Aspire Lifestyle Summer 2024

ASPIRE L I F E S T Y L E

FLAUNTING FABULOUS SHADES OF JADE’S LATEST SWIMWEAR COLLECTION

A SUMMER FEAST

CELEBRATING PEACHES, PLUMS AND NECTARINES

PERFECT BALANCE

CHEF RYAN SHELL’S LATEST CULINARY MASTERPIECE, ELEVEN

HEAT WAVE THE HOTTEST SWIMWEAR, BEAUTY & GETAWAYS

TRAVEL TREND

FIJI FLING

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9 772663 835008 aspirelifestyle.co.za ISSUE 31 R69.50 (incl VAT)

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TAG HEUER BOUTIQUES SANDTON CITY - 011 784 7422 - V&A WATERFRONT 021 421 8539 - GATEWAY 031 566 4452 WWW.PICOTANDMOSS.CO.ZA

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CONTENTS/

Issue 31 / 2024

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STYLE latest fashion trends FLAUNTING FABULOUS a celebration of colour

and style, Tegan Smith’s swimwear range, Shades of Jade

PORTRAITS OF AFRICA artist Fiona Goldthorpe

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TABLE MOUNTAIN Things to do WINE & DINE Stellenbosch Street Soirées PERFECT BALANCE chef Ryan Shell and his new Franschhoek restaurant, Eleven

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Photos by Flavien Carlod et Baptiste Le Quiniou, for advertising purposes only. Architect: Ramón Esteve. Editions Zulma.

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DESIGNER’S WORLD décor inspo in a

Cape Town home

BALANCE IS A FLOW by wellness expert

Nicky Rowbotham

BALMAIN’S South African boutique STELLA MOISSANITE an eye-catching brilliance, a gemstone

SUN KISSED self-tan has made a comeback FLORAL INSPIRATION from Louis Vuitton

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HEALING POWERS of Buchu A SUMMER FEAST with flavours of peaches, plums and nectarines OF THREE WINE MEN Emile Joubert’s top wine picks for the season FIJI FLING family travel to Fiji JIMNY JAMBOREE first-ever Jimny Gathering

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Photos by Flavien Carlod et Baptiste Le Quiniou, for advertising purposes only. Architect: Ramón Esteve. Editions Zulma.

French Art de Vivre

Temps Calme Outdoor. Modular sofa, designed by Studio Roche Bobois.

Mucidule outdoor. Coffee and occasional tables, designed by Antoine Fritsch & Vivien Durisotti.

Alonzo. Outdoor floor lamp, designed by Carlo Zerbaro.

JOAHNNESBURG - CAPE TOWN - MAURITIUS In store interior design & 3D modelling services

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LET US DANCE IN THE SUN, WEARING WILD FLOWERS IN OUR HAIR....

– SUSAN POLIS SCHUTZ

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Life in Fiji is an education in slow-paced living and makes for an idyllic tropical getaway.

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EDITOR’S NOTE

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The year has sped by, and once again, we find ourselves with the glorious months of summer upon us. In the spirit of celebration, we taste some of the best wines worth trying this summer and the bubbles that simply need to make an appearance on your wish list.

If you plan to show appreciation for the people you love, don’t miss our wish list — we’ve included ideas for everyone, from fine fragrances and beauty treats to décor, books and home scents. We also look at a new restaurant on the local dining scene and explore the events that’ll keep our calendars packed throughout the holidays.

For travel inspiration, look at our feature on Fiji — a family travel destination like no other, sun, sip and indulge in the culture.

As always, we have loved curating the very best in style, art, décor, travel and wellness for you. We hope you enjoy this special issue.

Keep safe x

@laurenzuidema

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info@stiles.co.za

www.stiles.co.za

George 044 871 3222 | Mossel Bay 044 695 1800 | Knysna 044 382 2090 | West Coast 022 880 0310 Cape Town (Paarden Eiland) 021 510 8310 | Paarl 087 094 3227 | Somerset West 021 879 5657 Rustenburg 014 495 3040 | Pretoria (Menlyn) 021 880 4737 | Centurion 012 884 0084

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THE TEAM MANAGING EDITOR Lauren Zuidema ART DIRECTOR Bianca-Leigh Nagel PROOFREADER Margy Beves-Gibson COMMERCIAL OPPORTUNITIES vann@aspirelifestyle.co.za CONTRIBUTORS Emile Joubert Robyn Alexander Jared Ruttenberg Jennifer Campbell Marius Boonzaier COVER Photographer: Tegan Smith; Model: Nathalie Anderson IMAGES Supplied, Unsplash, DepositPhotos, FreePik, Pexels DISTRIBUTION: Distribution: Community Life Media, On The Dot PUBLISHED BY Aspire Lifestyle (Pty) Ltd 021 712 3842

www.aspirelifestyle.co.za ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. No part of this magazine may be reproduced in whole or in part without the written consent and permission of the publisher and copyright owners as featured. DISCLAIMER All information, dates and prices were correct at the time of print. We cannot be held liable for any changes thereafter.

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Style edit FOR HER

Straw sun hat | Pop Candy at Superbalist | R249

Chrishell scalloped swimsuit | Poetry | R1 199

Daphne sunglasses | Burberry | R3 260

“SUNSHINE AND GOOD VIBES – SUMMER FASHION AT ITS FINEST.” – UNKNOWN

Tina raffia clutch | Poetry | R399

Ileana ankle wedge | UGG | R2 799

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The Break paper bag mini skirt Scotch & Soda | R2 309 Paisley sequin kaftan dress | Nicci Boutiques | R1 499

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B H H B O U T I Q U E V & A W A T E R F R O N T C A P E T O W N +2 7 2 1 4 18 18 8 9 B H H B O U T I Q U E H Y D E P A R K C O R N E R J O H A N N E S B U R G +27 11 325 4119 For further information contact Architects of Time +27 11 669 0790 www.bhhboutique.co.za

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Style edit FOR HIM

Aviators Ray-Ban R2 690

Sam adventure backpack Freedom of Movement | R3 695

“STYLE IS A REFLECTION OF YOUR ATTITUDE AND YOUR PERSONALITY.” – SHAWN ASHMORE Palmtrees crewneck Scotch & Soda | R1 189

FOM X Sonwabo Heritage tee (back) | Freedom of Movement | R750

Arizona suede Birkenstock | R2 799

Stuart slim-fit chino | Scotch & Soda | R2 099

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Pink guitarist under palm swim shorts Scotch & Soda | R1 539

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UX8406 Visi Magazine Print Full Page Print.pdf

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ASUS Zenbook DUO

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Intel® Core™ Ultra – Unlock AI experiences Intel® Core™ Ultra 9 processor Learn more at: https://www.asus.com/laptops/for-home/zenbook/asus-zenbook-duo-2024-ux8406/ Intel, the Intel logo, and Intel Evo are trademarks of Intel Corporation or its subsidiaries.

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FLAUNTING F 028_STYLE Shades of Jade.indd 28

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G FABULOUS Created by well-known Cape Town-based photographer Tegan Smith, Shades of Jade is a swimwear range that is comfortable, supportive and stylish.

MODELS: KAY LAMBERTS, SINIPHA CEKE, JUNETTE CYSTER, HILANA DE WET, NATHALIE ANDERSON

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ike many women, Tegan always struggled to find perfect-fitting swimwear. So, with a passion for femininity and a desire to inspire confidence in women, she took on the challenge of designing a swimsuit that would look and feel good. After months of research and careful consideration, she launched Shades of Jade.

For Tegan, her brand is a creative expression of her passion. The name – Shades of Jade – takes some inspiration from the crystal stone with healing properties. Jade is known for its ability to transform negative energy into positive energy.

This, says Tegan, resonates with her and has been a strong message within her swimwear brand since its launch in 2020. Tegan understands all too well that buying and wearing swimwear can be a negative experience for many women, so launching the brand was the perfect opportunity to create something for those who struggled to find wellfitting and beautiful pieces.

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THE DESIGN

The range of swimsuits supports A to DD cup sizes and boasts a high-leg style that avoids cutting over the hips.

Each piece features a double lining to prevent any sheerness and to ensure optimal comfort and support. Comfort is at the heart of the brand – Tegan’s mission is to make swimwear that makes women feel fabulous. She has created a collection that offers a swimsuit for every body type, personality and occasion.

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SUSTAINABLE SWIMWEAR Besides being carefully designed with everyday concerns in mind, the range is also proudly sustainable. All the pieces are made from recycled plastic and manufactured locally in Cape Town.

Plus, when you order from Shades of Jade, you’ll receive your parcel in a beautiful compostable mailer bag, which you can throw onto your compost pile immediately. To avoid any waste during production, fabric offcuts are used to make pretty scrunchies.

THE RANGE

Tegan’s collection includes bikinis in a few styles and multi-way full pieces. The multi-way is exceptionally versatile and can be styled in three different ways: with shoulder straps, chest cross-over, or one shoulder.

Supportive and sexy, it is designed to enhance and support the body. When it comes to prints and colours, there’s a lovely choice of florals, animal prints, bright pinks and corals, and classic monochromes. www.shadesofjade.co.za

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Africa PORTRAITS OF

Johannesburg-based artist Fiona Goldthorpe creates pencil drawings that celebrate our beautiful continent.

BY JENNIFER CAMPBELL

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t’s hard to believe that Fiona Goldthorpe has only been drawing for the last five years. Her pencil drawings are striking in their attention to detail and ability to capture the heart of her subjects. Fiona describes herself as a self-taught artist who is passionate about African portraiture. Almost all of her work centres on the faces of the African continent – both human and animal. Her pieces showcase majestic wildlife and the beautiful people of our collective home.

Although she lived in Cape Town for about eight years, Fiona now calls Johannesburg home. While she is a relative newcomer to the local art scene, Fiona is already making waves in her field. In March 2023, she was asked to be the South African brand ambassador for both Canson and LYRA Germany. She has reached the Top 40 in the biannual National Portrait Awards consecutively in 2019 and 2021 for her portrait work.

In May 2020, she was signed to be represented by the Warren Cary Wildlife Gallery in Kruger Park, which represents some of the top wildlife artists in Southern Africa. She is also represented by Lisa Kings Artrader Gallery in Cape Town.

From Florida to Sydney and New York, Fiona’s work has been snapped up by collectors worldwide.

One of her most recent projects was a bespoke Nelson Mandela commission for a client in London, which will be hung in the House of Lords in Westminster.

This, she says, is an unbelievable privilege.

