tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17855495648170104252024-03-14T06:55:20.198+02:00The Wine OakAll about The Wine Oak's WINE Experiences - <br>
From Wine Reviews, Tastings, Events, Winemaking, South African Wine & Regions, <br> Interesting Facts, Knowledge & Courses, to Anything exciting along the way!The Wine Oakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17049701912306377397noreply@blogger.comBlogger51125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1785549564817010425.post-76925132609687401382021-05-18T10:19:00.000+02:002021-05-18T10:19:13.761+02:00<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/JUeKuyvIG_Q" width="320" youtube-src-id="JUeKuyvIG_Q"></iframe></div><br /><b><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></b><span style="background-color: #f9f9f9; color: #030303; font-family: Roboto, Arial, sans-serif; letter-spacing: 0.2px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;">2015 Ridgelands Syrah Wine Review & Peppercorn Sauce Steak Pairing</span></b><span style="font-size: 13px;">
Are you trying to figure out what food to pair with a shiraz? Look no further, this shiraz food pairing is perfect! This peppercorn sauce steak is a match made in heaven for the shiraz! yum!</span></span><p></p>The Wine Oakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17049701912306377397noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1785549564817010425.post-14296887668726188002020-04-06T12:13:00.001+02:002020-04-06T12:13:34.342+02:00Funniest Wine Tasting Ever! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Click to watch the video on YouTube here: <a href="https://youtu.be/cJ61uNyrTOw" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/cJ61uNyrTOw</a><br />
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<span style="color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-family: Roboto, Noto, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Cabin fever during the lockdown has hit hard! We decided we need to have a little bit of fun! Watch our wine tasting during the lockdown for a proper good laugh!</span></div>
<span style="color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-family: Roboto, Noto, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; white-space: pre-wrap;">For your own sanity, try doing your own wine tasting at home and have a little fun.
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How to do a wine tasting at home, you ask? its simple, just pour wine in different rooms and drink them. Or another wine tasting at home idea, is you can get your partner to pour the wine and you could do a blind wine tasting at home and try guess what the wine is. Enjoy!</div>
<span style="color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-family: Roboto, Noto, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; white-space: pre-wrap;">If you're looking for fun things to do during lockdown or quarantine, or if you're just bored at home, this is definitely an option.
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Do you have any suggestions of things to do when you are bored at home? Please comment below!</div>
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The Wine Oakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17049701912306377397noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1785549564817010425.post-49733763060252698852018-10-11T13:29:00.000+02:002018-10-11T13:31:20.464+02:00Casal Garcia Vinho Verde LIVE Wine Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">To see my latest video wine review, click on the link below ↴ </b><br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/TheWineOak/videos/484177218748837/" target="_blank">Click here, to see the video wine review!</a><br />
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The Wine Oakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17049701912306377397noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1785549564817010425.post-49236177492096183972018-10-11T13:23:00.000+02:002018-10-11T13:23:03.736+02:00Springfield Special Cuvée Sauvignon Blanc 2015 - Live wine review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ngjr_arHWKA/W78xD7hYn1I/AAAAAAAABLI/eQDUSRfcQKQlBHeI4bT4tbScN-aJ3pxtQCLcBGAs/s1600/Springfield.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="506" data-original-width="900" height="356" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ngjr_arHWKA/W78xD7hYn1I/AAAAAAAABLI/eQDUSRfcQKQlBHeI4bT4tbScN-aJ3pxtQCLcBGAs/s640/Springfield.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">To see my latest video wine review, click on the link below ↴ </b><br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/TheWineOak/videos/2132201500185723/" target="_blank">Click here, to see the video wine review!</a><br />
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The Wine Oakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17049701912306377397noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1785549564817010425.post-64002414046020717372017-11-01T15:09:00.001+02:002018-10-11T13:09:10.325+02:002014 Cederberg Bukettraube Wine Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SVcMJPfhqP8/WfnG8a2Ug9I/AAAAAAAABEI/bJXrfFn9DQALDFun2GBwrMbnhWaQckl7wCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_9443%255B1%255D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SVcMJPfhqP8/WfnG8a2Ug9I/AAAAAAAABEI/bJXrfFn9DQALDFun2GBwrMbnhWaQckl7wCLcBGAs/s320/IMG_9443%255B1%255D.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">To see my latest video wine review, click on the link below ↴ </b><br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/TheWineOak/videos/1746852935387250/" target="_blank">Click here, to see the video wine review!</a></div>
<br />The Wine Oakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17049701912306377397noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1785549564817010425.post-69574681632987631322017-10-27T13:36:00.001+02:002017-10-27T13:44:36.664+02:002014 Oak Valley Pinot Noir Video Review <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">To see my latest video wine review, click on the link below ↴ </b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><a href="https://www.facebook.com/TheWineOak/videos/1739722596100284/" id="id_e635_4798_d250_f2db" target="_blank">Click here to see the: 2014 Oak Valley Pinot Noir Video Wine Review</a></b></span></div>
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The Wine Oakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17049701912306377397noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1785549564817010425.post-36018655645124108242017-06-08T10:06:00.000+02:002017-06-08T10:06:21.430+02:00Wipeout! at Meerendal Wine Estate MTB Trail<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FR_dqekcEvU/WTkC4r1i9SI/AAAAAAAAAvs/_NTuHbtTwm8CYRtmQof71SWnkaUX39KHwCLcB/s1600/addtext_com_MDg0MDE3MjAyNDEx.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FR_dqekcEvU/WTkC4r1i9SI/AAAAAAAAAvs/_NTuHbtTwm8CYRtmQof71SWnkaUX39KHwCLcB/s320/addtext_com_MDg0MDE3MjAyNDEx.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So there's more to do than just drink wine on a wine farm :) At Meerendal Wine Estate, we took a ride on their awesome mountain bike trail. Click on the link below for the GoPro footage. There's footage of my wipeout in the video too, ouch!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The trail commences through the vineyards and traverses to the top of the Dorst Berg (Thirsty Mountain -coincidence? haha) from where there is a thrilling single track back down to the start.</span></div>
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<iframe width="320" height="266" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/VQXuPDqzph4/0.jpg" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/VQXuPDqzph4?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="https://youtu.be/VQXuPDqzph4" target="_blank">Meerendal Wine Estate MTB Trail Video</a></span></div>
