lifestyle

Ryk Neethling was recently delighted to be interviewed on KykNet's Bravo show. Presenter Hannes visited Val de Vie and chatted to Ryk Neethling about his career, life at the estate and the pressures that international sport stars experience. Be sure to watch the awesome interview.

Don't miss out on this must-see event! Click here to buy tickets.

Learn how to do your make-up the professional way with Nicky Lonte, a professional make-up artist who will be hosting a fabulous workshop at Val de Vie Estate.

Venue : Val de Vie Polo Club
Dates: Wednesday 19 June or Friday 26 July
Times: 09:00 - 12:30 or 13:30 - 17:00
Cost: R450.00 per person

Includes: Notes, face chart, snack & coffee / tea
Make-up & Brushes will be for sale.
ONLY 10 SEATS AVAILABLE PER SLOT.
View the flyer.

Book your place by contacting Nicky at 083 2646717 or nicky_lonte@vodamail.co.za. Visit Nicky's website to find out more about what she can do for you.

Val de Vie is now selling an exclusive range of cycling gear that's expertly designed to enhance you performance. Selling for R920.00, we think they would make the ideal gift for Father's Day, which is coming in June. Visit our site to find out more and to see more images.

If you're interested in purchasing  gear, kindly inquire at the Val de Vie gym  or email Mieke le Roux at mieke.leroux@valdevie.co.za.

Little Pink Book will be hosting interactive Wedding Workshops on the main stage at The South African Wedding Show from 7 – 9 June 2013 at the CTICC. This is an amazing opportunity for brides to be part of a real, live coordinated session with the leading wedding coordination company, The Aleit Group and fantastic wedding suppliers! Watch as they create a mock up setting of a wedding, designed to the themes below. Get involved, join the team on the stage as they work and stand a chance to win fantastic prizes!

Val de Vie will also be involved in this exciting event, so be sure to watch out for our talented team.

Click here to view the various themes that they will be showcasing in the workshops.

The streets of Paris are always alive with colour, from delectable macarons in a bakery window to the brightness of flowers in window boxes, or perhaps the dazzle of a chic pair of heels. Perk up your week with some pretty colours... très belle!

By Simone de Wet, Managing Director Events

We're smitten with Elie Saab's latest collection, in which the sleek, flattering lines of the corporate outfits are elegantly blended  into evening wear. The look is classy and professional yet undeniably sexy too.

The use of soft, sheer “evening” fabrics such as chiffon and lace add a touch of elegance to your normal day-to-day corporate work wear, making it so easy to  attend a networking Cocktail function straight after work without having to rush home to change.

All you'll  need to do is swop your iPad bag for a clutch, add a bit of shimmer to your lipgloss and put on some gorgeous heels.

To view more images, visit Glamour's website.

By Nadia Valentyn, Venue Manager & Wedding Planner

As a busy week comes to a close, we're still daydreaming about the romance of Paris. It's the idea of a beautiful view of a cityscape, a romantic ride into the country or the thought of a glamorous night out. Even though we're many miles from the streets of Paris, add some French-inspired romance to your weekend, whether it's enjoying a picnic with a loved one, taking a romantic stroll or putting on a beautiful dress.

By Simone de Wet, Managing Director Events

It's the last month of Autumn, which means that the cold Winter months are just around the corner. Warm things up by baking some tasty treats, we can't get enough of these Chai cupcakes with marshmallow frosting by The Kate Tin. Yum!

Cream the margarine, sugar and vanilla together until light and fluffy. Gradually add the eggs and beat well. Sift over the flour and spices and beat again. Spoon into a muffin tin lined with cupcake wrappers and bake at 180C for 12-15 minutes or until golden and a skewer comes out clean.

Make the frosting by whisking the egg whites in a heatproof bowl until soft peak stage. Add castor sugar and whisk over simmering water until the meringue is hot to the touch. Remove from the heat and beat on high with a hand mixer until cool. Whip in the vanilla. Place in a piping bag and pipe onto cupcakes immediately.

This Sunday is Mother's Day, a special time to honour and pamper your mom. We think that the perfect Mother's Day should start with breakfast in bed, which is why we adore this beautiful breakfast idea by The Kate Tin blog.

Ingredients:
¼ cup raspberries pomegranate rubies 1 tsp rose water (optional)
¼ cup toasted muesli
1 small pot fat-free plain yoghurt
1 tbsp light brown sugar

Place the raspberries and a few pomegranate rubies in a small bowl and sprinkle with rose water. Spoon some of the muesli into the bottom of a pretty teacup then top with a layer of yoghurt.

Next, sprinkle the marinated fruit over the yoghurt and repeat until the cup is full, ending with a layer of yoghurt.

Just before serving, sprinkle the brown sugar on top and caramelize with a blowtorch or under a preheated hot grill until golden, melted and crisp. Garnish with extra berries and serve.

Recipe and image courtesy of The Kate Tin

By Nadia Valentyn, Venue Manager & Wedding Planner

Refreshingly clean lines abound in this modern home with clean white spaces & feature textured walls.

Open plan living with two lounge areas, dining area, Euro styled kitchen with induction hob and a separate scullery. Lovely private entertainment patio with a splash pool.

Spacious Master bedroom downstairs, with dressing area and a stunning bathroom with courtyard garden. Upstairs there are two additional bedrooms with an adjoining family bathroom.

BONUS staff accommodation!

R4.85m

Please contact Val de Vie Property for more information about this exceptional property.

Stock up on some fine Val de Vie Wines with our our fantastic May specials!

The Val de Vie Shiraz 2008 is available in limited cases for R700 per case of 6. It features a rich nose with nuances of plum, vanilla and white chocolate, perfect for cold winter nights with hearty beef casseroles or game dishes. Click here to buy now.

The Val de Vie GVC 2007 is available in limited cases for R300 per case of 6. It's elegantly wooded, with floral notes, a citrus zest and honey undertone goes perfect with a spicy oriental curry and Thai food. Click here to buy now.

Today our winemaker, Harold Versfeld, takes a look at the remarkable correlations betweeen wine and music. We couldn't agree more!

As a person who loves music, it is very easy to compare the wine to music. There are many similarities, like the artistic expression, the volume, the base (round mouth-feel), treble (acidity), balance and uniqueness that each wine or song can carry over. So if I had to compare my cultivars to music, this is how I would make the connection.

Shiraz

Metallica: such great diversity that you would find the differences between albums very significant. From the racy Master of Puppets, to St. Anger where it sound like Lars Ulrich is beating an empty paint can, to the soft and rhythmic melodies of S&M, where the symphony adds a classical element, almost directly the opposite of what you would expect from the hard-core rockers. Shiraz is exactly the same. When you compare our different components from the various regions, you would find the variation very intriguing. From the very racy and precise Botrivier, to the palette-pounding Paarl, to the elegant and structured Swartland, there is something to find for every taste.

Mourvedre

Santana: If you look at Santana’s music, he is able to add so much to any artist that he collaborates with. He adds class and finesse, and he spices things up! The same with Mourvedre, you can blend it with almost any wine and it enhances the profile immensely. And don’t forget that spice that it adds.

Grenache

Dire Straits: While Mark Knopfler can be misinterpreted as a love-sick puppy, there is so much more to his music. When he picks up that Fender Strat and starts making harmonious love to your eardrums, you realise that there is so much sustenance in the beat, the vocals and rhythm. The intricacy, complexity and structured layers make for fine listening. The same with Grenache. You would think that this fruit driven nose will deliver a pansy wine. But alas, once the big notes and grippy palette starts caressing you mouth, you know, this is not the Boy George you perceived it to be. I love Dire Straits!

Carignan

U2: You sometime forget how good U2 is. You would write them off and say that this will definitely be their last album. But then you get a taste of new one, and you think “dammit, they have done it again”. And then you have a play list, and somehow you miss them on there. The same applies to Carignan. You forget how important it is to completing a blend. And every year, you can count on Carignan consistently performing in the cellar. And if you don’t have it in your blend, you surely do miss it!

Cinsaut

Pink Floyd: Cinsaut has reached an impasse, and is making a storming comeback in the world of wine. More specifically, Cinsaut is the Dark Side of the Moon album. Pink Floyd was around for a very long time, but saved their masterpiece for their 8^th album. It was a pivotal moment is music history, just establishing how truly magnificent the band has become. Staying in the charts for the better part of 740 weeks, it was, and still is, iconic. The same goes for Cinsaut. Even though it has been appreciated in the past, we are finding Cinsaut to be at its most celebrated and methodically well-crafted state in its illustrious history. This too has the potential to become iconic.

Petit Sirah

Chris Chameleon: For those of you who know Chris Chameleon, you know that he can take on any role, has a vocal range broader than Beyonce’s hips and presence bigger than Alex Fergusson’s ego. As Petit would suggest, it is small grape, but as Chris Chameleon would suggest, even though it is small, it packs a big punch, with a great variety of characteristics and the ability to perform almost every task you need it for.

As for the white wines, The Travelling Wilbury's is best way to describe each cultivar:

Grenache Blanc

George Harrison: even though it is one of the lesser known cultivars, it is the basis that forms our blend. Without it, it would never be as great as it is. Just as George Harrison is the founding father and the core of the Wilbury’s, in exactly the same way Grenache Blanc holds the blend together with its big heart and artistic integrity.

Viognier

Bob Dylan: the element that adds the most character to our blend. Quite often very high in alcohol, as a blood sample would prove, both Viognier and Bob Dylan are the element that adds fun, spice and eccentricity to the final product.

Clairette Blanche

Tom Petty: Both lighter in volume and colour, Tom Petty is the element that brings the crispy treble to the blend. He tones down the seriousness, and lightens the mood. Even though he will be thought of as the “little brother” he certainly won’t back down, as he has mentioned in the past. The same applies to the Clairette Blanche. It freshens up the blend, with crisp acidity and low alcohol. Without Tom Petty, the Wilbury’s will definitely not be the same.

Rousanne

Jeff Lynne: the most unknown of the Wilbury’s, but one of the most important. Being producer and multi-instrumentalist, his role has gone somewhat unnoticed.  In the same way, the role of Rousanne is underestimated, and seldom given the credit. It is fantastic cultivar to work with, as it produces even though the attention it receives is not at all to the magnitude of the rest. The working class hero, if you will.

Ugni Blanc = Roy Orbison: the one that the band has to live without. Unfortunately Roy Orbison died a premature death, very similar to that of Ugni Blanc. Ugni Blanc, or known as Trebbiano, is very often used in what is commonly referred to as Beaujolais Nouveau styles wines. Made to have a very low alcohol in a very fresh style, this wine is not made to mature, something that I strive for at Val de Vie. It’s inability to age thus made me use the metaphor for premature death. Sometime in the near future I hope to make a wine in this style, just to show people in SA that there can be good wine made in this style.

Some more wine comparisons:

Sauvignon Blanc = Led Zeppelin BBC Sessions Acoustic live set. Crisp, clean and a popular choice. A Classic!

Cab Franc = Tchaikovsky 1812 Overture. Dramatic, epic, ecstatic. Taking the mickey out of Merlot. (as Tchaikovsky did with Le Marseillaise)

Chenin Blanc = The National Anthem. There is something that everybody likes about it!

Pinotage = Afrikaans Rock. It used to be bad, but innovation has helped it gain quality and popularity.

Low Alcohol Rose = the Bulls singing “Stand by me”. Not to be taken seriously.

We're proud to introduce Val de Vie Estates’s new Equestrian Manager, Kelly Tamarind Mathias. Whether you'd like to learn from the best or stable you horses in world-class facilities, Val de Vie's stable and livery facilities are in a league of their own.

We have the beautiful backdrop of the Simonsberg mountains on our outrides, top quality polo fields, a 90 x 90 grass exercise field, a sand training track and three sand lunging rings with brand new jumping equipment including planks, trays and fillers. The estate also provides 24-hour supervision and full grooming and livery services at the stables. To top it off, horses and ponies enjoy grazing on large open grass paddocks.

Please do not hesitate to contact Kelly should you require any additional information: kelly.mathias@valdevie.co.za

The Market at Val de Vie is back this Sunday, 7 April, and promises to have loads of gorgeous local goodies on sale! Savour fine foods, discover stunning crafts and wares, listen to live music and enjoy the action of a live polo match. Kids can take part in a variety of fun activities, including a delightful petting zoo by Zoo to You, face painting by Bazinga and a tricycle track for toddlers.

The market will be held between 10AM and 3PM, see you there!

Photos by Inecke Photography

Val de Vie Estate hosted the second Ladies only Triathlon and Duathlon on 24 March 2013, in association with Western Province Triathlon.

The event consisted of four categories:
- Ladies triathlon 600m swim, 16km cycle and 4km run
- Ladies sprint Triathlon 300m swim, 8km cycle and 2km run
- Ladies Duathlon 4km run, 8km cycle and 2km run
- Girlie super sprint 200m swim, 8km cycle and 2km run

All the girls had to do an open water swim in one of the beautiful Val de Vie dams, followed by a cycle through the estate and the Valentia farm followed by a run on the estate.

The event was very successful: all the entrants completed the race! There were a lot of first time triathletes and all finished with big smiles. Well done to you all, next year we will be back!

Results:

Ladies triathlon 600m swim, 16km cycle and 4km run
1. ROBYN WILLIAMS 1:01:11
2. MADELIEF ROUX 1:03:29
3. MARIÃ HEATLIE 1:06:29

TEAM
1. Sue Bosch / Charmain Van der Merwe 1:15:10
2. Sofie Moens 1:31:50
Andrie van Niekerk 1:55:01

Ladies sprint Triathlon 300m swim, 8km cycle and 2km run
1. SIMONE FAULMANN 38:35:00
2. LYNN BRENNAN 39:07:00
3. TANYA DUTOIT 41:00:00

Ladies Duathlon 4km run, 8km cycle and 2km run
1. DEBRA ROSSOUW 52:27:00
2. JO VANDYK 56:29:00
3. RESIA SWART 56:57:00

Girlie super sprint 200m swim, 8km cycle and 2km run
1. LIEZE VANHEERDEN 0:42:47
2. TATUM MAHER 0:42:57
3. TAYLOR-DREW THOMSON 0:53:07

Here's a delicious recipe for basil pesto that's super easy to make and so versatile. Stir the pesto into pasta or cous cous, spread it onto crunchy toasted bruschetta or put a small dollop onto a baked potato.

Ingredients
4 cups packed basil leaves
5 cloves garlic
½ cup butter
2 cups parmesan cheese
olive oil
a handful of pine nuts or walnuts

Put first four ingredients into bowl of food processor in order given: mash as many basil leaves in as you can, just as long as you leave a few inches of space at the top of the bowl, then add garlic, slice up the butter on top, and put the cheese on top of that. Pulse and gradually add olive oil until mixture is the consistency of thick paste. (Taste at this point and see if it needs more of anything.) Add nuts and continue to blend. Once done, spoon into jars and keep in fridge until ready to enjoy.

By Nadia Valentyn, Venue Manager & Wedding Planner

Val de Vie Estate hosted its first market on 24 March 2013. As the first market of its kind in the Paarl-Franschhoek valley, the event was a great success and attracted over 1000 visitors to the estate.

Held twice a month on the Polo Pavilion’s terraces, the Market at Val de Vie showcases some of the region’s finest local produce in a spectacular country setting. Visitors had the opportunity to discover lovingly crafted goods as they enjoyed sunshine, smiles and festive atmosphere.

18 irresistible food stands presented a variety of delicious homemade fare, ranging from oysters, pies and gourmet delicacies to decadent sweet treats. There was no shortage of refreshment either, with seven drink stations selling wines, bubbly, local beers and fresh juices.

Beautiful clothes, jewellery and homeware were also on sale, lovingly made by Different, Handmade by Me, Roxanne, Wild Orchid Boutique, 22kids, Louw van Heerden, Daffadowndilly, Poloworld International, Patatie Designs, Lullybay and Dakota Fashion Wear. To top it off, the works of acclaimed artist Louis Janse van Vuuren were displayed in the pavilion’s foyer, while Alta Venter’s works could be viewed in the Polo Club Restaurant.

Apart from the all the tempting goods on offer, there was something for everyone at the market. Patrons were entertained by an exciting game of polo, chocolate and bubbly pairings by Pongracz and live music by Sven Blumer. Children were treated to a variety of fun activities, including a delightful petting zoo by Zoo to You. Bazinga entertained kids with face paint and balloons, while toddlers loved riding around the tricycle track.

The next Market at Val de Vie will be held between 10AM and 3PM on 7 April and promises to be another must-attend event.

Photos by Inecke Photography

We're thrilled that Handmade by me are going to be selling their stunning fabrics and interior products at our new market on 24 March 2013! Held between 10AM and 3PM at the terraces of our pavilion, the market will showcase some of the finest local producers. There will be so much to enjoy, such as delicious foods, bubbly, wine tastings, kids activities and even an exiciting polo match.

Be sure to look out for Handmade by me, which was founded by Sera Holland, a graphic and textile designer based in Cape Town. Handmade by me produces bespoke fabrics which are made into handmade interior products. They also have a wallpaper range. The fabrics are all high quality natural fiber textiles, and are either digitally printed with eco-friendly water-based inks or screenprinted locally. To find out more, visit the Handmade by me website, or visit their blog to read about their write-up on the market.

