AN exciting new wine festival launches in the heart of the Swartland – arguably South Africa’s most dynamic wine region – on April 30, 2022. Hosted in a town not known for its wine, the Swartland Sosiaal Wynfees breaks the mould in typical Swartland fashion with a showcase of famous and lesser-known wine treasures.
The event will be held at The Moorrees – home of hospitality, good food and great wine in Moorreesburg. Participating wineries include Swartland superstars Mullineux & Leeu Family Wines, Leeuwenkuil Family Vineyards, Org de Rac Organic Wine Estate, Riebeek Wine Co, Pulpit Rock Wine and Marras Wines, as well as famous out-of-towners Zevenwacht Wine Estate, MAN Wines, Lievland Vineyards, Journey’s End Vineyards, Mount Rozier Estate, Nico van Merwe Wines and Anthonij Rupert Wyne.
“We’re overjoyed at how this dream has come together with the support of the wineries,” says Swartland Sosiaal founder Carien Hugo Waring, who is well-known in wine circles for her involvement with many of the country’s top estates. “Moorreesburg is not only at the heart of the Swartland wine region, but also a vestige of authentic farm and family-friendly hospitality. It’s this essence reflected in the name Swartland Sosiaal.”
An easy 60-minute drive on the N7 highway from Cape Town, Moorreesburg makes a perfect place to spend the long weekend when Swartland Sosiaal takes place. As a powerhouse of the wheat industry, the town itself has an understated charm. Its wide streets are lined with many historic buildings, while the location is ideal for exploring the region’s many attractions – on foot, by bike or by car.
From 12pm to 4pm, each stall of participating wineries will have six highlight wines available for sampling. Food and all-day live entertainment will also be part of the mix, setting the tone in a marquee set up to create a spacious, safe and enjoyable experience.
Food delights on offer include homemade smoked and pulled brisket rolls with chunky fries as well as cheese-and-charcuterie platters. The organisers have also laid out two boules courts, where you and your mates can do battle in this traditional game native to almost every village across France. Players almost always are armed with a glass of wine at every match.
Tickets (max 300) fr0m Quicket are R300 a person when booked before mid-March, otherwise R350 a person. Price includes 10 tasting vouchers, a glass, R50 towards a bottle of wine as well as the live music and games.
Other offerings available for the duration of the event is a park-and-ride shuttle service run by local Dirkie Uys High School, available at R50/car, and a childminder service, at R100 per child. Pizza for children using this facility may be pre-ordered for an additional fee.
Stay up to date with event notifications and follow Swartland Sosiaal on Facebook, and Instagram @SwartlandSosiaal. Be sure to use #meetmeatmoorrees to join the conversation. For more information, click here.