The Wine Oakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17049701912306377397noreply@blogger.com0Vissershok Road, Meerendal Wine Estate, Durbanville, 7550, South Africa-33.799016000000009 18.623986999999943-59.321050500000013 -22.684607000000057 -8.2769815000000087 59.932580999999942tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1785549564817010425.post-49960234893267571902017-05-30T16:10:00.000+02:002017-05-30T16:10:18.742+02:00New YouTube Channel!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kYK8kb0chbk/WS14pQisddI/AAAAAAAAArw/lTC5NL6u1-w2yDGDzLlZeviz2b4qem8NgCLcB/s320/File%2B2017-05-24%252C%2B1%2B08%2B06%2BPM%2Blow.jpeg" width="319" /><span id="goog_100243749"></span><a href="https://www.blogger.com/"></a><span id="goog_100243750"></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So seeing that I have a passion for both wine and adventure, it became a little crazy and somewhat of a nightmare having various YouTube channels and splitting videos up! Hence I have created a new YouTube channel which showcases the best of both worlds, Wine and Adventure! The new channel is called "Ricky G."</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So please do subscribe to ensure you don't miss out on any awesome, fun and informative videos, by clicking on the link below!:</span></div>
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<a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8aUAgCzDLZxirYemLOaAHQ" target="_blank">Ricky G - YouTube Channel</a></div>
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The Wine Oakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17049701912306377397noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1785549564817010425.post-81406950678963893182016-08-18T15:43:00.000+02:002016-08-18T15:43:16.050+02:00The Wine Oak Review - 2013 Mooiplaas Sauvignon Blanc<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The Wine Oakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17049701912306377397noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1785549564817010425.post-21606852014927184322016-08-18T02:22:00.001+02:002016-08-18T02:22:07.114+02:00Wine Review - 2014 Springfield Whole Berry Cabernet Sauvignon <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />The Wine Oakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17049701912306377397noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1785549564817010425.post-51895989177751937262016-08-16T11:05:00.001+02:002016-08-16T11:13:38.912+02:00Wine Review - De Krans Moscato 2016<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Qh5lB5A4AIM" width="480"></iframe>The Wine Oakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17049701912306377397noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1785549564817010425.post-74619464964410549952016-08-09T07:40:00.001+02:002016-08-09T07:40:44.359+02:00Wine Review - KWV Chenin Blanc 2015<br><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/w2-hB6YdzG0" width="500" height="281" id="y_id_b83a_94ab_174a_e792" frameborder="0"></iframe>The Wine Oakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17049701912306377397noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1785549564817010425.post-57195687952646035412016-08-07T16:11:00.001+02:002016-08-07T16:11:14.592+02:00Wine Review - Villiera MCC Brut<br><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/x9BzuIHa_3g" width="500" height="281" id="y_id_fbeb_9407_9cb2_f7b9" frameborder="0"></iframe>The Wine Oakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17049701912306377397noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1785549564817010425.post-8829982949041715372016-01-14T14:17:00.001+02:002016-01-14T14:17:18.642+02:00THE VALUATION OF WINE FARMS<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Farm valuations are complex and there are many factors which need to be taken into account. The valuation of wine farms or vineyards is no different and one cannot simply apply a comparable sales rate per hectare to the extent of the farm to calculate the value of such. It is necessary for a well-informed property Valuer with experience in the agricultural industry to undertake such exercise, as such understanding is imperative over and above the knowledge of residential, commercial and industrial valuations, which the wine farm may include additional elements of.</div>
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Without going into much detail, these are a few of the factors which need to be taken into account, when performing a valuation of a wine farm:</div>
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<li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;">Are the cultivars planted, suitable to the area and climate?</li>
<li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;">Are the soil types suited towards the cultivars?</li>
<li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;">Are the vines grafted onto the correct rootstock?</li>
<li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;">Are the respective cultivars facing the most appropriate aspect and are they planted at the best altitude, as climatic conditions will have a large impact on such, thereby affecting the quality of the grapes?</li>
<li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;">Is an appropriate trellis system utilised for the cultivar?</li>
<li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;">Is there sufficient water available or are the vineyards under irrigation (legally)?</li>
<li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;">What is the age of the vines, as vines have a lifespan which will affect the yield of such?</li>
<li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;">Are pests and diseases under control? </li>
<li style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;">What improvements and implements does the farm include?</li>
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Do you or the valuation company you are utilising have the experience to answer such questions, in order to determine an accurate market value? Equip yourself with a valuation report which enable you to make an informed decision.</div>
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Ricardo Gouveia, director of Valuetec, is a Professional Associated Valuer and in addition to having a sound knowledge of wine and vineyards, has recently completed Wine Diploma at the Cape Wine Academy with the intention of becoming a Cape Wine Master in the near future. He therefore oversees the valuation of wine farms undertaken by Valuetec in the Western Cape, South Africa. Valuetec have offices in Mowbray, Cape Town and undertake valuations of all types of properties ranging from agricultural, commercial, retail, industrial, specialised properties and residential. Contact Valuetec today, whether you require a wine farm or other property valuation for acquisition, disposal or financial statement purposes: 0861 440 444, <a href="mailto:info@valuetec.co.za">info@valuetec.co.za</a>, <a href="http://www.valuetec.co.za/">www.valuetec.co.za</a></div>
