One of my favourite things to do in summer is definitely to sample some of the finer things in life that are produced right here in South Africa. You might see the SLXS crew drinking Moet, but sometimes we just find ourselves in situations where we have no other choice but to drink Moet. I’m serious…sometimes my job FORCES me to drink ridiculously priced alcohol! Having said that I do enjoy our local wines and sparkling wines and always keep the fridge stocked in summer.

Our local sparkling wines stack up quite admirably to the more expensive French Champagnes. Another reason to buy local is obviously that it supports local jobs, but it also reduces your carbon footprint as your bottle of champagne doesn’t have to be shipped or flown half way around the world for you to enjoy. The House Of Krone is situated a mere 125 kilometres outside of Cape Town and so there is no reason why we shouldn’t be enjoying local!

Summer is about lazy beach days, family, fine drinks and food and enjoying the unique aspects of this country that we far too often overlook. This summer, on the 13th of December 2008, The House Of Krone are presenting us with “Summer Elegance” This in, from The House Of Krone:

Vintage treasures, beautiful dresses, summer elegance…

The day promises to be a celebration of love, life and summer incorporating an eclectic array of treats to tantalize your senses — sushi & oyster bars, chocolates by Moniki, olives by Groote Vallei, nougat & Turkish delight by Rode and last but definitely not the least, the award winning Krone Methode Cap Classic Sparkling Wines.

Have your auditory senses caressed by live entertainment, whilst sipping on your glass of bubbly, relaxing in the shade of the old oak trees or viewing the vineyards and majestic mountains from the terrace before wandering through the vintage car display, art and sculpture exhibitions by the internationally distinguished artist, Wallace Hulley.

Having been showcased in Paris and London, Luiz Delaja, rising star of the South African fashion design arena, will delight fashionistas with his kaleidoscope of fresh sartorial and elegant designs.

The younger visitors have not been forgotten. Come and enjoy a game of boules (Drinking boules? — Sean), a tractor and trailer ride through the winelands, bounce around on the jumping castle or just enjoy the fresh country air.

Stay for the day or stay for the weekend. The village of Tulbagh is steeped in history, yet productive and progressive. Accommodation in and around Tulbagh ranges from five star establishments to self-catering and bed-and-breakfast facilities.

Entrance th the Summer Elegance at the House of Krone costs R60 per person, which includes a bubbly flue, bubbly tastings and cellar tours. Under 18’s must be accompanied by their parents. An entrance fee of R10 per child is applicable.

If you need to sort out accommodation over that weekend in Tulbagh or it’s surrounds, you can contact me (seanl@slxs.co.za) and I will organise accommodation through SLXS’s preferred travel and accommodation provider in Cape Town.

And that’s it, I think Cape Town and it’s surrounds are all set for a cracker of a summer! I know I’m getting ready for summer festivities…

Naked? Check.

Covered in baby oil? Check.

Surrounded by chicks? Check.

Drunk? Check.

Tube of cappuccino flavoured lube in left hand? DOUBLE CHECK!

Click The House of Krone for more information, and to see some beautiful photos of The House of Krone.

Sean Lloyd

Editor