.

Winemaker Dawie Botha describes this wine as displaying appealing tropical fig and pear aromas with granadilla and lemon zest, adding brightness and vivacity, with exquisite ripe tropical flavours in the mouth. Fig, gooseberry, granadilla and lemon zest flavours come though beautifully. A vibrant and lively wine with well integrated acidity, the palate is textured and round with good mouth feel, allowing the wine to finish on a light, dry flinty note.

Available from the farm only, the Cape of Good Hope Altima Sauvignon Blanc 2013 at R95.00 per bottle, is the perfect wine to enjoy, on its own or partnered with foods such as Scallop ceviche and an avocado and tomato dressing, Sushi, sticky pork ribs with lime, chilli and ginger, baked Chevre with salad greens or succulent sautéed prawns served with grilled lemon and a toasted sesame seed dressing

For more information visit www.rupertwines.com or contact the farm on 021 874 9041.

Fresh look for Lookout range

Leopard’s Leap, known for offering accessible wines as part of an everyday quality lifestyle, has given their LOOKOUT range a brand new look and feel.

In addition to the new label design a few consumer-friendly tweaks to the style of the wine now ensure it a stand-alone personality within the Leopard’s Leap brand.

The contemporary label is crisp and white and has a strong identity featuring Leopard’s Leap’s landmark leopard sculpture. The style of the four wines stays true to the quality expected of Leopard’s Leap, whether a consumer is enjoying the refreshing white, delightful semi-sweet, charming rosé or mellow red.

Using the power of social media to communicate with its fans in the more than 40 countries where Leopard’s Leap wines can be found, the new LOOKOUT label now extends an invitation to join the conversation with its Twitter handle, @leopardleapwine and unique hash tag, #tasteleopardsleap displayed on the front label. And in line with its accessible character, the back label moves away from intricate wine descriptions and rather gives easy and clear guidance with Tastes like... and Enjoy with... – guiding consumers as to the wine’s taste, ideal food pairings and the perfect occasion to enjoy it at. For example:

LOOKOUT CHENIN BLANC CHARDONNAYTastes like... tropical fruit, pineapple, lime and summerEnjoy with... family and friends, laid-back lunches,

anytime, anywhere!

The LOOKOUT wines can be tasted at Leopard’s Leap Family Vineyards and can be enjoyed as part of the delicious and relaxed Rotisserie lunch offering.

For more information, please contact Liné Smit at 021 876 8002 or info@leopardsleap.co.za

7THE FRANSCHHOEK TATLERMay 2014

CONTACT MARIANKA071 671 8918

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BOOKINGS: 021 876 3310

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I Love you to the moon and back…My oldest daughter’s favourite book is “Guess how

much I love you?” by Sam McBratney. She would have me read it every night if she could. As I leave the room and put the lights out she always quotes the book and shouts, “I love you to the moon and back mom,” waiting in anticipation for me to shout back, “I love you more!”

Nowadays many are quick to say how they love the pizzas at Taki’s or how they love those leather boots at Tsonga. We throw this word around at objects without thinking twice. Do we take the time to use it enough when it comes to our children? I have heard people say that if they show love towards their children they don’t need to say the words, “I love you”. Nonsense! In most cases actions speak louder than words but when it comes to how much you love your children they need a ‘double whammy’, they need to feel it and hear it daily.

The more a child hears these important words the more they believe it. Every time you tell your son or daughter that you love them you are saying much more than that. You are telling them that they are valuable and helping them realise the true value of their lives. You are telling them that they have somebody they

can trust, someone who will always have their best interest in mind. Children who know they are loved and hear it often tend to be more confident in life because they know they have somebody cheering for them no matter what, and this in turn gives them courage to be themselves.

Coupled with love is forgiveness. A child that is convinced that they are loved knows that they are allowed to make mistakes and will be given a chance to correct them. If you feed your child these three words every day they are more likely to extend love to others and treat others the way they have been treated. Your aim as a parent should be to say “I love you” so often that your children start to respond by sighing and saying, “I know, mom!” or “You always say that” And once you get that response, keep saying it.

Jenny Karsen, The Bumble Bee Play School

Mad MacanPorsche’s all new Macan will inevitably be called

into question. Is it a real Porsche? Well, as Porsche suit Christo Ekberg put it at the Emirates launch; “We wouldn’t sell it if it were not a proper Porsche sportscar.”

They say two thirds of the Macan is ‘all Porsche’ - styling certainly takes a giant leap from its Audi Q5 sibling and interior trim, engines and suspension are also unique. And Mr. Ekberg promises us that Macan is a ‘game changer’...

Porsche also claims Macan can match the best off-road – and that much we experienced in the desert – but more importantly, is it a sports car? Sure it is, as a 300km thrash into the desert proved. Both biturbo V6 Macans we drove made a suitably gravelly six-pot growl immediately identifiable as a Porsche and besides rather dull steering, handling is

simply stunning for an SUV, especially with Sport Plus engaged.

Macan comes in the S diesel (at R862K) and the 250kW Petrol S (at R873K) and the seismic 290kW R1.2-million Turbo – good for a 4.6 sec 0-100 dash, all with 7-speed DPK transmissions.

8 THE FRANSCHHOEK TATLER May 2014

Tatler Motoring

The new Audi A4 allroad quattro®.Now available at Audi Centre Anytown.123 Street Name, Surburb. Tel: 000 000 0000

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Tatler Motoring is prepared by Michele Lupini – find much more of Michele’s work in his AutoWeek newspaper on sale countrywide, and at PnP and BP in Franschhoek.

And meanwhile…Peugeot was one of the stars of the Beijing

Show when it pulled the wraps off the attractive Exalt Concept. Powered by a 253kW Hybrid4 system, pairing a 1.6-litre petrol engine with an electric motor, the best bit was its ‘raw steel’ look.

One can only hope that Chevrolet will come to its senses and introduce a right-hand drive version of the sensational Corvette Stingray Z06 convertible with its 466kW 861Nm supercharged 6.2-litre V8 for maximum wind in the hair madness.

GLA Shows ClassIn a separate bid to steal a slice of the booming

entry-level SUV market, we also drove the Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class – basically a CLA with a tad more ground clearance and all the requisite bells and whistles to make it into a pint-sized SUV. Funkily styled, we can’t quite say that it will ever match the desert storming G-wagen, but GLA does offer a taller driving position, a bit more room inside and a five-car range starting at R308K for the GLA 200 and topping off at R718K for the mad GLA 45 AMG. No, it is no mud-plugging monster but Merc may just be onto something with this chic and stylish mom’s taxi…

9THE FRANSCHHOEK TATLERMay 2014

Natie FerreiraGardening in April

Frankie BrooksPlant of the Month

Total Storage 74.2%

This Time Last Year

45.2% - 70.5%

JanuaryFebruaryMarchAprilMayJuneJulyAugustSeptemberOctoberNovemberDecember

Rainfall Figures

mm/year mm/month Dam Levels

Measured at La Cotte/Nerina Street for periods indicated

2002

2003

2004

2005

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

1100

824

709

916

884

1153

1217

978

740

830

1079

1471

695

76

6974

150

2014

1136208388

24613940913161

2425

114767

150238484623

10321163122414661471

2013AccumulativeMonthAccumulativeMonth

As at 14 April 2014

Steenbras UpperSteenbras LowerWemmershoekVoëlvleiTheewaterskloofBerg River Dam

86.2%51.2%66.1%62.5%75.9%89.6%

It is with pleasure that we inform everyone in town that the Franschhoek Bowling Club has gained 27 new social members who are interested in starting to play bowls. We have already had one lovely social evening. It also seems we will be playing more often in the evenings, which should encourage local people who work during the day to join us for a relaxing evening at the bowling club. From the second week in May we

hope to have a social evening every Wednesday and Friday evening. Pop around and come and see what is going on at the club.

The clubhouse is also available to let as a venue – with or without bowls. Catering can be done by the club, or by private arrangement. The Boule rink is also available.

For any further information please contact Alta Malherbe on 021 876 3179 or Pietie le Roux on 082 920 1932.

Food for ThoughtThe Bhabhathane team, together with The LunchBox

Fund and Sizani Foods, will soon conclude a two-month-plus pilot feeding programme involving 200 of Franschhoek’s most impoverished preschoolers, and 40 more who are characterised as being economically ‘better off ’. The decision to trial a feeding programme came as a result of the heads of the various Early Childhood Development Centres (ECDs) indicating that poor nutrition negatively affects the overall development of those in their schools.

