Constantia Valley Newsletter

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In this issue:

• Welcome
• “Beyond Expectation” at Buitenverwachting
• Groot Constantia Estate
• Constantia Glen Consistent Top Performer in Platter
• Season at Steenberg!
• Celebrate this Festive Season at the River Café
• “Sizzle into 2010” at Bhandaris New Years Bash
• Say it with Flowers ...
• The Cellars-Hohenort
• Hendrik Vermeulen Couturier
• Peter Gilder Jeweller launches new website!
• Fine and Country - A Passion for Property
• Art in the Forest at Light From Africa Gallery
• Cape Town Calling Tours
• Colona Castle Luxury Boutique Hotel
• Constantia Uitsig

Welcome

The Constantia Valley takes summer holidays to a new dimension. A gateway to the beaches of Hout Bay, Noordhoek and the spectacular False Bay coastline Constantia is a rural gem 20 minutes from the centre of Cape Town offering Golf Courses, exclusive shops and award winning restaurants and that’s before we mention the wine!

"Now that the 2010 Football World Cup draw has been finalised, and we know where the teams will be playing, it is time to book your accommodation if you are going to be amongst the visitors to Cape Town. Constantia also known as CAPE TOWN’S VINEYARD is a favoured destination for the rich and famous and is the ideal location to base yourself. On the doorstep of any of our accommodation establishments you will find a vast choice of restaurants including La Colombe which has once again been voted as the NUMBER ONE Restaurant in South Africa and the The Greenhouse at the Cellars-Hohenort Hotel who are in the top 10 and have South Africa’s best Tasting Menu! To top off the experience you will find yourself within a five minute drive in any direction to the Constantia Valleys world class wine farms including Groot Constantia South Africa’s oldest wine producing farm boasting a proud heritage of 324 years!

The Constantia Valley is one of those places that makes one wish every day was a holiday.

Why don’t you come stay for a while, we have accommodation to suit your every need and would love to be a part of your memories.

We hope to see you soon,
Jooles Pienaar
General Manager

“Beyond Expectation” at Buitenverwachting

“1769” Vintage 2007

Buitenverwachting’s dessert wine “1769” was only one of three South African Dessert wines having been awarded a 5 Star John Platter rating!

Grape variety:	Muscat de Frontignan
Location:	Constantia
Soil type:	Clovelly, Tukulu
Trellising:	Elongated Perold
Age of vines:	Planted in 2003
Irrigation:	None (dry land cultivation)
Yield:	4,1 t / ha
Harvest Date:	19th March 2007
Vinification:	Fermented on skins, 1/3rd French barrel matured
Barrique:	None
Bottling date:	August 2008
Alcohol:	13,23 %
Res. Sugar:	133 g/l
Total acidity:	7.7 g/l
pH:	3,07
Total SO2:	178 ppm
Comments:	This classical Constantia Dessert wine offers ripe apricot, melon, fynbos, almond and apple like charcters.

Sauvignon Blanc 2009

Sauvignon Blanc 2009 - The class winner of The International Wine & Spirit Competition in London.

Grape variety:	Sauvignon Blanc
Location:	Constantia
Soil type:	Clovelly, Tukulu (dark)
Trellising:	Elongated Perold
Age of vines:	3 – 18 years
Irrigation:	None (dry land cultivation)
Yield:	7,1 t / ha
Harvest Date:	From February to March 2009
Vinification:	Part whole bunch pressing, part skin contact for 12 hours. Selection of five yeast strains. Fermented 12ºC - 16ºC for 21 days.
Barrique:	None
Bottling date:	June 2009
Alcohol:	13.21 %
Res. Sugar:	4.6 g/l
Total acidity:	7.2 g/l
pH:	3,07
Total SO2:	116 ppm
Comments:	The wine has a pale lemon yellow colour and a bouquet reminiscent of green figs with hints of gooseberries and an intrusion of green peppers. The wine is dry, full bodied and has a long lingering finish.

Rough Diamond 2006

The special blend, just available from the estate the “Rough Diamond” won a double gold medal at the National Wine Show “Veritas”.

