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    Try the unexpected over the Franschhoek Literary Festival weekend

    Bolu Babalola author of Honey & Spice

    The Franschhoek Literary Festival is back with a bang, offering book lovers and culture enthusiasts an extraordinary weekend of literary delights from 17 to 19 May 2024. While several author sessions and workshops have sold out, there is still time to avoid disappointment by planning your weekend activities over the next few days.

    If you’re overwhelmed and thinking “Where do I start?”, we recommend that you first secure your seat to various sessions on the programme, then make a reservation at some of the top restaurants and wine estates in the Valley.

    Here are some of the sessions currently piquing the interest of Festival fans:

    Friday, 17 May 2024

    • Screen Grab: Irish romance sensation Cecelia Ahern (PS, I Love You) and SA crime pioneer Angela Makholwa – whose Red Ink is out on Showmax – swap notes on the art of crafting a screen adaptation.
    • The Post-Patriarchy: The books by these three panellists feature queer male protagonists who are fathers, or sons, or both. Koketso Sachane connects the dots with S.J. Naudé (Of Fathers and Fugitives), Wisani Mushwana (A Soft Landing) and Alistair Mackay (The Child).
    • Melodies in Words: An Evening of Art Song and Poetry: Well-known duo Lynelle Kenned (Soprano) and Stefan Lombard (Pianist) introduce old and new art song favourites in German, French and Afrikaans. The programme offering is beautifully brought together by poetic translations read by actress Jazzara Jaslyn.

    Saturday, 18 May 2024

    • Sweet and Spicy with Bolu Babalola: Mohale Mashigo spends an hour in the hot-but-hilarious world of British-Nigerian author Bolu Babalola, whose campus-romance blockbuster Honey & Spice exploded on BookTok.
    • In the Thirst Person: Having good sex is apparently easier than writing good sex scenes. But that’s not rocket science, surely? Letlhogonolo Mokgoroane juggles the ins and outs of high-end lit smut with Busisekile Khumalo (Sunshine and Shadows), Joy Watson (The Other Me) and Kobby Ben Ben (No One Dies Yet).
    • Red Ink on Screen: Angela Makholwa and actress Nqobile Nunu Khumalo talk to Mohale Mashigo about the TV adaptation by Showmax of Red Ink, Makholwa’s hit thriller about a writer’s entanglement with a serial killer.

    Sunday, 19 May 2024

    • A Cheeky Chat: Join the Cheeky Natives podcasting duo (Alma-Nalisha Cele & Letlhogonolo Mokgoroane) as they shoot the breeze with British-Nigerian author Bolu Babalola (Honey & Spice) and Candice Carty-Williams (People Person).
    • How to Grip Your Reader: Join Danielle Weakley as she learns about the narrative tricks that make a book unputdownable from Femi Kayode (Gaslight), Fiona Snyckers (The Hidden) and Nick Mulgrew (Tunnel).
    • The End of an Ego-System: Don Pinnock talks to Adam Welz (The End of Eden) and Sandra Swart (The Lion’s Historian: Africa’s Animal Past) about the animal–human relationships that have profoundly shaped our history.
    • Flower of Babel: Sandile Ngidi, who judged the entries for the latest (12th) edition of the Sol Plaatje European Union Poetry Anthology, explores South Africa’s rich poetic memory with contributors Mapule Ramaila Moswane and Vuyokazi Ngemntu.

    All the books featured on the 2024 programme will be on sale at the Festival through Exclusive Books; and are also available at the FLF Exclusive Books Online Store here.

    In addition to a stellar lineup of authors and panel discussions, this year’s Festival offers to showcase the hidden gems and unique experiences that make Franschhoek a “must-visit” destination. Here are a few things to do during the festival weekend (or should you decide to extend your stay):

    • Franschhoek Wine Tram adventure: Explore the picturesque vineyards and wineries of Franschhoek aboard the iconic Wine Tram. Sample award-winning wines and indulge in gourmet cuisine while soaking in the breathtaking views of the Valley.
    • Artisanal chocolate tasting: Delight your taste buds with a decadent chocolate tasting experience at one of Franschhoek’s renowned chocolatiers.
    • Hike to Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve: Weather permitting, early birds will be able to embark on a scenic hike in the Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Western Cape. Enjoy panoramic views of the Valley and encounter diverse flora and fauna along the way.
    • Vintage shopping spree: Take time to browse through Franschhoek’s charming boutiques and antique shops for one-of-a-kind treasures and other satisfying finds. Discover vintage clothing, home décor and collectibles reflecting the town’s rich heritage.

