A River Meander Through The Vaal's Full-Bodied Wine Route

Wine is a wondrous thing. Whether you're sipping on a dry Chenin Blanc at lunch or indulging in a deep red Cabernet under the moonlight, there is always an ideal bottle of wine to pair with the setting. The following, however, is not a guide on what wines pair well with what, but rather an insight into the Vaal Wine Route: an annual festival dedicated to showcasing the most extraordinary wine South Africa has to offer, and that's saying something.  For this period, a varied selection of venues offer different wines, from estates all over the country at each venue.

Wine routes are for the adventurous palates and the jolly hearts, a time of coming together and appreciating the complex craftsmanship that leaves us so eager for another glass. So, join us on this journey as we sit back with a glass of our finest and dive right in.

The Vaal Wine Route

The Vaal Wine Route naturally occurs along and around the Vaal River, primarily along the stretch that flows from the border of southern Gauteng and northern Free State. The event takes place over nine weeks, from the 10th of June until the 6th of August, giving participants plenty of time to peruse and explore. Hosted every weekend from midday until the evening, it provides the perfect opportunity for wine enthusiasts to spend a day indulging in local contributions.

The event becomes just a little sweeter when you consider the fact that each venue along the route is showcasing completely different estates from one another. This means that, out of eleven different venues, you're guaranteed to experience zesty flavours and fruity nectars for each new location you visit-an experience worth noting even for the most experienced palates. 

(Image Source: VaalWeekblad)


The Places You Want To Go

On the topic of venues, let's look at the different locations one can visit throughout their voyage. Every location is welcoming and offers a different experience, so choose your weekend spot carefully.

·         Stonehaven on Vaal - Stonehaven on Vaal offers bustling yet beautiful gardens and has a range of restaurants that offer anything from pub grub to high-class dining.

·         Waterfront Country Lodge & Spa - With serene views and a peaceful atmosphere, the Waterfront is perfect for those who want to unwind.

·         Urban Vines Bistro and Vineyard - Easy-going and offering an authentic outdoor vineyard experience, Urban Vines has all the relaxation and romance one can ask for.

·         Cock & Bull Pub - Featuring live music on Friday nights and a name you probably read twice, the Cock & Bull is a pub perfect for family and friends.

·         Rio Sol Portuguese Restaurant - A family-friendly restaurant and a favourite along the Vaal, the food here is simply gostoso.

·         Memories - A comfortable guest house in Deneysville, Memories gives you a lavish environment to reside in during your adventure.

·         Riviera on Vaal Resort - Everything you'd expect from a beautiful hotel and country club, the Riviera on Vaal Resort offers something premium for everyone.

·         Emerald Resort & Casino - Lush and luxurious, the Emerald Resort & Casino needs no introduction. It is the epitome of excitement and entertainment.  

·         Ocean Basket - We all know and love Ocean Basket, it's the place to be with the family if tasty fish is on your mind. The hosting branch at Vanderbijlpark is no different.

·         Rose Girlz - Ladies, are you looking for something unapologetically girly? Complete with pink décor and sweet treats? Well, we know just the place!  

·         The Bikers Race Bar - It's as cool as it sounds and a location synonymous with friendship and gathering. The service is said to be offered with a smile, and by the time you leave, you'll have one too.

(Image Source: VistaCreate)


Potential Pairings

Remember earlier how we said this wasn't a guide on wine pairings? We might have lied, but there's no such thing as useless knowledge, is there? Let's explore and give a brief rundown of what types of wine go well with what types of food. 

·         Chenin Blanc - A soft and fruity wine, you'd want to drink this honeyed blend alongside easy meals such as salads, chicken, and light pasta dishes.

·         Chardonnay - White, tropical and citrusy, Chardonnay can be enjoyed alone or with vegetarian dishes, pasta, and chicken. It is marvellous on a summer day and perfect for a good picnic.

·         Rosé - A signature wine between white and red blends, this wine is sweet and displays strawberry and pomegranate notes. It is remarkably versatile, pairing well with anything from cheese, seafood, chicken, and even some cream-based dishes.

·         Cabernet Sauvignon - A favoured red blend, this hearty bottle is ripe with dark fruits and savoury bell peppers. Like any good red wine, it pairs excellently with heavy pasta dishes and mouth-watering red meats.  

·         Port - A famous dessert wine with notes of raspberries and blackberries, dark chocolate, and caramel, it's no surprise Port pairs excellently with sweet foods like apple pie, tiramisu, and cheesecakes.

Another thing you'll want to know is that tastings start easy. This means you'll drink whites before reds, light-bodied before full-bodied, and dry wines before sweet. 


(Image Source: MatchingFoodAndWine)


What To Do Once You're There

Now that you've been caught up let us fill you in on one final piece of advice. It isn't "Sniff, swivel, sip, swish and swallow" (although you should try it), but rather that, above all else, just have a good time. A tasting is a special thing. It's an opportunity to get a taste of the finer things in life, which have had years of refinement and loving craftsmanship put into every bottle, and it's an opportunity to share with the people who mean the most to you in an environment that encourages reflection and jolly co-operation.

The final weekend is just around the corner, so what are you waiting for? Get your crew together and book a fantastic weekend. 



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