Grape variety:	60% Petit Verdot 40% Malbec
Location:	Constantia
Aging potential:	5 – 15 yrs
Yield:	Average 6,6 t/ ha and 4,9 t /ha
Harvest Date:	March 2006
Barrique:	Barrel maturation, in 100% New French Oak for 36 months.
Bottling date:	January 2009
Alcohol:	14,5%
Res. Sugar:	1,9 g/l
Total acidity:	5,5 g/l
pH:	3,61 g/l
Total SO2:	125 mg

CHRISTMAS EVE MENU

Amuse Bouche
Jellied, spicy Beetroot Consommé with Tofu & Asian assorted mushrooms
**
Pan-fried wild Madagascan Prawns, glazed in its own Butter
with a Mango Pea & Citrus Salad
**
Grilled, Olive Oil poached Kingklip
with raw Tomato Coulis& crispy Artichoke Ravioli
**
Roasted Quail with Christmas Filling
Sauce Périgeux & fresh Black Winter Truffles
**
Loin of Springbok “Two Ways”
with Port Wine Jus & Celeriac-Foie Gras Purée
**
Christollen Soufflé
with Lemon Verbena Mousse & Sour Cream Ice Cream
**
Filter Coffee & Petit Fours

Adults – R980.00 per person
Children – R300.00 per person (under 12 Years)
Terms & Conditions Apply.

CHRISTMAS DAY MENU

Amuse Bouche
Jellied, spicy Beetroot Consommé with Tofu & Asian assorted mushrooms
**
Pan-fried wild Madagascan Prawns, glazed in its own Butter
with a Mango Pea & Citrus Salad
**
Grilled, Olive Oil poached Kingklip
with raw Tomato Coulis& crispy Artichoke Ravioli
**
Roasted Quail with Christmas Filling
Sauce Périgeux & fresh Black Winter Truffles
**
Pan-fried Entrecote in a Bone Marrow Crust
with Red Wine Shallot Jus & Porcini Dauphinoise
**
Christollen Soufflé
with Lemon Verbena Mousse & Sour Cream Ice Cream
**
Filter Coffee & Petit Fours

Adults – R870.00 per person
Children – R300.00 per person (under 12 Years)
Terms & Conditions Apply.

CHRISTMAS KIDDIES MENU

1st Starter
Pan-fried Madagascan Prawns
with Avocados & stir-fried Salad
**
2nd Starter
Fish & Chips
**
3rd Starter
Ostrich Cannelloni with Mushroom Ketchup
**
Main
Veal Gordon Bleu with Risi e Bisi
**
Dessert
Cristollen Soufflé
with Lemon Verbena Mousse & Stracciatella Ice Cream

R300.00 per child
(Under 12 Years only)
Terms & Conditions Apply
Dishes are subject to change!

NEW YEAR'S EVE MENU

Includes Live Entertainment and Sparkling Wine on arrival & for toasting!

Amuse Bouche
Osetia Caviar with Cauliflower Mousse & Blini
**
Pan-fried Crayfish, glazed in its own Butter
with a Mango Pea & Citrus Salad
**
Grilled, Olive Oil poached Halibut
with raw Tomato Coulis& crispy Artichoke Ravioli
**
Quail Saltimbocca set on Butternut Crème Brûlée
Sauce Périgeux & fresh Black Winter Truffles
**
Pan-fried Fillet & grilled Loin of Veal
with filled Morel & Zucchini Flower
**
Chocolate Variation “Buitenverwachting”
**
Filter Coffee & Petit Fours

Adults – R1400.00 per person
Children – R500.00 per person (under 12 Years)
Terms & Conditions Apply