    To find out more about what Franschhoek has to offer, click here. For additional information about the Festival and the speakers, including the complete programme and ticket details, please visit the Festival site.

    La Petite Ferme Celebrates 40 Years!

    This year marks a milestone in the history of La Petite Ferme.

    The award-winning, 5-star luxury boutique hotel and wine estate is celebrating its 40th anniversary.

    Situated on the slopes of Oliphants Pass and Middagkrans Mountain with unrivalled views across the magnificent Franschhoek Valley, the now legendary La Petite Ferme’s 40-year journey began back in 1984.

    From humble beginnings ‘the little farm’ has, over four decades, grown and evolved into a memorable winelands destination that today includes a boutique hotel, an award-winning restaurant rich in the culinary heritage and bounty of the winelands and a celebrated winery that produces a full range of hand-crafted wines (red, white and rosé) from its own boutique style cellar, managed by the celebrated winemaker, Wikus Pretorius.

    Founded by the visionary Dendy Young family, La Petite Ferme has long stood as testament to inspired living with its world-class luxury accommodation, exquisite dining and superlatives wines and its unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional service and unparalleled experiences to discerning guests.

    Today, under the ownership of The Nest Estate, La Petite Ferme continues to honour its founders’ legacy, while embracing the future with wide open arms.

    Respecting the past, but always looking to the future, in December 2023 La Petite Ferme turned the page and started a new chapter – the re-imagining of one of the farm’s old wine cellars into sumptuous new suites. The aptly named Winery Suites, proof of La Petite Ferme’s boundless desire for innovation, offer modern comfort and sun-kissed interiors with all the amenities and a tranquil charm in a fresh, contemporary country setting. Each suite, named after five La Petite Ferme’s wine labels, has its own private balcony, and a new pool shared exclusively by Winery Suites’ guests.

    La Petite Ferme’s other accommodation options include the Vineyard Suites and the sophisticated 5-suite Manor House.

    “Traditionally a celebration of 40 years is known as the ruby anniversary. But, for La Petite Ferme at this time, it’s the actual number ‘40’ that has the greater significance as it aptly signifies new life, new growth, transformation and change”, says Riaan Kruger, General Manager of La Petite Ferme.

    “As we celebrate our 40th anniversary we extend thanks to all our loyal guests and to our staff for their tireless dedication, and we invite you to join us and indulge in the splendour of La Petite Ferme and toast to 40 years of memories, milestones and magnificent moments.”

    Enquiries & Reservations: accommodation@lapetiteferme.co.za

    Restaurant Reservations: reception@lapetiteferme.co.za

    www.lapetiteferme.co.za

    A Milestone and New Owners for Colmant Winery

    FLTR: Isabelle Boone, Paul Gerber, Jan Boone, Jean-Philippe and Marina Colmant

    Leading Cap Classique sparkling wine producer Colmant Winery recently celebrated its twentieth anniversary. It was also the start of a new chapter in its history as it also announced new ownership and a vision for sustainable growth while maintaining its commitment to quality and excellence.

    Established by Jean-Philippe Colmant, Colmant Winery has earned a distinguished reputation for crafting delicate Cap Classique wines. Today, after years of dedication and passion, he passes on the torch. Looking to the future, Jean-Philippe finds fine successors in the new owners: Jan and Isabelle Boone, a Belgian couple and experienced entrepreneurs known for their commitment to quality, local sourcing and craftsmanship. In addition to both parties’ passion for the product and entrepreneurship, Jean-Philippe and Marina Colmant, and Jan and Isabelle Boone also share a passion for family and conviviality.

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    The Oesfees is Back!

    If you’re a music lover and into vineyard vibes, diarise this date immediately: 6 April 2024! The popular Solms-Delta Oesfees is returning to Franschhoek and promises to yet again become a highlight on the Winelands’ event calendar.

    Some big names such as Spoegwolf, Anton Goosen, Loukmaan Adams, Oom Hannes Coetzee and Schalk Joubert will be taking to the stage at the historic Solms-Delta Wine Estate in addition to much-loved locals with their Boland harmonies.

    The day however is about more than music – it’s also about celebrating the end of the harvest and thanking those who have worked so hard to pick and process the grapes.

    Says Spoegwolf’s lead singer, Danie Reënwolf du Toit: “We’ve performed at beautiful places but Solms-Delta takes it up a notch. Not only do we get to play our tunes amidst a breath-taking backdrop of vineyards and mountains but are we part of a celebration of teamwork and community!”