We love the idea of personalised gifts. They're a wonderful opportunity to make a special gesture to someone you love, and to explore your own creativity. These DIY Lavender Mason Jar Candles look stunning and with the right tools for the job, they're not difficult to make! The candles can be infused with your favourite scent and colour,allowing you to create something truly personalised and unique.

Visit A Pumpkin and a Princess for the full set of instructions. Happy candle making!

Image courtesy of A Pumpkin and a Princess

It's the start of another week, so why not sweeten your Monday with these delectable truffles? They are so quick to make and look utterly irresistable. We think they would also be perfect as a decadent tea time treat or as part of a dessert table at an event. Visit Green Kitchen Stories for more mouthwatering recipes, yum!

Seven minute Choco-Almond Truffles
Makes 15-20

15 large medjool dates, pitted
100 g dried shredded coconut, unsweetened
100 g raw almonds or nuts of choice
2 tbsp extra virgin coconut oil, room temperature
4 tbsp cacao powder
1 tbsp water
1 tsp ground cinnamon

Mix all the ingredients in a food processor for about 1 minute or until it forms up like a ball. Remove the knife blades from the food processor. Place the mixture in the fridge for about 10 minutes. Then form 15 – 20 small round truffles with your hands; they should be half the size of a golf ball. Roll the truffles in cocoa powder, finely chopped almonds, shredded coconut or rolledoats. Place in the fridge for 20 minutes before serving.

If you do not have a strong food processor or blender, just place your pitted dates on a plate and mash with a fork until they are sticky and smooth as caramel. Then add the rest of the ingredients and knead by hand until well combined. Place in the fridge and follow the steps above.

Recipe and image courtesy of Green Kitchen Stories.

Val de Vie is proud to be hosting the second Ladies Only Triathlon and Duathlon on 24 March 2012. This off road event specifically aimed at female competitors and their participation in sport and wellness either as an individual or part of a team. Both the Triathlon and Duathlon allow for a choice of distances with team or individual entries to accommodate various levels of fitness and ability.

Fantastic prizes up for grabs

If you follow the event on Facebook and Twitter, you can stand a chance to win one of many Hammer Nutrition and ladies clothing give away hampers!

You can also enter the race on the event's offical website, it's guaranteed to be a fun-filled day!

The first Market at Val de Vie is going to be held on Sunday 24 March and will include a host of talented local craftsmen and producers. Bella Isabella Niehaus will be selling mouthwatering country fare from West Coast, with delicious seafood dishes and hearty platteland cooking. As a self-confessed market madame, today she talks about her love for markets and her excitement for our upcoming event:

"Once you’re bitten by the market bug, it’s here to stay! Exchanging designer flats and magazine fashion spreads for the love of a food market was not on my shopping list a few years ago. But, here I am: a real market madame and loving every minute of it!

It all started four years ago with organizing a lovely little fresh food market on the West Coast. Last year the big challenge came: bring platteland cooking and delicacies (hartskos) to city tables! That is exactly what the Palms Food Market in Woodstock offers: wonderful quality and homemade fare.

Every Friday there is so much excitement here in Langebaan on my Dune. I rush to collect fresh oysters and mussels and then settle down with a strong pot of coffee, ready to prepare the dough for the quiches and steam the mussels for the famous mussel bobotie (mmm, you have to taste this). I even venture into the freezing water in the early evening to collect a bottle of seawater for opening the oysters. Late at night I pack my shopping trolley (my car!) and at 6:00 on Saturday morning, I hit the R27 to Cape Town. When I reach Woodstock, it’s the start of another amazing, fun-filled and beautiful Saturday!

Although I was adamant that one market a week is enough, I was bowled over by the amazing enthusiasm of the events team of Val de Vie Estate. What can a market madame do but join this energetic young crowd, two Sundays a month, with a wonderful seafood table!

Perhaps markets are so popular because each one has its own character and unique set of offerings. Visitors can enjoy the beauty of Val de Vie, the romance of polo, a host of stalls under yellow umbrellas, stunning goods from artists such as Louis Jansen van Vuuren, as well as a glass or two of Pongracz.

Every market must have its own individual stamp, and I’m proud to say that we achieved that with the market at The Palms. It’s all about homemade foods, a relaxed atmosphere and beautiful buildings right in the heart of the city.

The Market at Val de Vie is going to be an eclectic mix with wonderful homemade foods, crafts, clothes and so much more. I can’t wait to watch my first polo match too, and just fill my soul with the beauty of the surroundings, watching people enjoy their delicious eats! So be sure to come and visit us next Sunday at Val de Vie, I can’t wait!"

The Market at Val de Vie will be held from 10am to 3pm bi-monthly on Sundays at Val de Vie’s scenic terrace, which overlooks the polo fields.

It's not long until we'll be hosting our first market at Val de Vie, and we can't wait! A host of talented local craftsmen and producers will be selling their goods at the estate on Sunday 24 March, and it's the perfect opportunity for you to discover what the Paarl-Franschhoek Valley has to offer.

Artist Louis Jansen van Vuuren will be selling his gorgeous range of ceramics, so be sure to look out for his contemporary stoneware pieces. Every single plate and bowl is slightly different as they are handmade. The design elements are uniquely considered regarding size, scale and placement on the images on the tableware. Please click here to download their pricelist and catalogue, or read this article in Die Burger that discusses his works.

The Details

The Market at Val de Vie will be held from 10am to 3pm bi-monthly on Sundays at Val de Vie’s scenic terrace, which overlooks the polo fields.

If you missed Top Billing's showcase of the Veuve Clicquot Polo Masters 2013, you can check out all the glamour in this fabulous video. We're thrilled that the Top Billing team were part of this event, which celebrated all the finer things in life. We can't wait for next year!

It's might be Monday, but the beautiful sunny weather in the Paarl-Franschhoek Valley is keeping the Monday blues at bay. This recipe for Cucumber and Vanilla Jam is delightfully different and the perfect addition to a light summer lunch. It's so easy to make and even easier to enjoy!

By Elsjé Oosthuizen, Project Coordinator & Business Strategist

This weekend it's time for the Veuve Clicquot Polo Masters at Val de Vie Estate, an absolute must-attend event! It's a day of fun, fashion and all that's fabulous, with plenty of polo action in the line-up. Other entertainment includes a fashion show, live bands and a showcase of stunning Bentley cars.

Simone de Wet, the MD of Val de Vie Events Full Coordination, spoke to MFM about the event today, click here to listen to the interview. If you don't have your ticket yet, be sure to buy one on our website. See you there!

We are so excited to announce that Val de Vie will soon be hosting a fabulous market! On Sunday 24 March, The Market at Val de Vie will take place for the first time. As a fresh goods and craft market, it will showcase some of the finest local produce from the Paarl-Franschhoek Valley Region and beyond.

The market is the first of its kind in the Paarl area and offers a unique experience to visitors. We invite you to visit the market and browse a variety of local wares, taking in the scenery of the surrounding countryside. To top it off, each market will be accompanied by a lively polo match for your entertainment. It's the perfect opportunity to purchase delicious foods and gorgeous goods, and to support local businesses. We can't wait to see you there!

The Details

The Market at Val de Vie will be held from 10am to 3pm bi-monthly on Sundays at Val de Vie’s scenic terrace, which overlooks the polo fields.

Today is the day to celebrate love, happiness and all things sweet and sensual! Treat your Valentine with decadent treats that symbolise your affection. We love the idea of a red velvet milkshake, or perhaps fortune cookies with your own personalised message. Be creative, be romantic and be spoilt!

By Elsje Human, Events Assistant

Martin Venter, Founder and Chief Executive, and Ryk Neethling, Marketing Director of the Development Company of Val de Vie Estate, are pictured here with Gugile Nkwinti (Minister of Rural Development and Land Reform), Deputy State President Kgalema Motlanthe, Tina Joemat-Peterson (Minister of Agriculture), and the Minister of Trade and Industry, Rob Davies. The members of Government were visiting the estate for a Conference addressing the complicated issues surrounding Minimum Wages for Farm Workers.

If you're planning on entertaining this weekend, then why not try this fabulous cheesecake recipe? It looks absolutely decadent, yet it's low in sugar, perfect for guily-free indulgence!

Serves: 8
Preparation time: 40 minutes, plus refrigeration time
Baking time: 10 minutes
Oven temperature: 200oC

Method
Base
• 100ml cake flour
• 2,5ml baking powder
• 40ml sugar substitute suitable for baking (such as Sugalite or xylitol)
• 50ml butter
• 1 large egg
• 30ml gelatine
• 4 large eggs, separated
• 300ml sugar substitute
• 500g fat-free smooth cottage cheese
• 5ml vanilla essence
• 15ml lemon juice

Topping
• 15ml gelatine
• 100ml reduced-sugar diabetic-friendly jam
• fresh fruit slices, to decorate

1 Base: Mix the flour, baking powder and sugar substitute together. Rub in the butter. Beat the egg and stir into the mixture. Spoon into a greased 18cm spring-form tin and spread out evenly. Bake in a preheated oven for 10 minutes. Remove and set aside to cool.
2 Filling: Pour 100ml water over the gelatine. Set aside to hydrate. Heat until melted then set aside to cool.
3 Beat the egg yolks and the sugar substitute together until light. Fold in the cottage cheese, vanilla essence and lemon juice. Add a little of this mixture to the gelatine mixture and stir. Add to the remaining cottage cheese mixture.
4 Beat the egg whites until stiff and fold them into the mixture. Pour into the base and leave to set in the fridge overnight.
5 Topping: Pour 40ml water over the gelatine and leave to hydrate. Heat until melted. Warm the jam and then stir in the gelatine. Leave to cool, then spoon over the cheesecake and leave to set. Decorate with fresh fruit.

Source: Ideas magazine

By Nadia Valentyn, Venue Manager & Wedding Planner

With less than a week to go until Christmas, it's not too late to get some abulous ideas for your festive feast. The Pretty Blog is always one of our favourite sites to visit, and this month they have loads of seasonal inspiration. We love their rustic natural Christmas decor concept, which incorporates elements from nature and the garden, as well as textures such as wood and linen. It's the perfect look for a relaxed Christmas lunch and a welcome change from the bling and sparkle that so often is associated with this time of year.

It's bound to be sunny on Christmas day, so rather than cooking up a feast in a hot and steamy kitchen, rather serve a cold Christmas platter. The Pretty Blog suggests a Festive gammon & beef platter with mustard sauce & cranberry preserve - so delicious and so ideal for our warm climate!

Visit The Pretty Blog to all the details about these fantastic ideas.

Hillsong Frontline Cape Town will be hosting their first annual retreat getaway in 2013: the Frontline Rendevous! This exciting event will be taking place at Val de Vie estate and it promises to be an amazing two days of fun, inspiration, worship, the Word of God and much more. The guest speaker is the world-renowned, powerful communicator, Pastor Steve Penny.

For more details about the event, please visit Hillsong Frontline Cape Town's Facebook Page.

I just love these creative ideas on how to decorate you festive table this Christmas. If you already have your meals planned and your Christmas décor ready, why not start thinking about the place settings to complete the look? It adds an extra special touch that your guests are sure to appreciate.

By Nadia Valentyn, Venue Manager & Wedding Planner

Wondering what to give your colleagues for Christmas? Save the big bucks for your family and show your appreciation for a wonderful year by getting your hands dirty in the kitchen.

Bake something sweet like my team mate Elsje did and decorate your treats in a festive way. Make shortbread biscuits and sandwhich them together with caramel, spread dark chocolate on cookies and sprinkle chopped nuts on top, or create little stacks of jam drops and tie them together with a pretty ribbon.

It's lovely to nibble on a cookie while dreaming of the upcoming christmas holiday, which is so close yet can feel so far away!

By Iza De Lange, Event Coordinator & Marketing Manager

Summer is here and colourful nail varnish offers the perfect opportunity to add a pop of colour. Pantone named "Tangerine Tango", a hot orange-red shade, as its top colour for 2012, so be sure to add some bright, citrusy color into your style with tangerine nail polish. It's a bold look that's sure to get attention!

Why not splash out with this look at the upcoming Veuve Clicquot Polo Masters, which will be held at Val de Vie Estate on 23 February 2013. Tickets are available for sale on our website, with the option to purchase a ticket which includes a refreshing drink and light lunch for R390.00 pp, or a Veuve Clicquot Masters Picnic Site Ticket for R150.00 pp. Don't miss out on this exceptional event, which is the ultimate celebration of fashion, polo and pure luxury.

By Iza De Lange, Event Coordinator & Marketing Manager

It's the time of year for fun, festivity and a bit of indulgence! We love these delicious jam straws, which are so easy to make and the ideal sweet treat to serve at Christmas parties, year-end functions or simply to give as a yummy gift.

Jam Straws

1 package puff pastry (2 sheets)
1/4 cup seedless raspberry jam
Flour for dusting
Powdered sugar for sprinkling

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Line two cookie sheets with parchment and set aside.

Allow puff pastry to thaw as directed on the package. Dust work surface with flour and lightly dust rolling pin with flour. Roll out puff pastry until about 2" larger on each side. Cut crosswise into two rectangles.

Heat 1/4 cup of jam in microwave for15-20 seconds, just enough to loosen the consistency.

With a pastry brush, coat one piece of puff pastry with half the jam. Cover jam-coated piece with the remaining plain piece of puff pastry and gently roll together with rolling pin - not too hard, or your jam will squish out.

Slice into long strips and twist, then place on parchment lined pan. Bake for 15 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool before removing from the pan. Sprinkle generously with powdered sugar.

Repeat process with second sheet of puff pastry.

By Elsjé Oosthuizen, Project Coordinator & Business Strategist

Set against the backdrop of the majestic Drakenstein and Simonsberg Mountains of the Paarl-Franschoek Valley near Cape Town. With its combined French Provencal and Cape Colonial architecture epitomise a harmonious and tranquil grand country lifestyle.

Polo played weekly on the Pavilion Field from October to April.

Living in Luxury...

Val de Vie Estate in the Cape’s Paarl-Franschoek valley recently set a new record when a property on the estate fetched the highest price per m² for any estate property in the Cape Winelands. The beautiful house was formerly occupied by Olympic swimming champion and Val de Vie shareholder Ryk Neethling, who recently acquired another property on the estate and with the building of his new house well underway. The grand Polo House was completed in October 2011 by Guardian Development Projects, fetched a price of R 11 250 000, which translates to R 20 680 per m2. This is the highest price for any cape winelands, estate property which typically fetch prices of around R 12 500 per m2.

The purchaser is a leading businessman and Polo patron from Nigeria. He has a broad range of business interests and at one time was the biggest private employer in Nigeria. His family has vast experience in international finance and he knows a great investment when he sees one. “I see great potential for increased business co-operation between South Africa and Nigeria,” says the purchaser. “Within my portfolio of business interests, I am involved with several leading organisations with Cape-based offices and Val de Vie is conveniently located for me to be able to interact with my business interests and maintain my involvement with my passion for Polo. It is a fantastic estate and offers everything that I need for my South African home base.”

The house has featured in many magazine articles and television programmes and is one of the hallmark developments on the estate. The house is in excess of 540 m² and is built on a stand of 1130 m².

“We’re delighted to attract international investors of this calibre,” says Val de Vie CEO, Martin Venter. “It reinforces the quality of the investment and property proposition that Val de Vie presents as a primary residence estate and shows that this is truly a world-class development. We have excellent security, beautiful houses and plenty of open spaces to create an atmosphere of country living, whilst being conveniently located for resident’s business interests.”

Val de Vie  also recently scooped two International Property Awards in Dubai: a 5-star award for Best Development, Multiple Units; and Highly Commended in the Best Leisure Development category. “I’m really thrilled and proud that Val de Vie Estate has won these awards,” says Venter. “The diverse offering that encompasses Val de Vie has had a positive bearing on sales and was a prime factor in us winning. It is still a relatively young development and despite tough economic conditions, has managed to attract attention and investment with over 90% of stands already sold.”

For more information on the International Property Awards visit propertyawards.net

The sale of the Polo House was put through by Maureen de Waal, Maureen@BeautifulHomes/www.valdevie-properties.co.za

Val de Vie Events was invited by Bosch, Siemens and Gaggenua to attend a gourmet cooking evening at the SA Chefs Academy. It was an extremely enjoyable evening that gave us the chance to learn the art of cooking the perfect fillet, vegetables and potato wedges. With the beautiful views from the academy as a backdrop, we met a host of interesting people from the academy.

Thank you to Quintin, Annelize en Tarnia for the experience!

November is time for Movember, an international charity initiative that raises awareness about prostate cancer. As guys across the world show their support by growing moustaches, why not get into the spirit with some cute mo-inspired accessories? We love this watch and cufflinks, which would add a quirky and individual touch to an outift.

By Elsjé Oosthuizen, Project Coordinator & Business Strategist

There have been many exciting events at Val de Vie Estate recently, so it's no surprise that we're making headlines! Die Burger recently featured two articles about BlackBerry Pink Polo and the Kia and Val de Vie Mountain Bike Challenge, highlighting the success of both events.