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To see Fiona’s work, visit her Instagram page @fiona_goldthorpe

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T H I N G S TO D O O N

TABLE MOUNTAIN An iconic part of Cape Town’s cityscape, Table Mountain can be enjoyed a number of ways.

HIKE THE TRAILS

A hike up Table Mountain is a mustdo activity, whether you’re a tourist or a local. There are a few paths up the mountain, the easiest of which is Platteklip Gorge. Although quite steep, the route is fairly straightforward as it avoids any boulder climbing or steep ledges.

CATCH A LIFT

Alternatively, catch a lift with Table Mountain’s cable car from the bottom straight to the top and indulge in spectacular views.

FOR THE FOODIE

SUNDOWNERS

TAP, located at the Lower Cable Car Station, is Table Mountain’s latest addition, a bar serving up a selection of wines and beers from Newlands Brewery. It’s a great spot to soak up city views while enjoying a refreshing drink.

If you’d like to combine your trip up the mountain with a good meal, be sure to pop into TEN67 Eatery. The restaurant offers a range of options, from salads and sandwiches to burgers and pizzas. To stay as eco-conscious as possible, the eatery has introduced compostable plates and cups made from organic materials.

HOST AN EVENT

A gorgeous new functions venue, VISTA recently opened its doors and is the perfect spot for a celebration or special occasion. The space features large windows with plenty of natural light and a modern, open-plan design. True to its name, the venue boasts unparalleled views extending over the city and beyond.

WWW.TABLEMOUNTAIN.NET

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LET’S WINE AND DINE

Good news: Stellenbosch Street Soirées are back! The ever-popular series of food, wine and music beneath the wine capital’s famous oak trees is simply something not to be missed. According to Elmarie Rabe, manager of Stellenbosch Wine Routes and event organiser, the soirées are an excellent opportunity for the community to be immersed in the Stellenbosch lifestyle.

A section of Drostdy Street is closed off to traffic and decorated elegantly during the event. Food is available from stalls selling light nibbles, while a selection of wineries from different farms is available. To keep things fresh, the wines known throughout the series will change. There will be live music at each event to add to the atmosphere.

If you’re looking for a sundowner spot or a beautiful setting to mingle, snack and taste, be sure to join in the fun.

Dates 21 February; 6 and 20 March Time 6:00 to 8:00 pm Location Drostdy Street, Stellenbosch Cost Entry is R190pp (includes a glass and 10 wine-tasting tokens) Tickets Online from mobi. Limited sales at the gate. First come, first served

PHOTOGRAPHY: VUURTORING MEDIA

Summer is here, and balmy evenings call for good food, wine and music outdoors.

EMAIL INFO@WINEROUTE.CO.ZA OR CALL 021 886 4310

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Push, wow, repeat Yeah, it’s that simple. nutribullet

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PERFECT BALANCE Chef Ryan Shell has added to his culinary repertoire with the launch of Eleven, a beautiful new space in Franschhoek. BY JENNIFER CAMPBELL

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t’s always exciting when a new restaurant opens its doors, especially when it’s headed up by someone who is loved on the foodie scene and is known for fresh flavours and an innovative approach. Eleven is Franschhoek’s latest culinary destination and the third restaurant in the town for chef Ryan Shell, who also owns Ōku and Yama.

Eleven takes its name from the address on Franschhoek’s Huguenot Street, and the space is chic but relaxed. The décor is contemporary – expect a modern industrial aesthetic with wood, raw brick and burnt copper elements – with a nod to heritage in details like locally made furniture.

For Ryan, the restaurant is a dream come true and a place that represents something entirely new for the town. When he saw From the left: Chef Pieter du Preez, GM DJ Faroa with Ryan Shell

that the prominent location on the main street was available, he had to jump at the opportunity to bring his dream to life. His other Franschhoek restaurants both take their inspiration from Asian cuisine. Oku offers up Southeast Asian-style dishes, while Yama is the spot for sushi. Eleven, on the other hand, is all about global contemporary cuisine.

Ryan has travelled extensively and wanted to bring some of his international experience from the UK and Southern Africa to our shores. The offering includes a selection of small plates focusing on hyper-seasonal ingredients. Ryan believes this format will give diners an exciting and diverse dining experience and perfectly showcase locally foraged ingredients in an environmentally sustainable way.

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The tasting menu includes nine dishes, each of which promises plenty of flavours; think olive focaccia with zucchini dip, pumpkin and tomato preserve; oysters with masala oil, curry leaf and cashew; truffled goats’ cheese with pickled beets, walnut soil and citrus; and harissa cauliflower with hummus and tahini.

There’s also a three-course set menu, which currently includes options like cured swordfish with red onion, radish, cucumber and coriander and soaked springbok tartare served with raisin and caper puree, crispy onion and quail egg. The parmesan gnocchi is served with pine nuts, rocket and tomato aioli, while the pan-seared yellowtail is fragrant and delicious with lemongrass, saffron, coconut and fennel.

Eleven is definitely the kind of place you’ll want to try the desserts. It offers a choice of hot chocolate cremeux beautifully presented with marshmallow, milk and mint; citrus cheesecake with granadilla orange, vanilla and honey; and Brie mousse served with seed crackers and a rose and peach preserve.

The wine list is as carefully curated as the food menu, featuring the area’s favourites and a few lesser-known options. Diners can choose from a selection of fauxtails on the beverage menu.

Eleven’s beautiful interiors and creative cuisine allow diners to enjoy a whole sensory experience. And, with years of experience, Ryan continues to push culinary boundaries and create something unique.

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11 Huguenot Street, Franschhoek; reservations@eleveneats.co.za; 021 023 3755

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LIVE UNLIMITED AT DEVONBOSCH: WHERE LIFE TRULY UNFOLDS

Devonbosch stands as a beacon of modern living. But it’s more than just an abode; it’s a lifestyle. A unique lifestyle crafted meticulously by a vision that goes beyond traditional boundaries, showcasing how luxury, well-being and sustainability intertwine.

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he vision behind this illustrious project is not merely about constructing homes, but rather an entire experience – an experience that extends an open invitation to those who yearn for a change, for an adventure.

The strategic location near Stellenbosch with swift N1 access, combined with the essence of smart living where work, play, love and adventure harmonise, makes Devonbosch a paragon of destination living.

What truly sets Devonbosch apart is its architecture. At the heart of this is South African architect and urban design specialist, Henri Comrie, a maestro whose accolades reverberate globally. His recent triumph at the World Architecture Festival Awards in Lisbon only underlines his commitment to excellence. His hand in Devonbosch is evident in the mixed-use concept that intricately weaves residential, commercial and recreational spaces. Comrie’s distinctive touch, from vast precincts to individual homes, breathes life into every brick, every space, ensuring the architecture seamlessly dovetails with the promise of an unlimited life.

Devonbosch isn’t just about spaces; it’s about life. From designer apartments and penthouses that offer breathtaking mountain vistas, to state-of-the-art security and technological facets, every aspect of this development has been curated with meticulous care. The streetscapes – a reflection of both modernity and timelessness – lead to park-like

green spaces, athletic facilities, biking parks, running trails, eFoiling, and more.

For the business-minded, Devonbosch present more than a workspace. It’s an incubator of innovation, where entrepreneurs, creatives, and businesses converge, spurred by state-of-the-art facilities, co-working spaces, and a salubrious environment that champions mental well-being.

One cannot speak of Devonbosch without mentioning its verdant gardens, another award-waiting facet of this luxurious development.

These gardens, coupled with the unparalleled architecture, become the cornerstones of the life that awaits you here.

Yet, at its core, Devonbosch is about people; families laying down roots, entrepreneurs charting new paths, and individuals seeking a rendezvous with life. And supporting this vibrant community is a dedicated team of professionals, landscape architects and visionaries.

Devonbosch is more than a place; it’s a statement. A statement that says, “This is where you come to live life to the fullest.” Whether you’re an investor seeking promising returns, a family craving serenity, an entrepreneur hungry for opportunity, or a wanderer in search of adventure, Devonbosch beckons. In the words of Henri Comrie, “Quality yields rewards.” Devonbosch stands as a testament to this belief. A place where life isn't just about existing but truly living. devonbosch.co.za

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DISCOVER THE UNCHARTED

www.devonbosch.co.za

UNLIMITED SUMMER

BEAUTY OF SUMMER

Welcome to Devonbosch, your ultimate summer escape in the heart of the Cape Winelands! As the temperatures rise, find solace in a destination that embraces the changing seasons. With convenient access via the N1, Devonbosch is rewriting the rules of development.

This summer, experience a life without limits at Devonbosch, where you can PLAY, WORK, and LIVE to the fullest.

SquareTurn - we deliver change

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Designer’ World A generously proportioned Cape Town home showcases an Africa-focused curation of unique furnishings, decor objects and noteworthy artworks.

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s a teenager, Cape Town interior designer Robert Sherwood regularly went past the house that later became his home. “I always wanted to see the view from this house, knowing it would be good,” he says. “And its architecture also attracted me to it – it is a modernist pavilion set in a beautiful lush garden.” Many years later, a friend mentioned in passing that the property was on the market, and so began Robert and his partner Alberto Rodriguez’s 16-year journey with it.

The house is located in Bantry Bay, one of the Mother City’s most popular suburbs along its sparkling Atlantic Seaboard coastline.

Says Robert, “It truly is a magical area of Cape Town in which to live,” adding that one of the suburb’s most covetable attractions is that it is almost completely wind-free. When the rest of the city is being lashed by its notorious southeasterly wind – idiomatically and expressively known as the ‘Cape Doctor’ – Bantry Bay remains calm and still. In addition, notes Robert, the area also faces north. “So it has great light in winter.”

The famously lovely natural environs of Cape Town have always been a source of creative inspiration to Robert in his work as an interior designer. “Living surrounded by intimate nature is truly great,” he says. “And there is also such a large group of creative

people here to engage with and be inspired by, especially the art and design community.” No wonder, then, that Robert and Alberto’s home combines a large selection of contemporary art – in particular, pieces

by South African artists – with an easygoing yet eclectic aesthetic that reflects the almost year-round indoor-outdoor lifestyle that is another of the city’s major drawcards.

Having been attracted to the architecture of the house from the outset, Robert chose to retain the vast majority of its original features, including the manner in which its different spaces were organised.

“The flow between and size of the rooms was perfect,” he says. “There was no need to change the house structurally at all.”

Likewise, most of its interior finishes and fixtures were “completely to our liking; we loved the vintage feel of the wall panelling and original built-in cabinetry”, he adds.

