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
