Thursday, December 18, 2008

South African wine country














Andrea and I are both big wine lovers, so it seemed appropriate that our last days in Southern Africa were in the fabulous Franschoek area. I have been to many wine areas, including Napa and the Okanagan, but none compare to the spectacular scenery in South Africa. The mountains surrounding the valleys are very rugged, and the wine farms, as the South Africans call them, are second to none.

The South African wine industry goes back hundreds of years, yet there is still a youthful enthusiasm about the wine industry here. The wines themselves are excellent quality, and the prices are so low, its almost a joke.

Craige and Greg - you must come here one day - you would absolutely love it. Make sure you see some wild animals too!

We took a tour called the wine hopper, which dropped us off and picked us up at 4 wineries, that way there was no problem driving. All 4 were absolutely beautiful, with spectacular views, and some very impressive wines. Unfortunately, we were leaving the next day, so could not buy any.
















I am sitting here in the South African Airways Lounge in Cape Town typing this. The couple behind me in security just had two beautiful bottles taken away from their carry-on - they did not look happy.

I am off to Dehli via Frankfurt in a couple of hours. Just time enough for a glass or two of South African wine - Cheers Dwayne and Andrea!

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

Hi Neil,

Thanks for the continuing updates on your amazing trip. I have friends living in Cape Town right now and between them and your beautiful pictures I really want to go there.
I just wanted to wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. It sounds like you will be in India for the holidays. Nice. And Warm. It's -6C right now in Vancouver, that's the high for today! Take Care Bob