Click here to read the full article about Pink Polo, or the full article about the Kia and Val de Vie Mountain Bike Challenge.

The Franschhoek Valley is definitely one of the most spectacular in South Africa, with the Berg River Dam, a full 488ha and 68m high in the mountains, as its magnificent centre piece. And what a perfect setting for the very first Bridge House Mile this Sunday, 4 November, hosted by Energy Events and Glacier.

Val de Vie Team was present on the day, being one of the proud sponsors of the new event, including the Polo Club Restaurant serving delicious ciabattas to hungry swimmers coming out of the wonderfully clean water after their 200m, 400m and 1 mile long swim.

To the delight of the swimmers taking part their olympic hero, Ryk Neethling, made his way to the waters edge with the starting pistol. Danie Marais, the winner of the non-wetsuit mile, clocked in at 17 min. Not far behind was Achmat Hassiem, who will be at the next Paralympics in Rio. Kate Roberts was first amongst the ladies and our very own Mieke le Roux, who runs the Health Club and Gym on the estate, braved the chilly waters along with several other Homeowners' family members and children.

Onlookers and supporters on the grassy banks were spoiled with a breath taking view and the good humour of Trevor Ball as he handed out the many sponsored prizes to the lucky winners. A total count of participants amounted to over 250 swimmers. We look forward to seeing this event grow more and more every year!

KLUK / CGDT - WHITE MISCHIEF from FLASH_VIDEO on Vimeo.

We love KLûK CGDT's video from Cape Town Fashion Week, which features South African international acclaimed model Katryn Kruger. The video presents their latest collection, White Mischief. Be sure to check it out!

Earlier this week we wrote about our recent Pink Polo School, a fun-filled day that was held by Ryk Neethling in aid of breast cancer. Several fabulous celebrities visited Val de Vie to learn how to play polo, as well as the chance to design their own fascinators and to savour a delicious lunch at the Polo Club Restaurant and Lounge Bar.

Marie Claire's Romy Heldsinger attended the event and we love their write-up about the day. Everyone did exceptionally well during the lesson, which was coached by Kevin Rixon.

Read the full write-up on Marie Claire's blog, and don't forget to get your tickets for BlackBerry Pink Polo! Tickets costs R350.00 per person. RSVP by 19 October 2012 to experience this exclusive and exceptional event. Contact Edith Unlimited on 011 783 5887 or via edith@edithunlimited.co.za.

October is breast cancer awareness month, which is why the colour pink takes on an extra special significance. This heavenly Raspberry Rose Soufflé is a real treat and the perfect pink dessert to serve your guests.

Raspberry Rose Soufflé
Serves 8

Base
4 6 ounces containers of fresh raspberries
125 grams / 4 1/2 ounces caster sugar
4 teaspoons corn flour
Water

Souffle Mix
10 egg whites (room temperature)
Pinch of salt
1 teaspoon rose essence
100 grams / 3 1/2 ounces caster sugar
200 grams / 7 ounces butter, softened, enough to grease the moulds
100 grams / 3 1/2 ounces caster sugar, enough to coat the moulds
Icing sugar, for dusting
Creme anglaise or ice cream, to serve

Puree the raspberries in a blender and press through a fine sieve to remove the seeds. Add enough water to make 500 milliliters of puree.

To make the base, place the raspberry puree and sugar in a saucepan over a medium heat. Stir to dissolve the sugar and bring to the boil. Mix the corn flour with just enough water to make a smooth paste. Once the fruit puree reaches boiling point, reduce the heat to low and whisk the corn flour paste into the fruit puree a little at a time. Whisk for 1 minute and do not allow mixture to boil again. Remove from the heat and set aside. Chill to cool completely.

Preheat the oven to 180°C/350°F.

Place the egg whites into a very clean, very large mixing bowl, add the salt and beat at high speed until soft peaks form. Add the sugar, a little at a time, and beat until stiff peaks form. Do not over whisk or the egg whites will break down and be unable to hold the air required to life the souffle.

Place the fruit puree base into a very large bowl and whisk until smooth. Add a little of the egg white mixture and stir in to loosen the consistency. Gently fold in the remaining egg white and rose essence.

Brush the bases of 6 1-cup capacity ramekins with the softened butter, then, using upward strokes (this is very important), brush the sides. Chill in the refrigerator until set, and then repeat. Sprinkle in a little of the caster sugar, turning the ramekins to coat the base and sides. To fill the moulds, use a palette knife to spread the souffle mixture around the sides while holding the ramekin at a 45-degrees angle. Fill the middle and smooth top top, without allowing any mixture to stick to the rim or run over the sides.

Place in the oven and bake for 12-14 minutes or until golden and well risen. Serve immediately dusted with icing sugar, and with creme anglaise or ice cream on the side, if you like.

Recipe and image from Pick Yin

By Elsjé Oosthuizen, Project Coordinator & Business Strategist

Our annual Pink Polo event that is held in aid of breast cancer is coming up on 27 October and we can't wait! To get into the spirit of this highly anticipated day, we invited several prominent and fabulous South African women to learn polo, Pink Polo School style.

The ladies included Tanya van Graan and Roxy Louw, both models and actresses, Romy Heldsinger from Marie Claire and Expresso presenter, Kia Johnson.

Be sure to get your tickets for Pink Polo before they sell out! Tickets costs R350.00 per person. RSVP by 19 October 2012 to experience this exclusive and exceptional event. Contact Edith Unlimited on 011 783 5887 or via edith@edithunlimited.co.za.

View more images on the Vasgevang website.

We can't wait to hear the cool tunes of DJ Brigitte Willers at our upcoming Blackberry Pink Polo event! As a local South African DJ, Sportsmodel, Entrepreneur and Socialite, Brigitte is a very talented lady and will definitely get the party started. Visit her blog to find out more about she does, and be sure to get your tickets for Pink Polo before they sell out! Tickets costs R350.00 per person. RSVP by 19 october 2012 to experience this exclusive & exceptional event. Contact Edith Unlimited on 011 783 5887 or via edith@edithunlimited.co.za.

Click here to download the full invite.

Residents, friends and guests all made their way over to the Polo Pavilion on Saturday to celebrate the new season with our annual Fun Run. The route took runners on a journey between around polo fields, beautiful lanes and then through vineyards, along the Berg River and between the 5 dams on the estate.

Young and old, a couple of prams and even our favourite pony, Nugget, took part in the 5km. The 9.5km ventured into the farmlands and fynbos, showcasing the serene beauty of the valley with its towering mountains. Runners gratefully received their medals and goodie bags as they crossed the finish line and went on to enjoy the sunshine and eagerly awaited the announcement of the lucky draw winners. Prizes included Personal Training Sessions at our Health Club, Polo Shirts, Restaurant Vouchers and the sought after signed bottles of Ryk Neethling Shiraz Blend.

Having the freedom to run around the estate and enjoy the beautiful surroundings, knowing you are in a safe environment, is a true privilege and a cherished part of the lifestyle on Val de Vie Estate.

All around the world people and cities are joining in to show their support for Breast Cancer month. This year London has taken a creative approach by illuminating some of its most famous landmarks in pink.

Val de Vie will also be showing its support for breast cancer on 27 October 2012, when we'll be hosting our annual BlackBerry Pink Polo Event. Join the gorgeous Edith Venter for a day of pampering, bubbly, delectable foods and gorgeous giveaways. Along with exciting polo action, there will be an open air fashion show.

Tickets costs R350.00 per person. RSVP by 19 october 2012 to experience this exclusive & exceptional event. Contact Edith Unlimited on 011 783 5887 or via edith@edithunlimited.co.za. Click here to download the full invite.

The Tower of London

Buckingham Palace

Trafalgar Square

The HMS Belfast

Images sourced from NBC News Photoblog

By Nadia Valentyn, Venue Manager & Wedding Planner

Here's a delicious and healthy recipe that's sure to be hit with your family and friends! A mix of Asian flavours such as chilli, coriander and peanut oil make this stir-fry a very tasty meal. To round it off, we suggest pairing it with our Polo Club Sauvignon Blanc 2011.

Soy sauce & honey chicken stir-fry with egg noodles
[Serves 4]
3 garlic cloves, minced
5cm piece ginger, finely grated
2 tbsp honey
¼ cup soy sauce
1 tbsp vegetable oil
½ red chilli, chopped (optional)
Juice of ½ a lemon
600g chicken fillet strips
2 tbsp peanut oil
1 red & 1 yellow sweet bell pepper, cut into strips
½ cup chicken stock
200g egg noodles, cooked according to packet instructions
4 spring onions, chopped
2 red chillies, chopped, to garnish
2 tbsp toasted sesame seeds to garnish
Fresh coriander to garnish

1. Place the garlic, ginger, honey, soy sauce, oil, chilli and lemon juice in a bowl; stir to combine. Toss in the chicken. Allow to stand for 20 min.

2. Heat a wok, add peanut oil, toss in half the chicken, stir-fry 2–3 min,remove, repeat with remaining chicken, remove. Add peppers,stir-fry for 2 min. Return chicken to wok along with chicken stock, simmer for 3 min, or until liquid reduces and the chicken is cooked through. Add noodles and any remaining sauce, cook for another minute. Stir through spring onions.

3. To serve: divide among 4 bowls, top with sesame seeds; garnish with chillies and coriander

By Nadia Valentyn, Venue Manager & Wedding Planner

Source: Justine Kiggen, Fair Lady Magazine

If you're looking for excellent accommodation in the Paarl Valley, look no further than the historic Lanquedoc Farm Estate. Located in the beautiful foothills of the magnificent Klein Drakenstein Mountains, the estate offers four star self-catering accommodation in the heart of the Cape Winelands.

Lanquedoc is a wonderfully tranquil setting and a true country retreat, even though it's a mere 50km from Cape Town. Guests can take leisurely strolls through the estate's olive groves, enjoy a picnic in a scenic setting or simply relax in the secluded pool area. There is also plenty to do in the area, such as wine tasting or playing golf at one of the many nearby golf estates. Of course, a visit to Val de Vie Estate is a must!

For more information about Lanquedoc Farm Estate, please visit their website.

Val de Vie is thrilled to hear that the Franschhoek Wine Valley took the award last night for the Best Local Tourism Authority (LTA) Information Service in the Cape Winelands 2012.

The Cape Winelands District Municipality Mayoral Awards were presented by the Executive Mayor Alderman de Bruyn and the MEC for Finance, Economic Development and Tourism, Alan Winde.

We would like to congratulate all those involved with the Franschhoek Wine Valley on this fantastic achievement, which recognises their hard work and commitment to local tourism.

The Kia Val De Vie Mountain Bike Challenge was held at Val de Vie last weekend and this action-packed event was a phenomenal success. Participants were treated to scenic routes in our beautiful valley that put their skill and endurance to the test. Here's what Darren Herbst had to say about the event:

"This is just a quick thank you to everyone who was involved in the Kia Val De Vie Mountain Bike Challenge this past weekend. Together we worked really hard to present something special and I feel we achieved that goal. We were amazed with a turnout of close to 800 competitors on the day.

We have had amazing feedback from everyone who attended the event. Some of the highlights been:

• The amazing routes and views
• Festive water points and helpful support
• The spectacular trails through the different farms and scenery
• Great organisation
• Friendly farmers and traffic officials
• A number of people even saying it’s the best event they have done in the western cape

Without everyone’s help this would have not been possible and for this we sincerely thank you.

Been a 1st event we also learnt a lot and already have a number of new ideas to make next year even better. We look forward to working with everyone next year again and trust that we will add even more value to your lovely community."

View photos of the event on Facebook and Action Photo, or see what Kyknet had to say about the day.

A GROUND-BREAKING initiative was formulated this week in an attempt to win the fight against crime in the Valley. This was brought about by various role-players in the Paarl police sector 5 area. This area consists of the farming areas from Du Toit’s Kloof and Klein Drakenstein to Wemmershoek. On Monday afternoon members of the community, the police, social services and management of luxury estates Val de Vie and Pearl Valley met at Val de Vie Polo Club Pavilion to devise a strategy to ensure a safe and secure rural environment where all can prosper and live without fear.

This whole initiative is dependent on partnership policing between all role-players in this area, building a working relationship between the police and public. This strategy aims to address the day-to-day crime prevention actions, based on the principals of sector policing to address the needs of the entire community in Sector 5.

Morné Bosch MD of Val de Vie Estate said that this initiative has been discussed for a long time between landowners of the Wemmershoek Road right up to Franschhoek.

“As stakeholders in the area we are adamant to develop the area into a safe haven for all who live here." “The idea is to establish an non-profit company that with the help of the police will be responsible for securing the area. We are certain that we can establish the necessary funds for this.”

The idea entails securing the area by means of security cameras at vital entrances, such as from the N1 onto the Wemmershoek Road and making vehicles available for patrolling the area, including farms. “This will only be the start and later we will roll out more security measures. But the most important vehicle we have is that the whole community stands together so that a network of crime-related information is created.”

But this plan is by no means only for wealthy land-owners, as everyone who lives in the area is in some way or another affected by crime. The entire community must be involved and work together. During the meeting the concept of such a public/police partnership was widely discussed with the question of various crimes in the area.

It was evident that the main concern is alcohol and drug abuse which often leads to crime and it also a huge social dilemma. One farmer pointed out that one of his employees had an obvious drug problem. When he approached an institution which deals with addiction for help, he was told that he could not be helped because the waiting list was too long. Social workers also admitted that they cannot deal with their work load, as there are far too few staff members for the number of cases that they have to attend to.

At the end of the day it was agreed that such a partnership committed to helping fight crime, can make a great contribution to this wonderful valley and continue making it one of the best places to live in the world.

By Lise Beyers, Paarl Post

Former Springbok wing Breyten Paulse, Olympic swimmer Ryk Neethling and rally driver Gugu Zulu added a touch of celebrity glamour to the field of almost a thousand riders who took part in the inaugural Kia Val de Vie Estate Mountain Bike Challenge in the Paarl-Franschhoek valley on Sunday.

The 60km race, which crossed 21 Western Cape wine farms, was won by Charles Keey of Team Blend Properties. He claimed line honours ahead of Team USN rider Jacques Rossouw and Adriaan Louw of Team Contego.

Phelia Burger was victorious in the women’s race, followed by Desiree Loubser and Tandi Kitching.

In the 30km event, junior riders Louw Kriel and Catherine Colyn took the men’s and women’s titles for Team Contego/Sludge’ish and bizhub-FCF respectively.

Toks ‘n Tjops presenter Paulse said he had been very impressed with the organisation, the vibe and the “lekker track”.

“It’s a nice family outing and was very well-supported. We couldn’t have asked for better weather and the scenery was fantastic – so, all in all, it was a very successful first event.”

An experienced rider, Paulse easily finished the shorter distance but the Capetonian’s co-host Janina Oberholzer found her first off-road race a little tougher, coming in at the back of the field.

“Shame, she was broken,” he said. “It was a tough day for Janina but I’m proud of her for finishing.”

The show’s namesake and anchor, former Springbok prop Toks van der Linde, was also seen sampling the local wines and chatting with the farmers along the route.

Paulse joked that his aim was to get Van der Linde to eventually ride the race. “We’re busy building a four-wheel bike for Toks; at 190kg, he wouldn’t fit on a normal one.”

Race organiser Wynand de Villiers, of ASG Events, seconded his plan. “We might have to build Toks a special course too, maybe just take him around the polo field and leave it at that.”

According to De Villiers, the participants’ lighthearted approach to the day was exactly what organisers had hoped for. “I don’t want this event to get too serious because it’s just so much fun!

“Most riders stopped for about 10 minutes at each waterpoint to socialise and sample wine with the farmers. It was more like a bazaar than a bike race.”

However, good riding remained a priority with exciting racing upfront and a well-marked off-road course that did not include any district road, said De Villiers.

“A couple of people came across the line and said it was the best race they’d ridden in the Western Cape, so we’re very chuffed with that.”

He said the local community had pulled together to make the race happen. “We’ve made so many friends here – it was just a great time and an absolutely unique event.”

On a serious note, De Villiers said the local Rotary and Vrede Foundation for young cancer sufferers would also benefit from the race.

The event was the second fixture in the new Kia series, which includes the Walkerville Classic in July, the KZN Expedition in November and the Krugersdorp Game Reserve Mountain Bike Challenge, which takes place in February next year.

For more info, contact ASG Events on 076 621 1807 or eventsupport@asgworld.co.za. For updates, follow @CyclingnewsZA.

Toks ‘n Tjops presenters Janina Oberholzer (left) and Breyten Paulse enjoyed a great day’s racing in the Cape winelands at the inaugural Kia Val de Vie Estate Mountain Bike Challenge, presented by ASG, on Sunday. Photo: Paul Nielsen

Pro rider Charles Keey (Team Blend Properties) won the inaugural 60km Kia Val de Vie Estate Mountain Bike Challenge, presented by ASG, in the Paarl-Franschhoek Valley on Sunday. Photo: Paul Nielsen

Women’s race winner Phelia Burger in action during the inaugural 60km Kia Val de Vie Estate Mountain Bike Challenge, presented by ASG, in the Paarl-Franschhoek Valley on Sunday. Photo: Paul Nielsen

We were delighted when the Springbok 7s came to train at Val de Vie! The team practiced fitness and breathing techniques in the pool, kitted out in pink speedos! It was a pleasure to have them at the Estate and we wish them all the best with their training.

