Leopard’s Leap: A Fabulous French Fête in Franschhoek

The Cape’s famous “French Corner” has been celebrating Bastille Day for more than three decades. It’s a weekend that’s become a midwinter highlight on the social calendar, with Franschhoek sporting le Tricolore (red, white and blue) in full-on party mode.

To get you in the mood for the festivities, Leopard’s Leap wine estate hosts a fabulous French fête on the Friday night. Combining classic French country cuisine with wine and music, it’s an evening of pure bonhomie.

You’ll be welcomed with a glass of Leopard’s Leap Culinaria brut cap classique to enjoy with canapés as the sun sets over spectacular Franschhoek Valley views. The flavours of oysters with sauce mignonette, figs and caramelised onions, Bayonne-style cured ham, camembert and roquefort are the perfect amuse-bouche.

Then dinner, courtesy of new chef William Carolissen: a generous buffet of heartwarming French classics. Think red-wine-rich boeuf bourguignon and coq au vin, ratatouille dauphinoise and butter-rich pommes Anna, as well as a selection of breads and local French-style cheeses. Dessert is a tempting tower of macaroons (red, white and blue, naturally).

Estate wines are available at cellar-door prices to pair with your meal, and there’ll be music to get you in the swing of things on the dance floor, along with a host of activities, promotions and giveaways – including prizes for the best dressed.

There’s no better way to set the scene for your Bastille Weekend than with a celebratory soirée at a local family wine estate.

Cost R650
When Friday 10 July 2026
Time 5pm – 10pm
Where Leopard’s Leap Family Vineyards, Main Road (R45), Franschhoek
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