Groot Constantia Estate

CHRISTMAS LUNCH SET MENU 2009

STARTERS
SLICED SMOKED SALMON TROUT
Peppered greens, cucumber, red onion & citrus salsa,
horseradish crème fraîche dressing
OR
REAL BEEF FILLET CARPACCIO
Thinly sliced raw beef, seasonal berry salad, organic berry vinaigrette
OR
SWEET TOMATO SALAD
Baby leaves, a variety of tomatoes, buffalo mozzarella,
fresh torn basil and mint, balsamic reduction
OR
LOBSTER BISQUE
Lobster & Chardonnay cream
**
MAINS
TRADITIONAL CHRISTMAS COUNTRY LUNCH
Slow roasted turkey & honey glazed gammon, walnut & sage stuffing,
roasted potatoes, sugared carrots, buttered baby spinach, Cabernet & rosemary gravy
OR
ROASTED CAPE FILLET OF FISH
Citrus hollandaise, roasted garlic mash, buttered baby spinach
OR
OAK SMOKED FRANSCHHOEK SALMON TROUT
Seared medium, whole grain mustard cream sauce,
mashed potatoes & green asparagus spears
OR
PRIME FILLET OF BEEF
Porcini & baby button mushroom jus, roasted garlic mash, panned greens
**
DESSERTS
BAKED CHRISTMAS FRUIT PUDDING
Brandy & sweet custard cream, vanilla pod ice cream
OR
FRESH SUMMER BERRIES
Cap classique, pouring cream
OR
BRULEED LEMON TART
Crème fraiche
OR
CHOCOLATE GELATI
White & dark chocolate shavings

R385.00 per person
Valid for Christmas 25 December 2009 only
12% service fee will be added to the final total bill

CHRISTMAS PICNICS

LOCAL CHEESE BOARD
grape relish
SLICED MEAT PLATTER
pickles
SLICED TURKEY BREAST
cranberry jelly
OAK SMOKED FRANSCHHOEK SALMON TROUT
Horseradish crème fraiche
SMOKED SNOEK PATE
orange marmalade
CHICKEN LIVER PATE
onion marmalade
HUMMUS
crumbled feta
BABY LEAF SALAD
rosa tomatoes & apple cider vinaigrette
SALTED NUTS
FRENCH BAGUETTE
SAVOURY BISCUITS
CHOCOLATE BROWNIE FINGERS
chocolate sauce
FILTER COFFEE
fruit mince pies & chocolates

R450.00 per basket (Caters for 2 guests)
*Single basket not available
Valid for Christmas 25 December 2009 only
12% service fee will be added to the final total bill

VINEYARD PICNIC

LOCAL CHEESE BOARD
grape relish
SLICED MEAT PLATTER
pickles
SMOKED SNOEK PATE
orange marmalade
CHICKEN LIVER PATE
onion marmalade
HUMMUS
crumbled feta
BABY LEAF SALAD
rosa tomatoes & apple cider vinaigrette
FRENCH BAGUETTE
SAVOURY BISCUITS
CHOCOLATE BROWNIES
chocolate sauce

R250.00 per basket (Caters for 2 guests)
*Single basket not available

KIDS PICNIC PACKETS

ROLL WITH SLICED CHEDDAR CHEESE
PACKET OF CRISPS
FRUIT ROLL
PACKET OF SWEETS
FRUIT YOGHURT
FRUIT JUICE

R60.00 per packet

Constantia Glen Consistent Top Performer in Platter

Fine Track Record Continues with 2010 Edition

The 2010 edition of the leading Platter's South African Wines guide has just been released, and Constantia Glen has maintained its fine track record of 4½ stars across the board.

With ever more entries to this compendium of South African wine, and with the standard of the entries on the rise, Constantia Glen's ratings mark the property as one of the most reliable producers - at a high quality level. What makes the latest scores even more remarkable is that the property's wines have maintained this score of 4½ stars out of five for every one of its wines, in every vintage since the maiden 2005 Sauvignon Blanc.

Platter's says of the blended red Constantia Glen 2007 that "merlot's plush, sweet tones & new French oak richness presently dominate dense, tannic core" and suggests a fine ageing potential for the wine. The Constantia Saddle 2007 has a "claret profile; tight, fine-boned & dry. Great balance, freshness; ripe succulent tannins, aromatic complexity, including classy new French oak. Deserves good 4-5 years ageing; should be a stunner."

The 2008 Sauvignon Blanc is noted as a "cool climate classic, notable for depth, varietal clarity with restraint." The Platter accolades reaffirm that the team's dedication to site and meticulous attention to detail are in harmony with the fantastic vineyards high on the Constantia mountain.