The pilot involves feeding each of the children one nutritionally balanced meal, supplying at least 50% of their daily dietary requirements, prepared from scratch at their respective crèches and playschools. All meal ingredients are supplied by the Sizani Foods company, according to dietetically sound principles following a four menu rotation, and are paid for through a generous sponsorship from The LunchBox Fund.

The nature of the ingredients used is such that they form a sound base on which to build a complete feeding programme, and thus complement existing efforts undertaken by local restaurants and food suppliers who would like to supplement the children’s meals, rather than attempt to fully manage their nutrition. The LunchBox Fund has undertaken to raise funds to

allow as many as 700 currently eligible children to be fed this year, and in years to come, for every day that they are at school. The long-term aim is to ensure that every preschool child in the village is afforded the same opportunity.

To date the response from the children and the ECD practitioners has been overwhelmingly positive, and it is anticipated that a widespread roll-out of the programme will ensure that many more children remain in class than in the past. The heights and weights of all children fed through the programme are recorded monthly and their progress evaluated regularly to ensure that the anticipated benefits are in fact realised.

There is a need for cooking pots and large spoons, as well as plastic bowls, cups and spoons for the children, and aprons and hairnets for each ECD - or money to purchase them - should local residents or businesses be interested in supporting the programme. The LunchBox Fund will also launch its own local fundraising initiative (called Feedie) shortly, with money raised locally going towards feeding the 700 children.

For more information about the feeding programme, contact Brett Garner at brett@fisp.co.za, or Alastair Wood at alastair.g.wood@gmail.com regarding Bhabhathane.

Farm Dialogue NewsBetween the bad news that the ANC is contemplating

legislation to force commercial farmers to divide their farms on a 50/50 basis with the workers, and the good news that the Boland Farm Workers Forum has been launched officially, the Franschhoek Farm Dialogue continues its good work steadily. Better health provision for farm workers is an ongoing concern, and a new

relationship has been formed with Sister Valencia Keet of the Stellenbosch HAST project. This will ensure that women will be able to undergo PAP smears, and men can be circumcised in the new anti-AIDS drive on farms. In addition regular information sessions will be held on the early detection of TB, STS and HIV AIDS symptoms. These on-location events circumvent time-consuming and costly visits by workers to the few clinics in the valley.

A multi-faceted audit has also been launched, in cooperation with the Landbouvereniging, to determine how many farm workers there are in the valley, how many children of farm workers qualify for FET courses and how many farm workers are eligible for housing allocations in the various new housing developments.

John van Zyl

The ‘Life Straw’ is an essential part of a Rotary project to provide clean drinking water to those in need. Waterborne disease robs adults of the opportunity to work and students the chance to go to school; it kills more children than HIV/Aids, TB and malaria combined. The

Life Straw filter was introduced at a ‘Dutch Lunch’ held at Le Manoir de Brendel on 22 March. R40 000 was raised by auction to support Rotary’s End Polio Now and Clear Water projects.

For more information on Rotary in the valley please contact Mark Tanner on 082 773 9217.

10 THE FRANSCHHOEK TATLER May 2014

Franschhoek Bowls Club

Mark Tanner

Alta Malherbe

Rotary News

Hospice News

Batho’s Place thanks volunteersOn 29 March Batho’s Place in Langrug township

awarded Certificates of Appreciation to volunteers and donors who have assisted the Batho’s Place soup kitchen.

Batho’s Place manager, David Molorane, said that since he started the soup kitchen in 2010 he has come to expect at least 350 children every time they’re open.

Molorane singled out two donors for special mention. Adrian Kinsey Quick is 12 years old and a learner at Bridge House School. As part of a school project he raised enough money to provide a meal to more than 400 children.

Sophie Day, from Pearl Valley, is only 10 years old. When it was her birthday she asked her parents not to buy her birthday gifts and instead buy ingredients for the soup kitchen. More than 350 children were fed because of her gesture.

With winter approaching Molorane asked the public to once again step up their support in this time of

greatest need. Donations of food, second hand clothing and blankets are particularly welcome.

The full list of people and organisations that received certificates is: Phumla Tholwana, Amanda Mbhele, Lusina Nazo, Nozuko Nkushubane, Keneilwe Dikotsi, Nokhwezi Mendela, Anathi Mendela, Asavela Ngaleka, Nandipha Ngwane, Nolubabalo Ngwane, Zoleka Ngwane, Khungeka Mirriam Poni, Siphumle Mgogo, Lelethu Ngede, Zuzeka Sikhephe, Hannah Abro Day, Adrian Kinsey Quick, Serame Andrew Molorane, Lebohang Sekotoloane, Thabo Motsamai, Mthutuzeli Elias Pani, Zukile Mhlola, Dithakong Mosaole, Franschhoek Sinothando Arts & Culture, Lukhanyiso Brass Band, Sophie Day, Mia Winter, Emma Wainwright, Sophie Wainwright, Georgia Kinsey Quick and Ella Kinsey Quick.

David Molorane can be contacted on 082 0908 660 or bathotours@gmail.com

Anglican Church fundraiser

St George’s Church Fund Raising Committee meets to consolidate their plans for a fund raising dinner to be

held in the Groendal Community Hall on Friday, 30 May. Pictured from left to right: Joan Japhtha, Wendy

Pickstone, Florence Philips and Megan Ruiters.

Mont Rochelle Natuurreservaat-NuusBesoek gerus MRNR se webtuiste www.

montrochellehiking.co.zaHuidige permit-pryse is van krag tot 30 Junie 2014.Vanaf 1 Julie 2014 geld die volgende permit-pryse: DAGPERMIT: R30.00 per volwassene; kinders

onder toesig en onder 16-jaar gratis‘n Dagpermit is geldig vir een dag tussen sonop en

sononder.Koop ‘n dagpermit in Franschhoek by Franschhoek

Inligtingskantoor of Hugenote Museumwinkel of Franschhoek Protea Hotel of op die internet – daar is ‘n Webtickets-skakel op die www.montrochellehiking.co.za webwerf.

LET WEL: HOU ALTYD JOU PERMIT

BYDERHAND IN DIE RESERVAATJAARPERMIT: R150.00 per persoon‘n Jaarpermit is geldig vir 12 maande vanaf dag van

aankoop vir ‘n onbepaalde aantal besoeke. ‘n Jaarpermit is net oor die toonbank te koop. ROETEKAART: R15.00‘n Uiters nuttige volkleur kaart met beskrywings van

al die staproetes en ander inligting. SPESIALE PERMITTE: Skoolgroepe, kerkgroepe

en gemeenskapsgroepe kan in aanmerking kom vir ‘n gratis eenmalige toegangspermit per jaar. Navorsers kan aansoek doen om ‘n gratis navorsingspermit. Kontak die Franschhoek Inligtingkantoor (021-876-2861) vir besonderhede.

Under-12 cricket trophy shared

What is education if not the act or process of educating? But what is education if it does not include the act or process of exercise?

From 3 February to Wednesday 19 March 2014 the under-12 Schools’ Cricket Tournament has been on the go with the ultimate goal to win the Lynton Lackay trophy. Ten primary schools (Franschhoek, Wes Eind, Dalubuhle, Groendal, Wemmershoek, Bridge House, Pniel, PC Pietersen, Simondium and Klapmuts) participated, playing in two logs with the top two of each log going through to the semi-finals.

Simondium and Klapmuts played the first semi and Franschhoek squared up against Bridge House in the second.

The finals were to take place on Wednesday 19 March, however, as often happens, the weather decided not to co-operate and it poured down on the Tuesday. By the time the game was to start the outfield and pitch was still far too wet to play on. The two coaches then decided to call the game off, and the finalists, Klapmuts and Bridge House, were declared shared winners of the trophy.

Congratulations must go to these two teams; but in talking to the coaches of all ten schools, and seeing

the enthusiasm and enjoyment from all the players, cricket was the ultimate winner.

A huge thank-you to all those who helped to make this, once again, a great success; especially those who so generously supported the Great Googly Charity Auction held in January this year at Rickety Bridge Winery. Without these funds this important aspect of these players’ education would have been lost!

And finally, much appreciation must go to the Groot Drakenstein Games Club and its members for their dedicated input.

Cricket is alive in the valley; viva cricket! Richard von Hoesslin

The two winning teams, Bridge House and Klapmuts, that shared the Lynton Lackay u12 Schools’ Cricket Trophy.

At the top right is Saun Keyser from Bridge House and at the top left is Tim Cyster who umpired all the games.

Bhabhathane News

Colleen Douglas

Thank you to the KUSASA Project for the generous donation of clothing items.