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The Wine Oakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17049701912306377397noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1785549564817010425.post-80084344732873852062015-11-20T13:03:00.000+02:002015-11-20T13:03:40.216+02:00Diploma Module 3 - The Final Frontier...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So it's been just under 2 years since I headed down this track, in the quest to quench my desire for wine knowledge. I have just completed my final module (Module 3 - Wines of the Old World) of Diploma at The Cape Wine Academy. The final exam was written last night and now all that is left to do is hold thumbs in the hopes that I passed and then drink, I mean taste wines like a thirsty mad man over the weekend, as practice for the practical tasting exam on Monday! This I shall have no problem studying for! hahaha</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Module 3 was very interesting as we covered various old world wine producing countries including: Germany, Italy, Portugal, Spain, Switzerland, Austria, Hungary, Bulgaria, Greece and Israel. I learnt a tremendous amount and it was fantastic learning not only about the various grape varieties and wine styles of these fantastic countries, but also about their cultures and history. I have decided that over the next few years, international travels will be planned around visiting the wine regions of all these countries, as its all good and well learning about them on paper and drinking their wines too, but now I need to experience it! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Enjoying a Riesling in the Mosel, a Chasselas near Geneva, a Tokaj Aszu in Hungary, a Chianti in Tuscany, a Port in the Douro or a Tempranillo in Rioja, sounds damn fantastic to me! It will be such an experience to convert this knowledge into unforgettable and much appreciative experiences. We all know how much better a wine tastes in its natural home setting in the vineyards... </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I will admit that Module 3 to me was the most challenging of the 4 and it felt like a system overload at times, so my advice, start revising way in advance if you write this exam! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">There are many different words, regions, wine styles and quality categories for example to learn in each particular language.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So what next? Masters perhaps?? oh the love of the grape makes you do crazy things I tell you ;)</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18.48px;">To start a wine course and to see the list of courses the Cape Wine Academy has on offer, visit their website at: </span><a href="http://www.capewineacademy.co.za/" style="background-color: white; color: #888888; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18.48px; text-decoration: none;">www.capewineacademy.co.za</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18.48px;"> or contact them on 011 024 3616.</span></div>
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The Wine Oakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17049701912306377397noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1785549564817010425.post-72901014039685288432014-11-01T12:59:00.001+02:002014-11-01T12:59:19.198+02:00Diploma Modules 1, 4, 2, 3... Go!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yLaHeb9P4vQ/VFSvxQ607II/AAAAAAAAAiY/DuXaEN9qiWA/s1600/IMG_6834.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yLaHeb9P4vQ/VFSvxQ607II/AAAAAAAAAiY/DuXaEN9qiWA/s1600/IMG_6834.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So I completed and better yet, passed, Module 1 of
Diploma at the Cape Wine Academy. I have attended all the Module 4 lectures and
will write the exam for such in 3 weeks time... hold thumbs! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Modules 2 and 3 will be completed next year, after which I will hopefully commence with Masters thereafter, ouch! Masters sounds damn hardcore, but hey, it's all interesting
and an excellent learning experience.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Thus far, I have learnt a tremendous amount and realised that no
one person will ever know all there is to know about wine. It's such a vast
subject with new innovative winemaking techniques always surfacing, differing cultures of countries and appellation/ wine of origin requirements, thousands of grape
varieties, various climates, varying
terroir and new clones, it sounds almost impossible to keep abreast and that's
what keeps it exciting ;)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Diploma is a lot more intensive then the previous Certificate course, which gives one an excellent foundation of South African viticulture, winemaking and the industry.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> Diploma </span></o:p><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Module 1 covered viniculture, viticulture and a brief introduction into France. Module 4 has been about wines of the new world and wow, what a thrilling experience to try different wines from around the world with a similar winemaking
style to South Africa. Although new world wines are similar in that sense,
per country basis, they are very different in character. It all seemed overwhelming
initially, but eventually you start noticing characteristic trends of the various
countries and realise the more wine you drink, the better you get! Just as time
on the saddle is the best way to get mountain biking fit, sticking your nose
into a wine glass and devouring it's beauty, is the best way to become wine
tasting savvy. It's such a pleasing experience to be able to identify from
which country individual wines in a blind flight come from! Well, it's difficult to get
it right every time, but one day when I'm big and after litres and litres of
more practice, I should eventually take my tasting abilities a notch up.</span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I am thoroughly looking forward to Modules 2 and 3 next year, which will cover "Wines of France" and "Wines of the Old World."</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For a list of courses the Cape Wine Academy has on offer, visit their website at: <a href="http://www.capewineacademy.co.za/">www.capewineacademy.co.za</a> or contact them on 011 024 3616.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i><b>HAPPY WINE LEARNING!</b></i></span></div>
The Wine Oakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17049701912306377397noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1785549564817010425.post-40474142671402869772014-08-05T13:53:00.000+02:002014-08-05T13:53:48.536+02:00Would You Like Some Cheese With That "Whine?"<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Do you enjoy wine? Do you enjoy cheese? How about pairing the two together? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For those that are interested, the Cape Wine Academy is launching a new course on 21 August 2014 at Miele in Johannesburg. Be sure not to miss out and book asap, see the advert below for details: </span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DYET67TKzWc/U-DDpIdNxgI/AAAAAAAAAiI/LR1Av4z7IgA/s1600/CWA+AD+Food++Home+March+2014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DYET67TKzWc/U-DDpIdNxgI/AAAAAAAAAiI/LR1Av4z7IgA/s1600/CWA+AD+Food++Home+March+2014.jpg" height="640" width="270" /></a></div>
<br />The Wine Oakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17049701912306377397noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1785549564817010425.post-40879217412539467062014-07-30T11:41:00.000+02:002014-07-30T13:56:09.092+02:00Haute Cabrière - The Mindset Changer<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UXuCBCT9J-k/U9iuB70dSzI/AAAAAAAAAhE/kwAQQmXuAOI/s1600/Haut+Cabriere+photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UXuCBCT9J-k/U9iuB70dSzI/AAAAAAAAAhE/kwAQQmXuAOI/s1600/Haut+Cabriere+photo.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">How many times have you heard someone say, "Oh no, I cant drink red wine, it gives me headaches," or "white wine makes me drunk," or "it gives me heartburn," or "I don't like white wine" etc? Its amazing how this becomes a mindset and marvelous wine takes the brunt of it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">There is a common misconception that sulfites (which occur naturally in the process of making wine and are commonly added to wine as a preservative) cause headaches. Wrong! Sulphites are found in a variety of foods such as fruit juice, dried fruit and even added to drinking water. Now I've never heard someone complain of getting a headache from drinking too much water?? Just face it, you probably just drinking too much of it, or perhaps you one of those unlucky bastards who experience allergy symptoms. Allergy symptoms occur when the immune system overreacts to an allergen. If there is an allergy, the immune system acts as if the allergen were dangerous, releasing a chemical called histamine that causes allergy symptoms. The most common symptoms of a wine allergy are: skin rashes, flushed skin, diarrhea, vomiting, shortness of breath, stomach cramps, runny nose and swollen eyes. There are also long-term symptoms of wine intolerance, such as: eczema, headaches, migraines, chronic fatigue and low mood.