Asked about his favourite space in the house, Robert immediately selects the living room. Not only does it house a ravishing collection of artworks and furnishings, according to Robert, it is simply a great place to unwind and it has an uninterrupted view of the ocean.. It’s this special combination of a visually arresting exterior vista with beautifully curated interiors that makes this home so uniquely memorable. robertsherwooddesign.com

PREVIOUS PAGE The original wooden wall panelling in the dining area was installed in the 1970s by the architect who was the home’s previous owner. The artwork resting on top of the wooden built-in cabinet – also original to the house – is by Kenyan artist Cyrus Kabiru; the dark bronze sculpture, entitled Geisha, is by South African sculptor Otto du Plessis; and the large, colourful vase alongside it is by South African ceramicist Carin Dorrington.

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EXPERIENCE THE OUTDOORS WITH ZIMBO’S AND LOBA THIS SUMMER

Hardwood Decking Solutions

CAPE TOWN | DURBAN | JOHNNESBURG WWW. ZIMBOSTRADING.CO.ZA INFO@ZIMBOSTRADING.CO.ZA 0860 995 303

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Previously a living area, this space was recently altered by homeowner and interior designer Robert Sherwood (robertsherwooddesign.com) so as to function as an autonomous ‘suite’ with living, dining and sleeping spaces all combined.

The large portrait artwork is by Amartey Golding. The side tables (from left) include a wood with bronze mushroom detail stool (topped by two volumes of Phaidon Design Classics) by South African sculptor Otto du Plessis, which Robert and Alberto bought at auction; an African carved wooden stool; a black ceramic table from Cécile and Boyd; a glass-topped woven grass table from Zimbabwe; and a vintage Eileen Grey E1027 metal and glass table.

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Also sporting beautiful original wooden panelling and wall lights, the sleeping area of the new living, dining and bedroom suite features a wood and leather headboard from Weylandts, vintage bedside reading lamps and rug from Morocco. The large artwork above the bed is by Eswatini-born South African artist Nandipha Mntambo.

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The dressing room includes a vintage Eileen Gray table from Strauss & Co (straussart.co.za) and the red chair is by Kartell. On the table is a limited-edition book/sculpture by South African artist Brett Murray, a wooden carving of a Swiss army knife by Adrian Kohler, and a totem sculpture by Moroccan artist Ben Ali. The artwork on the wall is by Philip Steele.

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As in the rest of the house, the kitchen and its adjacent breakfast nook features wall panelling and built-in storage cupboards that were all original to the home.

Furnished with simple cane chairs, the breakfast area showcases a colourful artwork by Cape Town-based artist Amber Skye Alcock.

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/ DECOR A desert rose on the coffee & DESIGN / table in the living room.

The reading room and study includes a vintage desk and spindle-back chair, both of which “I grew up with”, says Robert. The bird figurine, also a vintage piece, was found in a Paris market, and the artwork on the wall is by Philip Steele.

A crystal budgerigar figurine with tiger’s eye beak from Cécile and Boyd.

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CRAFTED IN FLORENCE . INSPIRED BY THE WORLD

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CAPE TOWN 18 MARINE DRIVE PAARDEN EILAND 021 418-0855 | JHB 6 KRAMER ROAD

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KRAMERVILLE

011 325-5503

VICTORIANBATHROOMS.CO.ZA

2024/02/13 08:41

STYLE DUO

Marrying the very best in craftsmanship In 1989, the world witnessed the emergence of two distinct icons in the realm of luxury bathroom design, each forging a unique path in their respective corners of the globe: Victorian Bathrooms in South Africa and Devon&Devon in Florence, Italy. Founded by two architects and now part of Italcer Group, Devon&Devon designs showcase a profound marriage of meticulous manufacturing and aesthetic form, and has since become recognised globally for its unparalleled commitment to quality and craftsmanship in the realm of luxury bathroom products.

Victorian Bathrooms has consistently redefined the standards of what it means to be a luxury bathroom brand, and this year, after many years of admiring the unmatched craftsmanship of Devon&Devon, an exclusive partnership between the two brands has been established. According to a company spokesperson, to have been chosen as the exclusive representative of Devon&Devon in Southern Africa is an extraordinary honour.

The partnership between these two curators of bathroom excellence promises a select portfolio of uncompromising quality and impeccable style at home in the most exclusive bathroom projects.

Devon&Devon has built its iconic brand on a foundation of traditional Italian design, with effects and accents inspired by the world. Devon&Devon reflects a deep appreciation for quality materials and tasteful designs that reimagine the pinnacle of European tradition: ‘Crafted in Florence. Inspired by the world.’

Its products are not merely functional fixtures; they are exquisite pieces of art that transform ordinary spaces into sanctuaries of luxury. Every element in Devon&Devon’s repertoire epitomises the fusion of timeless aesthetics and contemporary sensibilities, from meticulously crafted faucets to opulent bathtub designs.

From its headquarters in Florence and its stores all over the world, the company offers everything you need to make every bathroom a sanctuary.

This extensive range of meticulously designed and crafted ware will now be within reach of the discerning architect, designer or homeowner in Southern Africa.

For an exclusive Victorian Bathrooms’ showroom consultation, contact the showroom directly or simply drop in unannounced to experience a sampling of Devon&Devon firsthand. A captivating new display of Devon&Devon awaits at the Johannesburg showroom while samples and an array of literature and catalogues – which provide a glimpse into the world of Devon&Devon – can be found at its Cape Town showroom.

Special orders with lead times are to be confirmed at the time of enquiry, subject to manufacturing and shipping. www.victorianbathrooms.co.za

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WIN a getaway VALUED AT R25 600!

Win a lavish two-night getaway for six individuals, including a complimentary breakfast and an exclusive wine-tasting experience at South Hill Vineyards, courtesy of our luxury giveaway valued at R25 600.

Situated just a hours’ drive from Cape Town, South Hill Vineyards is nestled in the scenic Elgin Valley. It boasts an art gallery, restaurant, wine farm and a vineyard maze, along with various luxurious accommodation choices. The Villa welcomes you to a spacious communal area with open plan living and dining, featuring plush lounge seating, a fully equipped kitchen and an indoor fireplace for cozy evenings. French doors open to a wrap-around patio with stunning sunset views over gardens and vineyards. The outdoor oasis includes a 15-metre swimming pool, al fresco dining with a braai and pizza oven, expansive lawns for games, and a boule court for added sophistication.

Seize the opportunity to experience the beauty of the Elgin Valley. Enter now for a chance to win this luxurious stay at South Hill Vineyards!

ENTER NOW by subscribing to the Aspire Lifestyle newsletter on www.aspirelifestyle.co.za The competition ends on 29 February 2024. General T+Cs apply. The winner will be notified via email. All prizes are subject to availability and are not transferable or refundable for cash.

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/ WELLNESS /

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BALANCE IS A

flow

BY NICKY ROWBOTHAM

alance is a choice. And it’s not a once-off decision. How we achieve balance between priorities in our lives flows daily. Some days, we get it right, and some days, we get it wrong. Most days, we try to do better again tomorrow.

With modern-day pressures, technological enablers and real-time, streamed availability 24 hours a day and seven days a week, we are constantly choosing where to put our energy. And sometimes stress dictates where our energy flows, whether intentional or not. It’s not about simultaneously giving equal attention and prominence to all areas of our lives. Life can be completely imbalanced at times but is often a conscious choice to go all out and build a business, or spend time with family due to birth, death, illness. Or even a decision to focus on a passion. It often seesaws back and forth as our priorities shift and flow daily as we find the balance that works for us in our lives.

Everything is also a choice, whether we are conscious of it or not, as is choosing to stay stuck in the status quo. Using work or a leader’s demand as an excuse is actually making a choice. Unless we are in a

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war zone waiting for the next bomb to drop, staying stuck in a stressed out nervous system state of fight or flight is usually also a choice. It’s often just convenient or easier to blame something outside of ourselves for our lack of personal power. We sometimes lack the perspective to claim our voice back and stand in our personal, elegant power with a sense of ease and grace; possibly by stepping back from a situation or making a different choice for ourselves. With the expectations we place on ourselves – whether it be to conform to societal norms or not – it is something I know all too well.

I played small and abdicated some of my personal power to stress for many years.

I became the co-pilot in my own life for a long time. But when we give up our choices and personal power, consciously or not, our bodies intuitively know it. Your body knows when you are not in the driving seat of your life and yourself, hijacked by stress and in complete incongruence with yourself and how you should be showing up in your life. Your body constantly signals to your nervous system through age-old biological and genetic wisdom. Small fluctuations in blood pressure, temperature, breathing, movement and sound and our intuitive or instinctual reactions to them constantly send signals to our nervous system in an instantaneous feedback loop.

Are you safe? Is there danger? This intelligence, giving us life, runs through our nervous system. All we have to do is get out of the way and listen.

Many are experiencing unprecedented levels of overwhelm owing to overcommitted and overscheduled lives where fear and the need to stay safe have eroded our boundaries and our ability to listen to those stress signals. This isn’t sustainable when we are perpetually in this state. We have to hold space for ourselves to intentionally come back into balance to avoid a situation like burnout, which takes far longer to recover from. Burnout comes from an unsustainable imbalance in our lives and is not always from doing too much. Sometimes, it is from not doing enough of what feels aligned for us, what lights us up and tops up our energy. We end up with a deep depletion of our life force energy where we experience a draining fatigue with the resilience of a flat tyre rather than the satisfaction of achieving something or using our energy to achieve something meaningful.

To become more sustainable in our sense of balance, we must remember that it is a flow. Just when we think we’re back in the driving seat and have our personal version of balance back in the seesaw of our lives – maybe between work and life – things shift. Life happens. And then it’s about how we pay attention to tweak, pivot and take action in small steps, daily, to bring us back into a new state of balance or flow, aligned with our values, goals and the type of life we want to lead. It is not about moving out of balance, rather, it’s about regaining our own personal sense of balance quickly.

Nicky Rowbotham

Nicky Rowbotham is the author of 7 Steps to Finding Flow: Flip the Script on Stress and Embrace Your Elegant Power: Your Path to Success through Ease and is a speaker, author, coach and a leader on a mission to help everyday people create an amazing flow of energy that allows them to live their best lives. www.nickyrowbotham.com

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Everything is also a choice, whether we are conscious of it or not, as is choosing to stay stuck in the status quo.

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FOR THE EXCEPTIONAL ONES. FOR EVERYWHERE.