Season at Steenberg!

CHRISTMAS CAROLS AT STEENBERG WITH JUDITH SEPHUMA

Wednesday 16 December at 18:00
Credit Card bookings open on 4 November at 8am
Please contact Sally Rose on 021 713 2222

Celebrate the festive season with Christmas Carols at Steenberg, featuring well-known jazz and Afro-pop singer Judith Sephuma, together with Gareth Witten and the Steenberg Choir.

In 1999 Judith Sephuma won the ‘Best Jazz Vocalist’ award at the Old Mutual Jazz Into The Future competition, and her debut album A Cry, A Smile, A Dance was critically acclaimed, later followed by New Beginnings.

Credit card bookings are essential: R110 per person, R55 per child (under the age of 12 years). Tickets include a glass of Klein Steenberg wine and a candle (Note maximum of 6 persons per booking).

NEW YEARS EVE 2009

Salmon Sashimi
Fresh Norwegian Salmon with Tamari Soya – 1682 Brut Chardonnay
**
Salmon Tartar
Fresh Norwegian Salmon with Pickled Ginger and Lime – 1682 Brut Chardonnay
**
Salmon Gravadlax
Home cured and served with Popcorn Brioche – 1682 Pinoit Noir
**
Salmon Sous vide
Slow Cooked and Served with Oyster Foam – 1682 Brut Chardonnay
**
Oaked Salmon
Lightly smoked and seared Franschhoek Trout – 1682 Pinot Noir
**
Five taste sensations

R200.00 per person
Service charge not included
Menus may change according to seasonal availability
An Alternative tapas menu will be available
5pm – 7.30pm

SUMMER TAPAS

Saldanha Bay Oysters
Fresh and served with three vinaigrettes, classic, French and Asian
R16
**
Sixteen82 Anti Pasti
Cured meats by Niel jewel, handmade, olives, pickles and artisan breads
R44
**
Salmon Gravalax
Home cured Norwegian salmon with rye
R44
**
Chorizo Sausage
Spanish paprika spliced sausage with artisan bread
R41
**
Cheese Board
Local Cheese selection, artisan breads and Klein Steenberg rose jelly
R44
**
Baby Squid
Filled with fresh herb stuffing, sauce Diablo
R41
**
Beef Tataki
Seared beef fillet with fresh green ginger, chilli, tamari soya sauce and fresh lime
R44
**
Sorbet
A selection of funky seasonal sorbets
R37
**
Capenta
Fried whitebait with smoked paprika aioli
R44
**
Tuna Sashimi
Yellow fin tuna with fresh horseradish, chives and tamari soy sauce
R44
**
Gambas Pil Pil
Shelled tiger prawns in chilli and garlic
R44
**
Blue Bay Mussels
Fresh, black, west coast mussels in fennel cream
R41
**
Spring Lamb Rack
Harissa paste and olive oil
R44
**
Roast Vine Tomatoes
Marinated goats cheese and roasted garlic

Evelyn Stewart – newly appointed Spa Manager at Ginkgo Spa at Steenberg

Evelyn Stewart has been with the Ginkgo Spa and Wellness Group since September 2006 and joined the Ginkgo Spa at Steenberg in October 2007 as the Assistant Spa Manager. Evelyn is a massage therapy specialist and gained valuable experience overseas including in the UK as a Holistic Massage therapist. She also has experience in other specialised massage disciplines including remedial massage therapy and baby massage. This makes Evelyn an absolute expert in stress release therapy ensuring that you leave Ginkgo Spa well relaxed and knot free!

Journey to a state of Ataraxia!

Ataraxia! Defined as “a state free from anxiety or any other preoccupation, it’s a true experience of robust tranquillity”. Doesn’t that sound like just what you need right now?

The award-winning Ginkgo Spa at Steenberg Hotel has added another exclusive treatment to their already indulgent treatment menu. The Ataraxia Massage unfolds a promise of 90 minutes of a true state of euphoria.

From the moment you enter the treatment room in your Ginkgo gown and slippers the tranquil music prepares you for what will be an unforgettable journey.