Can you believe it's already September? As the year races on, it's important to take the time to slow down, appreciate the present and treat yourself to some me-time. Most of us don't do this nearly enough, and it can be as simple as indulging in your favourite sweet treats or enjoying a pampering hot bath, complete with bath salts or bubbles.

Treat yourself or someone you love with a little me-time. We love the idea of packaging something lovely into a pretty jar or box, so that it's ready and waiting to be used. Go ahead, you deserve it!

By Elsjé Oosthuizen, Project Coordinator & Business Strategist

The Val de Vie 2012 Fun Run is taking place on 6 October and it's the perfect chance to enjoy some exercise, fresh air and beautiful scenery. For the full details, please click here to download the flyer. You can enter the 5km Run or the 9.5km Run by purchasing tickets on our website.

Get fit and healthy for the run by following these tips on how to detox and cleanse your system:

Top Ten Tips for How to Detox Naturally

Natural cleansing body detox starts with a good cleansing detox diet that fuels cells with the necessary nutrients to detoxify your body naturally.

While extreme body detox programs can be harsh, you can naturally detoxify your body with these 10 healthy lifestyle tips.

1. Eat a healthy cleansing detox diet. A natural body detox cleansing diet provides cellular nutrition to your trillions of cells. All cells require quality protein, essential fatty acids found in whole grains, nuts, seeds and olive oil and omega 3 fish oil from cold water fish like salmon, tuna and sardines.

2. Drink at least 8 daily glasses of water. Pure, clean water helps flush out unwanted toxins. Drinking enough water a day, preferably from glass bottles instead of plastic, is one of the best ways to naturally detoxify your body. Soft drinks, alcohol, black tea and coffee are no substitute. Try herbal teas if you want something hot. For flavour, add a slice of fresh lemon or a view drops of lemon juice.

3. Improve elimination with fiber rich foods. To ensure that toxins don't build up in your system, include plenty of fresh vegetables, raw fruit, beans, whole grains and other nutritious high fiber foods for better elimination.

4. Exercise and stretch your body daily. Regular physical activity helps you to detox naturally. At least a half-hour of daily exercise and stretching will improve blood circulation, burn calories to break down toxins stored in fat cells and help you to excrete toxic residue through sweat.

5. Sweat for perspiration waste elimination. Besides daily physical activity, saunas and warm baths with Epsom salts or sea salt can be used to induce sweating and eliminate toxins and heavy metals.

6. Stimulate your skin to detox naturally. Massage can boost your lymphatic system to naturally detoxify your body. Drink water afterwards to increase toxin elimination. Dry brushing skin before bathing can also improve circulation and stimulate natural body detox cleansing.

7. Reduce toxins coming into your body. Whenever possible eat organic food and avoid food additives, high glycemic index foods, bad fats, stimulants, drugs and environmental chemicals.

8. Take natural cleansing supplements. All nutrients are important. But some particularly contribute to body detox cleansing. Focus on vitamins A, B complex, C and E, plus magnesium chromium, selenium and omega 3 fish oil. Also, green tea, milk thistle and garlic may be helpful.

9. Do regular deep breathing exercises. Deep, slow, conscious breathing periodically during the day releases carbon dioxide and toxic gases from your body as you exhale. It also allows oxygen to reach your tissues by circulating through your lungs, bloodstream, heart and brain.

10. Reduce stress with positive focus. Since hanging on to negative thoughts and feelings can be toxic too, it's important to focus on positive thinking and behavior. Even crying is a way to naturally detoxify.

With these tips on how to detoxify your body and how to detox naturally, you can give yourself the gift of health, through natural cleansing body detox. You'll learn how to detoxify your body, all day long, everyday.

It's time for the Polo Season to be back in action, and Tehri Fergusson, our Equestrian Manager & Polo Administrator, can't wait! Here's what she has to say about preparations for this exciting time:

"The relief of warm sunny days after one of the wettest Winters I have ever experienced is always the best medicine to start willing on the arrival of Summer in the Boland!

Fitness and health are the number one order of the day. With all the Polo ponies back into their fitness regime, one never gets tired of watching the beauty and power of a Polo pony exercising on the track in the early morning sun. The sound of their powerful legs eating up the track while their keen eyes and ears are always pointing forward, as if they know the Polo season is on the horizon!

Polo players are sorting out their equipment that has been lying dormant for so many months, cleaning and polishing their boots and knee pads in eager anticipation of the forthcoming season. The Blackberry Pink Polo Event on 27 October is one of the major highlights on the Events calendar, and is sure to be filled with amazing polo action and skill as the Polo players show tremendous determination and team work with both their Equine and fellow Players on the field.

The sound of the mighty thoroughbred’s powerful lungs sucking up the air like a Formula One racing car with their absolute strength and ability, galloping down the polo field, will be on the mind of every Polo player as the Season commences. Polo is not just a sport – it’s a lifestyle!"

The Val de Vie 2012 Fun Run is taking place on 6 October and it's the perfect chance to enjoy some exercise, fresh air and beautiful scenery. For the full details, please click here to download the flyer. You can enter the 5km Run or the 9.5km Run by purchasing tickets on our website.

To get fit and ready for a long run, it's good to train properly and take care of your body. Today we've got some great advice on eating properly before a marathon:

Question: What should I eat before a marathon?

Answer: What you eat in the days before your marathon can make or break your race. Eating too much, too little or the wrong foods could leave you feeling tired during the marathon or force you to stop several times during the race.

Rule No. 1 of pre-marathon nutrition is: "Nothing new for race day." During your long training runs, you should have been practicing your carbo-loading and experimenting with different foods in the days leading up to your long runs. So, when it comes to your pre-marathon meals, don't try any new foods; just stick with your favorite pre-long run foods that you're used to eating.

What types of foods are best? Pasta is a traditional favorite among marathon runners, but other carbohydrate-rich options include bread, cereal, bagels, potatoes, oatmeal, rice, pizza and sweet potatoes. It's also important to get some protein the day before your marathon, so include a small serving of fish or meat in your dinner. Avoid high-fiber or gas-forming foods like beans and any type of food that may upset your stomach or can interfere with sleep.

If you're traveling to a new location for your marathon, make sure you plan your meals in advance and be sure your favorite foods are available in the race city. Some runners prefer not to take any chances and pack their favorite foods to bring with them.

The day before your marathon, spread your calories out throughout the day, so that you're eating something every two to three hours. Eat three normal-sized meals and two to four snacks. About 65-70% of your calories come from carbohydrates, so try to add an extra serving of carbs to your meals and make sure your snacks are mostly carbs. Stick to healthy options and try to avoid very sugary junk foods.

Try to eat your pre-marathon dinner somewhere between 4 p.m. and 6 p.m., so you'll have plenty of time to digest before you go to bed. If you eat on the early side, you can also have a small snack a couple of hours later.

Be sure to finish your breakfast at least 90 minutes before the marathon start. Don't have a huge breakfast and stick with mostly carbs and some protein. Some examples of good pre-marathon breakfast foods (again, don't experiment with any new foods) include: a bagel with peanut butter; a banana and an energy bar; or a bowl of cold cereal with a cup of milk.

Source: About.com

By Nadia Valentyn, Venue Manager & Wedding Planner

Val de Vie would like to wish the best of luck to all the athletes who are taking part in the Paralympics 2012, which start in less than 12 hours. We are really proud of everything that you have achieved and we stand behind you, cheering you on and supporting you all the way! You are a great inspiration to us!

The Games start tonight (29 August) and will continue until 9 September in London. 62 Paralympians will make us proud this year. Visit the official website for the schedule and more information. You can also visit the official Paralympic sponsor’s website ( www.paralympics.picknpay.co.za) for more information on our South African Athletes and to get to know them better.

A Little history on the Paralympic Games…

South Africa made their Paralympic debut at the 1964 Games in Tokyo. They sent a team of nine in 1964 to compete in archery, athletics, swimming and weightlifting. Their all-time medal count of 251 comes from participation in nine Games. South Africa came sixth in the overall medal table at the Beijing Paralympic Games. Natalie Du Toit was their most successful Paralympic medallist winning four gold medals in swimming. Oscar Pistorius and Hilton Langenhoven were both triple gold medallists in athletics.

By Nadia Valentyn, Venue Manager & Wedding Planner

On 27 October 2012 we'll be hosting our annual BlackBerry Pink Polo Event and we can't wait! Join the gorgeous Edith Venter for a day of pampering, bubbly, delectable foods & gorgeous giveaways. Along with exciting polo action, there will be an open air fashion show. The dress code is polo chic, with a focus on “shades & shoes”, so start planning your outfit now!

Tickets costs R350.00 per person. RSVP by 19 october 2012 to experience this exclusive & exceptional event. Contact Edith Unlimited on 011 783 5887 or via edith@edithunlimited.co.za.

Click here to download the full invite.

We would like to congratulate our Val de Vie groom, JP Duminy, on the Proteas' latest victory! The SA Test Squad won their five day test cricket series, making them the number 1 test cricket (5 day cricket) team in the world, what an amazing achievement!

The team will now play five one day games against England. If they win, the Proteas will also become the world's top 50/50 cricket team. Go Proteas go!

Voted one of the top 15 address in SA, even the air seems more fresh and life in the country so much more enjoyable.

Val de Vie offers its residents an exceptional country lifestyle! State-of-the-art security, breathtaking scenery and a variety of leisure activities, the estate presents the perfect balance between nature and affordable world-class modern living. Val de Vie is also conveniently situated close enough to the Airport and Cape Town - a 40 minute drive - and several excellent schools such as Bridge House in Franschhoek (private), and Paarl Gym and Paarl Boys (public) in Paarl, to mention but a few.

French Provencal and Cape Colonial architecture sets an elegant tone in this luxurious yet laid back development, complemented by the spectacular beauty of the Paarl-Franschhoek Valley.

Those who enjoy the finer things in life will delight in the culinary offerings of Franschhoek and Stellenbosch.

Golfers will appreciate the estate’s proximity to Pearl Valley Golf Estates and Boschenmeer, both neighbouring Val de Vie.

To enquire about luxury living at val de Vie, email villas@valdevie.co.za

Val de Vie Estate is the perfect place to enjoy a healthy and happy lifestyle. With a world-class gym and outdoor activities such as horse riding and fly fishing,  there are many ways to keep fit and have fun too.

As we head into Spring, we encourage you to get outside and get into shape with the Val de Vie 2012 Fun Run. It's the perfect chance to enjoy some exercise, fresh air and beautiful scenery. For the full details, please click here to download the flyer.

You can enter the 5km Run or the 9.5km Run by purchasing tickets on our website.

The Pretty Blog has a scrumptious recipe for a Custard Cake, and we can't wait to try it! It's a treasured family recipe by Elza de Jongh with a lovely story behind it.

Custard Cake Recipe

Note: This recipe is all about the custard icing. Please use any sponge cake recipe that you are comfortable with – I like the warm milk method, and I use a little less sugar than tannie Elsa’s original cake batter recipe. But don’t tweak anything about the custard icing – it looks a little curdled, but that is exactly what it should look like! :)

Ingredients for sponge cake:
4 eggs
300 ml (250 g) caster sugar
500 ml (280 g) cake flour
15 ml baking powder
a pinch of salt
250 ml milk
100 g butter
5 ml vanilla essence

Method:
Pre-heat oven to 180 C. Grease and/or line 2 x 20 cm round cake tins.
Beat eggs and sugar until light and fluffy.
Sift flour, baking powder and salt together, then fold into egg mixture.
Heat milk and butter until butter is melted, but don’t let it boil. Add vanilla, then fold into flour and egg mixture.
Pour batter into lined cake tins, then bake for 25-30 minutes until cooked and golden brown.
Remove from oven, and cool on wire racks.

Ingredients for Custard icing:
500 ml milk
100 ml custard powder (I use Moirs)
125 g butter at room temperature
200 ml caster sugar
5 ml vanilla essence
100 ml desiccated coconut, toasted to a golden brown in a dry pan

Method:
Dissolve the custard powder in 100 ml milk. Heat remaining 400 ml milk until boiling point, then add custard mixture and stir for a few minutes over lowered heat until it is smooth and thick. Take care not to let it burn. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
In a large mixing bowl, beat butter with sugar and vanilla for a few minutes until creamy.
Add cooled custard to butter mixture, then beat on high speed for about 3 minutes until smooth. It will look slightly curdled, that is perfect!
Spread custard on cake layers and on top, then top with toasted coconut.

Visit The Pretty Blog to view the full post.

By Iza De Lange, Event Coordinator & Marketing Manager

Get baking this weekend with some healthy low GI Rooibos and Apricot Muffins. They're delicious with a steaming hot Mocha Cappuccino!

Healthy Living (Low GI) Rooibos and Apricot Muffins
Makes 8 muffins
Ingredients
150 ml Rooibos Tea
100 ml Dried Apricots, chopped
200 ml Cake Flour
125 ml (85 g) Huletts SUGAlite
2.5 ml ( ½ tsp) Salt
10 ml (2 tsp) Baking Powder
200 ml Oat Bran
30 ml (2 tbsp) Diabetic Apricot Jam (see recipe)
30 g (2 tbsp) Low Fat Margarine
1 Extra Large Egg

Method
1. Soak the apricots in the warm Rooibos tea for 15 minutes.
2. Sift the cake flour, Huletts SUGAlite, salt and baking powder together. Add the oat bran.
3. Melt the jam and margarine together, cool and mix in the egg. Add this to the Rooibos and apricots.
4. Add the margarine and apricot mixture to the dry ingredients. Mix the batter lightly.
5. Fill the hollows of a greased muffin tin two thirds of the way.
6. Bake in a preheated oven at 200°C for 20 minutes.
7. Cool the muffins in the tin slightly before turning out.

Mocha Cappuccino
Ingredients
Huletts Chocolate Syrup
Steamed milk
Espresso

Method
1. Mix Huletts Chocolate Syrup, to taste, with a 1/3 part espresso and top with 2/3 part steamed milk. Dust with cocoa for extra chocolaty taste (optional).

By Nadia Valentyn, Venue Manager & Wedding Planner

It's soon going to be time for our popular Fun Run! This year's run will be on 6 October 2012 and there are 5km and 9.5km races to choose from. Prams welcome on our 5km route and tickets will shortly be on sale on out website.

Tickets cost R80 and includes a runner’s snack, goody bag, medal and lucky draw ticket. There will also be a Polo Match and a Runner’s Menu will be open until 12h00 at the Polo Club Restaurant.

Please click here to download the full details.

- Click here to enter the 5km Run
- Click here to enter the 9.5km Run

With all the wintery weather that we've been experiencing, there's nothing better than warming up with a delicious hot drink. This hot tea punch has a lovely spicy flavour that's a yummy alternative to hot chocolate or coffee.

Ingredients
500ml water
½ stick cinnamon
2 whole cloves
2 tea bags - use any tea of choice
2-3 sachets HULETTS EQUISWEET
125ml fresh orange juice
30ml fresh lemon juice

Method
1. Bring the first 3 ingredients to the boil in a large saucepan.
2. Boil for 5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat. Add tea bags. Cover and let steep for 10 minutes. Discard tea bags, stir in HULETTS EQUISWEET.
4. Add the orange and lemon juice.
5. Using a slotted spoon, remove whole spices.
6. Serve hot.

By Nadia Valentyn, Venue Manager & Wedding Planner

The Val de Vie Events team will be going to the annual Mercedes Benz Fashion Week Cape Town on 25 July, and we know that the highlight will definitely be KLuK CGDT. We adore this fashion house's beautiful creations and their show promises to be a total sensory experience. With the theme of "Bedtime Stories", their collection will include influences from all the favorite bedtime stories that we know: Snow White, Little Red Riding Hood, Hansel and Gretl, Sleeping Beauty, Alice in Wonderland and more.

The collection's colours will be bright, with bold shades such as teal, turquoise, fuchsia and cobalt. Lace, check and floral brocade will form the textures, while silhouettes will be drawn from the early twentieth century.

The Cape Town City Hall's Concert Hall will be the magnificent venue, and an integral part of the show's ambience. We just can't wait!

Val de Vie recently hosted a sensational Spanish evening at the Polo Club Restaurant which included a live performance by Kubu Strings. It was a lively and hugely enjoyable occasion, complete with tapas, fine wine, Spanish guitar and flambéed crêpes.

We're looking forward to our next event on Wednesday 18 July, in which The Room will be playing at the Polo Club Restaurant. Watch this space for details!

We were delighted to host another fun-filled Lollos event at Val de Vie Estate today! The Ballroom was full of excited kids who couldn't wait to dance and jump along with Lollos. The show was 45 minutes long and every moment was full of smiles, singing and laughter.

To keep little tummies full, the Polo Club Restaurant had a delicious and very popular menu just for the kids to enjoy. To top it off, children also received packs with treats such as sweets, chips, cool drink, yoghurt and more. Lollos will definitely be back at Val de Vie soon!