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/ STYLE FEATURE /

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We L ve JEWELLERY / FASHION / WELLNESS AND MORE

pg 88 Discover the healing powers of buchu.

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/ WE LOVE /

Balmain Balmain recently opened its first South African boutique at Sandton City's Diamond Walk.

A brand synonymous with high-end luxury fashion and widely popularised by the Kardashians, Balmain has opened its doors to a gorgeous boutique on our shores for the very first time. The fashion house dates back more than 75 years when Pierre Balmain launched his ‘New French Style’, a look at the freshness and femininity that pushed the boundaries of haute couture conventions at the time.

Today, this spirit lives on and is beautifully expressed in a distinctive silhouette and style that references a rich Parisian heritage. The Maison's designs are loved for their super-feminine, elegant and bold aesthetic.

The flagship boutique in Sandton City reflects the Maison's sophisticated elegance. The store has been beautifully designed with a minimalist layout that lets the couture take centre stage.

Luxury attire for both men and women is on display.

Shop U19, Sandton City • 071 006 6939 • www.gb.balmain.com

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SHINE BRIGHT LIKE A

diamond If you’re looking for a beautiful engagement ring that’ll last a lifetime but don’t want to break the bank, it’s worth considering moissanite. With its eye-catching brilliance and durability, this affordable gemstone is turning heads in the world of fine jewellery. BY JENNIFER CAMPBELL

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oissanite, discovered by French chemist and Nobel Prize winner Henri Moissan in 1893, is a mineral called silicon carbide.

In its natural form, the mineral is extremely rare.

So rare, in fact, that there isn’t enough of it to mine and use in jewellery or industrial applications.

The unique gemstone looks similar to a diamond, rivalling it in aesthetics, durability and brilliance. Because of its rarity in nature, modern moissanites are grown in laboratories to imitate their natural state successfully. Thanks to efficient production methods, the gemstones are considerably more affordable than diamonds.

Besides the aesthetic value of moissanite, you might choose this gemstone for several other reasons. Perhaps one of the most stand-out benefits is its affordability as moissanite offers exceptional value for money. For those who would like a stone with the same brilliance as a diamond but simply cannot justify the price tag, it’s a great choice.

Because the gemstone is grown in laboratories, it is completely conflict-free. It’s possible to enjoy the beauty of fine jewellery, knowing that your piece is sourced in a way that is both responsible and sustainable.

When it comes to fine jewellery, an important factor is, of course, durability. This is especially true of engagement rings, which are typically worn daily.

Fortunately, moissanite is second only to diamonds in hardness, boasting a hardness rating of 9.25 on the Mohs scale. This means the gemstone is resistant to scratches and chips and quite suitable for daily use.

In terms of versatility, moissanite really does shine. It can be cut, polished and set in so many ways. Whether you like a classic style or something more elaborate, the gemstone works in any design. Plus, with an impressively high refractive index, it reflects light beautifully.

Stella Moissanite, a South African jewellery brand working exclusively with this precious gem, was founded in 2020 by entrepreneur Ika van Wyk, who saw a gap in the fine jewellery market. Ika’s vision was to create an alternative to fine diamond jewellery without compromising on aesthetics or quality. After some research, she discovered the potential of moissanite and teamed up with some of the best local artisan goldsmiths to create the new range.

The collection includes rings, earrings, necklaces and bracelets in 9ct and 18ct gold and platinum settings.

Each item is thoughtfully designed and exquisitely crafted to show off the moissanite gem’s beauty. Ika and her team also work with clients to create custom designs for those with a specific idea.

Find out more and shop the collection at www.stellamoissanite.com

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TV presenter, actress and model Marciel Hopkins wore Stella Moissanite earrings for her big day.

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Sunkissed Get that sun-kissed look without harming your skin. A popular alternative to suntanning, self-tan has made a comeback. BY JENNIFER CAMPBELL

ummer is here, and with that comes plenty of reasons to get outdoors and enjoy the sun.

But it’s important to remember that sun protection is key to maintaining healthy skin.

The good news? It’s possible to look beautifully bronzed without doing any damage. Self-tan is safe and effective – here’s what you should know…

It’s no secret that bronzed, glowing skin is a great look for summer, but the reality is that lying in the sun for hours on end can cause some serious damage. For this reason, a lot of people are turning to self-tanning as a safer alternative.

Besides preventing sun damage, self-tan also helps conceal imperfections like uneven skin tone, stretch marks, and scars. Many products now contain nourishing and hydrating ingredients, so your skin will likely feel good, too.

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HOW TO PREPARE YOUR SKIN?

The first step in preparing for a sunless tan is to get your skin smooth. To do so, you should exfoliate a day before your treatment as this will eliminate dead cells and allow for better penetration of the tanning product. It’s also a good idea to shave the day before and apply a rich moisturising cream to hydrate your skin afterwards.

HOW TO APPLY SELF-TAN?

It is possible to apply a professional tan but if you choose to do it yourself, there are a few things to bear in mind. First, apply your tanning product in sections. When you apply it to the skin, rub it in just like you would a body lotion – just be sure to cover all areas.

The first step in preparing for a sunless tan is to get your skin smooth. To do so, you should exfoliate a day before your treatment.

Try focusing on one area at a time – for example, start with your upper arms before moving to your lower arms as this will ensure you are thorough in your application. You might find it easiest to wear a mitt when applying the product as it helps to distribute the tan more evenly, plus your hand won’t absorb any product.

Once you have applied the tanning product to your whole body, you’ll need to let it dry for a few minutes. When you feel the product has soaked into your skin, dress in something loose-fitting and allow it to set overnight.

HOW TO MAINTAIN A TAN?

When you wake up in the morning, rinse your tan off in the shower. Using a gentle cleanser avoiding abrasive sponges or exfoliators.

After a rinse, moisturise your skin to keep it hydrated. In fact, it’s a good idea to moisturise twice daily as this will help to keep your tan looking good for longer.

To maintain your results, avoid bathing and shower instead. If you think your tan is fading, you can prolong your glow by topping it up again after a few days; a gradual tanning product is ideal.

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MUST-HAVE EDITOR’S PICKS SKINNY TAN NOTOX ELIXIR

This magic, youth-boosting tanning elixir for the face gradually develops into a natural golden glow over 6–8 hours. The tanning mist can easily become part of your daily skincare routine; it includes hyaluronic acid and vitamins C, E and Q10.

On the nose: tropical coconut and exotic pineapple, delicious!

Vegan-friendly and not tested on animals 30ml at R439

SKINNY TAN COCONUT WATER SERUM

A favourite in this selection would have to be the Coconut Water Serum. It is clear in colour and doesn’t transfer, which means you can go straight from application into bed or out the door without any worries. The serum is hydrating and nourishing, containing both coconut water and vitamin E. On the nose: coconut and vanilla.

Vegan-friendly and not tested on animals.

145ml at R599

CARIBBEANTAN HIGHLIGHTER SERUM

Enhance your natural complexion with this serum, designed to hydrate both the face and body while leaving you with smooth skin and a radiant glow. This serum is versatile in that you can use it as a classic highlighter to accentuate the contours of the face, such as on the cupid’s bow, brow bones and the top of your cheeks. Beauty lovers can also mix it into their favourite body lotion for an all-over sun-kissed glow or layer it under their makeup as a brightening primer.

30ml at R199.95

CARIBBEANTAN GOLD BODY HIGHLIGHTER CREAM

Caribbeantan’s latest release introduces us to a highlighter cream for the whole body.

Its lightweight texture blends seamlessly thanks to its fast-absorbing formula that does not contain any bronzer, sunscreen or self-tan. Expect medium golden highlight coverage suitable for the entire body.

Enriched with vitamin C and hyaluronic acid.

115ml at R249.95

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Floral inspiration Louis Vuitton has introduced some gorgeous new designs to its Blossom jewellery collection, a range that takes inspiration from the maison’s emblematic monogram flower.

Louis Vuitton is known – and loved – for its monogram star-shaped flower, so it is no surprise that the motif has informed the latest pieces in the Blossom jewellery collection. The openwork design is both daring and organic, expressed in a range of lovely new pieces.

Much like the Idylle Blossom collection launched in 2012 and the Color Blossom collection from 2016, the Louis Vuitton Blossom includes easy-to-wear items. The range consists of 11 unique pieces, each of which comes in a choice of pink, white or gold. From delicate and stackable rings to pendants, diamond earrings and edgy hoops, the collection lends itself well to creating various looks. Overall, the aesthetic is bold and graphic – there’s loads of potential for playing with textures and sizes – but the pieces are also very wearable and versatile.

Simple, modern and bold, the Blossom collection brings a new freshness to the Louis Vuitton offering. A celebration of the beauty of imagination, the range is designed to empower the wearer to really explore and experiment.

Add to check out: done!

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THE HEALING

POWERS OF

BUCHU A plant indigenous to our shores, buchu has gained great popularity for its health benefits. BY JENNIFER CAMPBELL

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uchu has been causing a buzz in the mainstream wellness world for some time, but the belief in its powers as a healing herb actually dates way back. Its use was first documented in the 1600s when the Khoisan people introduced the plant to the Dutch colonists in the Cape. It was a rare commodity then, and when it was taken to Europe, it was reserved for the most wealthy and dubbed ‘Nobles’ Tea’. These days, buchu is much easier to come by and is available in a few different forms. Here’s how you can enjoy this versatile plant today.

HAVE A CUP OF TEA

Buchu is a kind of fynbos and has a sweet, lemony scent. When consumed as a tea, it is possible to enjoy the benefits of the plant just as the Khoisan would have many years ago; just be sure to choose a product free from any preservatives, colourants or other additives. Buchu tea is rich in antioxidants, plus it’s considered a digestive tonic that can help to relieve nausea, diarrhoea

and other stomach issues. It is also a great source of vitamins A, B, C and E. As an added benefit, buchu can be used for the treatment of urinary tract infections, as well as infections related to the kidneys and urethra.

TREAT YOUR SKIN

Besides being a powerful antioxidant, buchu boasts anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antifungal properties. For these reasons, it’s a great ingredient in skincare products and a good addition to any regime. It can be particularly effective if you struggle with issues like redness and irritation as it relieves inflammation and has a generally soothing quality when applied topically to the skin. Buchu is easily introduced into your skincare routine in a number of ways. The tea can be used as a natural toner; simply apply to the skin with a cotton pad after cleansing to tighten pores and freshen the skin. Buchu oil can be used to treat acne and other skin issues, or simply added to your daily moisturiser for a bit of extra nourishment.