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Those sulfites have taken me off my original topic here, back to Haute <span lang="EN-GB">Cabri</span><span lang="EN-GB">è</span><span lang="EN-GB">re. </span>Haute <span lang="EN-GB">Cabri</span><span lang="EN-GB">è</span><span lang="EN-GB">re is a wine farm located in Franschhoek and known for its delicious Pinot Noir's and Pierre Jordan Cap Classique (bubbly). </span><b><i><span lang="EN-GB">I decided to write this blog post because on 2 separate occasions, in a short space of time, </span>Haute <span lang="EN-GB">Cabri</span><span lang="EN-GB">è</span></i></b><span lang="EN-GB"><b><i>re wines have changed mindsets.</i></b><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-GB">It all started when meeting up with Wimpie, an old buddy for a "meeting" at a golf driving range. Whilst browsing the wine list, I quickly learned that he didn't drink white wine because, wait for it, "he doesn't like white wine." From past experience, I don't drink red wine in the sun. So we had a bit of a problem.... To solve this, we could each order and drink our own bottles of wine, or I could just insist we drink a bottle of white haha. He mentioned that he drank bubbly though, but there wasn't any on the list (thank goodness, as that would have appeared very unmanly and romantic haha). That's when the Haute </span><span lang="EN-GB">Cabri</span><span lang="EN-GB">è</span><span lang="EN-GB">re Chardonnay Pinot Noir jumped out from the wine list and screamed <span style="font-size: large;">pick me, pick me!</span> I told him that most bubbly's are made from a blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir and therefore he should put his big girl panties on and try it! </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-GB">So he tried it and guess what Wimpie bought the following day? Yes, that's right, a case of Haute </span><span lang="EN-GB">Cabri</span><span lang="EN-GB">è</span><span lang="EN-GB">re Chardonnay Pinot Noir! </span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Occasion number 2... Sometimes whilst working, I get tired of... working. So sushi and wine always sound more exciting. </span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I'm going to detract from the topic again quickly (eish, seems like sushi and wine are calling again) Another misconception, is that you should drink white wine with sushi, however, I recently discovered that red wine pairs far better with sushi because of the prominent soy sauce and wasabi flavours. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-GB">Back to my story... I met Karen at our local spot and when ordering the wine, I remembered that she doesn't drink red wine because, wait for it, "It makes her drunk." Another problem, I don't drink red in the sun. What to do?! I decided to look for an easy drinking red, something light and elegant,... that's it,... Pinot Noir! By chance there was a </span>Haute <span lang="EN-GB">Cabri</span><span lang="EN-GB">è</span><span lang="EN-GB">re Unwooded Pinot Noir available. Perfect! A wooded Pinot Noir would have probably erred on the heavy side due to the oaky flavours and higher tannin levels. Karen, being very hesitant at first, allowed me to twist her rubber arm and we ordered the unwooded Pinot Noir. Guess what is Karen's favourite wine and one that she purchases every single opportunity she gets? Yes, that's right, </span><span lang="EN-GB">Haute </span><span lang="EN-GB">Cabri</span><span lang="EN-GB">è</span><span lang="EN-GB">re Unwooded Pinot Noir! </span></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">(Wow, I think </span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Haute </span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Cabri</span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">è</span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">re owes me some commission :) haha)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So, if you haven't tried it yet, get your hands on some <span lang="EN-GB">Haute </span><span lang="EN-GB">Cabri</span><span lang="EN-GB">è</span><span lang="EN-GB">re and perhaps too, can it change your mindset ;) </span><a href="http://www.cabriere.co.za/">www.cabriere.co.za</a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-GB">Ps. </span><span lang="EN-GB">Haute </span><span lang="EN-GB">Cabri</span><span lang="EN-GB">è</span><span lang="EN-GB">re have in no way or form asked or induced me to write this post.</span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Sources for this article include: </span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.naturalnews.com/041402_wine_allergies_symptoms_causes.html#">http://www.naturalnews.com/041402_wine_allergies_symptoms_causes.html#</a></span></span></div>
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The Wine Oakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17049701912306377397noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1785549564817010425.post-31645228002777890492014-04-01T10:10:00.000+02:002014-04-01T10:10:12.622+02:00How NOT, to Sabrage a Champagne Bottle<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GSHmJrR-fSI/UzpyG02WTiI/AAAAAAAAAgQ/n9Zagh_6wwQ/s1600/sabrage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GSHmJrR-fSI/UzpyG02WTiI/AAAAAAAAAgQ/n9Zagh_6wwQ/s1600/sabrage.jpg" height="249" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I wanted to write a post about sabraging, the history thereof and provide a step by step process of how to do so. It really is a VERY simple, yet impressive, procedure which anyone can accomplish if you follow 3 simple basic steps.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">But... last night I came across this old video of mine and thought this is too damn good not to share as I almost wet my pants watching it again! So hence this post! </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"The how to and history of sabrage" post will follow shortly :)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I have sabraged literally over 50 times, using anything from a butter knife to an ax and done so with great success each and every single time. I don't know what the hell happened here, but there could have been a fault with the bottle. With early bottle designs, they tended to explode and the manufacturers kept making them thicker until they could contain the pressure caused by the release of carbon dioxide during the secondary fermentation.</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Or, the bottle was not cold enough. </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The ideal temperature is between 45-48°F or 7-8°C. Why? It is the pressure and the vibration that will "cut" the glass. A warm bottle has more pressure, which is begging for problems (haha ask me, I have first hand experience). A tip: Don't attempt to chill the bottle using an ice bucket as the most important part of the bottle (the neck area) won't be chilled properly.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So, do not try this at home, but please do enjoy the video!</span></div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/tNIMAwQ0iV4" width="480"></iframe>The Wine Oakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17049701912306377397noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1785549564817010425.post-27910175755177258922014-03-27T00:22:00.001+02:002014-03-27T00:22:44.093+02:00You Can Go Wine Tasting in the Garden Route!