Hospice and the mother of the triplets would like to thank the community for all the items that have been donated, including cots, high chairs, clothing – not only for the babies but also for the mother – and nappies. We are now in need of bigger size, 3-6kgs, nappies please.

Please diarise the following dates:Bumper Book Sale: 12-17 May, refreshments

will be on sale on the 16th and 17th May at Hospice House

Nik Rabinowitz: 26 May, at NG Church Hall. Tickets at R150.00 available at Hospice House.

3 Countries, 3 Courses: 28 June, at Café BonBon

Die blare begin plek-plek verkleur en val van die bome af…maar die somer wil nog nie rus nie. So ook is die personeel van die ACVV volstoom besig om om te sien na die behoeftiges in Franschhoek. Ons verwelkom vir Ronelle Pinard by die ACVV as die nuwe Kantoorbestuurder. Sy het met die finansiële jaareinde by ons aangesluit en is by die diepkant ingegooi. Ronelle het dadelik raak gevat waar sy moes en sommer ook die bietjie ekstra gedoen om alles op datum te kry vir die boekhouers. Intussen funksioneer die ACVV met net een maatskaplikewerker – Mientie Kroukamp – en ‘n hulp maatskaplikewerker – Penny. Ons het ‘n paar aansoeke gekry vir die vakante pos en wag nou vir die aanstelling.

Die ACVV bestuur ‘n sopkombuis drie dae per week in Groendal. Dinsdag en Donderdag word dit by die “Lord’s Acre Mission” aangebied en op ‘n Vrydag bedien ons kos by die ACVV kantoor. Baie dankie aan Le Quatier Français, Pick n Pay en Le Franschhoek Hotel vir hulle daaglikse bydrae tot die sopkombuis. Vrywilligers van die NG Kerk Franschhoek tel die sop, brood en kos by die verskillende punte op en lewer dit dan by die ACVV kantoor af. Auntie Emmie, Auntie Hilda en Oom Pietie is die drie engele wat die kos voorberei en aan die behoeftiges uitdeel by die Lord’s Acres Mission Kerk. Penny werk baie hard agter die skerms om alles vlot te laat verloop. As daar nog vrywilligers is wat wil help met die aanry van die kos, kan julle gerus die ACVV kantoor skakel en met

Ronelle praat. Kosskenkings is ook nog welkom – veral vrugte en groente.

Baie dankie aan Franschhoek Biblioteek wat gereeld vir die kinders stories lees en opvoedkundige aktiwiteite aanbied. Ons hande is te min en ons waardeer alle hulp van die gemeenskap.

We recently welcomed Ronelle Pinard as our new Office Manager. We would like to thank Le Quartier Français, Le Franschhoek Hotel and Pick n Pay for the food donations to the soup kitchen. Volunteers are always welcome to help with the delivery of the food and donations of fruit and vegetables are always needed. Many thanks to Franschhoek Library for reading to the children and the educational activities that keep the children occupied on a Friday morning.

Wees dankbaar, want ander het minder. Tel: 021 876 2670

11THE FRANSCHHOEK TATLERMay 2014

LettersSiegfried Schäfer

Editor’s Letter

FRANSCHHOEK WINE VALLEY NEWS

info@franschhoektatler.co.za

Franschhoek Tatler Tel 021 876 3460 Email info@franschhoektatler.co.za Tatler Online www.franschhoektatler.co.zaDeadlines - June 2014 Issue - Ad Bookings: 13 May 2014 Artwork: 15 May 2014 Editorial: 13 May 2014

ACVV FranschhoekRiana Pretorius

Crime compromises tourism industryDear Captain MitiAs the owners of a four star guest house on a

Franschhoek farm we are writing this letter to you as the head of the SAPS in Franschhoek to appeal for your help regarding the growing number of crime incidents at our guest house by the same set of perpetrators over a period of three years.

Since the first break-in at our guest house in March 2011, we have suffered no fewer than ten incidents of theft and break-ins at our guest house during the past three years. In every instance the same perpetrator or gang of perpetrators were identified and apprehended. We even know some of these perpetrators by name and we also knew where they stayed before they were removed from a house on the land adjacent to our farm.

On Friday night, 21 March 2014, we suffered the tenth break-in by the same gang. It seems that the guest cottage on our farm is being watched every night to see if the guests remember to immediately activate the outside alarm after returning home from dinner. In the 45 minutes between the arrival of the one set of guests occupying our cottage and the arrival of the second set of guests sharing the cottage, during which the time the alarm was not activated, the cottage was forcibly entered through the kitchen door and possessions of a guest to the value of almost R20 000 were stolen.

A tracker device on the guest’s iPad led the police, escorted by our guest house manager, to the house where the perpetrators were found along with the stolen iPad. After returning home, the guest informed the police that more items were stolen than was initially evident. When the police were asked to return to the home of the perpetrators to collect the other

stolen items, we were told that it will not be possible as the perpetrators also have rights and the police cannot appear at their home without prior notice or a search warrant. By the time the police arrived at the home of the perpetrators at 09h00 the next day, all the stolen goods had been removed.

However, as painful as this incident has been for us as owners of a guest house and as traumatic as it has been for our guests, my appeal to you is about more than just this incident. The reason for my letter is to try to establish why the same criminals are constantly apprehended, jailed and then given bail or freed… just to repeat the same kind of crime and to be once again put behind bars. The cycle has now been repeating itself in the same way over the past three years.

We would like to know what is required to ensure that these criminals are kept behind bars. As the recipient of their criminal activities, I cannot help but wonder why they are constantly given bail, being excused and set free to repeat the same crimes and in the process seriously compromising the tourist industry in Franschhoek. An industry that provides income and that is certainly one of the biggest sources of employment to our local people.

Please let us as owners of guest houses in the valley know how we can further support and assist you as the SAPS in the fight against crime. We are certainly doing our best in this regard. Not only do we immediately report the crimes, give you the clues, lead you to the perpetrators and identify the stolen goods – we are also willing to appear in court.

Yet it all seems to no avail…as the same criminals keep appearing, harassing and scaring our guests, illegally entering our premises, stealing our goods…

Concerned guest house owner

Dear Readers,How quickly the year has raced by – we’re almost

halfway! May happens to be one of my favourite months in

Franschhoek; in no small part because it’s when the Franschhoek Literary Festival takes place. I just love the village being abuzz with the talk of erudite folk! The cooler weather contributes to my good humour too. I have to confess that if I could afford it I’d probably be a reverse-swallow and spend the southern summer in a cooler place…

Last month I was one of, unfortunately, only a handful of people in a meeting with Economic Development & Tourism MEC, Alan Winde. A number of issues were raised – mostly of a municipal nature. What was striking though was that there clearly was no shared ‘vision’ for Franschhoek among those in the room. Even those with tourism businesses didn’t fully agree among themselves.

Certainly there are organisations and individuals in the valley that have their own visions that may include or impact on how the valley could/should look in the future. These aren’t public documents though and unless shared are not of much use in arriving at a vision for the valley. There are also any number of official planning documents that to some extent set out a vision for a future Franschhoek. One of the more important ones is the municipality’s Spatial Development Framework (SDF). Such public documents are supposedly compiled with public participation, but I bet that most people reading this have never heard of an SDF. Not really surprising when one takes into account the fact that only one person knew about and attended the public meeting where the latest SDF’s compilers were supposed to get inputs from the public. So much for the National Development Plan’s goal of Inclusive Planning!

In the Western Cape a number of institutions, including Provincial Government, the City of Cape Town,

academic and commercial organisations, have recently come up with ONECape2040 – a vision for the province in 2040. According to this document:

“We need to be a society that is:Highly skilled – as the basis for both economic

competitiveness as well as social progress;Innovation-driven – to solve our challenges and to

ensure our economic future in a knowledge era;Resource-efficient - to mitigate environmental and

regulatory risk and seize the opportunities of a post-carbon future;

Connected – to each other and to the world;High opportunity – as a product of an enabling

physical, services and regulatory environment geared to quality living and enterprise.

Collaborative – as a key to achieving the required social, economic and environmental impact required.”

This is summarised as: “Our vision for 2040: A highly-skilled, innovation-driven, resource-efficient, connected, high opportunity and collaborative society.”

The advantage that this document has is that its compilers have the ability to effect the realisation of the vision.

Suppose however that by some broadly-consultative process we arrived at a vision for Franschhoek, who is going to implement that? And what about Stellenbosch Municipality’s vision? (The Innovation Capital of South Africa) Is that something we in Franschhoek can identify with? Can one identify with, promote and work towards a vision one wasn’t consulted on? With difficulty, I’d say.