David Bullard, the controversial columnist, motoring journalist, outspoken critic of the media and dinner speaker, is coming to Val de Vie on 26 July 2012. Known for his controversial satire, Bullard is the author of three books, including Out to Lunch, Out to Lunch Again, and Screw it, Let's Do Lunch! It's sure to be a very entertaining and interesting evening, so be sure to book your table.

Time: 18:30 for 19:00
Price: R350
Includes a two course dinner with wine.

RSVP: janette.griesel@valdevie.co.za

The Franschhoek Wine Valley, South Africa’s leading wine and food destination, will once again be hosting the annual Bastille Festival over the weekend of the 14th and 15th July, where locals and visitors will be celebrating the Valley’s centuries-old French Huguenot heritage.

Expect a feast of delectable food, the finest wines and a host of other attractions, including craft stalls, children's activities, live music and the famous Barrel Rolling and Boules Competition.

BOOKINGS: Tickets can be purchased through www.webtickets.co.za, but hurry as tickets are limited. Once the marquee is full no further patrons will be admitted.

David Bullard, the controversial columnist, motoring journalist, outspoken critic of the media and dinner speaker, is coming to Val de Vie on 26 July 2012. It's sure to be a very entertaining and interesting evening, so be sure to book your table.

Time: 18:30 for 19:00
Price: R350
Includes a two course dinner with wine.

RSVP: janette.griesel@valdevie.co.za

Magnificent weddings. Chic polo tournaments. Unforgettable product launches. These are all just some of the events that have been hosted at Val de Vie, one of the most sought-after venues in South Africa. The estate conveniently offers several different areas that are suited to different types of events. Along with the expert advice of our Events Team, it's so easy to find the perfect setting in which to celebrate your occasion.

The Ballroom

The Ballroom is a prestigious venue for almost any event, from luxury weddings and parties to conferences. The ballroom can seat up to 300 people and includes an imported bamboo laminated dance floor, gleaming marble tiles and three huge silver chandeliers. Equipped with some of the finest facilities in the land, this is an unparalleled setting.

The Founder’s Lounge

Entertain in style at the Founder’s Lounge, an intimate venue that’s perfect for conferences, personal birthday parties or small workshops.

The Manor House

With its beautiful gardens, the elegant Manor house is ideal for outdoor functions (weather dependent).

The Polo Club Restaurant

For a relaxed but elegant event, tables can be reserved at The Polo Club Restaurant.

Join ELLE editor Jackie Burger on 18 August 2012 for a spirited and elegant event in the month dedicated to women: ELLE Loves Being A Woman. This luxurious event is an all-day affair that will be held at Val de Vie Estate. It is the perfect opportunity to spoil a mom or daughter, or to share with sisters and friends.

What Can You Expect?
A salon fashion show featuring the trends for summer 2012/13 from Mango, Forever New, Nine West, Christopher Strong, Klûk CGDT, TWO and others
A goodie bag worth R1 000
Pop-up stores including a make-up touch-up area and a nail bar
A three-course lunch, to end a perfect celebration

Book Now
Tickets cost R450 pp
Go to elle.co.za and follow instructions to reserve your seat and make an electronic payment.
NB: Bookings close on 8 August. Registration starts at 10am and the event will conclude at 4pm on both days.

Download the full details

Here's a really decadent snack that's perfect for the nexy rugby game!

Preparation: Makes 12 cupcakes | Preparation: Position a rack in the lower third of the oven. Heat the oven to 350 degrees.

Ingredients:

Cupcake
1 cup (4.5 ounces) all purpose flour
1 cup plus 2 tablespoons (7.3 ounces) sugar
1/3 cup plus 2 tablespoons (1.5 ounces) SCHARFFEN BERGER Unsweetened Natural Cocoa Powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted and warm
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/2 cup Guinness Stout

Ganache Frosting
3/4 cup heavy cream
4 tablespoons butter
1/4 teaspoon vegetable oil
14 oz. chocolate, chopped

Pretzel Topping
12 pretzel sticks
2 oz chocolate, melted
2 oz caramel, warmed

Instructions:
1. Add flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking soda, and salt in a bowl and mix thoroughly to combine. Add in the butter, eggs, and vanilla and beat on medium speed for one minute. Add 1/4 cup of the beer into the mixture and beat for 20 seconds. Scrape the sides of the bowl and add remaining beer. Beat for 20-30 seconds until the batter is smooth. The batter will be thin enough to pour. Divide it evenly among the lined cups. Bake 18-22 minutes just until a toothpick inserted into a few of the cupcakes comes out clean. Set the pan on a rack to cool. Frost the cupcakes when they are completely cool.

TIP: For light tender cupcakes, spoon flour and cocoa lightly into measuring cups (instead of dipping the cups into the flour or cocoa) and then sweep the measures level without tapping or shaking them.

To make ganache frosting
1. Bring heavy cream, butter and vegetable oil to a light boil. Pour hot heavy cream mixture over chocolate. Using a spatula gently fold chocolate through heavy cream until well combined. Set aside to cool for at least an two hours or until frosting consistency is acheived. Frosting will thicken as sits.

Assembly:
1. Pipe frosting on top of cooled cupcake. Cut pretzels into shards and place on top of cupcakes. Drizzle chocoalate and caramel on top.

By Elsjé Oosthuizen, Finance Manager, Event & Wedding Coordinator

Be inspired by Hein Wagner, a blind cyclist and motivational speaker who has made some phenomenal accomplishments. Click here to find out more about this remarkable athlete, or RSVP by emailing janette.griesel@valdevie.co.za

We are thrilled that Bravo! recently featured the Val de Vie 5 Nations Polo. Be sure to watch this wonderful video that captures the spirit of this chic event.

By Iza de Lange, Marketing Manager and Event Coordinator

The Bastille Day Festival is taking place in Franschhoek on the 13 and 15 July, and we can't wait! Val de Vie Wines will be taking part in this popular event, which celebrates the region's centuries-old French Huguenot heritage.

Expect a feast of delectable food, the finest wines and a host of other attractions, including craft stalls, children's activities, live music and the famous Barrel Rolling and Boules Competition.

BOOKINGS: Tickets can be purchased through www.webtickets.co.za, but hurry as tickets are limited. Once the marquee is full no further patrons will be admitted.

For more details, click here.

Join ELLE editor Jackie Burger on 18 August 2012 for a spirited and elegant event in the month dedicated to women: ELLE Loves Being A Woman. This luxurious event is an all-day affair that will be held at Val de Vie Estate. It is the perfect opportunity to spoil a mom or daughter, or to share with sisters and friends.

What Can You Expect?
A salon fashion show featuring the trends for summer 2012/13 from Mango, Forever New, Nine West, Christopher Strong, Klûk CGDT, TWO and others
A goodie bag worth R1 000
Pop-up stores including a make-up touch-up area and a nail bar
A three-course lunch, to end a perfect celebration

Book Now
Tickets cost R450 pp
Go to elle.co.za and follow instructions to reserve your seat and make an electronic payment.
NB: Bookings close on 8 August. Registration starts at 10am and the event will conclude at 4pm on both days.

Download the full details

Val de Vie Events is delighted to present a fabulous pampering experience way for brides-to-be. Pure Bliss is a mobile spa that offers massages and beauty treatments in the comfort of your own own. From Swedish massages to beautiful manicures, it's a convenient way to get ready for the big day with no fuss at all.

Call 021 863 0628 for more details.

Elsjé Oosthuizen, a talented Event & Wedding Coordinator from the Val de Vie Coordination Team, has a real flair for cooking. This week she's got some scrumptious recipes that offer perfect way to cheer up your Monday dinner. Yum!

Avocado & Egg Pita Breads

Here's what you'll need:
1. Greek or pocket-less pita, or any kind of flat bread
2. Lemon
3. Ripe avocado
4. Organic egg
5. Sea salt, pepper, chili flakes, cumin, cumin seed, extra virgin olive oil

Here's what you do:

Toast pita until crisp, mash avocado and spread on pita, drizzle with a dash of lemon, olive oil and spices, place egg cooked to your liking on top and serve.

Best as healthy breakfast, afternoon snack or Meat-Free Monday night dinner! Add prosciutto or a sprinkling of feta over the top for a richer snack.

Roasted Strawberry & Brie Sandwich

6 strawberries, quartered
1/2 teaspoon canola oil
pinch of salt
2 tablespoons butter
4 thick-cut slices of multigrain bread
2-3 ounces of brie cheese, sliced
1-2 ounces high-quality chocolate

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Toss strawberries with oil and salt, then spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20 minutes.
Heat a large skillet or grilled over medium-low heat. Butter the sides of two slices of bread, place them on the skillet buttered-side down, then layer on a few slices of cheese, chocolate and strawberries. Top with a few more slices of cheese, then butter one side of the other bread slices, and place on top of the cheese. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese has started to melt, then gently flip the sandwich and cook until golden. Serve immediately!

We wish all dads a very happy Father's Day this Sunday! Remember to spoil your dad with something nice, such as tasty snacks to enjoy during the rugby, a smart travel toiletries bag or cologne.

Perhaps the best way to celebrate is at our Father's Day Braai, hosted by the Polo Club Restaurant. Expect hearty, delicious food in a relaxed country atmosphere.

We also have a fantastic Father's Day wine special that includes a bottle of Ryk Neethling Wine and Polo Club Craftsman for only R170.00.

By Simone de Wet, MD of Val de Vie Events

Talented make-up artist Candice Leigh is oferring some fantastic specials this winter. It's the perfect chance to beat the winter blues and treat yourself to some TLC. With her expert advice, you'll be able to find out which styles make you look and feel fabulous. Don't miss out!

Get your man to spoil you rotten
Hair and Make-up for you on your “date” night: R 250.00
This is done at her studio.

Girls' pamper night: Everyday make-up, and other fabulous make-up tricks
Make-up lessons for 5 ladies in the comfort of your own home: R 1000.00
This is a full three-hour experience full of fun and laughter, covering day & evening make–up application, making the most out of your current make-up, advice on what to buy next and fabulous tricks of the trade.

Before & after, one-on-one make-up lesson:
Two hour make-up lesson for you and a friend at my studio: R 600.00
Get to know what works for you, selecting colours, application process, brush choice and the trick of the trade. This short course will give you the confidence you deserve.

Candice Leigh: +27 834418755   Fax: 086 532 5184   e-mail: info@candiceleigh.co.za website: www.candiceleigh.co.za

We are very proud that two Val de Vie homes won Gold Medals in the SALI (South African Landscape Institute) Awards of Excellence. Designed by Prohort Master Landscapers, the gardens meet the high standards of workmanship, plants and materials set by the competition.

The South African Landscapers Institute (SALI) was formed in 1984 by a group of progressive landscapers who saw the potential of the landscape industry in South Africa. They believed that the true potential could only be realised if landscape contractors showed unity, produced excellent work and projected a professional image.

Winter has descended on the winelands and it's the perfect time to enjoy generous meals and fine wines. Our winemaker, Harold Versfeld, presents you with a mouthwatering recipe for Springbok Shank paired with the Val de Vie Shiraz 2008. Bon appetit!

"As the days get shorter, the nights get longer and frost appears on the grass when leave your house in the morning, one thing is clear: it is definitely not summer anymore. Which is perfect! I love summer, but winter is equally enjoyable. After all, it is the intimate season. And with that I refer to staying indoors, lighting up the fire place, snuggling on the couch and enjoying pancakes, hearty food, and of course, red wine.

From a wine perspective, winter is really important for the vines because they go into hibernation. This allows them to accumulate vital reserves and minerals for the growing season. It also fills up our underwater supplies, which is crucial to ripen our grapes in the hot summer months.

One of the most enjoyable things in winter (apart from Super Rugby, Vodacom Cup Rugby, Currie Cup Rugby, Test Rugby and Tri-Nations Rugby) has to be hunting. And if you are a tree hugger, please don’t judge, stone or crucify me. I will send you the meat from an animal that committed suicide, so that you know it had an “organic” death.

Game meat is always a culinary delight! From making “skilpadjies” in the field, to the biltong, chilli bites, droee wors and then of course, the odd shank and leg of venison. Because venison is significantly lower in fat compared to lamb or beef, I recommend cooking the meat in a moist cooking environment, or else it could dry out.

Now, there are two different approaches to pairing food and wine. One involves contrasting rich dishes with wines that have an acidity that cuts through the heaviness, and vice versa. The other approach suggests that neither the wine nor the food should overpower each other; they should be equal in freshness and weight. Seeing as it is winter, my choice of wine is always going to be red. The recipe I chose is an old Karoo favourite and the wine that I paired it with suits the meal spectacularly well. Venison is not fatty, so not a lot of acid is needed. The cream that is added accentuates the texture of the wine perfectly.

Val de Vie Shiraz 2008: this wine evolves in the glass, from initial mocha and chocolate flavours to big opulent red fruits, to a roasted, smoky, spicy and meaty profile. Textures are balanced between tannin and acid, with a smooth and elegant finish that lingers for long on the tongue."

Recipe: Springbok Shank
Ingredients:
1.5kg Springbok shank, cut into 50 mm pieces (this is so that the marrow can cook out of the bone and add flavour to the meat)
5-6 Shards of fatty bacon, chopped
1 Spanish onion, chopped
2 Garlic cloves, bruised
Bouquet garni
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Zest of 1 lemon, grated
350 ml good quality venison stock
1 teaspoon Paprika, smoked
250 ml Crème Fraiche
Salt and Pepper to taste
Fresh coriander leaves, roughly chopped
Pomegranate Arils, fresh

Method:
Fry bacon in a thick base skillet, and remove when browned. Add shanks to the same skillet and sear, remove when done. Sauté onions and garlic until translucent. Add bacon and shanks back to onions, and also add lemon juice, zest, paprika, salt and pepper, venison stock, and bouquet garni. Cover skillet and cook in pre-heated oven at 160 0 C for 5-6 hours. The dish is cooked when the meat falls from the bone. Stir in crème fraiche. Cover with pomegranate arils and fresh coriander. Serve with brown rice, or fluffy mash.
Tis the season to get fat, so go out, buy the ingredients, and start cooking. No food is better than slow food!

“Food and Wine: you decide – which is the soloist and which is the accompanist” – Michael Broadbent

Photograph sourced from ZAphoto

We love the beautiful music of Evelyn Hart, a talented musician with a gentle, folk-inspired style. Her debut collection of music is called Forged by the Sea and includes the sounds of piano, orchestral elements and, of course, Evelyn's remarkable voice.

For more details about her musics, check out these links:

Facebook: www.facebook.com/evelynhartmusic
Twitter: www.twitter.com/evelynhartmusic
Website: www.evelynhartmusic.com

As Winter is creeps up on us, a cosy kitchen is the perfect place to be. This weekend try fluffy gluten-free lemon pancakes with yogurt and fresh blueberries. They're perfect for a warm winter family brunch for in front of the fire place.

LEMON PANCAKES WITH YOGHURT + BERRIES
1/3 cup almond meal
1/3 quinoa flour
1/3 cup oat flour (ground rolled oats)
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
pinch of salt
2 1/2 Tbsp. natural cane sugar
2 eggs, seperated
1 cup buttermilk, yogurt or milk (we used half yogurt and half milk)
1/2 tsp. vanilla extract
3 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice
zest of one lemon
1 Tbsp. melted coconut oil, plus more for cooking

Topping
1 cup whole or lowfat yogurt
1 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice
2 tsp. honey
Blueberries

In a bowl, combine the dry ingredients and stir to mix.

In another bowl, beat the egg yolks with the buttermilk/yogurt, vanilla, lemon juice and zest, and the oil. Add this wet mixture to the dry and stir to combine.

In a stand mixer or with hand mixers, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. Fold the egg whites into the batter.

In a frying pan, heat a small pat of oil over medium heat. Pour a scant 1/4 cup batter in the pan and repeat with as many pancakes as you can without overcrowding. Cook until bubbles form, flip and cook another minute until golden. Repeat with remaining batter.

Mix the yoghurt with lemon juice and honey. Serve the warm pancakes with a lemon yoghurt drizzle and fresh blueberries.

Be sure to visit CitySlicker to take advantage of their amazing dining special at Val de Vie's Polo Club Restaurant! For only R165.00 two diners can enjoy either Lamb Pie with Lime Vanilla Mash Potato and Minted Red Wine Jus; or Bone Marrow Crusted 300g Rump Steak on Potato Augratin, Béarnaise and Green Peppercorn Sauce. The offer also includes one glass of award-winning estate red wine per person. It's the perfect chance to enjoy our delectable food in a relaxed yet elegant setting, don't miss out!

Lollos is coming to Val de Vie again on 10 July! We can't wait for this fun-filled event that is loved by the little ones.

Tickets cost R50.00 and can be bought by emailing events@valdevie.co.za. Children's lucky packets can alsoo be pre-booked for R20.00.

We are thrilled to announce a wonderful new offering from Val de Vie! Couples who book our wedding venue will now receive an AnnaH voucher from Val de Vie Events. This voucher includes an hour long consultation with Anneke, a talented wedding stylist and consultant. With her brilliant understanding of how to conceptualise an event, Anneke helps brides to incorporate their own style into their wedding's look and feel. She will also create a beautiful moodboard that captures the unique style of your wedding.