It is also possible to buy products that already contain the natural ingredient. Look out for all-natural soaps, as well as body butters and toners enriched with the plant. As well as its use in skincare, buchu oil also makes an effective insect repellent when applied directly to the skin.

HAVE A DRINK

For something both refreshing and healthy, water infused with buchu is a great option – especially on a hot summer’s day. There are a few products on the market that boast natural antioxidants, bioflavonoids and vitamins sourced from the oil of the buchu leaf. Look out for buchu water free from sugar and sweeteners to enjoy the full benefits of the ingredient.

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TRIED + TESTED

BUCHULIFE HERBAL SPARKLING WATER

BUCHULIFE FIRST AID GEL

BUCHULIFE DERM-ACTIVE MOISTURISING CREAM BUCHULIFE JOINT HEALTH CAPSULES

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PURE BLISS

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ASPIRE 31_Umngazi Competition_T&Cs.indd 92

2024/02/15 09:56

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Awaken to the soothing sounds of the river as you gaze upon breathtaking panoramic views. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Wild Coast, a place where the rugged coastline meets the lush forests, creating a haven for wellness and relaxation.

To enhance this enchanting retreat, the prize includes a complimentary river cruise. and a bottle of wine on arrival, setting the mood for relaxation and celebration. Umngazi Hotel & Spa is renowned for its exceptional service, world-class spa, and delectable cuisine, ensuring that every moment of your stay is filled with comfort and delight.

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ENTER NOW by subscribing to the Aspire Lifestyle newsletter on www.aspirelifestyle.co.za

The competition ends on 29 February 2024. General T+Cs apply. The winner will be notified via email. All prizes are subject to availability and are not transferable or refundable for cash.

ASPIRE 31_Umngazi Competition_T&Cs.indd 93

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A SUMMER FEAST

While the looks, flavours and juiciness of peaches, plums and nectarines are decadent and luxurious, they are also affordable because they are home-grown and in season. They are perfect as refreshing, nutrient-rich fruits while you’re on the beach or lounging in the park. But there are so many other ways to enjoy stone fruit in a variety of your dishes from salads and sauces to roasts and desserts. Juicy Delicious has brought together chefs Caro Gardner and Mokgadi Itsweng together who have created a collection of stone-fruit inspired dishes.

CHEESY STONE FRUIT AND CHARCUTERIE BREAD INGREDIENTS

2–3 (200g) large potatoes, peeled and chopped 1 cup (250ml) milk 110g butter, melted, plus extra for brushing 240g cake flour 345g bread flour 1 tsp salt 4½ tsp instant yeast 1 Tbsp rosemary, chopped 3 Tbsp sugar 2 large eggs, whisked 1 large egg yolk Olive oil 200g mozzarella, in blocks 2 plums, stones removed and sliced 2 peaches, stones removed and sliced 2 nectarines, stones removed and sliced 2 tsp (10ml) chopped rosemary, extra for garnish 3–4 Tbsp (45ml) chopped preserved melon or ginger Salt and milled pepper 4–6 slices of Parma ham 1 round of Camembert cheese

METHOD

Place potatoes in simmering water until cooked through and set aside. Drain and mash. Whisk milk, butter and mash in a bowl to combine. Add flour, salt, yeast, rosemary and sugar into the bowl of a stand mixer with the dough hook attached and mix

to combine. With the mixer running at low speed, add the milk mixture, then add the eggs. Knead at a medium speed for 5–8 minutes, or until the dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl and is smooth and glossy. Cover the bowl with a tea towel and prove in a warm spot until doubled in size, about 1 hour.

Lightly oil your hands and work surface and tip out the dough. Gently knock down. Weigh out 60g portions of dough and roll each portion into a neat ball. Tuck in a block of mozzarella cheese. Grease a 28 cm cast-iron pan or similar-sized baking dish.

Place the Camembert round in the centre of the dish and arrange dough balls around the Camembert.

Arrange sliced stone fruit in between the roll creases and scatter with remaining grated mozzarella. Brush with melted butter and preserved melon or ginger, scatter with rosemary and milled pepper and salt.

Prove uncovered for 15 minutes. Bake at 180°C for 20–30 minutes, or until golden and cooked through.

Roll Parma ham roses and place on top of the bread to serve.

COOK’S TWIST

Add a spoonful of sundried tomato pesto and sliced olives with the mozzarella before rolling the dough balls. Add dollops of pesto with stone fruit before baking.

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SPICED ROAST CHICKEN WITH ROAST PEACHES AND YOGHURT DRESSING INGREDIENTS

2–3 garlic cloves, crushed 1 3 / cup (80ml) raisins, finely chopped 2 Tbsp (15ml) mild curry powder 1 tsp (5ml) turmeric 1 4 / cup (60ml) peach chutney 1 3 / cup olive oil Salt and milled pepper Juice and grated zest of 1 lemon, 1 cut in wedges 1 whole chicken 2 medium red onions, sliced in wedges 4–6 peaches, sliced 4–6 baby fennel, washed and halved For the dressing 1 2 / cup yoghurt 3 Tbsp (45ml) mayonnaise 20 g coriander 20g basil 50g walnuts, toasted Salt and milled pepper Juice of lemon or lime

METHOD

Preheat the oven to 200°C. Mix garlic, raisins, curry powder, turmeric, cumin, chutney, olive oil, seasoning and lemon. Rub seasoned oil all over the chicken. Fill cavity with lemon wedges. Season and place on a baking tray and roast in the oven. Add onion wedges with the chicken and roast for 45 minutes before adding peaches and fennel. Add an extra drizzle of seasoned oil and roast for another 30 minutes or until cooked through.

Blend dressing ingredients together and set aside. Taste and adjust seasoning.

Serve roast chicken with roast peach and fennel drizzled with herby yoghurt dressing.

COOK’S TWIST

Serve leftover chicken shredded and tossed through butter lettuce, cucumber ribbons, roast peaches and fennel and drizzled with dressing.

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WHOLE SMOKED CAULIFLOWER ROAST WITH PLUM SAUCE INGREDIENTS

1 whole medium to large cauliflower 1 litre water 1 tsp salt 100g smoking wood chips Plum sauce 500g red plums, halved, pitted and roughly chopped 100g brown sugar 200ml rice vinegar Juice of 1 lemon 100ml water 1 tsp five spice powder 1 Tbsp fresh grated ginger 1 onion chopped 1 tsp cayenne 40ml soya sauce

METHOD

Bring a salted litre of water to a boil, then add the whole cauliflower. Boil the cauliflower for 20 minutes, then drain and set aside. Smoke the cauliflower by placing a hot charcoal disk into a small

foil container, then adding the wood chips. When the chips start smoking, place the foil container with the wood chips at the bottom of the oven or on the lower rack if it has one. Place the cauliflower on the rack, directly above the smoking chips. Close the oven and allow to smoke for 10–15 minutes.

While the cauliflower smokes, make the sauce by placing all the sauce ingredients in a saucepan. Simmer at medium heat for 25 minutes. Blend all the ingredients to a smooth sauce.

Preheat the oven to 200°C. Place the cauliflower on an oven baking tray, and baste the cauliflower with half the sauce. Bake in the oven for 15 minutes, baste again with sauce and bake for a further 10 minutes, until the cauliflower is nicely browned.

Serve sliced into steaks with extra plum sauce and fresh herbs on top.

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PEACH, PLUM AND WHITE CHOCOLATE TRIFLE INGREDIENTS Poached peaches 8 peaches, ripe but firm, extra for serving 1 btl sparkling apple or grape juice 1 cup (250ml) castor sugar White chocolate mousse 300ml double cream 8 cardamom pods, lightly bruised 600g white chocolate, finely chopped Vanilla cake, or 2 store-bought Madeira cakes 225g soft unsalted butter, extra for tins 225g castor sugar 2 tsp vanilla extract 200g plain flour 25g cornflour 3 tsp baking powder Pinch of salt 4 large eggs For serving 1–2 peaches, sliced 1–2 plums, sliced Gold glitter and whipped cream for serving

METHOD For the peaches Bring a large pot of water to the boil. Drop in the peaches and simmer for a couple of minutes then drain and cool until you can handle them. Peel skins, cut in half and discard the stones and chop.

Heat liquid gently until the sugar dissolves and liquid has reduced by half. Set aside.

For the white chocolate ganache Place finely chopped white chocolate in a heatproof glass bowl. Simmer cream and cardamom together until steaming. Pour over chocolate and

set aside to melt, stir to form a chocolate sauce and set aside.

For the vanilla sponge Heat the oven to 180°C. Grease 2 x 20cm tins with a small amount of butter and line the bases with baking parchment.

Cream butter and sugar, add vanilla extract and beat that in. Mix flour, cornflour, baking powder and salt together. Beat one egg into creamed butter and sugar, followed a tablespoon of the flour mixture and once both are absorbed, continue in this manner until all 4 eggs are used.

Scrape down and gently beat in the remaining flour. When everything is combined and smooth, start beating in the milk, a tablespoon at a time (no more than 3) until your batter drops easily off the beaters, paddle or wooden spoon when lifted up out of the bowl.

Divide batter evenly between the two prepared tins, and smooth the tops. Place side by side in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the tops are golden and it is cooked through.

Set aside to cool.

To assemble Trace trifle dish over the sponge and cut out 2 sponge discs. Pour syrup on the base of the dish and top with a sponge disc, drizzle with extra syrup. Pour a layer of white chocolate ganache and place in fridge to set. Spoon poached peaches over the set white chocolate and top with a second layer of sponge.

Drizzle extra syrup over the sponge, add a final layer of chocolate ganache.

Serve topped with whipped cream, sliced peaches and plums and sprinkle with glitter.

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Of three wine men In conveying the soul of a wine brand, the conveyor’s sense of fun is a vital element. BY EMILE JOUBERT

s the offspring of Nick, who began the wine operation on Groote Post farm in Darling, young Peter hit the wine scene like a Pieter-Steph du Toit mid-field defensive play when he started fronting Groote Post’s marketing operations a few years back. He is seen all over the place in gregarious and self-deprecating humorous ways, whether it is snapping selfies with Antipodean diva Kylie Minogue at Prowein in Germany, talking about South African wine on various television channels, or introducing Groote Post with a broad smile that is genuine, heartfelt and likeable.

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PINCH OF SALT

Peter’s approach works in the market. Groote Post took a turn to modern lifestyle branding with its stunning Seasalter Sauvignon Blanc, which has been hugely successful, inspiring many other wineries to dust off the look and feel of their offerings and take a looser, more relaxed approach without sacrificing class or quality. This success has led to a new wine from Groote Post; a Chardonnay named Pinch of Salt .