It won’t be easy, but I do think there’s merit in exploring a vision for the Franschhoek Valley. Why don’t you send the Tatler a letter with what you think should form part of such a vision?

Until next monthPS: Remember if you don’t vote you have no right to

complain!

The Winter Sculpture Fair presented by MasterCard returns to NIROXThe Winter Sculpture Fair presented by MasterCard

will return to the NIROX Sculpture Park near the Cradle of Humankind on 10th and 11 May 2014 where a selection of South Africa’s best contemporary sculpture and Franschhoek’s finest food and wine will be showcased.

Now in its second year, the Fair will offer visitors exquisite food and fine wine produced by 38 of Franschhoek’s most popular restaurants, producers and wineries. Restaurants such as Bread & Wine Vineyard Restaurant, The French Connection and The Kitchen at Holden Manz will be selling freshly prepared, deluxe lunches, and wineries including Haute Cabrière, Môreson, Leopard’s Leap, Vrede en Lust and La Motte, among others, will offer wine and bubbly by the bottle or glass. A selection of Franschhoek cheeses, charcuterie, and chocolates will also be available to purchase, ahead of winter.

“We are really excited to bring back this priceless experience to Gauteng’s food, wine and art lovers,” says Philip Panaino, Division President, MasterCard, South Africa. “This unique event will once again give visitors the opportunity to enjoy some of the country’s finest cuisine, wine and sculpture in a beautiful outdoor setting that is usually not open to the public.”

Situated in a 15 hectare private nature reserve, the highly-acclaimed NIROX Sculpture Park will be home to the ‘NIROX SCULPTURE | WINTER 14’ exhibition curated by Mary-Jane Darroll, and will showcase nearly 100 sculptures by more than 50

artists. Visitors will be able to meander through the park to view the artworks, before picnicking in the countryside with family and friends.

“Local artists, recognised as worldwide leaders in contemporary sculpture such as Marco Cianfanelli and Angus Taylor will once again feature their sculptures, and we’re particularly glad to welcome artists who are returning to South Africa after spending time abroad, including Johan Thom, Aliza Levi and Sean Blem,” says Ross Douglas, Director of Artlogic, the fair organiser.

At the launch of the inaugural Winter Sculpture Fair last year, MasterCard provided funding to the NIROX Foundation to commission a sculpture by a local artist. This piece, Frank van Reenen’s The Giant, will be on display for the first time at the 2014 Fair.

“Through commissions such as this, we support local sculpture talent, and the advancement of South Africa’s reputation in the global contemporary arts arena,” says Panaino.

The 2014 Winter Sculpture Fair is open from 10h00 – 17h00 daily on both 10 and 11 May 2014. Book your tickets online to avoid disappointment, as limited tickets will be available at the door. Tickets cost R100 and are available through www.webtickets.co.za, with a 10% discount if they are purchased using a MasterCard branded card. Children 12 years and under enter free. For more information, visit www.wintersculpturefair.co.za; email info@artlogic.co.za or follow @ArtlogicSA on Twitter.

Gearing up for Open GardensWhile we are enjoying a lovely autumn in

Franschhoek, gardeners all over the valley are already thinking ahead to spring. And with spring comes many’s favourite festival of all, Franschhoek Open Gardens. Ten beautiful private gardens have been selected, including a few old favorites as well as several new additions.

This year the Garden Festival has expanded to include keen gardeners in all parts of the valley including Groendal, local farms and other rural areas. A pot gardening competition, organized by Barbara Gardner and David Mesecki, is underway for 20 “green thumbs.” Thank you to Barbara and John Gardner for donating the pots and to Kaap Agri for the potting soil, compost and eco-pellets. The finished pot gardens will be displayed in front of the town hall over the weekend of October 31 through November 2 with three top prizes awarded for the most creative, abundant designs.

Also in the works… Now that we are approaching cooler weather, plans are once again afoot to start to accumulate plants for the ever-popular plant sale. This is an important part of the Open Gardens Festival weekend. Please, if you have any

plastic pots that you are able to donate, we would be most grateful. Particularly needed are pots of 18 centimeters diameter or larger, but all contributions will be gratefully received. Pots can be dropped off outside 3 Anne Marie Avenue (or call Barbara on 021 876 4262 for collection). Many thanks in advance.

Linda Hightower

Johan Buys, one of 20 pot gardening competitors, proudly displays his handiwork.

Sportdag teen Hoërskool Hexvallei

Hoërskool Franschhoek het op 25 Maart sportdag gehou teen Hoërskool Hexvallei (De Doorns). Al die laer- en hoërskoolspanne het rugby en netbal teen Hexvallei gespeel en skoonskip gemaak. Volgens hulle

afrigters “net nie net die peil van ons sport verbeter nie, maar daar is ook broodnodige diepte. Dit bly maar lekker om te sien hoe die leerders ontwikkel – as spelers, maar ook as individue op elke vlak.“

In die fotos bo is die onder-11 rugby- en onder-16A netbalspanne in aksie.

Probus ClubAlta Malherbe

Franschhoek Probus Club/Klub, Luncheon Meeting – 5 May 2014, 12h30 for 13h00, La Petite Dauphine – Studio / Café Bonbon

Inviting New MembersA Probus Club is a local association of retired or semi-

retired professional or business people, (or others who have had a measure of responsibility in any field of worthy endeavour), who are of good character and are respected in their communities. The Club meets regularly for fellowship and an extension of its member’s interests.

We would like to invite new members to join our club. The joining fee is R50 and membership only R100 per year. In return you will be informed of our monthly meeting where we usually have a speaker. At present our meeting place is in the Studio/Café BonBon at La Petite

Dauphine. Come and join us once a month for a very enjoyable and interesting luncheon. You may come as a visitor for the first month to see what it is all about. All you will have to pay for is your lunch.

For the May meeting the topic of our talk will be “Reach for a Dream”, which should be very interesting.

Those who have not yet paid, please bring along your membership fees for 2014.

Should anyone, who is not a member, want to join us for lunch, please contact Alta Malherbe on 021 876 3179 to reserve a seat. Lunch is at 12h30 for 13h00 in La Petite Dauphine’s Café BonBon or the Studio. We order from a limited menu and each pays their own account. Please bring cash. Members will receive an invite to reply to.

See you there!!

The Power of DreamsDreams may seem like an unlikely topic for an article

related to business.Actually, it is or should be a critical element in the daily

activities of every leader whether in business, o. It should be in the curriculum of every business development programme offered by every institution that purports to promote good leadership and/or entrepreneurship.

If you examine the genesis of almost any significant human activity inevitably you will find that it started with a dream of some individual who was provoked to dream of change by inequity of some kind (Look at what Nelson Mandela did for his dream of a free, united, non-racist, non-sexist South Africa at peace with itself); or a dream of what could be if some way could be found to make life better or easier for many (How about the production line approach to building cars by Henry Ford?); or a dream to build something of significance that results in a game changer of much bigger proportions than originally envisaged (Think about the ramifications of Bill Gates and the Microsoft behemoth).

These three suffice to illustrate just how important it is to dream of a different future.

So often when you speak to leaders it is sad how many of them have visions that stretch very little beyond the month, or quarter or year.

At the political level politicians worry only about their term of office and give very little thought to the long-term consequences of their decisions and actions.

In the boardrooms companies it is little better because of the pressure of quarterly reports, annual general meetings and the need to produce ever-improving and unrelenting returns to shareholders.

In the non-profit sector the individuals driving these organisations are often energised by a passion for their cause with little thought to the long term sustainability of their enterprise.

None of these are, in and of themselves, necessarily bad. However none of them reflect the importance of dreaming big and dreaming long.

The power of dreams have two important requirements to be deemed to be successful: The dreams must have a long term base; and they have to be effectively and passionately communicated. Both of these requirements were most potently fulfilled in Dr Martin Luther King’s famous “I have a dream” speech.

How does one begin effective dreaming?Firstly, it is important to put all current constraints out

of the picture.So once you have created a clean sheet you need

to imagine what would be possible and even what may on the surface appear to be the impossible; what would the ideal or perfect situation be in the long term? Long term is well beyond five years. A big dream needs to time to be realised. Extending your thinking beyond the normal time horizon enables you to imagine a new picture; not just a variant of the current picture; one not encumbered by the current problems, constraints and difficulties.

It is then essential to paint this picture of the future in vivid colours; colours that stir the blood and with sound effects that set the blood charging.

Once this is done then the job is to plan back from the future and search for the first accessible, achievable steps that make the impossible dream seem excitingly reachable.