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-689UYe4Wr7s/UzHBS3EAthI/AAAAAAAAAfM/sT8POJ8D2Dc/s1600/DSC02880.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-689UYe4Wr7s/UzHBS3EAthI/AAAAAAAAAfM/sT8POJ8D2Dc/s1600/DSC02880.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So I have been frequenting the Garden Route, mostly Knysna to be exact, quite often lately. I wonder if it has anything to do with a beautiful and amazing local lady? hehe, yip, it seems a new passion has wondered into my life, apart from wine and adventurous activities :) But not to worry, she loves wine too, so I am beyond certain that consumption of wine and visits to wine farms will be on the up! Oh yeah!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I must admit I have rather missed Stellenbosch and the Cape Winelands as its been a while since I have paid the awesome area a visit, or popped into a new wine farm to try and discover a hidden gem of a wine, just waiting to quench my thirst. Being from Gauteng, It's taken me a while to start becoming familiar with the wine regions, although the Garden Route is very new to me and to be honest, I never really knew of wine farms in the area.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I was therefore very impressed and surprised when said lady, took me to Bramon, a boutique Wine Estate 20km east of Plettenberg Bay. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Bramon is the most easterly estate in the Cape, situated in a mountainous area called The Crags, with gentle slopes and cool sea breezes. The family run estate pioneered vineyards in the Plettenberg Bay area, which subsequently was classified as a Wine of Origin region back in 2005. </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Plettenberg Bay Region stretches</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> from the Groot Rivier in Natures Valley, to Harkerville in the west and borders on the bay. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">At Bramon, t</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">he first Sauvignon Blanc vines were</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> planted in 2000, which have produced an award winning Methode Cap Classique ("MCC") and now a Sauvignon blanc has been added to the range. </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It was a delight to visit the farm and drink some of their marvelous MCC over a delicious light lunch at the restaurant, with the tables literally in the vineyards! I found the MCC to be refreshing and crisp with lovely lime and apple flavours, finishing off with a buttery hint. I couldn't help but think whilst siting in the vineyards, that anyone requiring inspiration to write, or for what ever other reason, would definitely get it here.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I decided to do a little research regarding wine farms in the Garden Route and to my amazement there are approximately 18 wine farms in the area. So it seems my visits to the Garden Route no longer have to be dry runs, causing me to have withdrawal symptoms from much needed wine tastings and visits to wine farms, bloody marvelous! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Only Sauvignon Blanc is currently cultivated in the Plettenberg Bay Region and it seems the specialty of the area is sparkling wine, although the area is apparently experimenting with Shiraz as a red variety. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">With this new found information about the Plettenberg Bay Wine Region and seeing that I will continue to frequent the area for obvious regions, I hereby nominate myself to try out all the wine farms in the area! Watch this space...</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Practicing to be a wine Farmer :) </span></td></tr>
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The Wine Oakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17049701912306377397noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1785549564817010425.post-34061336112925340422014-03-17T10:22:00.000+02:002014-03-17T12:01:08.684+02:00Get Your Wine Groove On!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NwDqyeaJ3KY/UyK1Q0EuXcI/AAAAAAAAAe0/CLCYVHfDnRk/s1600/cape-wine-academy.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NwDqyeaJ3KY/UyK1Q0EuXcI/AAAAAAAAAe0/CLCYVHfDnRk/s1600/cape-wine-academy.jpeg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I still remember years ago when my early wine drinking days commenced, it basically consisted of sweet white or rose, because I just couldn't palate the dry stuff. My oh my, how the roles have reversed! :)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">That being said, there was always this romance about wine to me. I think it all started when I watched 2 movies "Stealing Beauty," starring Liv Tyler, whom I admit may subconsciously have contributed towards this passion to wine, and "A Good Year" starring Russell Crowe. "Stealing Beauty" is a bit of chick flick, but in my manly defense, it is set on a wine farm in Italy and the footage of the vineyards definitely imprinted, or burnt, I should rather say, images in my mind and feelings in my soul, which still fascinate me to this day. "A Good Year" conjured the same emotion although it is set in Provence, France and it showcases the enchanting wine farm and wine making lifestyle. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The fact that soil and climate conditions, location of the vineyards and the way in which the vines are treated, determine the quality of the grapes and that the winemaker then needs to produce wine from said grapes, is an art form in which there is much passion required to produce a masterpiece. I think this is what allured me to wine and think of it as something beautiful and special. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So, I decided to learn more about this alluring beverage. I drank more of it, I read about it and I drank more of it! It was all still a little confusing until a day in 2011, that a Google search revealed The Cape Wine Academy to me. I got so excited when I saw the various courses on offer and I contacted them immediately to enroll in my first course, The South African Wine Course. I have not looked back since that day and my desire to learn more about wine has grown and I completed the Certificate Wine Course soon thereafter. Today I am enrolled for the Diploma Wine Course - Module 1 which commences in April and I can't wait! </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I have learnt volumes through the Cape Wine Academy and met many like minded people. Their courses are interesting, the Lecturers are fun and captivating and I am no longer confused about this diverse subject of wine. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So if you're interested in learning more about wine, as was I, read below about the Cape Wine Academy and the courses which they have on offer. Visit their website and contact them today and I assure you that you will not be disappointed! <a href="http://www.capewineacademy.co.za/">www.capewineacademy.co.za</a></span><br />