Chardonnay is no new thing to Groote Post’s Darling spread.

But with the old vineyard being knackered, virusinfected Chardonnay was pulled out. Nine years ago, new material was planted for the basis of a Pinch of Salt.

The aim of this, like Seasalter, was to create an amicable, charming lifestyle wine with just the right degree of seriousness to attract attention but without the over-emphasised steps of manicured complexity to confine it to the severe self-appointed wine drinker.

Pinch of Salt Chardonnay is given lees contact in various vessels: tanks, French oak barrels and clay amphorae. Six months of post-fermentation lees-time was allowed in these vessels before the wine was bottled and ready for market in October of the year of vintage.

The colour is that of hay bales strewn across a West Coast plain catching the iridescent glowing rays of the sun setting in the west. A nose of rock-pool washed by an incoming tide warmed with a touch of fynbos and an alluring nectarish spice.

What gets me is the presence on the palate, where the wine lies like a rivulet of mercury on the manicured palm of a Turkish bride.

Here it rests, cool and easy, darting off in different directions as your bewitched senses prod the essence of the liquid that is, simply, a tasty wine.

There is butterscotch and date to be had with a burst of loquat enlivening the senses,

while thick-skinned Cape lemon offers a pleasant bitter-fruit grip. No, this is not a wine to evoke drama. Thundering waves belting granite rocks and a cacophony of rapturous symphonies are not to be found.

Things are all pleasant and easy when drinking it – drinking, more than sipping – like a wooden-hulled yacht sailing across the bay with a firm wind in its sails.

ARE WE HAVING FUN YET?

Another wine personality known as much for enjoying his winemaking career as for his surly good looks is Miles Mossop. Yup, the guy who started up the iconic Tokara winery in Stellenbosch but now runs his own gig named Mossop Family Wines. The top number in a range of fine offerings is a wine called Sam , a stunning Bordeaux-style blend named after Mrs Mossop.

Sam 2020 was released recently and confidently proved to be one of the Cape’s great red wines. Led by Cabernet Sauvignon from the Polkadraai Hills ward of Stellenbosch, Sam 2020 underscores the fact that this is a great Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon vintage offering wines of immense varietal expression and a fruity eagerness, yet with polish and poise that will age to talkative secondary complexity. As winemaker Bruwer Raats of Raats Family Wines has shown for decades now, Polkadraai can bring accuracy and precision to red wines from the area’s heavy granite soils while offering just the correct degree of plushness to give depth and meaning.

A juicy tenderness lies at the core of this Sam 2020, fresh acids providing a taut harness on which to peg a tapestry of joy-giving flavours. Ripe pomegranate flesh with raspberry confit. Some sour cherries with a lick of blackcurrant and a few slivers of sundried prune.

Brief glimpses

of washed-up whelk-shell add a cooling maritime touch, while a few cedar cuttings give a civilised feral edge to a wine of immense presence and with an individual voice.

A WINE LEGEND

Sticking to the theme of men and their wines, I’ll close off with a Noble Late Harvest sweet classic, Delheim’s Edelspatz , first made by the late legendary Delheim-owner Spatz Sperling in 1979. This wine still commands huge respect, as shown in the latest 2024 Platter’s Wine Guide, where Edelspatz 2021 garnered a five-star rating and was named Noble Late Harvest Wine of the Year.

Edelspatz is made from Riesling vines growing on Delheim’s Simonsberg property, and the trick to its enticing sweetness and perfumed flavours lies in leaving the grapes on the vines until they have taken on a shrivelled, mouldy appearance. This is the result of ‘noble rot’, which concentrates the grape lavours. Some of the world’s great sweet wines are made from fruit shrivelling in this manner.

The grapes are pressed and the juice aged in French oak barrels for nine months.

Because this nobly rotten fruit is also packed with sugar, the wine remains sweet after fermentation, unlike usually ripened grapes where alcohol scoffs the sugars, resulting in dry wine.

The result is Edelspatz, a natural sweet wine expressing decadent fruit in all its splendour. Served chilled, Edelspatz entices with aromas of grilled nuts and honeycomb, while in the mouth, the fruit notes include apricot, pear and dried pear, with a smack of marzipan thrown in. Sweet it is, but the bright acidity ensures a life-affirming freshness, making it one of my all-time favourite wine styles.

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Live, Life, Well

with PURE, NATURAL, CERTIFIED ORGANIC aromatherapy oils

Essential Oils Carrier Oils Blended Body Oils Remedy Rollers Diffusers Ceramic Burners Ceramic Charms

Available on Takealot

Visit www.soil.co.za

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Fragrances ACQUA DI GIO HOMME PARFUM

Acqua di Giò Parfum by Giorgio Armani is a woody aquatic fragrance for men. Top notes are marine notes and bergamot; middle notes are rosemary, clary sage and geranium; base notes are olibanum and patchouli.

125 ml | R3 400

LOUIS VUITTON SPELL ON YOU

Spell on You is a floral fragrance. Top notes are violet, Tuscan iris and green notes; middle notes are rose, Tuscan iris and Chinese jasmine; base notes are peach, acacia and white musk.

100 ml

HERMÈS TUTTI TWILLY EDP

Tutti Twilly d'Hermès is a fruity floral fragrance with top notes of litchi; middle notes of ginger flower, and a base note of musk.

85 ml | R3 125

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es

MUGLER ALIEN GODDESS SUPRA FLORALE EDP

Alien Goddess Eau de Parfum Supra Florale turns the signature solar jasmine of the original scent into a monumental, otherworldly supra flower. Top notes are prickly pear and cactus flower; middle notes are jasmine sambac and immortelle; base notes are amber, musk and desert rose.

ELIE SAAB LE PARFUM BRIDAL

Le Parfum Bridal is a floral fragrance with top notes of orange blossom, Mandarin orange and neroli; middle notes of ylangylang, gardenia and vanilla; base notes of musk, amber and benzoin.

90 ml | R2 685

90 ml | R2 950

ELIZABETH ARDEN RED DOOR

Classified as an amber floral, the revamped Red Door fragrance opens with rich, floral top notes of freesia, Lily of the valley and wild violets. At the heart of the scent is an intoxicating blend of red rose, Moroccan orange flower, ylang-ylang and jasmine.

The final accord of the fragrance is sensual and alluring with notes of earthy oak moss, rich sandalwood and sweet honey.

100 ml | R1 085

ACQUA DI PARMA SIGNATURE COLLECTION ZAFFERANO EDP

Zafferano by Acqua di Parma is a gender neutral amber floral fragrance.

Top notes are bergamot, Mandarin orange, coriander and bitter orange; middle notes are saffron, orange blossom, geranium, jasmine sambac and rose; base notes are woody notes, vanilla and tonka bean.

180 ml | R5 300

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Beauty ENVIRON’S ULTIMATE OVERNIGHT GLOW KIT

Includes four carefully selected power boosters to help intensely smooth and revitalise the appearance of dull, dry and dehydrated-looking skin while you sleep. The kit includes four products including their Concentrated Alpha Hydroxy Toner 60 ml, Alpha Hydroxy Night Cream 25 ml, Hydrating Serum 15 ml and Hydrating Oil Capsules (2’s).

Valued at R920 and is available at selected Environ salons when you purchase any Environ products to the value of R1 765, one of which must be a Vitamin A moisturiser.

CATRICE THE VITAMIN C FRESH GLOW PRIMER

The Vitamin C Fresh Glow Primer is a vitamin bomb for the skin with 2% vitamin C derivative, kiwi fruit extract and peach oil. The shiny texture of the primer provides moisture, perfectly preps the skin for make-up and ensures a radiant, fresh-looking glow.

R113.95 | 30 ml

NUXE HAPPY IN PINK GIFT SET

Indulge in floral scented luxury products. The gift set includes Huile Prodigieuse® Florale 100 ml, Prodigieux® Floral Le Parfum 15 ml, Prodigieux® Floral Scented Shower Oil 100 ml, Prodigieux® Florale Indoor Candle 70 g R1 295

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CATRICE WOW IN A BOX MINI EYESHADOW PALETTE – PEACH PERFECT

From shimmering to matte and duo chrome, the five eyeshadows create unique eye looks in a ‘perfect peach’ style. A shimmering, light shade on the moveable part of the lid and a darker, matte shade in the crease create a cool 3D effect.

R113.95

CLARINS WATER LIP STAIN

This lip stain is uniquely fluid and glides over lips to give long-lasting, non-transferable colour while providing intense hydration and nourishment.

Colours: purple, red and orange.

PIXI VITAMIN C REMEDY MASK

R450

This luxurious revitalising remedy mask brightens and drenches your skin in a blend of citrus, green tea, ferulic acid and ginseng.

R549

STILA ONE STEP ILLUMINATE PRIMER & BRONZER

Swirl your way to a luminous, glowing complexion in one step! This innovative triple-swirled helix serum instantly illuminates, primes and nourishes skin while also working to improve skin tone, even the complexion and smooth fine lines and wrinkles.

ESSENCE LOVE THAT GLOW & BRONZE PALETTE

R675

The three silky-soft shades give an intense colour result and a radiant, fresh look.

R149.95

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AMANDA JAYNE ORANGE BLOSSOM CANDLE

Orange Blossom is made up of an array of beautiful citrus oils, balanced with soft floral geranium and deepened with a subtle hint of woodiness.

Notes: tangerine, marjoram, geranium and wood.

Home scents R799

BABYLONSTOREN’S SOMERTUIN DIFFUSER

An ode to our summer garden, the Somertuin fragrance exudes with gentle notes of soft sage and cedarwood.

It captures the freshness of an early South African summer and enlivens your home with its sunshine scent.

R850

MOLTON BROWN MERRY BERRIES & MIMOSA CANDLE

ACQUA DI PARMA BUONGIORNO DIFFUSER

Decorated with a gold, 1970’s rattan print to celebrate their heritage, it playfully flickers with candied red berries, winter citruses and warm musky woods.

The splendour of the Italian countryside in the morning light expressed in fresh aromas, with hints of green aromas reminiscent of the splendid Italian countryside.

R1 115

R1 500

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Wine WELTEVREDE PHILIP JONKER ROSETTA ROSÉ Wine of Origin: Robertson Wine Valley

The new Rosé is Philip Jonker Rosetta, a brut Rosé of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. This dry Rosé is elegant and refreshing, reminiscent of strawberries and cream, and is the ideal choice for outdoor enjoyment in springtime and summer.

