Thursday, February 14, 2013

Brenaissance launch their wines and tasting facility



The entrance
The wines were presented at table under the fig trees, cooled by a brisk South-Easter
Owner Tom Breytenbach welcomes the media & explains his philosophy
Tasting the 7 wines
The strong wind toppled a few glasses and we had to hang on to them
Christine Rudman holds hers down
Philip van Zyl, editor of the John Platter guide, in deep thought and mid taste
Allan Mullins CWM
Christian Eedes takes notes
A biltong tasting to match with the red wines
Listening to Tom talking about farming in the valley
A view of the plum orchards and grapes in the distance
Allan Mullins and Maryna Strachan, editor of Wine Extra
Graham Howe and Monika Elias, fellow judges on the Klink awards
The lineup of the wines we tasted
This is also a stud farm on which they breed Boran cattle. To quote Tom, “God’s gift to Cattlemen”
Brigadier, the prize bull and a heifer, who were very friendly
Blanc de Noir cafe on the farm, informal and fun and not expensive
We began lunch with a mixed salad
What we were served
Extremely friendly and helpful staff
It also has a lovely terrace overlooking the vineyards and the river
Hayley Breytenbach
Pizzas had very crisp bases. This one of Avocado, rocket, biltong and feta was delicious – but they all were.
Lynne discussing food with Christiaan Campbell the executive chef of Delaire Graff. This is one of his local haunts, because it is so simple and good, he says
The entrance to Cafe Blanc de noir is across the river
A moist chocolate brownie with some ice cream
There is a huge jungle gym for the children right opposite the restaurant
The view from Brenaissance across Devon Valley
Owners Tom and Hayley Breytenbach with their PR agent Nicolette Waterford
Brigadier the bull schmoozing John
The front of the Bed and Breakfast accommodation
The private chapel that can accommodate 250 people
Inside the chapel
The bridal suite
 The functions venue, for wedding receptions
The bedrooms
Monika Elias, Publisher of Wine Tourism Handbook, and Cathryn Henderson, editor of Classic Wine, relax on the sofa in reception
Text and photographs © John & Lynne Ford, Adamastor & Bacchus 2013

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