A few friends have yearly gathered for a wine tour on bikes (more wine than riding) in and around Stellenbosch to get the new years party started early. This year the lads were thinned, maybe their chains have been shortened over the past year, but myself and a few friends spent the afternoon in search of a fine wine worthy to cause a speed wobble at walking speed.
(Dylan checking the size in disbelief )
Dylan, Michal, Fraser and myself met at the usual – Java Cafe – the most popular spot in town, to find Christoph Sauser, current world mtb champion with a Spar packet by his side. He’d brought each of us a signature rainbow jersey, thankfully not all ‘his’ size, for the ride. Most cyclists will pursue such a moment their entire careers, all we had to do was pitch with a thirst for some wine.
(Fraser appreciating the love, outside Java in Church Street)
(The signature World Champion’s range)
Indecisive on where to head, the rumoured chocolate and wine tasting pairing done at the Waterford Wine Estate (website is worth scouting) was calling the loudest. Perhaps it was also just as it was one of the closer options… The ratio of wine to miles needs to be in good proportion for a successful tour. Goes without saying its the ride back thats the tricky one…
(Heading to Waterford Wine Estate on the Blaauwklippen Road)
(Stunning Tuscan style Waterford)
(A real entrance – the only legitimate wearer of the jersey)
We tasted some fine wines, before the finale of a three glass chocolate pairing sealed a perfect wine experience. The Cab Sauv was paired with a chocolate that had salt grains on the underside, as its usually a compliment to savoury meals, and was my pick at Waterford.
(Wine and chocolate pairing – Cab Sauv in the centre)
We’d only gone 5meters really, before the first spill… This on route to the next wine estate!
(Every tipsy soul is a brave one…)
After being turned down at Guardian Peaks Restaurant, apparently they were full, but I think the cycling kit was just too extreme for the diplomatic manager, we headed higher up the mountain to Els Engelbrecht cellar, the better half of Ernie Els’ wine interests.
(Pulling in for lunch at Els Engelbrecht)
The view is simply unrivalled, and the weather was up to the task.
(Breath taking views across Stellenbosch Winelands)
By the time our two South African platters arrived, I was in critical need of some solid sustenance. At first glance I realised I could easily take on the two platters, about to be shared five ways, solo. Alas. It was exquisite and a treat to show the Swiss and Scot some South African uniqueness.
(The South African platter with local specialities)
Boys will be boys, and in part attempt to sober up, part attempt to make it back in time for a massage, it became a race of note. Every hill was opportunity to launch, every corner a chance to cut and break away. Really good laughs, and perhaps the only time ever I’ll have the feather weight world champion hanging on my wheel.
Us five and some add on friends continued the celebrations at Mari’s place in the evening. Her folks were out of town… Jokes aside, she was totally hospitable to all us locals who cant afford to be away by the sea over the festive season. It was a great group though, all of us inter-related in some way.
(New Years Braai)
(Partying it up with a local cleaner at the club after the braai)
Happy new years to all. May 2008 be a good one. It’ll be what you make it. Enjoy.