R189 per bottle

GENEVIEVE 2013 BLANC DE BLANCS RD Wine of Origin: Bot River

After a decade of artistic pursuit and dedicated craftsmanship, Genevieve is thrilled to unveil its 100% Chardonnay 2013 Blanc de Blancs. Perfected through the recently disgorged (RD) method, this vintage dazzles with a complex dance of fruit and brioche notes. The unique cool-climate terroir of Bot River, caressed by winds from Walker Bay and Bot River Lagoon, brings a rare complexity and depth to this exquisite sparkling wine.

R560 per bottle

MOËT & CHANDON NECTAR IMPÉRIAL Wine of Origin: France

A blend of Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier and Chardonnay is intense in colour with golden highlights.

It welcomes a rich bouquet of pineapple and mango, with the roundness of mirabelle plum and apricot, with a slight hint of vanilla.

R799.95 per bottle

KLEIN ROOSBOOM MARIANNA ROOS R 2023 Wine of Origin: Durbanville

The marriage between 84% Merlot and 16% Sauvignon Blanc brings musky candy floss and strawberry aromas. This coral Rosé has a crisp acidity supported by soft round tannins and brings freshly picked cherries and grapefruit to the palate.

R115 per bottle

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SIMONSIG KAAPSE VONKEL BRUT ROSÉ 2022 Wine of Origin: Stellenbosch

BRUCE JACK SAUVIGNON BLUSH 2021 Wine of Origin: Western Cape

Notes of rose petals and nectarine sorbet with a squeeze of lime. The wine goes very well with fresh oysters sprinkled with lime juice, grilled nectarine and prawn skewers, triple-cooked potato wedges with dillinfused mayonnaise and butter chicken curry.

In 2004, Simonsig winemaker Johan Malan blended Pinot Noir with Pinotage and Pinot Meunier4 to launch this flavourburst brut. The wine is pale salmon in colour. The nose takes over with aromas of wild strawberries, field flowers and sourbdough bread. On the palate are fruity flavours of fresh strawberries and raspberry sorbet.

Kaapse Vonkel Brut Rosé is excellent and can pair well with most seafood dishes, especially West Coast rock lobster, a seasonal Cape Town delicacy. Finally, it can also be enjoyed with fresh seasonal berries or any other light dessert.

R189 per bottle

R77 per bottle

BLAAUWKLIPPEN CHARDONNAY 2022 Wine of Origin: Helderberg region

Winemaker Narina Cloete has beautifully curated this Chardonnay that showcases citrus, orange blossom, and yellow flower aromas, which end with yellow peach and crème brûlée on the palate.

R200 per bottle

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Drinks cabinet TOKARA XO POTSTILL BRANDY Tokara XO is the epitome of luxury, and with its 5-star Platter’s South African Wine Guide rating, the brandy walked away with two new gold medals. It has has a Chenin Blanc base with complex characters and a palate that delivers rich caramel flavours, dried apricots and cocoa butter with a spicy finish and fine length. Tokara XO Potstill Brandy comes in an elegant decanter presented in a beautifully designed case.

W

R990 per bottle

LILLET ROSÉ APERITIF

GOLD BAR WHISKEY

Crafted with meticulous care and finesse in the heart of the San Francisco Bay, Gold Bar Whiskey has earned its reputation as an award-winning elixir of prestige. Expect subtle notes of vanilla and caramel to the luscious hints of red fruits and oak. Each bottle of Gold Bar Whiskey holds a unique treasure: the iconic ‘Lady of Fortune’ coin.

Hand-pressed onto every bottle, this collectorgrade treasure symbolises luck and prosperity, adding an air of elegance and mystique to the experience of enjoying Gold Bar Whiskey.

Lillet Rosé aperitif (pronounced Lee-lay) is low in alcohol and has subtle blends of wine and fruit infusions. The nose has a light aroma of berries, orange blossom and grapefruit. On the palate, Lillet Rosé is fresh, lively and fruity.

R339 per bottle

R1 599 per bottle

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N

AD TE

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WHERE VITICULTURE AND WHERE VITICULTURE AND CREATIVE CULTURE MEET.

CREATIVE Iconic CULTURE natural surroundingsMEET. and the creative energy of our people come Iconic natural surroundings the together to create a perfect and collection creative energy of our people come of wines and experiences. Try one of our together to create perfect collection unique tastings or a enjoy the spectacular of wines and experiences.

Try one of our views and dining at our award-winning unique tastings or enjoy the spectacular restaurant, The Tangram.

For more views and dining our aaward-winning information, or to at make restaurant restaurant, Thewww.durbanvillehills.co.za Tangram. For more booking, visit information, or 1000. to make a restaurant or call 021 558 booking, visit www.durbanvillehills.co.za or call 021 558 1000. @DurbanvilleHills #DurbanvilleHills #DurbanvilleHillsWine

@DurbanvilleHills #DurbanvilleHills #DurbanvilleHillsWine

Not For Persons Under The Age Of 18.

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Not For Persons Under The Age Of 18.

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Books ISLAND IN THE SUN

by Katie Fforde

When Cass is asked by her father to take on an unusual photography project in the Caribbean Island of Dominica, she really can’t see a reason to say no. But the remote island has just been hit by a severe hurricane, leaving destruction in its wake. Cass is travelling with Ranulph who is searching for the rare stone carvings her father wants her to photograph.

Their hunt leads Cass down a path of bravery and selfdiscovery, and she soon falls for Ranulph, who has been by her side every step of the way. But does he feel the same way about her?

R380

All books published by Penguin Random House. Available at Exclusive Books and all major bookstore outlets.

THE GOODBYE CAT

by Hiro Arikawa

Seven uplifting tales of warm, wise and sarcastic cats set in modern Japan through the changing seasons.

THE PERFECT READ FOR CAT LOVERS Against changing seasons in Japan, seven cats weave their way through their owners’ lives.

■ A needy kitten rescued from the recycling bin teaches a new father how to parent his own human baby.

■ An elderly cat hatches a plan to pass into the next world as a spirit so that he and his owner may be together for ever.

■ A colony of wild cats on a holiday island shows a young boy not to stand in nature’s way.

■ A family is perplexed by their cat’s devotion to their charismatic but uncaring father.

■ A woman curses how her cat constantly visits her at night.

Bursting with empathy and love, THE GOODBYE CAT explores the unstoppable cycle of life as we see how the steadiness and devotion of a well-loved cat never lets us down. A huge bestseller in Japan, every page is a joyous celebration of cats and how we cannot resist sharing our lives with them.

R295

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FOURTEEN DAYS: A COLLABORATIVE NOVEL

by Margaret Atwood & Douglas Preston

VOYAGE OF THE DAMNED

by Frances White

A murder mystery on a ship full of magical passengers. If Agatha Christie wrote fantasy, this would be it! To mark the thousandth year of peace in the Empire of Concordia, the emperor’s ship embarks upon a 12-day voyage. Aboard are the heirs of the 12 provinces of Concordia, each graced with a unique magical ability known as a Blessing. Except one: Ganymedes Piscero. When a beloved heir is murdered, everyone is a suspect.

Stuck at sea and surrounded by powerful people, odds of survival are slim. But as the bodies pile higher, Ganymedes must become the hero he was not born to be and unmask the killer before he ends up the next victim of their bloody crusade.

Set in a New York apartment building, Fourteen Days is an irresistibly propulsive novel with an unusual twist: each character in this diverse, eccentric cast of neighbours has been secretly written by a different, major literary voice; from Margaret Atwood and John Grisham to Emma Donoghue and Celeste Ng. One week into lockdown, the tenants of a run-down apartment building in Manhattan have begun to gather on the rooftop each evening and tell stories. With each passing night, more and more neighbours gather.

Gradually the tenants – some of whom have barely spoken to each other before now – become real neighbours. A dazzling, heartwarming and ultimately surprising narrative, Fourteen Days is an ode to the power of storytelling and human connection.

R340

R380

A STROKE OF THE PEN: THE LOST STORIES

by Terry Pratchett Twenty early short stories by one of the world’s best loved authors, each accompanied by original woodcut illustrations. These are rediscovered tales that Pratchett wrote under a pseudonym for newspapers during the 1970s and 1980s.

While none are set in the Discworld, they hint towards the world he would go on to create, containing all of his trademark wit, satirical wisdom and fantastic imagination. Meet Og the inventor, the first caveman to cultivate fire, as he discovers the highs and lows of progress; haunt the Ministry of Nuisances with the defiant evicted ghosts of Pilgarlic Towers; and go on a dangerous quest through time and space with hero Kron, which begins in the ancient city of Morpork...

R380

INFECTIOUS GENEROSITY: THE ULTIMATE IDEA WORTH SPREADING

by Chris Anderson

Recent years have been tough on optimists. Hopes that the Internet might bring people together have been crushed by the ills of social media. Is there a way back? Chris Anderson, the head of TED, believes we can turn outrage back into optimism. It all comes down to reimagining one of the most fundamental human virtues: generosity. What if generosity could become infectious generosity? Consider: ■ How a barber began offering haircuts to people experiencing homelessness and catalysed a movement.

■ How two anonymous donors gave $10 000 each to 200 strangers and discovered that most recipients wanted to ‘pay it forward’ with their own generous acts.

■ How TED itself transformed from a niche annual summit into a global beacon of ideas by giving away talks online, allowing millions access to free learning.

In telling these inspiring stories, Anderson offers a playbook for how to embark on our own generous acts – whether gifts of money, time, talent, connection or kindness – and, thanks to the Internet, prime them to have self-replication, world-changing impact.

R420

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Stockists FRAGRANCES

Acqua Di Parma Skins Cosmetics, Woolworths Elie Saab Edgars, Foschini, Truworths, Woolworths Elizabeth Arden Clicks, Dis-Chem, Edgars, Woolworths Giorgio Armani ARC, Edgars, Foschini, Woolworths Hermès Woolworths Louis Vuitton www.louisvuitton.com Mugler ARC, Foschini, Woolworths

BEAUTY

Catrice Clicks, Edgars Clarins www.clarins.co.za Environ www.environskincare.com Essence Dis-Chem, Edgars NUXE www.orleanscosmetics.co.za Pixi www.pixibeauty.com Stila www.woolworths.co.za

HOME SCENTS

Acqua Di Parma Skins Cosmetics, Woolworths Amanda Jayne www.amandajaynecandles.com Babylonstoren www.babylonstoren.com Molton Brown ARC, Edgars

WINE

Blaauwklippen www.blaauwklippen.com Bruce Jack www.brucejack.com Genevieve www.genevievemcc.co.za Klein Roosboom www.kleinroosboom.co.za Moët & Chandon www.yuppiechef.co.za Simonsig www.simonsig.co.za Weltevrede www.weltevrede.com

DRINKS CABINET

Gold Bar www.goldbarwhiskey.com Lillet www.lillet.com Tokara www.tokara.com

BOOKS

Exclusive Books and all major bookstore outlets

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Your wondrous

escape

Dreaming about a local or global adventure?