It is these dreams of a different better future that will mobilise people to contemplate a new future. All revolutions, all new products, all new ideas have started this way.

What can you do that makes a difference? It will start with a dream…..tony@siroccostrategy.com

2014 Budget ProposalsThe main tax proposals announced by the Minister

of Finance in his budget speech for 2014 include the following:

Adjustments to tax tables relating to retirement lump-sum payments.

Tax breaks to encourage household saving. Measures to encourage small enterprise development. Clarity on valuation of company cars for fringe-benefit

tax purposes. An increase of 12c/litre in fuel levy and an increase of

8c/litre on the Road Accident Fund levy. The effective date for both levies is 2 April 2014.

Reforms to tax treatment of the risk business of long-term insurers.

Amending rules for VAT input tax to combat gold smuggling.

Measures to address acid mine drainage.

Postponement of carbon tax to 2016 in order to ensure its alignment with desired emission-reduction outcomes identified by the Department of Environmental Affairs.

INDIVIDUALS:Personal Income TaxThe 2014 Budget proposes direct personal income tax

relief to individuals amounting to R9.25 billion. The tax threshold for individuals younger than 65 will be R70 700, for individuals 65 years and older, but younger than 75 it will be R110 200 and for individuals 75 years and older will be R123 350.

Exemption for Interest & Dividend Income The annual exemption on interest earned for individuals

younger than 65 years is R23 800 and the exemption for individuals 65 years and older is R34 500.

Medical Expenses Monthly medical tax credits for medical aid contributions

from 1 March 2014: R257 for the taxpayer and first dependant, and R172 for each additional dependant Additional medical tax credits are available for excess

contributions and qualifying medical expenses (see the discussion under deduction below for further detail).

Tax-preferred Savings Accounts Tax-preferred savings accounts (including bank

deposits, collective investment schemes, exchange-traded funds and retail savings bonds) are to be introduced over

the next 12 months. In terms of this, tax exemptions for interest, dividends and capital gains will be granted for investments with an initial annual contribution limit of R30 000 and a lifetime contribution limit of R500 000.

Retirement Savings Reforms The methodology for calculating the formula to

determine the contribution amount for defined benefit plans will be detailed by way of regulation in 2014. The policy approach for the timing of accrual of retirement fund benefits will be reviewed.

Retirement Fund Lump-Sum Tax Tables Lump sum payments from retirement funds are taxed

using specific tax tables. The rates applicable are to be adjusted to limit instances where lower income taxpayers are required to pay tax on lump sums even though

they did not benefit from a deduction for contributions to the retirement fund. In effect, the first R500 000 of a retirement lump sum payable will be tax free.

Company Car Fringe Benefits

Use of a company car by an employee is a taxable fringe benefit based on the

market value of the vehicle. However, car manufacturers that import vehicles calculate the fringe benefit at cost. To align the treatment of company car fringe benefits for all employees (regardless of employer’s business), government proposes that actual retail market value be used in all cases. This will be phased in in over four years. Adjustments are also proposed to treat employees who bear the costs relating to fuel and the upkeep of their company car in a more equitable manner.

Employer Provided Residential AccommodationThe value of employer-provided accommodation is

calculated in terms of a formula with reference to the specific circumstances. With respect to third party rented accommodation, if the actual cost of the accommodation is less than the formula value, the employer may apply for a tax directive to tax the employee on the lower amount. It is proposed that where accommodation is rented from an unconnected third party, the fringe benefit value should be the actual rental cost incurred – therefore no directive will be required. In addition, apportionment will be made available where employees share employer-provided accommodation.

12 THE FRANSCHHOEK TATLER May 2014

Celia McGuinnessFinancial Matters

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Do you have dual Ukrainian – South African citizenship?

Ukraine does not allow dual citizenship, so I only have permanent residence in South Africa.How did you meet

your South African husband, Nelis?

We met in Ukraine. Shofar church, here in Franschhoek, has had strong connections with Ukrainian churches through the years. Nelis was part of the first team that went over to visit the church. I was interpreting for the group and the rest is history!Which languages do you speak? I speak Russian, which is my first language,

Ukrainian, English and Afrikaans.Where did you grow up and study? I grew up in Poltava a 1 250 year old city in central

Ukraine. I then studied at the Wesley Bible School in Kiev.Which of your family members live in

Ukraine and where? I have three brothers and a sister in Kiev and my

mom lives in my home town. She is caring for my grandparents who are in their late 80s. Both my grandparents are WWII veterans. I grew up with them, and it feels like I was raised in the shadow of their experiences. The stories of them living through holocaust in Ukraine, invasion and having to live with the label of “the son of the enemy of the state” are all too real. My grandfather also fought in blockade of Leningrad.Do they feel threatened by the political

situation in any way? It is a difficult question to answer, as the

situation changes from day to day. I am grateful they are not in Crimea. Do any of your family and friends have strong

affiliations with Poland or Russia? I have Polish blood in me and my grandfather lived

in Russia when he was small. Because his father was half-Polish he was repressed and executed as an enemy of the state in the 30s. Many years later my grandfather received a letter of apology from Russian government. But to answer your question, because we come from the central Ukraine, we don’t have a lot to do with either as we are not that close to the borders.

What is the Ukrainian capital, Kiev, like?

Kiev is a beautiful ancient city, a must visit if you can. Because of the proposed EU integration Kiev and other cities have a lot of infrastructure in place like 24hr supermarkets, 7 day a week open banks, new roads etc. It has a special place in my heart being a birthplace of Kievan Rus. If you walk the streets of the old city you feel the history radiating from the

walls of the buildings.What is so special about Ukraine? Ukraine has a quarter of the world’s black soil

(top soil), so it plays a significant role in Eastern European agriculture. It has always been called “the breadbasket of Soviet Union”. Ukraine is the largest of European countries, and is located in geographical centre of Europe. Ukraine is the country with the fourth highest percentage of population with graduate degrees. It is a beautiful country with diversity of steppes, mountains and forests. Crimean climate and scenery are very similar to Cape Peninsula and Franschhoek combined. What are the similarities or differences

between South Africa and Ukraine? Well, approach to time, would be a big difference.

In Africa people seem to be more laid back, while in Europe everything has to be done on time and punctuality is given a great value. Afrikaans people are similar to Ukrainians in their value system. Of course, urban Ukraine has much better infrastructure than SA and the variety of products available is much greater, due to the close proximity to Europe. Rural areas are a different story… Also Southern Hemisphere seasons are all in the “wrong months” – I still get confused sometimes.What do you wish for your home country? I wish them peace and freedom to decide their own

future without outside pressure.What do you like most about Franschhoek? I’ve lived in Franschhoek for so many years that it

is home now. My friends have become my “extended family”. I love the changes of seasons, which you don’t see in Cape Town, as they remind me of my home. I love the scenery as it makes me think of special holidays we had in Crimea when I was a child.

The GoldfinchBy Donna TarttPubl: Little, Brown. 771pagesIt has taken Donna Tartt 11 years to complete The

Goldfinch. Like both her previous books (The Secret History and The Little Friend) this hefty novel tends to bruise the nose when slipping from sleepy fingers late at night. But all of her three books are definitely worth a slight concussion. The Goldfinch takes it place next to novels about growing up like Great Expectations and The Catcher in the Rye.

Although this novel is firmly set in the here and now of terrorism, attacks on civilian targets and the alternative worlds of drug users and traffickers, Dickens is a good place to start describing it. The style is Dickensian, with a huge cast of characters, several interweaving plots, and the panorama of big cities with their colourful populations. Like Pip in Great Expectations, Theo Decker embarks on a difficult path to adulthood, having to overcome obstacles like a lack of money, estranged or absent parents and strange new city environments. Like her Victorian predecessor Donna Tartt is very good at evoking the textures, sounds and colours of cities. In her case New York, Las Vegas and Amsterdam, three cities that could not be more dissimilar. She also creates a marvelous assortment of lowlife and highlife characters that both assist or threaten the young hero.

In Salinger’s Catcher in the Rye Holden Caulfield shares with Theo a sardonic, disillusioned view of life as well as a tendency to idealise and romanticise an attractive, but unattainable young woman.

The plot of The Goldfinch is rich and vibrant and brings together such elements as the beauties of Dutch Golden Age painting, the activities of the Russian drug Mafiosi and the intricacies of antique

furniture restoration (and all the scams associated with it.)