Visit her website to find out more about her work.

Val de Vie recently hosted the The Awaken Women's Conference, an enlightening event for woman that included two days of worship, inspiration and reflection. Well done to the Awaken Team & Crew for creating such a special weekend.

Here are some things that participants had to say about the event:

"It was a great weekend. Thank you Lord and the Awaken team!" - Toni Mould
"What a privilege to have experienced this!" - Ilze Boonzaaier
"One of the best weekends of my life! Thank you Jesus!"- Esté Nell

These moodboards capture the spirit of the event (photography by Lizelle Lotter, June Joubert and Anke Dunaiski.

You're invited to join us at the The Home Channel's Decor and Design Morning at Val de Vie. Speakers include Juliet Newell (The Home Channel), Elzabe Zietsman (singer, actress & chef), Henk Scholtz (artist, decorator & landscaper) and Neil Stemmet (interior designer, curator & collector).

Details:
Date: Saturday, 2nd June
Time: 10:00 for 10:30 - 3:00pm
Price: R350 pp incl. light lunch (please note that seats are limited.)

CLICK HERE TO RSVP

For enquiries contact Edith Unlimited: 011 783 5887 / tammy@edithunlimited.co.za

We are very excited to host the Spread the Fragrance Women's Conference this weekend. Tickets are all sold out for this fabulous event! Be sure to watch this space for photos...

GOOD NEWS LADIES, due to popular demand 10 and 12 July is now exclusively available for ladies aged 30+... Book now to avoid disappointment!

Marilize de Clercq, together with Nicky Lonte is hosting a Styling and Make-up Workshop for girls between the ages of 16 and 19 at the prestigious Val de Vie Polo Estate during June and July 2012. All guests will receive a mini make-up brush set including notes from Nicky Lonte as well as notes from the acclaimed stylist, Marilize de Clercq who has made special appearances on an array of magazine shows such as Top Billing and All Access. The full day workshop will be divided into two parts; within the first section of the day you'll receive professional make-up lessons presented by Nicky Lonte; Marilize de Clercq will conclude the second half with a Personal Styling presentation filled with latest tips and how to make trends work for you.

Each guest will also be treated to welcome drinks, delicious snacks - throughout the day - as well as a delectable lunch; which will be served just before the second half of the day.

There are only 20 seats available per workshop; bookings need to be confirmed and payment has to be made one week prior to the date you wish to attend. (Find below)

Six (6) workshops (in total) will be hosted; the dates are as follows:
- 26 and 28 June 2012
- 3 and 5 July 2012
- 10 and 12 July 2012 (for ladies 30+)

NIKI Professional Make-up as well as handbags and accessories will be made available for purchase on the day.

For more information or to book your seat email: styling@marilizedeclercq.co.za and nicky_lonte@vodamail.co.za.

The 2011–2012 Polo Season has been a frantically busy and successful one, including six 0 and 2 Goal Tournaments and chukkas being played four times a week! These Low Goal Tournaments were very well supported by visiting teams and we were thrilled to host Olifantskoop from the West Coast, Maremmana from Hermanus and Cape Town Polo Club from Melkbos.

We held 3 Exhibition matches during the course of the season, namely the Bentley at the beginning of December, The Veuve Clicquot at the end of February and finally, the innovative and exciting Five Nations Invitational Tournament held at the end of March. The Five Nations was the brain child of Martin Venter who considered the tournament’s viability during the middle of last year with an idea of inviting representatives from Pakistan, England, Zimbabwe, South Africa and the Netherlands to compete in an Invitational tournament at Val de Vie. His vision was realized and seven days of exciting polo were played, drawing large and enthusiastic crowds. Val de Vie was delighted to host a visiting side from Pakistan, including the Pakistani Ambassador. The Netherlands were supported by the Dutch Ambassador and his wife on the final Saturday and Fatima Chohan, Deputy Minister of Home Affairs, gave a short but inspiring speech about sport and her first introduction to polo at the Tournament. SA were the deserved winners, the winning team comprising of Tom de Bruin (Captain), Kevin Rixon, Martin Venter and Joseph Bron with “Britain” coming a close second.

Educational Chukkas have become a popular and very social part of learning the game of Polo and follow on after polo lessons given by Kevin on either Tuesdays or Thursdays during the season. Anybody who is interested in learning more about the game and how to play it must contact Tehri at the Polo Office for booking lessons with Kevin and joining in the Educational Chukkas – everybody’s welcome!

The Polo Season is sadly drawing to a close as Winter beckons. The last planned match was on 5 May, but it will give the horses a well-deserved rest! The number of new people playing polo and the number of tournaments being played is growing faster in Cape Town than anywhere else in the country and next season’s Fixture List is already in progress… we can’t wait!

PS: To all residents – Diana and I have bought at Val de Vie and are looking forward to meeting as many potential players and spectators as possible!

We love the new Carrol Boyes stylish leather range, which includes a variety of elegant leather accessories. The softest grey and black bovine leather has been sourced for the creation of these exquisite handbags, wallets, purses, business card holders and organizers.

Handcrafted and embossed with elegant detail, these accessories will add an unmistakable iconic luxury to any wardrobe.

The unique embossed patterns that set these leather items apart echo many favourite pewter and aluminum pieces in Wound Up, Quicksilver and Pebble designs.

Click here to view the brochure, or visit one of the selected Carrol Boyes stores throughout South Africa to see the items for yourself.

Check out this amazing video by FJS Productions of Ryk Neethling's birthday. It elegantly captures the glamour of this VIP celebrations, which was held at Ryk's home on the estate.

Art & Life, a first event of its kind Charity Event, took place this past Sunday at Val de Vie Estate. The guest list boasted over 300 VIPs, socialites, art lovers and their families who generously showed their support for this blossoming initiative.

Five charities were presented with cheques amounting to R220, 000 by the Art & Life Charity Initiative. The beneficiaries included The Cyrus Trust Prochorus Crèche Support Programme; the ‘I Was Shot’ Photography initiative; Ryk Neethling’s Pathways Foundation; the Yabonga HIV Aids Charity Organisation and the Nelson Mandela Children’s Hospital.

Some of the day’s acts included a fashion show by Jenni Button and Hilton Weiner, spectacular acoustic sets by Louise Day and Just Jinger’s Ard Matthews, a comedy stand up performance by Mark Palmer, and a moving Xhosa musical item by Lusanda Gwayi and Basha Magwape.

Jenni Button Models

Ard Matthews of Just Jinger

Chrys Mammous – Fine Artist

Louise Day – Singer

Polo Match

Johan du Plooy, Luke Meiring, Anthony Baines, Justin Snaith

Valeria Carmichael, Robynne King, Polisa Magqibelo of ABSA

Carol and Lambert Retief

Victoria and Tom Goddard

Stefan and Carla Antoni

Nico Panagio and Vesko Mrdjen

Artworks by Chrys Mammous

Reg Macdonald, Ard Matthews, Tracy McGregor, Marc Buhrer

Clare and Christo Wiese

Polisa Magqibelo, Sibongile Mkhabela and Chrys Mammous

Chrys Mammous

Hilton Weiner Models

Natalie Becker and Alfonso Botha

Kasper Kristofferson, Tanya van Graan

Carla and Stefan Antoni

Anina Malherbe and Tracy-Leigh Paulucci de Calboli

Chrys Mammous at the Art & Life Charity Event

City Press has a fantastic write-up on the Art & Life annual charity event that took place at Val de Vie this past weekend. The event was held to raise funds and awareness for a variety of charities, including The Cyrus Trust Prochorus Crèche Support Programme; the ‘I Was Shot’ Photography initiative; Ryk Neethling’s Pathways Foundation; the Yabonga HIV/Aids Charity Organisation and the Nelson Mandela Children’s Hospital. We're thrilled that R220 000 was presented to these worthy causes by the Art & Life Charity Initiative.

A host of VIPs, celebrities and art lovers attended the occasion, where they were treated to fine food and live entertainment from Louise Day, Ard Matthews, Mark Palmer, Lusanda Gwayi and Basha Magwape.

Click here to read the full article.

Image courtesy of City Press

South African swimming icon Ryk Neethling spent time in the pool at Val de Vie on Saturday, coaching children suffering from the bleeding disorder haemophilia, to raise awareness on World Haemophilia Day.

“It was the first time in a pool for some of these boys, and it was amazing to see how quickly they gained confidence,” said Neethling. “At first they’d hang on to me for dear life, but as they saw that they were safe and that they could float, and swim, such big smiles would spread over their faces! It was really moving.”

The event was coordinated by the SA Haemophilia Foundation and the pharmaceutical company Novo Nordisk, who approached Neethling to get involved. “Swimming is one of the best activities for people with haemophilia,” explains Bradley Rayner, chairperson of the SA Haemophilia Foundation and someone who lives with the disorder himself. “The weightlessness in water means there is no risk of injury. And if you’re going to show youngsters what swimming is all about, who better that the guy who won the gold? ”

Rayner says it was heart-warming to watch Neethling in the pool with the kids. “These children come from difficult circumstances, so it makes it all worthwhile when you see them honestly enjoy themselves for a change. Having someone coach them so gently and with such empathy made all the difference.”

Haemophilia affects the clotting ability of blood, which can cause severe bleeding at the slightest injury. It is generally found in boys, though one in 1 000 peoplehave some form of bleeding condition, and it can impair quality of living immensely when socioeconomic reasons prevent proper medical care.

“Thank you Ryk Neethling for allowing us to spend the day with you,” wrote one mom in a thank-you note after the event. “It gave me great joy today to see my son so happy, it was like a piece of heaven even if just for a little while.”

And that is why he turned down that multimillion rand offer to go and swim in Qatar, Neethling explains. “I want to be here, where you can make a difference simply by giving of your time, and love. You don’t have to be wealthy to make a difference in South Africa.”

The ART&LIFE 2012 Charity Event is the first of an annual series of events focusing on the arts. Incorporating Fine Art, Performance Art, Musical Performances and Fashion, this unique day event, jam packed with entertainment; will take place on Sunday afternoon, the 15th of April, at Val de Vie Estate situated in the Paarl-Franschhoek Valley (40 minutes from Cape Town). This exciting new Philanthropic Arts Initiative offers a fun day out for everyone, all in the name of charity and giving back. Some of the highlights include performances by musician Ard Matthews, comedian Mark Palmer, and work by artists Chrys Mammous (fine art), Gordon Clark (photography) and a game of riveting Polo amongst other things.

Absa, the headline sponsor for the event, believes in supporting the arts to contribute to the creative and intellectual prosperity of South Africa as a whole – ultimately benefiting all South Africans. As the only financial services institution in the world that has actively embraced art as part of its corporate image, they have shown that they are not only the biggest corporate patron of the visual arts in South Africa, but also the custodian of the largest South African corporate art collection.

The ART&LIFE initiative has the dual purposes of supporting and developing arts and culture in a dynamic way to contribute to the creative and intellectual prosperity of South Africa while raising funds for selected charities. It also provides a supportive, development and marketing platform for upcoming as well as established local artists, designers, performers and musicians.

The day’s programme will consist of various performances and visual displays of the participating artists, photographers, musicians and performance artists. There will amongst other things be an Art Exhibition, a Polo Tournament, a Music Performance and Fashion Show. The main acts this year will be internationally recognised South African music artist Ard Matthews of Just Jinger, Comedian Mark Palmer as well as the talented Poet, Basha Magwape, followed by a few smaller acts. The event will be targeted at families (including children), professionals, VIPs and everyone with an interest in arts and culture.

Some of the charities that will benefit from the ART&LIFE initiative are The Nelson Mandela Children’s Hospital; the Bobs for Good Foundation; the I Was Shot In Joburg & Cape Town Photography Project; Pathways - a Ryk Neethling Foundation, the Cyrus Trust and the Prochorus Crèche Support Programme.

In the run-up of the event, ART&LIFE will also be running a Student Art Competition. The works of the five winners of the art competition, all from the Michaelis School of Fine Art at UCT, will be judged by a panel of art curators from the Everard Read Gallery in Cape Town, headed by David Tripp. The winning art works will be on exhibition at the event and five cash prizes of R5000 each will be awarded to the winners.

Tickets are available from Webtickets at R150 per person. For more info on the event, visit www.artandlife.co.za

Inecke Photography captured the recent Val de Vie 5 Nations Invitational Polo Classic on camera, and we are delighted with the results. Her images beautifully depict the elegance of the day, and they really show off the beauty of our estate.

To view more photos, visit Inecke's website.

The Awaken Women's Conferences are enlightening events for woman that include weekends of worship, inspiration and reflection. The Awaken Team invites all women to join them at their event at Val de Vie Estate on 11-12 May 2012. The weekend costs R300 per person (early bird until 15 April, after that the cost us R350). You can either register online or at your nearest Shofar office.

For more information, e-mail the team at awaken@shofaronline.org or call +27 (0)21 887 1414. You can also visit their Facebook page.

KDay 2012 was a fun-filled day of music and sunshine. With some of South Africa's top musicians, DJs and bands performing live at Val de Vie, thousands of fans enjoyed the festivities. Here are some videos that give you a glimpse of some of the incredible live acts we were treated to.

The Arrows

Danny K

DJ Kent

Elvis Blue

Goodluck

Locnville

Loyiso

The Parlotones

Prime Circle

Val de Vie hosted KDay this past weekend and what a fantastic day it was! Thousands of fans, families and friends flocked to the estate to watch some of their favourite South African acts, including Prime Circle, The Arrows, Danny K, Locnville, GoodLuck, Flash Republic and Elvis Blue. With sunny skies and spectacular scenery setting the scene, it was the perfect day out in the countryside.

This video captures the fun that was had by all, we can't wait to see you again next year!

Val de Vie recently hosted the Five Nations Tournament and we're thrilled at the success of this exciting event. 500 guests, 14 sponsors and a host of happy spectators enjoyed fun-filled, action-packed polo in the beautiful setting of the Paarl-Franschhoek Valley. Five international teams competed in the tournament, which was won by SA Carrol Boyes, followed by and Nikon Great Britain.

With such riveting polo, gorgeous weather and Val de Vie's fine wines flowing, it was undoubtedly one of the highlights of our calendar!

The ART&LIFE 2012 Charity Event is the first of an annual series of events focusing on the arts. Incorporating Fine Art, Performance Art, Musical Performances and Fashion, this unique day event, jam packed with entertainment; will take place on Sunday afternoon, the 15th of April, at Val de Vie Estate situated in the Paarl-Franschhoek Valley (40 minutes from Cape Town). This exciting new Philanthropic Arts Initiative offers a fun day out for everyone, all in the name of charity and giving back. Some of the highlights include performances by musician Ard Matthews, comedian Mark Palmer, and work by artists Chrys Mammous (fine art), Gordon Clark (photography) and a game of riveting Polo amongst other things.

Absa, the headline sponsor for the event, believes in supporting the arts to contribute to the creative and intellectual prosperity of South Africa as a whole – ultimately benefiting all South Africans. As the only financial services institution in the world that has actively embraced art as part of its corporate image, they have shown that they are not only the biggest corporate patron of the visual arts in South Africa, but also the custodian of the largest South African corporate art collection.

The ART&LIFE initiative has the dual purposes of supporting and developing arts and culture in a dynamic way to contribute to the creative and intellectual prosperity of South Africa while raising funds for selected charities. It also provides a supportive, development and marketing platform for upcoming as well as established local artists, designers, performers and musicians.

The day’s programme will consist of various performances and visual displays of the participating artists, photographers, musicians and performance artists. There will amongst other things be an Art Exhibition, a Polo Tournament, a Music Performance and Fashion Show. The main acts this year will be internationally recognised South African music artist Ard Matthews of Just Jinger, Comedian Mark Palmer as well as the talented Poet, Basha Magwape, followed by a few smaller acts. The event will be targeted at families (including children), professionals, VIPs and everyone with an interest in arts and culture.

Some of the charities that will benefit from the ART&LIFE initiative are The Nelson Mandela Children’s Hospital; the Bobs for Good Foundation; the I Was Shot In Joburg & Cape Town Photography Project; Pathways - a Ryk Neethling Foundation, the Cyrus Trust and the Prochorus Crèche Support Programme.

In the run-up of the event, ART&LIFE will also be running a Student Art Competition. The works of the five winners of the art competition, all from the Michaelis School of Fine Art at UCT, will be judged by a panel of art curators from the Everard Read Gallery in Cape Town, headed by David Tripp. The winning art works will be on exhibition at the event and five cash prizes of R5000 each will be awarded to the winners.

Tickets are available from Webtickets at R150 per person. For more info on the event, visit www.artandlife.co.za

The Tygerberg Bird Club recently held its mid-week outing at Val de Vie, and we're delighted at the variety of bird species that they observed at the Estate. Near our cellars they saw a Spotted Flycatcher, Cape Batis, Fiscal Flycatcher as well as an African Harrier-Hawk (Gymnogene). Outside the Polo Pavilion they spotted African Pipits and a pair of Spotted Thick-knees, while along the Berg River they saw an African Paradise Flycatcher and a female Klaas’s Cuckoo.

The club managed to view 63 species in total, which is a fantastic indication of how indigenous wildlife is thriving on the Estate.