Soy Massage Oil Candles form an integral part of this full body massage treatment as this warm massage medium is used throughout the journey. The client can choose from a range of 7 blends, each designed to stimulate and rebalance different body systems. Soy is known for its healing and moisturising qualities and the candles burn at only 2 degrees above the body’s temperature exuding comforting aromas.

The massage starts off with an initial tension release and unwinding phase with gentle rocking and pressure massage movements.

The second and important stage is followed by a deep, slow massage focusing on the muscle groups prone to deep-seated tension and repetitive strain. What makes this massage treatment even more unique is that it incorporates an ancient Eastern Asia treatment method - the use of heated bamboo, softening muscles into a state of deep relaxation. Once the muscles are warm and relaxed the therapist uses the heated bamboo, allowing for different pressure levels, to work on deeper muscle fibres without causing pain.

The final phase completes the massage by giving a sense of nurturing and re-balance, with cocooning movements of the upper and lower parts of the body using warm wrapping towels.

The massage is perfectly safe for pregnant women less than 5 months pregnant, or still able to lie on their abdomen. The pregnancy candle has no aromatherapy constituents.

As this massage leaves you completely relaxed, almost in sleep mode, it’s highly recommended to enjoy an invigorating shower and some herbal tea or spring water in the Relaxation Room. One client said, “this massage should carry a “don’t drive or operate any heavy machinery” warning”.

As a special introductory offer the Ataraxia Massage can be enjoyed for only R620.00

A gift that says you care

A gift voucher from Ginkgo Spa makes a wonderful Christmas gift for a loved one. Not only is this a much appreciated gift which shows how much you care for their well-being, but a Ginkgo Spa treatment is the perfect way to start off the New Year in style feeling relaxed and refreshed.

Celebrate this Festive Season at the River Café

Christmas Eve Dinner & Christmas Day Lunch
3 course menu – R495.00 per person

Children’s Christmas Menu
2 course menu – R150.00 per child
(12 years and under)

New Year’s Eve Dinner
4 course menu – R750.00 per person
Complimentary bottle of Constantia Uitsig
Methode Cap Classique for every 4 guests booked

Please note that the above prices are not inclusive of beverages or gratuity
To book please contact 021 794 3010 or rivercafe@uitsig.co.za

“Sizzle into 2010” at Bhandaris New Years Bash

Bhandaris Restaurant is an ideal function venue, seating up to 240 people including a private function area for those intimate functions which can accommodate up to 50 people.

Bhandaris Restaurant is also proud to announce the launch of home deliveries, and outside catering.

We now do a Sunday Buffet, available for lunch and dinner. The new buffet menu changes weekly and consists of a lamb, chicken and vegetarian curry dish, salads, popadoms, naan breads, acchar and a dessert.

Located at Westlake Lifestyle Centre, Westlake Drive, Tokai.
Bhandaris is open 7 days a week for lunch and dinner.
For further information, contact 021 702 2975.

NEW YEARS EVE 2009

Starters
Bhandaris Prawns
OR
Vegetable Kaju Rolls
OR
Chicken Tikka
**
Main Course
(Served Buffet Style)
Bombay Potato
Daal Makani
Navrathan Korma
Bhunna Gosht
Chicken Kastoori
Prawn Curry
Naan Breads and Plain Basmati Rice
**
Dessert
Choc Almond Samoosa
Pistachio Kulfi Ice Cream

R220.00 per person
DJ

Say it with Flowers ...

Specialised Christmas Hampers, including fruit cakes, gingerbread man, shortcakes and many more yummy delicacies. Our Christmas hampers are a hassle free way of saying thank you to all your clients for their business and to wish them well over the festive season.

Contemporary Christmas Wreaths made to suit any environment.

Mistletoe infused Bouquets and Christmas arrangements to get everyone in the festive mood.

We look forward to being of assistance to you.

