Cape Town - There’s something special about a picnic in the winelands; whether relaxing on the lawn, in woodlands, alongside a lake or farm stream, enveloped by rural beauty. With fine wine to savour and country fare to linger over, the occasion produces a sense of well-being difficult to duplicate in the city.
The number of wineries adding picnics to their attractions is growing steadily, while some have established enviable reputations for serving delectable al fresco meals for years. One of the best is Hartenberg, whose reputation for fresh quality fare and renowned wines is only surpassed by the warmth of their hospitality.
Hartenberg invites visitors to experience every aspect of the estate, daily until Easter. Set in the Bottelary Hills outside Stellenbosch and part of their Renosterveld Conservancy, this long-established enterprise is a must on the itineraries of those who love superb shiraz, but is also renowned for winning chardonnay, fine Riesling and a range of other cultivars.
The cellar offers a pairing of five top wines with complementary morsels for R100. Those who prefer to lunch at tables on the terrace can choose from the blackboard menu which changes daily, but includes Karoo lamb chops and salmon trout salad. Picnickers can sit at tables under the trees or on the lawn exploring baskets filled with delectable fare using locally sourced ingredients, free-range eggs and poultry and home-baked bread.
The cost of R150 a head includes a bottle of estate wine. Children under 12 are catered for with their own picnic menu and play area.
Visitors can play boules, stroll through wetlands and take in a little bird-watching before leaving. To book, contact 021 865 2541 or e-mail [email protected]. - Weekend Argus