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<tr><td style="color: #666666; font-size: 11px; text-align: left;" valign="top"><strong><span style="color: #c2020e; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Welcome to the Cape Wine Academy</span></strong></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="color: #666666; font-size: 11px; text-align: left;" valign="top"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><strong><span style="color: #3f3f3f;">Founded in 1979, the Cape Wine Academy is recognised as the official wine education and training institution in South Africa.</span></strong><span style="color: #3f3f3f;">The Cape Wine Academy provides a range of <strong>social and professional wine courses </strong>for individuals and tertiary institutions and specialises in creating bespoke <strong>wine-tasting events</strong> for corporate clients.</span></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: left;" valign="top"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: #666666;"><span style="font-size: 11px;">The starting point to learning about wine is the </span></span><a href="http://www.capewineacademy.co.za/southafricanwinecourse.htm" style="color: black; font-size: 11px; text-decoration: none;">South African Wine Course</a><span style="color: #666666;"><span style="font-size: 11px;">. On completion of an exam, students can join the </span></span><a href="http://www.capewineacademy.co.za/certificatewinecourse.htm" style="color: black; font-size: 11px; text-decoration: none;">Certificate Wine Course</a><span style="color: #666666;"><span style="font-size: 11px;">, followed by the </span></span><a href="http://www.capewineacademy.co.za/diplomawinecourse.htm" style="color: black; font-size: 11px; text-decoration: none;">Diploma Wine Course </a><span style="color: #666666;"><span style="font-size: 11px;">and ultimately the </span></span><a href="http://www.capewineacademy.co.za/capewinemasters.htm" style="color: black; font-size: 11px; text-decoration: none;">Cape Wine Masters</a><span style="color: #666666;"><span style="font-size: 11px;">, the highest qualification in wine education.</span></span><br /><br /><span style="color: #666666;"><span style="font-size: 11px;">The Cape Wine Academy also offers fun and social wine courses to enjoy with friends and family. Choose from the </span></span><a href="http://www.capewineacademy.co.za/wineandfoodpairing.htm" style="color: black; font-size: 11px; text-decoration: none;">Food and Wine Pairing Course</a><span style="color: #666666;"><span style="font-size: 11px;">, the </span></span><a href="http://www.capewineacademy.co.za/southafricanbrandycourse.htm" style="color: black; font-size: 11px; text-decoration: none;">South African Brandy Course</a><span style="color: #666666; font-size: 11px;"> </span><span style="color: #666666;"><span style="font-size: 11px;">or the </span></span><a href="http://www.capewineacademy.co.za/winecourses/winesoftheworld.htm" style="color: black; font-size: 11px; text-decoration: none;">Wines of the World Course</a><span style="color: #666666;"><span style="font-size: 11px;"> and ignite your passion for wine today!</span></span><br /><br /><span style="color: #666666;"><span style="font-size: 11px;">To start your career in the wine and hospitality sector, sign-up for the </span></span><a href="http://www.capewineacademy.co.za/wineandhospitality/frontofhouse.htm" style="color: black; font-size: 11px; text-decoration: none;">Front of House Course</a><span style="color: #666666;"><span style="font-size: 11px;">, boost your skills with the </span></span><a href="http://www.capewineacademy.co.za/wineservice.htm" style="color: black; font-size: 11px; text-decoration: none;">Wine Service Course</a><span style="color: #666666;"><span style="font-size: 11px;"> or </span>enroll<span style="font-size: 11px;"> for the prestigious </span></span><a href="http://www.capewineacademy.co.za/capesommelier.htm" style="color: black; font-size: 11px; text-decoration: none;">Cape Sommelier™ qualification</a><span style="color: #666666;"><span style="font-size: 11px;">, which is a must for every CV.</span></span><br /><br /><span style="color: #666666;"><span style="font-size: 11px;">All </span></span><a href="http://www.capewineacademy.co.za/Lecturers.htm" style="color: black; font-size: 11px; text-decoration: none;">Cape Wine Academy lectures</a><span style="color: #666666;"><span style="font-size: 11px;"> are presented by South African winemakers, </span></span><a href="http://www.capewineacademy.co.za/diplomawinecourse.htm" style="color: black; font-size: 11px; text-decoration: none;">Diploma</a> <span style="color: #666666;"><span style="font-size: 11px;">graduates and </span></span><a href="http://www.capewineacademy.co.za/capewinemasterdissertations.htm" style="color: black; font-size: 11px; text-decoration: none;">Cape Wine Masters</a><span style="color: #666666;"><span style="font-size: 11px;">, who are actively involved in shaping the South African Wine industry today.</span></span></span></td></tr>
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The Wine Oakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17049701912306377397noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1785549564817010425.post-51547105225161740942014-01-23T09:54:00.000+02:002014-01-23T09:57:36.219+02:00Competition Time! - Win Tickets to the Winestyle Summer Winedown in Jozi<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fjwo1UEkxow/UuDFxjWR59I/AAAAAAAAAdo/qfGWET-oLlk/s1600/Summer-winedown-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fjwo1UEkxow/UuDFxjWR59I/AAAAAAAAAdo/qfGWET-oLlk/s1600/Summer-winedown-1.jpg" height="425" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Hello Winos! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18.479999542236328px;">Happy new year! I have a good feeling that this is going to be an excellent year with hundreds of liters of gorgeous wine and many exciting blog posts, so let's start 2014 with a bang! How do we do that you ask? With a competition!</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; line-height: 18.479999542236328px;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I'm</span></span><span style="line-height: 18.479999542236328px;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> giving away a double ticket to the Winestyle Summer Winedown taking place in Kyalami, Johannesburg at Tintswalo Waterfall Estate on 7 - 8 February 2014! The Spring Winedown held in September was a great success once again and definitely becoming a popular event on the calendar. So bring your sun block, hats and thirsty selves to enjoy some of the many wines on offer. I think some cool climate Sauvignon Blancs and refreshing </span></span><span style="background-color: transparent; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Rosés will be the order of the day for my drinking pleasure... What will yours be?</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><i>So how do you win these tickets?</i> </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Simple! First person to leave a comment below, wins! Fastest fingers first, Go!</span></div>
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<b>Press Release: 29 November 2013<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<b>WineStyle’s Summer Winedown!<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<i>Celebrate the Summer in style.<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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On
the back of our successful Summer and Spring Wine Parties in Cape Town, and our
2 recent Winedown events in Joburg, we are bringing the fun back to Gauteng by
popular demand on the<b> 7<sup>th</sup> and
8<sup>th</sup> February 2014!</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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This
is not just another average wine show –
we are offering you the opportunity to taste some of the ‘Best of the
Best’ and to rub shoulders with the wine professionals involved in creating
your favourite wines - all on the
backdrop of the gorgeous Tintswalo hotel @ Waterfall Estates.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Come
dressed in your Summer whites & unwind & relax – amazing wines to taste
& buy – live music & delicious food. Buy a few of your favourite
bottles, grab a seat on the lawns, order some food & enjoy the day with
friends or family. Also remember to bring your dancing shoes! It is a wine
party, after all!!<o:p></o:p></div>
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Guests
also get an opportunity to purchase these wines, at a special Winedown price.