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Once a year I make the mammoth journey to visit family in New Zealand, and since my most recent trip would be the first over winter, my sister suggested we escape the winter chills with a week in Fiji. Discovering it was a short ocean-hop from New Zealand, I jumped at the idea. BY JARED RUTTENBERG

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eing footloose and fancy-free, family travel has never been on my radar so it would be a double first for me: a new country and travelling with kids. Admittedly, I’ve seen the terrified look on nearby parents’ faces mid-flight, as their children noisily squirmed about in their airline seats, and wondered how our journey would be with Fiji Airlines.

With early boarding, special meals and great entertainment – the four-year-old asked earnestly, “You mean we can watch Mario Brothers and Sonic and ask for drinks whenever we want?” – the three-and-a-half hour journey could not have been easier.

Touching down, we were eager to explore the far-flung islands and meet their friendly and rather rugby-crazed islanders. Our transport circled the West of Nadi – the biggest of the 330 islands – dropping us off at Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort.

We had searched for a beachfront hotel perfect for both kids and adults and Outrigger seemed to tick all the boxes.

The resort spreads across several acres of prime beachfront land where we quickly encountered the postcard beaches we dreamed of. The lush and manicured gardens are dissected by rivulets running down to the ocean, creating ‘islands’ that house the various accommodation options and activities.

Very quickly we found a hospitality akin to that in South Africa: warm and engaging. At every turn, we were effusively greeted with customary Fijian bula and a genuine smile.

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The kids kicked up their heels, jumping joyfully into every pool and activity available. And the adults weren’t missing out on the fun, alternating between joining the kids for tie-dye T-shirt making and coconuts and my first-ever night snorkelling, which revealed much more than I imagined I would ever see. With an ocean temperature fluctuating between a sultry 25 and 30°C it was bliss, especially for a Capetonian who has often had to endure sea temperatures of 12°C.

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On day three we decided it was time to leave the kids behind in the capable hands of the Outrigger staff and head to the Bebe Spa (yes, it was hard to say the name without hearing the voice of Schitt’s Creek’s Moira Rose, who would have been right at home here). A short buggy ride snakes up through the tropical vegetation until you arrive at the spa entrance at the property's highest point.

From here the spa gazed out proudly over the entire property and ocean-filled horizon. Our time of pampering included a massage for my mother, and then a heated-

pool experience for my sister and me.

Alongside us, the chapel seemed to float over the landscape, providing a popular spot for destination weddings. There is also an elevated bar that we enjoyed briefly after our treatment.

Of the Outrigger accommodation options available, the beachfront bures (cabins) are the property’s crowning glory. Stepping out of your freestanding bure, a short grassy terrace with gently swaying palm trees paves the way to the waiting water. www.outrigger.com

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Last on our agenda, was boarding a ferry for one of the archipelago’s more remote islands, staying at the barefoot no-frills paradise of Mana Island Resort and Spa. After a a 90-minute boat trip from the mainland, passing a string of idyllic islands en route, we finally pulled up at ours.

Life in Fiji is an education in slow-paced living, with joie de vivre that reminded me of South Africa. Our rates included breakfast and dinner, and here the activities slowed a little and it seemed all we did was swim, eat, snorkel, sleep and repeat. I discovered that elements of the reality TV series Survivor was filmed on the island mere weeks before we arrived.

Languishing on the beach with my piña colada within reach, I was perfectly happy to be doing the opposite of the contestants; who,

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/ TRAVEL / I imagined, were starved, sweating and being forced through strenuous activities.

I, however, was happily agreeing with Fiji’s unofficial mantra; the destination ‘where happiness comes naturally’.

Unmissable at Mana is a visit to the spa where treatment rooms nest around a central pond, and elevated walkways guide you under the lush fig trees. My Mana Bliss treatment was a regional speciality using rhythmic movements of hands, arms and palms along with a choice of local fragrances.

While it may seem far to journey to, if your travels take you to family or friends in Australia or New Zealand, Fiji makes for an idyllic tropical add on, and with your visa from the former two countries valid, there’s no extra consulate work needed for South Africans.

For our last evening, I arranged with the resort for a surprise beach-setup dinner for my family. While a heavy sun sank slowly in the distance, with the kids frolicking in the gently lapping waves, we toasted my late father with Rum and Coke cocktails. It was his favourite drink, and since he had often spoken about visiting the country, we couldn’t have imagined a better way to salute our time in our island paradise. www.manafiji.com

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JIMNY

JAM

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AMBOREE Contributor Marius Boonzaier and a longtime friend embark on a road trip to the first-ever Jimny Gathering. All roads led to Clarens, where a record number of Jimnys assembled, new friends were made and a Guinness World Record was broken. BY MARIUS BOONZAIER

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DAY ONE We rejoined the convoy, which was held up by roadworks. Still waiting for our turn, we hopped out to stretch our legs and chat with our newfound friends. Jimny ownership comes with a few rules, one of which is having to park your Jimny next to another (if there’s parking space available, that is). Surely then, it must apply to those wearing Jimny socks? And that’s what we did – parked our feet together to snap a photo of us showing off our socks.

The sun started to set, turning the wheat-coloured grassland into fields of gold. Crossing the Orange River meant we were getting closer to Gariep. We had been on the road for more than nine hours. We turned in after a warm shower at our chalet and dinner at Tjailatyd restaurant.

CONVOY OF JOY

A loud, repetitive tune woke me from my slumber. It was 5am, my smartphone reminded me. I vividly remembered the early morning departures of my previous road trips. I prefer leaving before sunrise. There’s something magical about it. I packed the remaining items – mainly of the technological variety, which were on charge throughout the evening – and, bags in hand, headed to my Jimny, endearingly dubbed Sandjie (owing to its sand-like Chiffon Ivory body hue). Next stop: picking up decade-long friend Marnu. With our luggage arranged in a Tetris-like fashion and road-trip tunes playing, the 829 km stretch of tarmac towards Gariep, our overnight accommodation, was beckoning. Soon, we joined a convoy comprising a couple of Jimnys.

We made an obligatory stop at Matjiesfontein, where Marnu took a couple of cheeky photos of me, laying on the ground with my camera, snapping away at our Kinetic Yellow Jimny model car, our mascot for the trip, and Sandjie. Following a quick refreshment break at a restaurant/bar, the latter aptly named Nowhere Bar, as it felt seemingly off the map, we were back on the road, following the blue line on Google Maps to our less remote, first-day destination.

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DAY TWO CLARENS CALLING

Watching the sunrise from the Gariep Dam wall was spectacular. However, Clarens was calling. With the route to Jimny Gathering – now a destination on Google Maps (how cool is that?) – displayed on Sandjie’s touchscreen infotainment system and road-trip tunes cued, we headed towards the quaint town located at the foot of the Maluti Mountains in the Free State province. Upon arrival, Jimnys of all generations were everywhere. However, there were still some kilometres to go before reaching the Jimny village via gravel road, with myriad Jimny owners flashing their headlamps and waving as we passed them (another Jimny rule.) – the Jimny Village. We settled into our luxury tent and freshened up for the day and evening’s activities, including a silent disco.

I never thought that I’d attend a silent disco. However, Marnu assured me it would be loads of fun. We put on our headphones, often taking them off to listen to the crowd singing along at the top of their lungs, and discoed to ABBA’s ‘Dancing Queen’ and several other classics while a large ‘Jimny Gathering’ logo illuminated the mountain behind our accommodation.

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DAY THREE LOW RANGE ENGAGED

DAY FOUR

Day three was lively, starting with early morning off-roading, followed by the Safari Town Music Festival, where local artists, such as Spoegwolf, a favourite of ours, and the iconic Mango Groove, performed exceptionally. On the 4x4 route, the Jimny again proved itself a pukka off-roader. Not that it needed to as we knew the Japanese automaker’s characterful 4x4 was extremely capable.

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ALL OF THE LIGHTS

Ten, nine, eight, seven ... Marnu and I were dressed in our ‘Jimny Gathering’ T-shirts and gave each other a fist bump ... five, four, three, two, one. And then, more than 1 500 headlamps were switched on. However, a Guinness World Record attempt is a serious affair, and whether the record for the most cars to switch on headlights simultaneously was achieved would first have to be officially verified by the suitedand-tied representative from Guinness World Records. Then, finally, to nervous anticipation, the announcement came: “The final number here today is 787 [vehicles].

It therefore gives me great pleasure to officially recognise a new Guinness World Record!” Celebrations were in order.

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DAY FIVE BITTERSWEET GOODBYE

It was bittersweet to say our goodbyes. The first-ever Jimny Gathering was a memorable event, one that we won’t soon forget. However, Cape Town was calling, and we were looking forward to returning to our beds. We would follow the same route back to the Mother City: Gariep, then home. En route, we turned off and went for burgers and milkshakes. Where? Well, what’s a road trip without a stop at Wimpy? It’s obligatory!

With Sandjie refuelled, we were back on the road, hale pattering down on the windscreen as we left Bloemfontein. Cape Town: 1 000 km. We arrived at Gariep. With some time to spare before dinner – and an early morning departure – we went exploring, again visiting the dam wall and, then, following a gravel road, to a lapa sited at the top of a hill. The view was breathtaking.

DAY SIX WELCOME TO THE WESTERN CAPE

We crossed the border into our home province.

However, our broad smiles were soon replaced with nervous expressions… Sandjie’s fuel range was 34 km, and Beaufort West was still 40 km away. But I know my car, and we made it to the fuel station to Metallica’s “Enter Sandman” playing over the speakers. Refuelled, we headed for the Mother City.

Exiting the Huguenot Tunnel, we were welcomed by a glimpse of Table Mountain, a landmark which, for me, signifies home. It was an unforgettable 2 600 km journey. We can’t wait for the next Jimny Gathering.

An enormous thanks and congratulations to Suzuki SA for hosting us and breaking a Guinness World Record (it was thrilling to be part of it) and to Marnu Mostert, my co-pilot and -driver, for coming along on this adventure.

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STOCKISTS Style

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