The story begins when the 13-year-old Theo is taken by his adored mother to the Metropolitan Museum of Art to view a favourite painting of hers. This is The Goldfinch, a small masterpiece by Carl Fabricius (which really exists and hangs in the Mauritshuis in The Hague.) A terrorist bomb explodes in the museum, his mother is killed and the terrified boy flees with the painting, which he has retrieved from the rubble. Just before the explosion he exchanges glances with a pretty little red-haired girl, who will become his Holy Grail.

He finds temporary refuge with an eccentric Upper West Side family, but is then claimed by his reprobate

father who had abandoned him many years before. He moves to a desert location outside Las Vegas, too far out for even the pizza joints to deliver. In American terms that is real desolation. Here he goes to school and meets up with Boris, a colourful Artful Dodger type who will become his friend and ultimately his saviour.

This is a novel about fathers and sons, and the good or harmful influence the one can have on the other. It is also a book about remembering and letting go, and the moral choices people are forced to make.

We see Theo return to New York and start a new career under the influence of Hobie, a wise, wizard-like furniture restorer in Greenwich Village to whom he was connected by a victim of the museum explosion. But the

painting that he obsessively guards dominates his life and eventually brings him to Amsterdam where the detective mystery aspect plays itself out.

This is a scarily well-researched, fat, beautifully written page-turner, best read in a sitting position.

*Donna Tartt was awarded the 2014 Pulitzer Prize for Fiction for The Goldfinch.

13THE FRANSCHHOEK TATLERMay 2014

Charlotte van ZylBook Review

Big Screen Magic LIKE OUR PAGE ONVISIT OUR WEBSITEwww.minimaxcinema.co.za

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THE OTHER WOMAN 02 MAY 2014

DIE WINDPOMP 09 MAY 2014

GODZILLA 16 MAY 2014

LEGENDS OF OZ: DOROTHY’S RETURN

23 MAY 2014

X-MEN: DAYS OFFUTURE PAST23 MAY 2014

A MILLION WAYS TO DIE IN THE WEST

30 MAY 2014

Balletomanes on the Bus

On 9 April a group of Franschhoekers boarded the Culture Vulture bus to attend a performance of the ballet ‘Swan Lake’ at the Artscape Opera House. The excited balletomanes toasted the occasion with Graham Beck Brut and tucked into snacks on the bus to keep energy levels up and hunger at bay.

Good seats in the stalls meant that everyone could fully enjoy the wonderful production. Discussions afterwards ranged from the sharing of the Odette/Odile role by two ballerinas (Angela Hansford and Kim Vieira) and the impressive performances of the male leads Prince Siegfried (Daniel Szybowski) and the jester (Revil Yon

demonstrating good elevation). Having the Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Graham Scott, playing the Tchaikovsky score live was a treat.

Edward Arendse again proved a safe pair of hands on the wheel, relieving the group on the bus of travel stress. The mint chocolate squares handed out on the return trip as the bus reached Klapmuts were a sweet conclusion to a lovely evening

If you would like to receive information on future Culture Vulture outings, send your name, email address and cell phone number to editor@franschhoekstyle.co.za.

with Ukrainian Franschhoek resident, Inesa van Rooyen

Inesa van Rooyen, with husband Nelis and children Tanya and Stefan

New Festival Director for FLFAfter eight exciting and fulfilling years as part

of the team that has created the Franschhoek Literary Festival, the past four as Director, I have decided to step down at the end of July and return to fulltime writing.

We have asked Ann Donald to become the new Director, as she has the credentials and vision to take the Festival forward in interesting directions. Ann is an experienced journalist who has worked on a number of leading South African publications and was once Editor of Fairlady. After leaving the media world, she became the originator and owner of Kalk Bay Books with its lively author evenings and launches, and which she sold last year.

We snapped her up at once because of her knowledge of books, publishers and authors, and she has been an invaluable help as Assistant Director and publicist for the past year, having advised us during previous years.

The FLF team is otherwise unchanged; I am not leaving Franschhoek and will be on call to assist if needed.

The FLF Library Fund will continue to focus on upgrading, supplying and staffing school libraries to inspire a new generation to read for pleasure and the ultimate goal of a new community library.

We remain grateful to two excellent sponsors, Porcupine Ridge Wines and the Sunday Times, and the Franschhoek community for continued support and encouragement.

Jenny HobbsFestival Director

14 THE FRANSCHHOEK TATLER May 2014

Casper’s close callEvery dog has its day and

Casper certainly had his lucky day. He was found by Alex Maheri, Matthew Gordon and Collin Yammin in an empty water reservoir while they were cycling in the hills.

Totally emaciated and full of mange he would not have lasted another 24 hours. Inspector Lilly and the SPCA rescued him, where after he spent more than a week being cared for at the Drakenstein Veterinary Clinic’s small animals division. Casper, as he’s been named, has been fostered by Maheri for the past month, but his household already includes four dogs which means Casper is still in need of an always home.

Casper needs a special home, preferably with a female owner, as he is nervous of men. He has a slight limp that has been investigated, but nothing shows up on x-rays. Casper has been neutered and is a quiet, sociable dog, both with humans and other dogs.

Please can someone offer him a home where he can rebuild his trust in humans?

Phone Alex Maheri on 082 385 1977 for further information.

Crippled kittens now clinic catsTwo crippled kittens have found a new

home at the Drakenstein Veterinary Clinic (DVC).

I was shown the two ginger and white kittens while on one of my regular animal feeding expeditions in Mooiwater. They had been taken away from their mother at about five weeks old and are both crippled in one of their front legs. I took them to the DVC small animal hospital where I consulted vet Adi Graiser. In the meantime an e mail was sent around for a special home for the ‘little gentleman’.

Adi said that malnutrition in the womb and lack of proper food after they had been born was the problem. While they can play and climb like all kittens of their age one may have to have a leg amputated at a later stage.

The good news though is that they are going to be kept at Drakenstein Veterinary Clinic as ‘clinic cats’, so on your next visit you will be able to see how Bubble and Squeak as they are now called are doing.

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ie

Jenny Hobbs

ARIES (21 March – 19 April) Venus in Aries and Mars in Libra will give a strong Venusian in�uence, which should be an inspiration towards a creative approach towards relations and �nancial endeavors.TAURUS (20 April – 20 May) With Venus having a strong Martian attitude decisions should be easy and provide encouragement towards ideas of accomplishment. GEMINI (21 May – 20 June) Mercury, the planet of communication, transits through Taurus and can take perceptions into ‘drama’ mode, which has little substance and leaves you wondering.CANCER (21 June – 22 July) The home of the moon will trigger some notions of ignorance and does not satisfy the equilibrium of mental peace. Providing the emotional nourishment regardless, will prove itself the better option.LEO (23 July – 22 August) A deep peace and a tremendous release will come to you when you meet yourself and your loved ones totally without judgment. Love is the holiest force in the universe. VIRGO (23 August – 22 September): Virgo is the constellation of re�nement and mental progress. Virgos should allow intuitive awareness to become more subtle by not over analyzing everything. A good time for wise consultation and spiritual endeavors. LIBRA (23 September – 22 October) Mars in this constellation can easily unbalance the scale of rightness and put the art of diplomacy at a disadvantage – be

careful of forceful obligations. SCORPIO (23 October – 21 November)The survivors in the cosmos will have to protect themselves with patience and simple perseverance. The nervous system is going through a muddy patch. Trust your inherited intuitive knowledge and strength. SAGITTARIUS (22 November – 21 December) Centaurians have the ability to stretch their philosophical wisdom with an open heart and will discover that the call for rightness has many spirits, for you are the expression of unlimited freedom.CAPRICORN (22 December – 19 January) The Saturn ruled asterism and its energy will enter into unpredictable situations and has to face them openly with its natural obligations. A crisis event often explodes the illusions that can anchor strange behavior.AQUARIUS (20 January – 18 February) The water bearer has to realize that nothing is by chance and accept circumstances as they are. Wishes of being someone else or in a di�erent place will create frustrations and stop you from doing what really needs to be done.PISCES (19 February - 20 March) The Neptunian creatures are in their element of heightened forgiveness, the oceans of emotions are the teardrops that exchange and receive peace and happiness. Nothing can hurt you, unless you give it the power to do so.