So come and stock up your collection!<o:p></o:p></div>
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A
ticket gets you entrance and a tasting glass, to roam around and taste for
free, buy wine by the glass or bottle, order some delicious platters, picnic
style tapas or sushi, find a spot on the lawn and relax with friends and family
for the day. Come dressed to our theme; <b><i>“White
with a touch of Bright”</i></b> and stand a chance to win prizes for best
dressed! <o:p></o:p></div>
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Don’t
miss out on this great opportunity to celebrate the Summer season, with this
premium wine event in Gauteng.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]-->•<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Venue:
Tintswalo Waterfall – Kyalami, Gauteng<o:p></o:p></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]-->•<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Date:
7<sup>th</sup> & 8<sup>th</sup> of February 2014 (Friday 5.30-10pm & Saturday 12-<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=1785549564817010425" name="_GoBack"></a>7 pm)<o:p></o:p></div>
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Code: White with a touch of Bright<o:p></o:p></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]-->•<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Tickets: R120.00 per person, including a glass<br />
Tickets available at Webtickets and at
the door<o:p></o:p></div>
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Link: <a href="http://webtickets.co.za/event.aspx?itemid=407928056">http://webtickets.co.za/event.aspx?itemid=407928056</a><o:p></o:p></div>
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For any further
information please contact Jeanne or Kalinka
- www.wine-style.co.za<o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><a href="mailto:Jeanne@wine-style.co.za">Jeanne@wine-style.co.za</a> / <a href="mailto:kalinka@wine-style.co.za">kalinka@wine-style.co.za</a></span><span class="MsoHyperlink"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;"> <br />
</span></span><span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri;">This is the event of the season and we hope to see you there! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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The Wine Oakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17049701912306377397noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1785549564817010425.post-24262773559404987902013-12-02T19:30:00.000+02:002013-12-02T19:30:20.226+02:00The Most Unusual Wine I Have Tasted<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-u1A5cuGUT9I/UpzBc5-CUTI/AAAAAAAAAdA/2Qorhcly_18/s1600/IMG_3262.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-u1A5cuGUT9I/UpzBc5-CUTI/AAAAAAAAAdA/2Qorhcly_18/s400/IMG_3262.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I’ve tasted many unusual
wines; wines from different countries, wines which were made with interesting
styles and sensational wines which have given me bliss orgasms in my mouth.
Hmmm... “so what’s the most unusual wine I’ve tasted,” I ask myself... Perhaps it’s
the 1989 Chateau Ausone Saint Emilion I won just over a year and a half ago?
Yeah, that’s totally unusual as its 25 years old and costs around R4 000 a
bottle! Definitely not an everyday quaffer right? There’s only one problem, as
I peer over my left shoulder and catch a glimpse of the dusty bottle we speak
of, resting peacefully in my clay wine rack – It hasn’t been opened yet! So per
definition of ‘tasted’: <i>past tense of -</i></span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";"> </span><i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">try</span></i><i><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> <span style="color: #333333;">or</span> <span style="color: #333333;">test</span> <span style="color: #333333;">the</span> flavour or <span style="color: #333333;">quality</span>
of <span style="color: #333333;">(something)</span> by taking some into the <span style="color: #333333;">mouth;</span></span></i><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> I haven’t tasted the wine… <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Back to the drawing board… As
my cheek muscles pull a smirk, I recall the first time I made my own Shiraz. I
acquired a winemaking kit and Shiraz grapes from Paarl in the Western Cape. The
whole winemaking experience was extremely interesting and memorable, as my then
2 year old son, Adriano Gouveia, assisted in stomping the grapes with his feet.
Adriano couldn’t pronounce his name but used to say ‘Nano Fire’ instead, hence
I dubbed the wine ‘Nano Fire.’ Looking at this photo now reminds me how much
the little guy has grown! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1yBHVMC45EQ/UpzCkoK4NxI/AAAAAAAAAdU/SFrg2Bn5xKw/s1600/DSC00503.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1yBHVMC45EQ/UpzCkoK4NxI/AAAAAAAAAdU/SFrg2Bn5xKw/s400/DSC00503.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Measuring the sugar content
of the must (mixture of grape skins and juice) with my Ballingmeter and
‘punching the cap’ (pushing the floating grape skins down) every day, was such
an exciting learning experience.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">“So why was the shiraz I
made unusual” you ask? It’s not every day that I get to drink wine that I’ve
made with my own bare feet and the memory of it gives me happy thoughts. I’d
love to say it’s because it was the best damn wine I have ever tasted, but
alas, it wasn’t! Don’t get me wrong, I was reasonably impressed with my first
attempt, the wine was drinkable, although slightly in your face with a punch of
tannins. The name ‘Nano Fire’ was quite fitting in retrospect </span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Arial; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">J</span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> I should’ve
let my masterpiece age a little longer before prematurely and proudly drinking it! </span><b><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
The Wine Oakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17049701912306377397noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1785549564817010425.post-54359465521241928682013-12-02T19:18:00.000+02:002013-12-02T19:18:22.719+02:00What Role Does Wine Play in Everyday Life?<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Benjamin
Franklin said it best; “<i>Wine is constant
proof that God loves us and wants to see us happy." <o:p></o:p></i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Wine
is multifaceted and plays numerous roles in everyday life... 8 basic ones
according to me: <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Mentally,</span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> it’s the muse when creativity
is lacking; the relaxer after a stressful day at work; it’s the therapist to
bottled up emotions; the personality in a bottle to the introverts; or it’s the
nerve calmer to the sweaty-palmed guy taking a hot chick on that first romantic
date.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Ok,
so alcohol in general can lower inhibitions, relax or inspire that spark of
creativity, but let’s face it, wine is classy:<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 19.1875px;"><b>From an Economic point of view</b>, wine can be invested in by purchasing and reselling particular wines for a profit, or by purchasing shares in an investment wine fund. Experts suggest focusing on the top wines from the best vintages as only a fraction of the wines produced worldwide increase in value at a rate that would justify the risk and the expense. Buying investment wine requires storage in professional temperature-controlled cellars. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In
addition, the more wine we drink, the more jobs are created in the wine
industry, so cheers to boosting our economy! <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Decorative &</span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> <b>Functional</b> – Not only is wine beautiful in your mouth, but used
corks and empty wine bottles can be utilised for decorative purposes too. The
uses are only limited by your imagination - How about these funky wine bottle
chandeliers? <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Wine
can be functional too – Need a present for a birthday or a congratulatory gift?
