since
1692
2016
#6
Visit us: Spier Wine Farm @spierwinefarm #spiermemories t: 021 809 1100 www.spier.co.za
Q UA RT E R LY N E W S PA P E R
WINE / PAGE 3
HOTEL / PAGE 4
EVENTS / PAGE 7
Spier Arts Wine collection pays homage to four era-defining South African artists.
Our hotel and conference venue have been freshened up in time for summer.
From Malay feasts to African drumming, make your festive season a memorable one at Spier.
THE HEART OF OUR FARM With a rich history of more than 300 years, the Spier Werf is one of the oldest farmyards in the country. It’s also the heart of our farm. Here is what that means to us.
Decima Pieterse - Chef, Eight to Go
Mariota Enthoven - Spier family owner “A new chapter in the story of this historic space has begun. We recently restored the Werf with great love and meticulous care. Today, it’s once more a hub of creativity and growth. The artisanal experiences we offer visitors here will evolve as we reconnect with our roots, inspired by how things were done in the past – but in a way that is relevant to contemporary life. Whatever we do here, we want it to be underscored by integrity and love – and accessible to all.”
“It’s beautiful at the best of times – but once our wedding expert Hannes is done decorating it – well, it becomes simply magical. I love the ginormous oak tree near the rocks the most: it looks so old and knowledgeable – like it’s seen lots of history and people. Who knows what it may tell you when you sit down beneath it with one of our picnics!”
“The Werf was a communal space on farms where animals congregated and the inhabitants grew food. We continue this tradition in our food garden, supplying Spier’s restaurants with more than 75 different species of herbs, fruit trees and vegetables that we grow without using pesticides or artificial fertiliser. With each person who passes through the garden’s walls we hope to plant a seed – inspiring them to grow their own food at home, and helping out with any questions they may have about doing so.” Eight to Go: Pick up the picnic you booked online (at picnics.spier.co.za), or stock up on delicious deli treats and seasonal jams and preserves to take home.
Vernon Myburgh - Maintenance supervisor “For me, the Werf is the centre of everything for Spier. It is a beautiful space where people can enjoy the fresh air. It really comes alive when we host markets here – they’re a wonderful opportunity for families to spend quality time together.” PJ Vadas - Chef, Hoghouse BBQ & Bakery “Back in the day, the Werf was where people used to be busy making and baking. 300 years later, it is again. Our team is up at the crack of dawn kneading the dough that is transformed by our wood-fired oven into flaky, fresh croissants and preparing the meat that we roast for 18 long hours in our smoker. We believe in doing things properly. Slowly. Just like the old days. Come enjoy the fruit of our labours —with a glass of wine on our terrace, while the little ones run riot. We’ve got a few regulars that come with their children — and every time those rascals make a beeline for the Werf’s granite boulders where they spend most of lunch clambering. Now that’s what I call good old-fashioned fun.”
John Turner - Farmer
Chef Tiaan Studio: Join Chef Tiaan for cooking demonstrations and classes: a fun activity for team-building, and the perfect gift for foodie friends and family. Hoghouse BBQ & Bakery: In addition to the bread and pastries it’s renowned for, Hoghouse now serves up Afro-Texan barbequed meats. The Food Garden: Our gardeners don’t only supply our restaurants with fresh fruit and veg – they’re also happy to advise visitors on how to grow their own food at home. Spier Werf Market: Our market is back for summer! Stock up on gifts and enjoy tasty treats and wine. Check the festive calendar on page 7 for dates.
Wiseman Wanana - Guest relations ambassador
Gables audio tour: Download VoiceMap onto your smartphone, and set off from the Tasting Room on a tour of the historic buildings overlooking the Werf.
“The old, historical buildings surrounding the Werf reminds me of the estate’s rich heritage.”
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