As part of the exciting programme planned for the first new-look Stellenbosch Wine Festival this year, Avontuur has come up with an unusual offering on Monday, 28 January from 10h30-14h00. For the first time, a small group of lucky visitors will have the chance to visit the vineyards with winemaker Jan van Rooyen and get to know more about the thoroughbred race horse industry by spending some time with GM Pippa Mickleburgh.
“We very often have visitors asking if they can visit our stables or get to meet some of our beautiful race horses and it’s usually not possible as we don’t want to do anything to upset the routines of the new moms and babies or our champion sire, VAR. The stud areas are therefore out of bounds for casual visitors, although we make a point of having some of our horses in the paddocks close up to the cellar area for viewing,” says Pippa.
However on this day, our guests will be given the opportunity to walk along the paddocks and to the stables for a Q & A session with Pippa and a viewing of VAR, after which Jan will meet them for the vineyard walk and then return them to the cellar for a wine tasting and light lunch at the restaurant.
The cost is R200 pp which includes the vineyard and thoroughbred walk, the wine tasting and the light lunch with a glass of wine. Although the walk isn’t too strenuous, participants must be reasonably fit, wear comfortable shoes, sun block and hats and ensure that they are comfortable with a reasonable amount of walking.
Pre-bookings are essential by no later than Saturday, 26 January and a maximum of 20 people will be accepted. Contact Moerieda at info@avontuurestate.co.za or +27 21 855-3450 to book.
This is a unique opportunity to personally experience the “Fine Wines and Fast Horses” slogan that Avontuur lives by!