African Harrier-Hawk

Spotted Flycatcher

African Paradise Flycatcher

Val de Vie encourages you to participate in the upcoming annual AMADO Golf Challenge. This fun-filled day will help to raise funds for AMADO, a very special charity that gives animal assisted therapy to disabled children who cannot afford it. By taking part in their golf day, you not only have the chance to win fantastic prizes, you’ll also be supporting a worthwhile cause that is close to our hearts.

For companies or businesses that would like to show their support, there are various sponsorship options available.

The Golf Day takes place on 23 March 2012 at the Ceres Golf Club, with a bus leaving from Paarl at 08:00. please contact info@amado.co.za or for 083 604 4037 more details.

We hope to see you there!

These photographs by Jurie Senekal truly capture the glamour and style of the Veuve Clicquot Polo Masters 2012. We had a fanstastic time hosting this prestigious event, which was a chic celebration of polo, fashion and the finer things in life.

Val de Vie is proud to introduce the Footprint Edition Shiraz. This is a limited volume wine and only 300 bottles will be produced, making it a very vintage indeed. It's called Footprint because we use no electricity at all in the production of this special batch from the Swartland. It will be de-stemmed by hand, stomped by feet and crushed by hand. Alcoholic fermentation as well as Malo-lactic fermentation will be carried out with as little interference as possible. After all, when you have the quality in the grapes, all you need is minimal interference.

Property Magazine showcases Val de Vie's most premium home this month, the beautiful manor house that is also home to Ryk Neethling. Situated next to vineyards, the house overlooks a 300m Polo lawn, stables and the Polo Pavilion with the Simonsberg Mountains as a backdrop. The house is exceptional in every way, from the state-of-the-art home automation system to the impeccably stylish interiors.

To view the full article, please click here.

The Val de Vie Events team would like to introduce you to AMADO, an amazing charity that provides animal-assisted therapy to disabled children who cannot afford it. AMADO has one goal in mind: to help the children of South Africa develop into empowered individuals who can stand on their own feet, proud and tall. They have truly touched our hearts and we're delighted to have sponsored one of the children who are part of this project.

We really admire how they are making a big difference to the lives of children and encourage you to support their worthy cause. For more information about their work, either download their funding proposal or visit their website.

Elsje from Val de Vie Events loves and dreams of spending time in interesting Istanbul

Istanbul is a cosmopolitan city built on two continents. The most recent population census shows that it has a population of about 12 million people, from which almost 65% are inhabitants of the Asian side. Fulfilling the residential role of the city, it doesn't present a lot to see historically. In contrast, the European side is the commercial and cultural center, further divided into two districts (the Old City and the modern downtown) by a narrow channel of water called 'the Golden Horn'.

Four Fun Facts about Istanbul
1. Istanbul is the only city in the world that stands in two different continents, Europe and Asia. Most people think of it as an Asian city but actually the historic center is on the European part of town. The Bosphorus River divides the two continents and joins the Black Sea with the Sea of Marmara.
2. Although it was the capital of some of the most important empires in the world: Roman, Byzantine, Latin and Ottoman; Istanbul is not Turkey’s capital. Ankara is the country’s capital since it became the Republic of Turkey in 1923. It is however its largest city with close to 12 million people.
3. The city was first known as Byzantium but changed to Constantinople when Roman Emperor Constantine the Great made capital of the Eastern Roman Empire. The named finally changed to Istanbul in 1930 when Mustafa Kemal Ataturk proclaimed the Republic in 1930. To ensure the usage of the new name, Turkish authorities resend all mail and packages that were sent to its previous name.
4. When the city was part of the Ottoman Empire there were over 1,400 public toilets all around the city. At the same time, there weren’t any even at palaces in France and the rest of Europe.

It's the month of love and Valentines day is just around the corner. Spoil your partner with a special romantic dessert, such as Chocolate Waffles decorated with icing sugar and red berries.

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 cup milk
• 2 eggs
• 4 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon butter, softened
• 3/4 cup confectioners' sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon milk

Directions
1. Preheat waffle iron. In a large mixing bowl, stir together flour, baking powder, salt, sugar and cocoa. Stir in milk, eggs and butter until mixture is smooth.
2 To make hard sauce: stir together softened butter, confectioners' sugar, vanilla extract and milk. The sauce should be fairly stiff.
3. Spray the preheated waffle iron with non-stick cooking spray. Pour the mix onto hot waffle iron. Cook until golden brown. Serve hot with the hard sauce.

Valentines day is the only day you have an excuse to have chocolate for breakfast!

by Iza

Val de Vie was recently mentioned in an interesting article in The Property Magazine about wineland residential developments. The article explores how the demand for houses within estates is on the rise, as more and more buyers are drawn to the exceptional lifestyle that they offer.

To read the full article, please click here.

Be sure to take advantage of stylist Marilize de Clerq's amazing January personal shopping special, which includes a four hour shopping session for only R1 500. With her expert advice and eye for great bargains, you'll get the most out of your shopping experience and look fabulous!

On Friday 25 November Bentley, Veuve Clicquot, Pirelli, Breitling and LIVEOUTLOUD partnered in an event like no other at the Val de Vie Wine and Polo Estate in Paarl, Western Cape. The day’s proceedings consisted of an exclusive Polo tournament between four sponsored teams as well as a glitzy unveiling ceremony and cocktail celebration for the much anticipated Bentley Continental GTC during the evening.

Invited VIP guests were given access to the exclusive estate for the polo tournament, which saw a round-robin clash between four professional polo teams. Guests were welcomed to relax under the Veuve Clicquot umbrellas or enjoy a cold Peroni at the bar whilst watching the games against the backdrop of the Paarl Mountain Range. The start of the tournament was commenced with Kristina Diehl from Bentley UK throwing the opening ball onto the pitch from the passenger seat of the new Continental GTC’s predecessor before they raced away from a slew of horses clashing for the ball.

Michael Eilertsen, CEO of LIVEOUTLOUD explains: ‘The 2011 Bentley Polo Invitational has positioned itself as the pioneer event before LIVEOUTLOUD hosts the inaugural 2012 Beach Polo Festival in Camps Bay, Cape Town. This festival is set to become one of South Africa’s premier events and we look forward to breaking ground on this truly remarkable and original concept.’

The 2011 Bentley Polo Invitational culminated with guests being entertained by the vehicles on show; a jazz band playing smooth melodic tunes, and drew to a close as the sun set behind the mountains with as much style and sophistication as the vehicle itself, a day encapsulating both sporting and luxury living.

Don't miss Top Billing tonight to see their exciting feature on Ryk Neethling's birthday party and his beautiful home at Val de Vie. The stylish event was attended by a host of socialites, celebs and sports stars, who all enjoyed a fabulous evening at the estate.

Click here to read more about the show.

Here are some more photos of Ryk Neethling's recent birthday party at Val de Vie, taken by the savvy Twisted Lifestyle. Our events team coordinated this chic event, which was sponsored by BlackBerry, Chivas and Nikon. The party was featured on Exspresso and it will also be on Top Billing tonight, be sure not to miss it!

Visit Twisted Lifestyle's blog to view more photos.

We love Twisted Lifestyle's write-up on the recent BlackBerry Pink Polo event. As Twisted Ross puts it, it was "a day of fashion, wine, bubbles and sweet goodness but the beautiful day out is all about raising awareness as well as funds in aid of Breast Cancer." Click here to read his full blog post about the occasion, as well as to see more photos.

Olympic gold medallist, Ryk Neethling, celebrated his 34th birthday in impeccable style on Friday the 18th of November. The exclusive event took place at his newly built architecturally designed villa on the picturesque Val de Vie Estate in Paarl.

Blackberry sponsored the celebrity party where guests where driven around to the black and white chess inspired Bedouin tent in front of Ryk's house in classic Rolls Royce's. Nikon was there to capture every moment on camera whilst Chivas lavished guests with whiskey and cigars.

Scalini will be hosting a trunk show at Val de Vie on 24 November, showcasing their exclusive range of luxury fashion. Guests receive a 10% discount on all purchases, making this a fabulous opportunity for all style-savvy ladies to update their wardrobes!

Click on the inviation below to view more details about the event.

The 4th and 5th of November 2011 marked a brand new event on the South African calendar, set to become an exclusive annual affair. The Célébrer Luxury Wedding Workshop was the first of its kind and presented something completely different to the traditional wedding expo. Set in the opulent surroundings of the Val de Vie Estate outside Paarl, it was a luxurious day of inspiration, creativity and pampering for brides-to-be who managed to get the inside edge from South Africa’s top wedding experts.

Gorgeous Top Billing presenter and bride-to-be herself, Jeannie D, was MC on the Friday and Good Hope FM radio DJ, Ayanda Tini, was MC on the Saturday. Every aspect of planning your wedding day was covered and discussed by the top industry experts from wedding planning, couture bridal fashion to the best wedding menus, cakes, honeymoons, jewelry and much more.

Both days started off with headline sponsor, Estée Lauder’s top make-up artists heading up the beauty segment, advising guests on how to take optimal care of their skin with demonstrations of bridal make-up. Then hair specialists from Be Première gave tips on the latest hairstyles from the catwalk and red carpet.

South Africa’s top wedding planners, Aleit and Wedding Concepts, shared their insider knowledge on all you need to know to pull off an amazing wedding and Décor guru, Alwijn Jacobus Burger, shared his expert knowledge and inspiration on how to be unique and different when choosing the theme and décor for your big day.

A fashion panel was lead by beautiful celebrity stylist, Marilize de Clercq, who asked top fashion designers Hendrik Vermeulen, Kobus Dippenaar, Stefania Morland and Jenni Button all you need to know when choosing a style for your wedding dress. Each designer also showed some of their gorgeous bridal couture in a fashion show later in the day.
Brides-to-be got top advice on wedding menus from award-winning Celebrity Chef, David Higgs, and Val de Vie’s winemaker, Harold Versfeld, talked about wedding wine pairings. Isabella Niehaus, Kanya Hunt and Lindt’s Chocolatier, Dimo Simatos, demonstrated different wedding cake options and lucky guests got to taste some of the cakes as well.

After the gourmet wineland lunch, Exclusive Serenity gave tips on how to choose the best honeymoon destination and Johan Louw from Uwe Koetter Jewelers spoke about what designs to choose for engagement rings and custom made wedding bands.

During intervals, La Maison mixed the up the décor in the decadent Val de Vie Ballroom where the workshop took place, with stylish chair changes, luxurious cushion props and lighting.
Amazing prizes were also up for grabs and some very lucky brides-to-be walked away with Val de Vie wines, vouchers from La Maison, Bosch appliances, Estée Lauder hampers and vouchers from @Home. On the last day of the workshop the two grand prizes were drawn: a pair of diamond and tanzanite earrings from Uwe Koetter worth R16 000 and a luxury honeymoon - a five night stay at the 6 star Coco Palm Bodu Hithi resort in the Maldives - worth R40 000, courtesy of Exclusive Serenity.
Renowned wedding photographer, Jean-Pierre Uys, was there to capture every detail and Cape Town´s premiere wedding videographer, FJS, filmed the day. Fairlady Bride was the proud media sponsor for this fabulous event and every guest received a luxury goodie bag.

This Luxury Wedding Workshop was proudly organised by Vivid Luxury, the luxury brand specialists; in partnership with Val de Vie Events, the wedding experts who produce hundreds of fabulous weddings every year. The event was a massive success and is set to roll out next year to Joburg, Durban and Bloemfontein and become an annual institution worth coveting.

Here are some photos from the recent Val de Vie Fun Run. The event was a great success and gave participants the chance to enjoy some outdoor fun (and keep fit) in a beautiful setting. Well done to all the runners!

The Val de Vie Events team recently appeared on the Expresso Show as part of their special wedding-inspired episode. We loved every moment of being on air and meeting the fabulous Expresso team!

Viewers were treated to all the details about our upcoming Célébrer Luxury Wedding Workshop, which Val de Vie will be hosting in association with Estée Lauder on Friday 4 November 2011 and Saturday 5 November 2011. It's a time to be inspired, pampered and dazzled by some of the most sought-after service providers in the wedding industry. Discerning brides-to-be will be able to make their big wedding decisions with ease, all while enjoying the gorgeous surroundings of Val de Vie.

Apart from the fun and interactive event, each guest will also walk away with a goodie bag valued at R600. Expect to find a gift registry packet from @Home, a Be Premiere professional hair salon voucher, 20% off vouchers on Uwe Koetter’s Bespoke Jewellery Collection, a fine dark Lindt chocolate slab, a ‘little pink book’ (to help plan the big day), and a FAIRLADY Bride magazine, as well as the Val de Vie magazine.

Don't forget to buy your tickets on our website ASAP!

It's not far to go until the Célébrer Luxury Wedding Workshop! Val de Vie Wine will be hosting this exceptional workshop in association with Estée Lauder on Friday 4 November 2011 and Saturday 5 November 2011. It's a time to be inspired, pampered and dazzled by some of the most sought-after service providers in the wedding industry. Discerning brides-to-be will be able to make their big wedding decisions with ease, all while enjoying the gorgeous surroundings of Val de Vie.

Apart from the fun and interactive event, each guest will also walk away with a goodie bag valued at R600. Expect to find a gift registry packet from @Home, a Be Premiere professional hair salon voucher, 20% off vouchers on Uwe Koetter’s Bespoke Jewellery Collection, a fine dark Lindt chocolate slab, a ‘little pink book’ (to help plan the big day), and a FAIRLADY Bride magazine, as well as the Val de Vie magazine.

Don't forget to buy your tickets on our website and enjoy access to this unique event.

At Val de Vie we're proud of our efforts to reintroduce formerly indigenous game into the Berg River valley. The Estate is home to both Springbok and zebra, and as this photo shows, the animals have settled well into to their new home and delight both residents and visitors alike.

We're thrillled that the Estate is becoming a haven for our beautiful indigenous flora and fauna. It's another reason why Val de Vie is aptly called the Valley of Life!

We absolutely love Vera's Bridal Collection, a gorgeous collection of bespoke bridal jewellery that is set apart by its elegance and afforadability. From pendants and rings to bracelets and earrings, it's easy for brides to find the special piece that will not only perfect their look, but also become an heirloom after their big day.

Vera will be displaying and selling her beautiful creations at our Pink Polo event this October, so be sure to take a look. We're also delighted that she's donated delicious cookies for each goody bag, what a treat!

Visit Vera's website to find our more about her designs.

Be sure to enter the Val de Vie Spring Fun Run which takes place on 30 0ctober 2011. Choose between a 10 km and 5 km Run/Walk and enjoy a fun-filled morning in the beautiful countryside.

Price: R80 (children under 2 free, only 300 tickets available)
Cut-off for entry: 17 October 2011
Start Time: 08:00
Collection of numbers on the day from 06:30

Click here to enter.

Are you ready to update your look, or perhaps find some chic inspiration? Val de Vie is thrilled to be hosting Personal Styling Workshops that will be held by renowned stylist, Marilize de Clerq. Each workshop includes a personal styling session for two, a mini style profile, make-up lesson and a light meal. Want to pamper yourself properly? Ppt for the deluxe package which includes a cut and colour analysis by celebrity hair stylist Anadia Boshoff, a pedicure or manicure and clothing. It's never been easier to look and feel fabulous!

To book, contact Marilize at 082 223 6007 or email marilize@captive8.co.za.

Let me tell you a phenomenal story of friendship, commitment and travelling to one of the most sought-after wine destinations in the world… Now once you're done reading this, I don’t want to be looked at as the guys who denied the Dalai Lama his visa!

Back in 2007, when the previous World Cup was being played in France, 12 mates decided to pool some money together in order to start saving for 2011 Rugby World Cup in New Zealand. Back then, we were all still students. We started by opening a bank account in which each person deposited R500. This is a tremendous thing for students to do, because we thought in terms of brandy specials. Back then that amount was equal to 50 specials… and knowing my mates, that would be about two nights out on the town.

After that we all had debit orders going off from our accounts, initially starting off with the small amount of R150, escalating to R250, R500, R750 and then eventually R1000 per month. Sound like a sweet deal? Think again! While all of this was happening, a few of us became international travellers, and to keep money flowing into your account while staying abroad is quite the task. I remember having to transfer a week’s wages from my account in the US to keep up. That was very difficult when I still had to eat, sleep and travel! I took action by classifying wine on my staff account as food, which I‘d then trade for lodging and use to convince people to give me lifts to work. What a bargain!

I’ve neglected to tell you that we also invested half of the money we had in shares, which was the cause of a second train smash. I don’t know how many can recollect the minor episode of the world-wide recession. That completely screwed up all of our ambitions, to such an extent that one of our members decided to climb out. Now for someone from a farming background, with about as much insight into the phenomenon as a Mayan Inca has into geo caching, I had no idea of how bad it was actually going… they basically explained it to me by saying “you had 100 bottles of wine, and now you have 70, without anybody stealing anything”. Damn, that broke my brain and spirit.

Eventually, the guys in charge of all our finances invested in a little company called “Capitec”. A wise decision, because we made all of our money back, with a little extra on the side. Game ON! The “clever boys”, as they will be referred to from now on, made all the bookings of airplane tickets, match tickets and accommodation as they all became available, saving us massive amount of money!

