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Cab Franc Carnival 2019: An Exclusive Affair for Wine Lovers

Some of the best-known cabernet franc producers are getting together, and inviting you to sample their wares.

Cab Franc Carnival
Cab Franc Carnival

It’s been touted as cabernet sauvignon’s more elegant and refined cousin, which is why cabernet franc deserves a celebration in its own right! Taking place at Avontuur Estate on Saturday, 18 May for the fifth year in a row, this exclusive event is dedicated to the Bordeaux varietal, which has been growing in popularity over the past decade, with more winemakers trying their hand at it.

That said, a good local cab franc is hard to find, which is why this carnival is so handy! A whopping 19 wineries will be on hand showcasing their cabernet francs, blends and even a few cab franc rosés – the perfect opportunity for you to get sipping (and buying a few cases to take home).

This year’s participating wineries are: Avontuur Estate, Bushmanspad Estate, Delaire Graff Estate, Druk my Niet Wine Estate, Hillcrest Estate, Holden Manz Wine Estate, Landskroon Wines, Morgenster Wine & Olive Estate, Mulderbosch Vineyards, My Wyn, Nelson Wine Estate, Onderkloof, Ormonde Vineyards, Raats Family Wines, Rainbow’s End Estate, Spookfontein Wines, The Garajeest, Vrede en Lust and Whalehaven.

Avontuur Estate

Franc, food trucks and fun

Along with wine-related activities, festival-goers can look forward to a smorgasbord of food trucks (for burgers, tacos and spring rolls), as well as other dining options from Avontuur Estate’s popular restaurant. Background music will keep you thoroughly entertained throughout the day.

Says carnival organiser, Cobie van Oort: “Cabernet Franc is one of those cult varietals that does particularly well in South Africa! At this year’s carnival not only will you be able to taste and buy some of SA’s best examples of this grape directly from the winemakers, you’ll also be able to enjoy a relaxed day out with fellow fans on one of the most beautiful wine farms in Stellenbosch.”

Your R250 ticket gets you a wine glass, a R50 food coupon, and access to wine tastings. Serious cab franc connoisseurs might like to book for one of three interactive tutored tastings (R150 each), where the Top Six wines in this year’s Cabernet Franc Challenge competition will be presented by Cape wine master Christine Rudman. The tutored tastings take place at 11.30am, 1pm and 2.30pm on the day.

Please note Children under the age of 18 are permitted to the event free of charge, but there is no specific kiddies’ area. Also, no under-18s may partake in any wine tastings/alcohol consumption.

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