Tel: +27 21 797 7613 | Email: info@alisonsflowers.co.za
Address: 51 Waterloo Road, Chelsea Village, Wynberg, 7800

The Cellars-Hohenort

The Cellars-Hohenort wins prestigious Garden Trophy at annual Relais & Châteaux Congress in Biarritz, France

The Cellars-Hohenort is proud to have received the Relais & Chateaux Garden Trophy for 2010! The award was presented to Liz McGrath at a stylish cocktail party held at the Hotel du Palais in Biarritz, during the annual Relais & Chateaux Congress.

The presentation was in the presence of hoteliers from all corners of the world, coming together to network and share ideas. This is the second award Liz McGrath has received in three years – she received the Woman of the Year for 2008.

“I am absolutely delighted to receive this award! Our nine acres of garden at The Cellars-Hohenort are something very special to me. Nestled against the slopes of Table Mountain in Cape Town’s Constantia Valley, the gardens offer sweeping views across the valley to False Bay. From our beautiful roses to the 250 year old camphor trees, the garden is unique and guests from all over the world come to enjoy its beauty”.

Guests can enjoy the 9 acres of garden at their leisure. A must is the camphor walk through the 300 year old Camphor trees, the water garden, herb garden and unique knot garden. Liz McGrath’s passion for gardening led to her discovering the Camphor trees obscured by indigenous plants camouflaging an important piece of Cape history. The Cellars prides itself on maintaining these ancient trees. In her own words "it is wonderful to have eight trees preserved in the gardens exactly as they were planted all those years ago".

Chefs are regularly seen raiding the herb gardens of the hotel to use in the wonderful dishes they create for The Greenhouse and Cape Malay Restaurant.

The Rose garden when in full bloom is a sight not to be missed. A prominent rose seen throughout The Cellars-Hohenort is the Liz McGrath Rose that her family had named after.Other interesting garden features are the awarding winning Cape Flower Show gardens that have been replanted with in the hotel. All unique in their design and colour.

For avid botanical garden lovers, the hotel is close to the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden. Founded in 1913 the gardens are world-renowned for the beauty and diversity of its Cape flora and for the magnificence of its setting against the eastern slopes of Table Mountain. Kirstenbosch with its 36 hectares grows only indigenous South African plants.

Jean Almon, Garden Manager at The Cellars-Hohenort gives guided garden tours every Tuesday at 10h30. The cost is R40 per person and includes tea/coffee and our world famous scones! Bookings essential.

The Greenhouse at The Cellars-Hohenort in The Top 10 with South Africa’s Best Tasting Menu!

The Greenhouse restaurant at the five star Relais & Chateaux hotel, The Cellars Hohenort has been awarded Top 10 status in the 2009 Prudential Eat Out Restaurant Awards.

The Greenhouse was chosen as one of the Top 10 restaurants in South Africa from a line-up of 20 nominated restaurants from around the country. The Greenhouse came seventh, with their unique tasting menu getting the number one spot overall!

“I am absolutely thrilled that The Greenhouse has been award Top 10 status! We have been working towards this goal since Executive Chef, Peter Tempelhoff joined the Collection by Liz McGrath two years ago. We are producing world class food and I am delighted for Peter and his team to finally get the recognition they so rightly deserve” says Liz McGrath owner of The Cellars-Hohenort.

"It is such an honour to be on the list alongside such esteemed chefs and restaurants. All the hard work has been worth it, and I am very excited about the coming year for The Greenhouse; and South African cuisine in general. There really is such a great wealth of talent in this country at the moment, it is a fantastic place to ply one's trade... long may it last" adds Peter Tempelhoff.

The Greenhouse Restaurant and Conservatory Bistro offer tranquil garden views from its sun-drenched terrace bringing the beautiful gardens of The Cellars-Hohenort into the restaurant. The menus offer something for all tastes while the chefs use local and organic products wherever possible!

Hendrik Vermeulen Couturier

The past couple of months have been a rollercoaster of excitement at Hendrik Vermeulen Couturier. Since our opening in Westlake Lifestyle Centre, the interest has been phenomenal. Some of our garments have been featured in Fair Lady Bride and Konfetti online magazine. We have also been involved in various fashion shows, including Style in the City with Trinny and Susannah of What Not To Wear fame at the V&A Waterfront.