Everyone had their own responsibility, mine being the wine expeditions. With the wine industry being so small, it was quite easy getting us a few bookings at some of the best wineries in New Zealand. My main mission, apart from cheering on the Boks to another world cup, is to experience as much as possible in winelands. By taking the ferry from Wellington (not the one crossing the Berg River into Paarl) into Marlborough, we have a world of Sauvignon Blanc just waiting to be explored. We fly out from Wellington to Dunedin, driving through the majestic Otago Highlands, which is famous for producing some of the finest Pinot Noirs available, to our next stop, Queenstown.

This isn’t all fun and games for me, because I still have a decent amount of learning to do. Once I’m educated in the styles and practices of the New Zealandwine industry, be sure to pop into the winery for a chat. And don’t miss my tasting in which I’ll compare South African wines to those of New Zealand.

There will be more to this story once we hit South African soil again!

Eleven mates on a tour of New Zealand for two weeks, with only 160 minutes of rugby being played in quarter and semi –final. Do you think it’s about the rugby?! NAAAAHHHHHH!!!!!

Image source: destination360.com

Top Billing recently visited Val de Vie to find out more about the Estate and our fine wines. Be sure to watch Top Billing to find out more!

The invitations are out for the Célébrer Luxury Workshop! This luxury Wedding Workshop, sponsored by Estée Lauder, will be held on Saturday 5th of November 2011 at Val de Vie. Be sure to get your ticket to this wonderful opportunity to be inspired by the top experts in the industry. Tickets cost R550 and can be purchased on our website. Alternatively, you can order them from the Events team on: 021 863 6191 / 072 72 655 21 / events@valdevie.co.za

To read more about the workshop, read the write-up on our blog, visit Vivid Luxury's blog or check out the press release.

Val de Vie is thrilled to be hosting a Luxury Wedding Workshop, sponsored by Estée Lauder, on Saturday 5th of November 2011. This innovative event helps brides-to-be to discover the latest trends, tips and fashions in a relaxed and beautiful environment. From Estée Lauder sharing the secrets to the best beauty regime in the run up to a wedding, to top fashion designers, such as Malcolm Kluk, giving advice on fashion and styling through to the top wedding planners, stationary designers, cake designers, chefs to the starts weddings, décor specialists and honeymoon planners... as well as two exciting celebrity guests making star appearances on the day. This workshop will bring the finest in each category and give the low down on what not to do and of course share all the latest international tricks of the trade.

Apart from fun and pampering interactive workshops you can expect champagne and beautiful breakfast canapés on arrival, a gourmet lunch (demonstrating wedding menu options) and an afternoon high tea with a selection of exquisite wedding cakes, wedding desserts and decadent sweet treats to see and taste.

Not only will the bride–to-be feel empowered after the day, but also pampered and entertained. If you don’t like large wedding expos with hundreds of uninteresting stalls, then the Célébrer Luxury Wedding Workshop, sponsored by Estée Lauder is perfect for you.

Brought to you by one of the leading cosmetics brands in the world, Estée Lauder, along with Vivid Luxury, the luxury brand specialists; and Val de Vie Events, the wedding experts who produce hundreds of fabulous weddings every year, you can expect a stylish, informative, and experiential day out for the bride-to-be and her mother, sister, maid of honor, or bridesmaids.

Read more about the event here, or keep visiting our website for updated information on this exceptional workshop.

Yay, it's strawberry season! Go strawberry picking and surprise the people close to you with a strawberry dessert you REALLY made yourself. ;)

Strawberries can be eaten fresh, frozen or dried. You can use strawberries in desserts, cakes, muffins, cereals, yogurts or salads, or you can also drink strawberries in shakes, juices or cocktails.

Strawberries aren't just delicious, they're beautiful too! If you are more of a chocolate person, use strawberries to decorate your chocolate dessert for a touch of colour.

Here is a delicious recipe by Creative Cakes for a strawberry cheesecake:

Strawberry Cheesecake

• 1/2 packet of biscuits
• 80 ml butter, melted
• 60 g strawberry jelly
• 1 tsp gelatine
• 1/2 cup boiling water
• 1 can evaporated milk
• 1 cup cottage cheese
• fresh berries

Instructions
1. Combine biscuit crumbs and butter and press into a 22cm loose-bottomed cake pan.
2. Dissolve jelly and gelatine in boiling water and allow to cool and become syrupy.
3. Whip ideal milk until light and fluffy. Beat in the cooled jelly, then the cottage cheese.
4. Pour into prepared biscuit crust. Chill for 2-3 hours, until well set.
5. Decorate with fresh berries before serving

Iza, Val de Vie Events

We're excited to see Business Day's feature on Val de Vie as a prime choice for luxury property investment. The article highlights our estate's exceptional country lifestyle, and also showcases one of the most spectacular properties currently on offer (click here to view this exceptional home).

Click here to download the article.

The past year at Val de Vie has certainly been busy, but we've enjoyed every moment and are so proud of what the Estate has achieved. Here are some moodboards that capture the spirit of the estate, from its beautiful landscaping and architecture to the fun-filled events and activities that we've hosted.

We are proud to introduce our newest residents, two beautiful zebra! Their introduction to the estate forms part of our ongoing initiative to make Val de Vie a haven for indigenous flora and fauna, preserving our precious natural heritage.

Val de Vie is a truly family-oriented estate, which is why we're looking forward to hosting a play activity workshop that has been developed by an Occupational Therapist and Physiotherapist. The programme is specifically for mums with their babies in their first year and will be launched during September/October at the Playroom here at Val De Vie Estate. Click here to download a flyer with more details about this informative workshop.

For further information contact Wendy at (083) 235 9951 or wendy@momsandbabes.co.za. Alternatively, visit www.momsandbabes.co.za

The latest issue of Private Edition includes an insightful look at how executives are finding balance in their lifestyles. With its superb lifestyle offering, it's no surprise that Val de Vie was featured in the article.

Click here to view an extract of the article.

We're delighted that Val de Vie's flagship wine, the Seventeen Eighty Three, was recently featured on South African Wine. Forming part of Val de Vie's signature premium black label range, this Southern Rhône-style wine is a red blend that combines hints of dark fruits, perfume, and warm spices. It's a superb vintage and can be ordered on our website.

This mood board was created out of pure excitement about our upcoming Pink Polo Event!

BlackBerry, Edith Venter and the Val de Vie Team are getting ready for this must-attend occasion on 15 October 2011

We invite you to come and celebrate with us in style and enjoy being pampered with a gift bag and bubbly as well as a sumptuous High Tea menu.

Kobus Dippenaar will be showcasing a custom designed fashion range for the occasion. Be sure to book your ticket before 10 October 2011.

Tickets are cost R350 in aid of breast cancer.

To book your ticket click here, or email edith@edithunlimited.co.za or events@valdevie.co.za. Alternatively you can contact us on 011 783 5887 or 021 863 6191.

Discover the Val de Vie lifestyle with Villa Grande. This gorgeous home is situated in Val de Vie Wine and offers luxurious accommodation from the bustle of life. This beautiful french interior designed house consists of 4 bedrooms (all en-suite), an open plan kitchen and dining area, scullery, living room, fireplace and a patio with a built-in braai next to the outdoor swimming pool.

Come and discover all that the estate has to offer, from vineyards and wine, to horses, golf, fishing, mountain biking, a health club, tennis courts, squash courts, polo, good food and dining and ultimately the freedom to enjoy life worth living!

For more information contact Izelle van der Merwe (izelle@guardianprojects.co.za) or click here to download an info pack.

Val de Vie is thrilled that Lollos is visiting the Estate on 8 July 2011! Tickets cost R50.00 and are available by contacting events@valdevie.co.za or calling 021 863 6100. This talented musical show won a SAMA and put smiles on the faces of children across South Africa, we can't wait to welcome them back.

We are very proud of a gorgeous photo shoot at Val de Vie featuring Ryk Neethling and Lieschen Botes. The glamorous shoot will be featured in the Summer Val de Vie Magazine and really evokes the elegance of our beautiful estate.

Val de Vie invites you to the Veuve Clicquot Masters Polo Tournament on Sunday 17 April 2011. This exclusive high society event is not to be missed and promises a day of glamour, excitement and luxury.

Click on the flyer for a closer look at what this event promises.

A gorgeous Val de Vie home was recently featured in Live Out Loud magazine, showcasing the exceptional quality of life and style that the estate is known for.

Click here to download a PDF of the article.

Val de Vie Events loves the work of style guru Marilize de Clercq! As an expert personal shopper, this savvy stylist knows exactly how to make her clients look and feel incredible. Update your look and book your winter wardrobe revamp with her - call 082 223 6007.

Pictures above from left to right: Umpire and Polo Professional, Kevin Rixon; Charl du Plesis and Rolf Thelen ( Polo Captain) riding each other off!
Bottom row: Charl du Plesis; Deon Einsink

The Val De Vie Polo Club Chukkas are played every Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday afternoon. Friends, Family, home owners and polo enthusiasts are always welcome to come and enjoy the thrill of the ponies galloping full speed up and down the polo field.

Cape Town - South Africa’s passionate and glamorous polo community will be able to witness one of the world’s most iconic polo nations in action when India tour the country in February as part of the BMW International Polo Series.

On Saturday, February 26, the lush polo fields of the Val de Vie Estate in the magnificent Paarl Franschhoek Valley will host a classic encounter between India and South Africa.

A day of elegance between man and beast will be matched by a host of celebrities and VIPs reveling in the finest Val de Vie wines, gourmet food, and a display of the latest BMW vehicles.

“Polo is an exciting sport, and we are proud to be associated with a sport that so epitomises excellence and with which we have a long and successful relationship with. People marvel at the ability of man and horse to achieve such perfect unity, and BMW shares this drive for creating perfect partnerships in the pursuit of a passion,” said Guy Kilfoil, General Manager: Communications and Public Affairs at BMW South Africa.

India will bring with them a rich legacy in the sport dating back to medieval times, and which has earned the country the status of being the cradle of modern polo.

“The prestige of this particular contest is highlighted by the fact that India rarely tours South Africa, having done so on only a handful of occasions in the past 20 years,” said Clive Peddle, the Executive Director of the South African Polo Association.

“But equally important will be overall enjoyment of a wonderful event. India are a very hospitable nation and the South Africans were treated with five star luxury on their recent trip. We aim to reciprocate by providing the Indian team with a wonderful time matched by exciting polo.”

Now in its third year, the BMW International Polo at Val de Vie has become one of the most keenly anticipated events on the Cape Town social calendar. It is arguably one of the most sleek, glamorous and sought-after tickets in town.

Chile was the first to tour South Africa as part of this series. Last year the series was highlighted by a 14 to 5 goal victory over Italy, watched by the likes of Ryk Neethling, Ard Matthews, Lee-Ann Liebenberg, Vanessa Haywood and a host of other celebrities.

“The BMW International Polo at Val de Vie is an elegant affair where Cape Town’s elite will enjoy an exclusive, elegant and relaxing day of Polo,” said Michelle van Eyden of SAIL, the Executive Promoter of the BMW International Polo at Val de Vie as well as the highly successful L’Ormarins Queens Plate held recently.

“The gates open at 14:00 and tickets are on sale at Web Ticket and at Val de Vie Estate on the day. The cost is only R50 per ticket, excluding food and drink, and we offer a variety of hospitality packages.”

The hospitality packages available from SAIL include the Chukka Club package (www.webticket.co.za) and the Champions Pavilion package (www.sail.co.za).

At R360 per person, guests of the Chukka Club will be granted access to a private area next to the Val de Vie Pavilion, where they can enjoy a complimentary glass of wine, and a limited cocktail style menu. The venue makes for an exclusive environment providing a superb view of the match.

For those seeking an even greater level of elegance and sophistication combined with unrivalled networking and socializing, the Champions Pavilion offers all of this at a cost of R1 400 per person, excluding VAT. Here guests will be able to enjoy an Indian style cocktail menu and a complimentary local bar.

From its ancient roots as the chosen sport of the Sultans of India to the polo fields of Val de Vie Estate, this will be a memorable encounter between two great polo nations.

The Val de Vie New Years Polo Tournament took place in Cape Town this week. 

The Val de Vie Polo Tournaments are fast growing into a very popular attraction in the Cape Town entertainment scene and the excited crowd enjoyed spectacular polo while sipping champagne on the stoop of the Polo Club restaurant.

The matches were fought out by the four teams over three days with Cape Town Polo Club, ultimately winning the tournament. Congratulations to them.

The Teams were:

• Val de Vie
• Quattro Snaith
• Cape Town Polo Club
• Cape Hunt Polo Club

The Val de Vie Polo Club is now preparing in all earnest for the BMW International in which India will be playing South Africa. An exciting 6-8 Goal tournament is being planned for just after the International.

We hope to see you there!

VDV Team, Rolf Thielen, Kevin Rixon, Alessandro Balestri, Martin Hartman

Val de Vie got into the festive spirit this season and hosted a kids Christmas carnival on 9 Dec 2010. 700 terminally ill children attended the fun-filled occasion, and it gave the Val de Vie team great pleasure to see the kids enjoying every minute of the event!

We're planning to hold the event again this year on 8 December. If you'd like to support and sponsor this worthy cause, kindly contact Simone on 072 72 655 21.

We thank all the goodwill doers in advance.

The Val de Vie Events team wish everyone a colourful, healthy and festive 2011.

I’m not a particularly huge fan of Crowded House, but one thing is for sure:  you always take the weather with you. We, unlike our vines, can move to the seaside where it’s cooler, or to the river where you have plenty of water, or put on a nice round hat and sunscreen, almost as if you were at the cricket. All of these factors (minus the cricket) have a great influence on what quality of wine year we’re going to have.

This has been quite an erratic wine growing season, with sporadic showers one day and dry-out-the-spit-in-your-mouth heat the next. There is absolutely nothing that we as wine growers and makers can do about it. And so the weather has been strange all over the show. All of a sudden there’s rain in Beaufort West and the three big dams in the Vaal area have exceeded their capacity! That is something that hasn’t happened in quite a while! The wind has been strange too – never just a fresh breath of air. It's either kite surfing weather, or it feels like an asthmatic mouse blowing at you through a straw – nonexistent. So you either have a drying effect, or a heating effect.

But if I put my mindless barking at the moon aside, and think about it, this has actually been a great year for wine, apart from the lack of cold units (I won’t bore you with science and details). We have had rain at the right times, we are having a warm ripening period, and thus far we are disease-free (touch wood!). So if you are into gambling but you’re tired of horses, cards, roulette, or even betting on who’s going to win the Oscar, just start making wine. The only difference is that with gambling you may have skills that could influence your outcome, like counting cards or injecting horses with steroids. With wine, there’s nothing you can do about it. All you can do is let nature take its course. And we believe that is the way wine should be made, Au Natural!

Have you ever tried cheating the weather?

Val de Vie is thrilled to be hosting KDay, an exciting music festival brought to you by KFM. This fun-filled event will be held on Saturday 19 March 2011 and will include talented SA artists such as Prime Circle, Jack Parow and Danny K, to name but a few!

As an outdoor festival it promises to be a wonderful event for the whole family, complete with dazzling winelands scenery. Tickets are available at Computicket.

For more details visit the KFM website.

The Polo Club Restaurant and Lounge Bar at Val de Vie was recently featured on local site What's up Cape Town. With the restaurant's relaxed but sophisticated atmosphere (not to mention the amazing views of the polo fields and mountains), it's no surprise that it's becoming such a popular spot to enjoy a meal in the winelands.

Val de Vie is proud to anounce that it has recently been voted as one of the top 15 luxury street addresses in South Africa. The survey was conducted by an independent auditer and highlights how the Estate's exlusive lifestlye has placed it as a luxury destination of note. For an overview of South African luxury property market, read the full article on Times Live.

Check out these moodboards which capture the spirit of life at Val de Vie, from the tranquil lifestyle and exciting events to the beauty of the estate.

Here's a glimpse at the glamorous word of Val de Vie and International BMW Polo, brough to you by the talented Simoné!

Val de Vie enjoys an enviable position in the heart of the Paarl-Franschhoek Winelands, an area known for it scenic beauty, excellent wines and fine cuisine. There's no doubt that if you're in the Cape Winelands this festive season, you'll discover that there's plenty to do!

After a wine tasting at Val de Vie and the surrounding wine esates, indulge in a fine dining experience at one of the region's many critically acclaimed restaurants. Don't miss Le Quartier Francais and Reuben's in Franschhoek, or Marc's in Paarl.

For those who enjoy spending time outdoors, there are plenty of hiking trails in the surrounding mountains. Visit CapeNature to find out about the various trails that are open to the public.

Keen shoppers can explore the charming antique shops in the historic centres of Paarl and Franschhoek, while history buffs will be intrigued by an array of fascinating museums and monuments.

Sporty visitors are spoilt for choice with golf estates such as Pearl Valley and Boschenmeer being in easy reach. Of course, a polo lesson at Val de Vie would be an unforgettable experience!

For more information about these and many other activities in the area, visit Franschhoek and Paarl's official tourism websites.

Image courtesy of Franschhoek Wine Valley & Tourist Association