Many appreciate a good bottle of wine. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">You
can also use empty wine bottles to store homemade sauces etc. Think of it as
classy Tupperware, it’s a pleasure ;)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Wine Has an Awesome
Pairing Role with Food</span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> and if done correctly, flavours are enhanced to make the
food taste like “more!” and vice versa. The trick to pairing is that both
should complement each other and neither should dominate the other. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Personally,
I also cook with wine and sometimes I even add it to the food.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The Social Butterfly </span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt;">is often a
conversation starter at many a dinner party. “Wow Murphy, where on earth did
you find this wine?” “Well Gerald, funny story actually. Whilst on business in
Stellenbosch, I got lost and ended up on a dirt road to the wine farm. The
winemaker, Edward, greeted me and asked if I had arrived for the tasting. I
looked at my watch and realised I was an hour late for my meeting, so I thought
to myself, ‘bugger it.’ A delightful tasting led to myself and old Eddie
getting totally sloshed and I bought 6 cases of the marvellous stuff. Please
don’t tell Mary about this. If she asks, I won the wine at a golf day, the one
which raised money for orphaned children.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Wine
is the reason wine clubs meet religiously on a weekly basis to consume, I mean
taste wines. It’s also the reason members of book clubs meet to discuss books
they have read - yeah right! <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Along
with its bubbly counterpart champagne, wine is used to congratulate
achievements and celebrate momentous occasions. It’s the choice of beverage
when going out or meeting friends. It’s the comforter alongside a crackling
fire on a nippy winter’s night; the companion to a braai or picnic at the pool
on a summer’s day. Red wine is the reason we look at ourselves in the mirror
with black teeth in the morning and smile and think: ‘awesome night.’<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Wine Inspires Travel
– </span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt;">As
Gautengers, we cease every opportunity to visit the Winelands. Business trips
to the Cape are welcomed with open arms and detours to wine farms always
miraculously fall into place. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Wine
connoisseurs travel the world and are romantically allured by the old world
styled wines and history France has to offer. Holidays are planned around
having a Château Margaux in Bordeaux, A Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc in New
Zealand or perhaps a Penfolds Coonawarra Shiraz in Australia. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Sexy
Times - </span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt;">"Women
who drink 2 glasses of wine a day are said to be more active in bed. In simple
words, they enjoy sex better." I don’t think further substantiation is
required, drink up ladies!</span><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Still not
convinced that wine plays an important role in everyday life? <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Well if this
last role does not sway you, then you are without a doubt a teetotaller: <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-size: 12pt;">There are several Health Benefits</span></b><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> of drinking the fermented grapes we know as Wine! I’m actually going to
pour myself a glass as I type this…<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Before you, in
the hopes of becoming immortal, down bottles and bottles of wine on a daily
basis, the health benefits are achieved from moderate consumption which is
defined as one to two 120ml glasses per day. Wine:<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Promotes longevity, perhaps not immortality, but
hey, who wouldn’t like a few extra birthdays;</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Reduces heart-attack risk;</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 12pt; text-align: justify; text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Lowers the risk of heart disease;</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 12pt; text-align: justify; text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Reduces risk of type 2 diabetes;</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 12pt; text-align: justify; text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Lowers the risk of a stroke;</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 12pt; text-align: justify; text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Cuts the risk of cataracts; </span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 12pt; text-align: justify; text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Cuts the risk of colon cancer;</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 12pt; text-align: justify; text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Slows brain decline.</span></span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">In conclusion, a</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">s I look at my glass of wine which has 1 sip left, I
telepathically say to it: <i>“thank you for
fulfilling your daily role in my life you fine beverage. Until tomorrow, we
shall meet again,” </i>*sip. </span></span></div>
The Wine Oakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17049701912306377397noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1785549564817010425.post-33826635530456473262013-12-02T18:56:00.001+02:002013-12-02T18:56:24.669+02:00Veritas Young Wine Writers Competition 2013<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So, if you haven't heard yet, I am delighted to say that I was awarded 2nd place in the Veritas Young Wine Writers Competition! :)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The prize giving was held at Degrendel Wine Farm in Durbanville last week Monday, 25 November 2013, where several glasses of the cool climate Sauvignon Blanc and unreleased Chardonnay, were thoroughly enjoyed by myself and Marthelize Tredoux (the winner).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I was ecstatic to receive an email from Veritas a couple weeks ago, inviting me to join the prize giving function, with flights paid for from Johannesburg to Cape Town. Any chance to spend time in the Cape Winelands is much appreciated! Just imagine my surprise when my name was announced as the runner up to the competition? Absolute bonus! I don't think I stopped smiling and it was great to meet some wonderful people in the wine industry. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">To enter the competition, an article</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> on one of the following two subjects had to be written:</span></div>
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<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">What role does wine play in everyday life?</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Describe the difference between wines to be enjoyed as 'quaffers' and wines that do justice </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">to certain cuisine.</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As well as a blog on:</span></div>
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<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">What is the most unusual wine you have tasted and why?</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Below is a link to the press release on the Veritas website: </span><a href="http://www.veritas.co.za/uncategorized/young-writers-celebrated-for-contribution-to-wine-industry/">http://www.veritas.co.za/uncategorized/young-writers-celebrated-for-contribution-to-wine-industry/</a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Below is a link to my entries, which I will be posting to my blog shortly: </span></div>
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<a href="http://www.veritas.co.za/uncategorized/runner-up-sa-young-wine-writers-competition-ricardo-gouveia/">http://www.veritas.co.za/uncategorized/runner-up-sa-young-wine-writers-competition-ricardo-gouveia/</a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">To my international readers, or those of you perhaps not familiar with Veritas, here is a link to their website as well as a brief description of the organisation below: <a href="http://www.veritas.co.za/">www.veritas.co.za</a></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-weight: normal;">The Veritas Awards is the longest running and most prestigious wine competition in South Africa and is synonymous with excellence in wine. The organisers, the South African National Wine Show Association (SANWSA), represents the full spectrum of the industry. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 22px;">After almost two decades the Veritas Awards has earned its reputation as one of South Africa’s most authoritative and credible competitions for market ready wines. The Awards with its coveted Veritas emblem, has become synonymous with top quality wines. The results are trusted implicitly when international as well as local wine buyers use them to assist in their buying decisions and also when the ordinary wine lover simply selects a bottle from the shelf to enjoy with dinner.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 22px;">So I will end off by saying that I will definitely be entering the competition again next year, although this time I will be gunning for 1st position! :)</span></div>
The Wine Oakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17049701912306377397noreply@blogger.com0