A large collection of the fashion show garments are now on sale at our Studio. With the next Matric Dance season around the corner, we have already booked numerous consultations, so please book your consultation as soon as possible.

Please be on the lookout for the Instyle Bride magazine, launching in December, which will feature an 8 page spread about us, as well as a cover. We are also proud to be one of the 12 exclusive design studios being featured as part of the 2010 Cape Town Carnival fashion extravaganza. We would like to wish all our clients and friends a blessed Festive Season.

Peter Gilder Jeweller launches new website!

The Peter Gilder story may be a quarter of a century old, but it is only the beginning for this brand. Please check out the exciting new website www.petergilder.com.

Fine and Country - A Passion for Property

Considering purchasing a property in Constantia? Fine and Country Constantia have a variety of exclusive properties for sale and also offer an up to date evaluation on properties in the Constantia region.

We have a passion for property and would love to assist you in either buying or selling a property.

Art in the Forest at Light From Africa Gallery

Deep Field - Ceramics and Photographs by Laura Du Toit

The common theme throughout my work is my interest in the shapes, textures and colours found in nature. To me, the slow processes of coiling, pinching, raku firing and multiple glaze firings are ideal for expressing these interests.

I find inspiration in volcanoes, fossils and geological formations, to name a few. The patterns found in aerial and satellite images of the earth, along with my photographs of my work’s glaze surfaces, help me to capture the abovementioned qualities.

Award winning ceramicist LAURA DU TOIT to exhibit at:
Light from Africa Gallery, Cecilia Forest, Constantia Nek
28th November up to 25th January
Hours: 10h00 to 16h00
Tel: 082 372 3135

info@lightfromafrica.com | www.lightfromafrica.com | 021-794 0291

Cape Town Calling Tours

As a freelance registered tour guide living in the Constantia Valley, it will be my pleasure to enhance guests' visits to Cape Town. I offer personalised tours for one to four guests in a Mercedes sedan vehicle. Showcasing Cape Town's diversity, my tours include - arts and crafts, flora and fauna, history and heritage, culture, adventure, winelands and townships ...

As part of my service I also offer a transfer service both day and night to and from the airport, restaurants, places of interest in our spectacular city.

Deanne Sinclair Thomson
Mobile: +27 (0) 83 404 4433
Email: deanne@capetowncalling.co.za
Web: www.capetowncalling.co.za

Colona Castle Luxury Boutique Hotel

In operation for 14 years, Colona Castle, a small Luxury Boutique Hotel in Lakeside, has a wealth of experience to share with their discerning clients in travel and hospitality in Southern Africa. Good hospitality has more to do with an appreciation of the guest’s increasingly valuable time and a provision of “hospitality software” in the form of perfect, personalised service and cuisine. Docking stations and laptops are now available on request in all our Suites.

Clients enjoy breathtaking panoramic views in peaceful surroundings, high quality furnishings, participate in many activities like whale watching, shark breaching, wine tasting, golf ... and receive best advice to experience Cape Town at its best, and take home unforgettable memories.

Our clients speak out:

Mr Kit Desai & Shirley - 10 November 2009 stayed 5 nights:
"Excellent location - Wonderful time"

Stuart & Faith Bailey UK - 07 November 2009 stayed 5 nights:
"We have had a fantastic time. The hospitality was great and we really enjoyed staying in the area. Thank you"

Mr & Mrs Chris Everard UK - 07 August 2009 stayed 8 nights:
"Wonderful location and great helpful staff"

Visit www.colonacastle.co.za for more information.

Constantia Uitsig

River Café undergoes a reawakening

Situated at the entrance to the Estate, the River Café has long been a popular social haunt in the Constantia valley and is well-known for its’ sumptuous breakfasts, lunches and afternoon teas.

This popular meeting spot is currently undergoing a re-awakening by none other than Luke Dale-Roberts, executive chef of the recently crowned 2009 Eat Out Restaurant of the Year, La Colombe. Luke has appointed his protégé, Scot Kirton, as the Head Chef of the new River Café and we are excited to announce that, from 15th December 2009, the River Café will be open for dinner from 18h30 – 22h00. Whether it’s for breakfast, lunch, afternoon snacks or dinner - with its casual ambience, pristine location and friendly service - the River Café is the place to be this summer!