    The full line-up is: Spoegwolf, Anton Goosen, Loukmaan Adams’  My Cape Town, Frazer Barry, Oom Hannes Coetzee, The Hanepoot Brass Band, Nick Turner, Schalk Joubert, The Solms Delta Optelband, Agri-Got-Talent Winners, Soetstemme & Papier Family.

    There will be no shortage of good food and wine for sale so all you need to do is get the kids off their screens and into the car. Oh, and bring a blanket – we will be sitting under the oak trees.

    Gates open at 10h00.

    Tickets cost R200 and are available at Plankton.mobi (https://plnktn.io/Oesfees)

    (Kids under 12, accompanied by their parents, get to enjoy the day for free.)

    ‘Mosbolletjies’ a Must

    Harvest-time is Mosbolletjie time and this year, La Motte makes even more of this iconic treat. Expect all that you love about these seasonal brioche-type buns, but now, other than being made with must (fermenting grape juice), the innovative baking team in the La Motte Bakery also uses a sweet sourdough culture! The result is a richer taste, a more generous size and in general, just more Mosbolletjie!

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    Solms-Delta Reimagined

    CEO Tommy Hall with the first two official wines released by the Solms Delta Wine Company the Amalie 2023 and Hiervandaan 2023.

    24 November 2023 marked the launch of the Solms-Delta Wine Company, an entirely new venture established to continue the ambitious journey of land restitution and community upliftment that was begun by Mark Solms in 2001. While Solms’s goals were laudable, the business and economic challenges of the wine industry proved to much for his dream of community upliftment and workers holding the title deed to the lands they worked. With the investment and expertise of American Fortune 500 executive, Tommy Hall, this seems set to change.

    The vehicle for this change is the Solms-Delta Wine Company, which has been established as a stand-alone wine venture that is 100%-black-owned by the Hall family.

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    Joining Hands to Assist Flood Survivors

    Foundation and Gift of the Givers staff with part of the donation.

    On Sunday, 24 September 2023, Franschhoek found itself faced faced with tormenting floods across the valley. Fear and devastation crept into every household and farm as giant trees were ripped out of the ground by vicious winds. Roads and infrastructure were severely damaged and no one could come in or go out of Franschhoek for a time.

    As the storm came to a halt, the after affects are lingering as the floods left families homeless and many who were employed on farms jobless. The Foundation for Sport, Development and Peace reached out to Gift of the Givers who are known for disaster relief. Their responce to the need in Franschhoek was quick and a matter of urgency. There were 45 families identified who were in need of assistance. Gift of the Givers distributed 45 food parcels and 45 blankets to these families.

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    Art for Everyone

    Boschendal X Brundyn open the Winelands’ coolest art destination.

    The start of the summer season in the Cape Winelands has coincided with the opening in October 2023 of Boschendal X Brundyn, an inspiring exhibition space bringing a considered, ever-changing selection of art to engage visitors at this historic and much-loved working farm. Having briefly closed during the winter months, Boschendal’s former Manor House gallery has emerged with a more pronounced offering of exhibitions and educational events in partnership with art consultancy Brundyn Arts & Culture (BA&C), positioning the space as a primary art destination for art lovers and collectors.

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    Boschendal Wins Big At 2023 Cape Prestige Agri-Awards

    Boschendal’s Franschhoek region winners at the Western Cape Prestige Agri-Awards 2023.

    Boschendal has been recognised as the Best Performing Farm in the Franschhoek region at the recent Cape Prestige Agri-Awards, claiming top honours against entries from some of the most renowned farms in the region.

    Charles Edmonds, Managing Director of Farming at Boschendal, says: “We are incredibly proud of all our farm team members who were recognised for their outstanding work, and thank them for their invaluable contribution to our farm and to our efforts of being a regenerative farming leader.”

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    La Motte Estate Announces Jan Franschhoek Season II

    La Motte Wine Estate is delighted to announce the eagerly anticipated second season of JAN Franschhoek.

    This exceptional, seasonal food and wine experience combines the nostalgia of a South African family table with Jan Hendrik van der Westhuizen’s unique sense of culinary innovation and promises to captivate and charm just as much as the first edition. Expect regional traditions, familiar flavours and local ingredients transformed for an adventurous, modern and global palate. Sourced and prepared with the utmost care and consideration, dishes are paired with the estate’s award-winning wines as well as wines from the JAN collection and presented with mesmerising flair around a communal table.

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    Siegfried Schäfer T. 021 876 3460
    Contact us: info@franschhoektatler.co.za

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