16 & 21 MayLeopard’s Leap Cooking ClassTheme: Perfecting Pastries. Venue: Leopard’s Leap Family Vineyards. Time: 10h00 – 13h00 (6 May), 18h00 – 22h00 (21 May). Cost: R650 per person.Reservations: 021 876 8002 or cooking@leopardsleap.co.za10 MayLa Motte Classical ConcertAntonio Pompa-Baldi (piano recital)Venue: La Motte Historical Cellar. Time: 19h00. Cost: R170 p.p. Reservations: Angela at 021 876 8000 or concerts@la-motte.co.za16 - 18 MayFranschhoek Literary FestivalA celebration of books and writers in aid of the valley’s libraries. Venue: Various. Time: Various. Cost: Tickets from R60 p.p. per event .Tickets: Book online at webtickets.co.za16 - 18 MayThe Autumn Music WeekendNG Church concerts: MOZART FOR PIANO with Christopher Duigan on 16 May at 19h30, MOZART FLUTE QUARTETS with Liesl Stolz (flute) on 17 May at 11h30, and MOZART FOR THREE on 18 May at 11h30 with pianists Albie van Schalkwyk and Christopher Duigan, and New York-based violinist Joanna Frankel. Tickets for these concerts are available at the door at R100 or at www. webtickets.co.za. Café Bonbon concerts: Grand Soiree – featuring Joanna Frankel and Christopher Duigan – on 17 May at 19h00. (Tickets: R400) BonBon Finale – featuring festival musicians in one festive

performance – on 18 May at 15h30 (Tickets R150). Booking for Café BonBon Tel. 021 876 3936. Visit www.franschhoekclassic.co.za for more.Mondays & ThursdaysIyengar-style yoga classes at Artemis barn, 18h00-19h00. Contact Danielle on 073 388 1404.TuesdaysAlcoholics AnonymousTime 19h00. Venue: NG Church Consistory. Contact 021 867 0983 or 073 125 0188 (Jeffrey)ThursdaysHaute Cabrière Summer SoireesRelax with good food, wine and music. Venue: Haute Cabrière terrace. Time: 17h00 – 19h00 Cost: Snacks & drinks for own account. Reservations: 021  876 3688 or restaurant@cabriere.co.zaFranschhoek Backgammon Club meets All welcome. Own board not required. Venue: Taki’s Place . Time: 19h00 . Info: Graeme Oliver – graeme@ poachedrhino.org or 072 815 8209SaturdaysFranschhoek Farmers’ MarketBreads, olives, ginger beer, pastries, plants, seedlings, breakfasts, coffee, crafts and more. Venue: Dutch Reformed Church Grounds. Time: 09h00 – 14h00Church ServicesFranschhoek Methodist Church Sunday service 09h00 – all welcome. Rev Nuno Vergueiro 021 872 3580 or 082 662 4509. Contact person: 021 876 2510 or 083 287 5756 NG Kerk Franschhoek

Sondagdienste 09h30. Geen aanddiens meer nie. Ds Peet Bester. 021 876 2431. Shofar Christian Church Sunday service 09h00. Pastor Yannis Acavalos 021 876 3348Roman Catholic Church Mass every 2nd Saturday of the month at the Methodist Church, Bagatelle Rd, Fhk. 073 488 6816Trinity Church Franchhoek Sunday 10h00. Fr Gavin Mitchell 083 799 0726.All Services are held at L’Ermitage Hotel Chapel in Franschhoek.Anglican ChurchSt George’s Church, Groot Drakenstein. Sunday Services: Holy Communion and Sunday School 10h00. Rector Fr Joe Humbles – 021 874 1120New Apostolic ChurchLe Roux Weg, FranschhoekSundays 09h00, Wednesdays 19h30Rector: Charles LeibrandtSportFHK Cycling Club Outrides Regular road ride on Saturdays to Stellenbosch and back followed by coffee. (MTBs also welcome). Venue: Meet at BP garage. Time: 06h30. Contact: Paul Barkley 083 302 9096TennisSocial tennis is played at the Franschhoek Tennis Club on Fridays from 08h30 and on Sundays and Public Holidays from 09h00. During June, July and August starting times are 30 mins later. For more information contact the chairman on 021 876 4184.

Guess Where?

Did you get it right last month?

May Calendar

For consultation please write to robert.vedicastrolology@gmail.com or call 073 312 1265

Robert RittelJoytish Vedic Astrology

How well do you know your valley? See if you know where

each month’s photo was taken. In the following month’s Tatler

we’ll give you the answer.

This round cement slab is about the only sign that the building now housing FNB used to be a smithy. The erf’s �rst owners, who took ownership in 1860, were J P Kriel and J S Haumann. The building was probably erected shortly after. The last blacksmith to buy it was C J van Rensburg who bought it in 1942. It was later converted into a residence and then stood empty for many years before being turned into one of Franschhoek’s �rst restau-rants – The Forge. It was converted into a bank (Barclays) in 1984.

15THE FRANSCHHOEK TATLERMay 2014

9 5 4 2 3 1 8 7 67 2 1 8 4 6 5 3 96 3 8 5 7 9 1 4 22 9 6 4 5 3 7 1 83 1 5 7 9 8 6 2 44 8 7 6 1 2 3 9 58 7 2 1 6 4 9 5 35 6 9 3 2 7 4 8 11 4 3 9 8 5 2 6 7

Polfyntjies appeared to be a bit of a tongue twister for some of the tourists visiting Franschhoek as well as for some of the residents. Its new owners, Anne and Dan, have therefore changed the name to 58 on Main.

Having visited Franschhoek during the summer months for the past 6 years the beauty and magic of the valley finally proved more attractive than the UK for Anne and Dan. However, they weren’t prepared to completely drop their previously busy lives when they arrived in January 2004 and were attracted to the challenge of a new venture.

“The ambience of the new restaurant will be very different” said Dan. “We want 58 on Main to become Franschhoek’s fun eating place with music and themed

evenings. As well as changing the name we’ve also changed the menu. Apart from our wonderful South African cuisine we will also be serving fabulous new pancakes with exciting and interesting fillings. These will be extremely good value for money. There will be a family carvery on Sundays and children are very welcome. Diners can sit in the pretty garden behind the house where there is plenty of shade and enjoy the wonderful vineyard views. For those wet weather or cold winter days, we have the restaurant area inside which will be warmed by a roaring log fire. There is plenty of safe parking on the premises. Anne and I really look forward to meeting the residents of Franschhoek at 58 on Main. We know they will enjoy the new ambience of an old restaurant.”

58 on Main replaces Polfyntjies May 2004

16 May 2014

Cell: 083 252 1054

Fax: 021 876 3501

E-mail: wwt@iafrica.com

REDUCE RE-USE

RECYCLE

Aansoeke word ingewag vir ‘n gekwalifiseerde MAATSKAPLIKE WERKER. Geskikte kandidate moet aan die volgende vereistes voldoen: • Registrasie by SA Raad vir Maatskaplike Diensberoepe. • Kandidaat moet bereid wees om al drie metodes van maatskaplike werk toe te pas. • Wettige kode 08 rybewys • Engels en Afrikaans magtig. • Xhosa magtig is ‘n sterk aanbeveling. Salaris volgens vasgestelde ACVV skaal. Sluitingsdatum: 15 Februarie 2014. Diensaanvaarding: So spoedig moontlik. Volledige CV/navrae kan gerig word aan: Die Voorsitter, ACVV Franschhoek, Posbus 216, Franschhoek, 7690. Tel.: 021 - 876 2670, Faks: 021 - 876 2688, E-pos : acvv@mweb.co.za

WILD AFRICAN ADVENTURE by Duncan de Waal – exciting story for 9-14 year olds. R120 at The Treasure House, 3 Bordeaux Street, 021 876 2167.KITTENS AND DOGS looking for homes. Call Annette 021 876 3155ACCOMMODATION WANTED: Dutch internet tour operator is looking for houses/cottages and/or apartments and/or rooms to let in Franschhoek for its Dutch staff and holiday makers. Accommodation is needed for a family with two young children and a single lady (with 2 small dogs) for a short term (3 months). The firm also has yearly requests for holiday homes from clients and several individual staff members. All accommodation should preferably be within walking distance of the village centre. Contact: cstevens@zuidafrikaspecialist.nlBOOK BINDING AND BOOK REPAIRS. John Hicks 082 361 0900 or john@thearmchair explorer.co.zaJOB WANTED 1: George Mandala is looking for a job as a Chef, Housekeeper or Pizza maker. He has 10 years’ experience. Contact him on 074 929 8562.EXCESS BOOKS? Shelves creaking, moving house or just thinning out your collection? Contact John Hicks. 021 876 4129FRENCH TUTOR: Do you want to speak French? Are you planning a holiday in France? Have you got French clients? An experienced French Tutor is now available in Franschhoek to help you ‘parlez Français’. Call Jean-Jacques on 078 757 2523.FRANSCHHOEK LOCAL ACCREDITED SATELLITE TV AND AUDIO INSTALLATIONS. Satellite call-outs, repairs and set-ups. We supply and custom install according to your requirements. For a great deal please call 073 238 1875JOB WANTED 2: Bahart Maxwell is looking for a job as a Housekeeper or Domestic worker. She has 5 years’ experience. Contact her on 078 982 9458 or 084 639 8367.LOOKING FOR THAT SPECIAL BOOK and can’t find it? Call John at the Armchair Explorer , we will source it for you. Cell: 082 361 0090

Affordable smart accomodation for the discerning traveller.