The River Café at Constantia Uitsig is open 7 days a week
Breakfast: 08h30-11h00
Lunch Bistro: 12h30-14.30
Dinner Bistro: 18h30 – 22.00
All Day Café: 11h00-22h00

To book, please contact 021 794 3010 or rivercafe@uitsig.co.za

Sauvignon Blanc Month at Constantia Uitsig

For the month of December, Constantia Uitsig Sauvignon Blanc 2008 will be offered at the reduced price of R100 per bottle in our restaurants and R70 per bottle at The Wine Shop.

This well balanced cool climate wine is a perfect expression of the fruit of the Constantia Valley and was awarded 4 ½ stars in the 2009 John Platter Guide. This fantastic offer is only valid while stocks last, so be sure not to miss out!

For more information, please contact 021 794 1810 or wineshop@uitsig.co.za

Festive Season at the Restaurants

Celebrate this Festive Season in style at our highly acclaimed restaurants! All three restaurants – The Constantia Uitsig Restaurant, La Colombe and The River Café – will be open for Christmas Eve Dinner, Christmas Lunch and New Year’s Eve and will be offering sumptuous set menus. The River Café will also have a children’s Christmas Eve and Christmas Lunch Menu available at a cost of R150 per child (12 years & under). Please note that seating is limited so book early to avoid disappointment.

For menus and pricing, please visit www.constantia-uitsig.com

Christmas Specials at Constantia Uitsig Spa

Take advantage of these wonderful Festive Season offers at Constantia Uitsig Spa:

Purchase one of our Summer Packages and receive a Constantia Uitsig Spa Christmas Hamper

Purchase a Clarins Facial and/or Body Treatment and receive two complimentary Clarins trial size products

Purchase any treatment at Constantia Uitsig Spa and receive a R50 voucher redeemable against your next treatment (excluding salon treatments)

To book, please contact 021 794 0433 or spa@uitsig.co.za

Constantia Uitsig Country Hotel Specials

Hotel Spring Pamper Package

Luxury accommodation for one night
60 minute spa treatment & spa gift
Champagne breakfast at La Colombe
All for the special rate of R1600 per person sharing
This exclusive offer is available until 15th December 2009

Stay for 3 Pay for 2 Special

Book two nights at the Constantia Uitsig Country Hotel and receive the third night on a complimentary bed & breakfast basis.
This offer is available until 30th April 2010

To book, please contact 021 7946500 or reservations@uitsig.co.za

Please note that packages may not be booked in conjunction with one another.

Christmas Carols at Constantia Uitsig

Get into the Festive Spirit and join us for Christmas Carols with the Bergvliet Methodist Church Choir at the Constantia Uitsig Restaurant on Monday 21st December 2009.

Constantia Uitsig Sauvignon Blanc 2008 will be available for purchase at the special price of R100 per bottle and Constantia Uitsig Red 2004 will be sold at R300 per bottle. Freshly baked Ciabatta breads will also be available at R15 per bread.

The Carols will begin at 18h00 on the lawn in front of the restaurant. Participation is free, but please remember to bring your own blanket, glassware, cutlery and snacks.

For more information, please contact Belinda on 021 794 4480 or restaurant@uitsig.co.za

Jooles and the CVA Team

Executive Committee	Staff
Ian Kilbride - Chairperson	Jooles Pienaar - General Manager
ian@constantiavalley.com	jooles@constantiavalley.com
+27 (0) 82 334 8010	+27 (0) 82 332 7844

Lawrie McIntosh - Deputy Chairperson	Karen Michalowsky - Office Administrator
Jean Naude - Chairperson Constantia Wine Route	karen@constantiavalley.com
	+27 (0) 72 410 9959
John Loubser
Peter Gilder	Lindsay von Kalckreuth - Membership Consultant
Lowell Jooste	lindsay@constantiavalley.com
Nicky Cloete-Hopkins	+27 (0) 82 403 3679

	website www.constantiavalley.com

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