Self-catering.

10 Calais Street out of Reservoir Street East

1,3km from the Post Office.

021 876 2659

or 072 712 7784

TOOL & EQUIPMENT HIREBrush Cutters, Lawn Mowers,

Chain Saws, Concrete Mixers, Drills, Compressors, Pumps, Jackhammers

SERVICING & REPAIR Light Industrial Equipment

RUBBLE & REFUSE REMOVAL

DELIVERIES

LIGHT DOMESTIC MOVES

PORTABLE LOOS

CLEANING of businesses and other premises

FRANSCHHOEK’S

FOR BUILDING • GARDENING • RENOVATINGSITUATED BEHIND BP GARAGE • WE SPECIALISE IN:

always at your service

072 378 1916 or 021 876 4123Email: onhireo@gmail.com

Hennie Nel 082 356 0226 | franschhoekit@vodamail.co.za

FRANSCHHOEK

17May 2014

18 THE FRANSCHHOEK TATLER May 2014

A taste of France and splendid capital growth for La Petite Provence

If you have always dreamt of owning a wine farm, but have neither the budget nor time or inclination to be a wine farmer, then a home in a wine estate could be the ideal option. Globally, residential vineyard estates are drawing excellent buyer interest, says Seeff Franschhoek agent, Melina Visser. For some, it is the ideal weekend retreat while others opt for a quiet country residence, yet still close to and able to commute to a large metropolitan area such as Cape Town.

Many estates, especially those in a high profile village such as Franschhoek, come with a price tag in the upper millions, probably out of range of most ordinary buyers. Visser says that an estate such as La Petite Provence still offers affordability and diversity with apartments that start at just over R1 million and free hold homes upwards of around R2,8 million.

La Petite Provence was once part of the historic La Provence wine farm and traces its origins back to the 17th century French Huguenot settlers. The residential development is a product of the new millennium, construction having started in 2000. New vines were planted and over the past few years it has been lovingly nurtured into producing high quality grapes which are now being processed into superior New World wines.

The 36-acre residential estate consists of 166 properties, 94 of which are free hold and 72 sectional title apartments. The architectural styles are inspired by the French Provençal style and the homes are modern, says Visser. Street names include Cabernet, Merlot and Pinotage while the apartment complex is named Shiraz. The development is secure with controlled access and residents enjoy stunning mountain and vineyard views. With open areas where home owners can stroll or cycle and enjoy clean and fresh air, the lifestyle is quite enviable, says Visser.

There are still a few vacant plots up for grabs, priced

at R1,2 million for around 520sqm. Apartment prices range from around R1,25 million to R1,4 million for a two-bedroomed unit with a wood-burning fireplace in the living room. Free hold house prices range from around R2,8 million for a two-bedroomed cottage on a 455sqm plot to around R3,7 million for a lovely double-storey home with four bedroom suites on a plot of 536sqm. Levies vary according to property purchased.

In the last year, there has been renewed interest in homes here with around 20 property transactions to the value of just over R35,6 million compared to 14 sales worth just over R21 million in 2012. The investment potential is illustrated by the capital growth in the estate, says Visser. When it launched about 10 years ago, the average price for a two-bedroomed apartment was just R300,000. It has now almost tripled to around R1,1 million. Free hold house prices have increased from around R2,3 million to R3,2 million on average.

For more information, contact Seeff Franschhoek on 021 876 4592 or visit www.seeff.com

Sentiment, not interest rates, the prime driver of residential property sales

The commonly held view that interest rates are a prime factor influencing the sale of residential property in South Africa is very far from true, says Wayne Albutt, Regional Sales Manager for the Rawson Property Group in the Western Cape.

“The more one studies the property market,” said Albutt, “the more it becomes clear that what drives the market is sentiment. It is this that leads people to decide whether to buy – and at the moment sentiment in the South African residential sector is very bullish indeed.”

This, he said, is evidenced by the fact that most estate agents in the Western Cape saw sales rise significantly in 2013 – with the bulk of the increases being in the second half of that year – which, said Albutt, augers well for sales in 2014. The Rawson Property Group’s Western Cape franchises, for the record, saw sales rise by 43% in 2013 and, although this was undoubtedly a phenomenal achievement, many other estate agencies have reported sales increases of 20% plus.

Asked to explain what it is that is creating this very bullish sentiment, Albutt said that in his view it emanates from the banks, whose sophisticated media activity is designed to improve the amount of ‘safe’ money being loaned on bonds.

“By safe,” he said, “I mean bonds on which the deposits asked are large – often in the region of 20%.”

Those resisting the bullish trend and continuing

to rent, said Albutt, often do so on the grounds that they cannot afford to buy. While this may be true in view of the big deposits and the many expensive extra costs that accompany a purchase, in many cases an ego element comes into play here: the buyer prefers the status of a smarter rented property to that of a more humble home.

Bullish conditions, added Albutt, can be dangerous, especially if, as seems likely now, they continue for a good long time, i.e. at least until the end of 2014, because a new influx of enthusiastic buyers, he said, as in previous bullish eras, may find themselves unable to cope with interest rates if and when they arise.

“One has to recognise,” he said, “that bonds are repayable over a very long period of time (often 20 to 30 years) and during that period interest rates, it can be predicted with absolute confidence, will fluctuate as they have always done in the past. While we in the real estate sector welcome the fact that we are likely, this year, to see at least a further 33% increase on 2013 sales, we must also recognise that if buyers have not budgeted for significant interest rate increases down the line, some of the them could once again find themselves in trouble. This time around the banks have insisted on large deposits and will therefore be largely protected if they have to repossess, but the buyers could suffer.”

19THE FRANSCHHOEK TATLERMay 2014

INTERNATIONAL PROPERTY GROUPThe Real Estate Leaders

REMAX.CO.ZA NOBODY IN THE WORLD SELLS MORE REAL ESTATE THAN RE/MAX

20 THE FRANSCHHOEK TATLER May 2014

21THE FRANSCHHOEK TATLERMay 2014 21

22 THE FRANSCHHOEK TATLER May 2014

www.pamgolding.co.za/franschhoek

FranschhoekSales and residential Letting 021 876 2100winelandsint@pamgolding.co.za

Shelly Schoeman 083 301 8833Doug Gurr 072 610 7208Jeanine Allen 082 410 6837

FRANSCHHOEK R28.5 million

FRANSCHHOEK R6.95 million FRANSCHHOEK R7.9 million FRANSCHHOEK R8.5 million

* Listing Prices Quoted

The powerful team of Doug, Jeanine and Shellyhave over the past year, increased their sales by

37 % over the same period in the previous year.

They are professionals with impeccable reputations, this

together with their vast area knowledge, passion and

commitment to their clients, make them the agents of

choice in Franschhoek. Their success is further a result

of complete dedication to their jobs and clients and the

enthusiasm with which they do business.

SOLD

BY US

SOLD

BY US

SOLD

BY US

SOLD

BY US

OUTSTANDING RESULTSIN FRANSCHHOEK

21THE FRANSCHHOEK TATLERMay 2014

www.pamgolding.co.za/franschhoek

FranschhoekSales and residential Letting 021 876 2100winelandsint@pamgolding.co.za

Shelly Schoeman 083 301 8833Doug Gurr 072 610 7208Jeanine Allen 082 410 6837

* Listing Prices Quoted

FRANSCHHOEK R3.15 million FRANSCHHOEK R3.5 million FRANSCHHOEK R4.2 million

SOLD

BY US

SOLD

BY US

SOLD

BY US

FRANSCHHOEK R3.5 million FRANSCHHOEK R2.3 million

SOLD

BY US

SOLD

BY US

SOLD

BY US

FRANSCHHOEK R3.5 million FRANSCHHOEK R3.79 million FRANSCHHOEK R2.95 million + VAT

SOLD

BY US

SOLD

BY US

SOLD

BY US

FRANSCHHOEK R5.9 million FRANSCHHOEK R350 000 FRANSCHHOEK R7.9 million

SOLD

BY US

SOLD

BY US

SOLD

BY US

FRANSCHHOEK R6.2 million

23

24 THE FRANSCHHOEK TATLER May 2014