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Tuesday, February 21, 2012

Waterkloof


Waterkloof says ‘I do’ the eco-savvy way
Sustainable Wine Estate leads the way in eco-friendly weddings

Waterkloof  Estate, where a golden thread of sustainability runs right through every aspect of the farm – from its bio-dynamic vineyards on the outskirts of Somerset West to its magnificently appointed ‘restaurant in the sky’–  offers a picture perfect Winelands setting to tie the knot in an eco-savvy way.

Not only does this Winelands gem on the slopes of the Schapenberg rely on genuine horse-power as opposed to heavy machinery and tractors on the farm; Dorper sheep or as they call them, ‘nature’s weed-eaters; the manure of their own Dextor cows for fertilizing the vines; and chickens who keep the vineyards in tip top shape. They even use their own produce in the restaurant.

“We specialise in stylish, intimate weddings that do not cost the earth. When you are planning your Big Day the location is probably the most important item on your checklist and these days more and more couples are opting for a greener wedding because of an awareness of the colossal carbon footprint attached to the day. Our restaurant and tasting lounge is the ideal venue if you want to hold an eco-chic ceremony and reception in one place in order to cut back on travel,” shares Waterkloof Chef GrĂ©gory Czarnecki

“Waterkloof’s ‘green’ philosophy also rings true in our kitchen as we use our own lamb, herbs and eggs and follow a ‘little is big’ mantra by supporting smaller, local yet top notch quality producers to guarantee that the freshness of our contemporary dishes is paramount. We also don’t charge for still or sparkling mineral water on the tables as it comes from a natural spring on the estate,” adds GrĂ©gory, who is a true perfectionist by heart and is known for his clean flavours and unique texture combinations.

Waterkloof’s restaurant, perched in a 10 meter high glass promontory flowing from a suave tasting lounge and gravitational cellar, is set against the majestic backdrop of the estate’s amphitheatre of vineyards – complete with Percheron horses amidst its vines, eagerly taking bio-dynamic farming in their stride – and the full expanse of False Bay in the distance.

This slick space can be fully utilised as a private venue that is intimate and warm, yet sexy, functional and fresh. Waterkloof’s tailor-made wedding reception packages combined with sheer decadence, personal service, elegant estate wines and unsurpassed cuisine ensure that the bride and groom share a truly personal, moving and sustainable celebration with their friends and family.

“Cocooned in a contemporary glass and concrete sphere, our deep, open barrel cellar becomes apparent immediately as you enter the building and make your way to the tasting lounge. Here massive walls of clear glass reveal a working cellar with ranks of wooden, open top fermenters and create a majestic sense of space through the uninterrupted, outstretched views. This means guest can enjoy our wines while seeing where it comes from and how it naturally ferments,” adds Waterkloof Winemaker Werner Engelbrecht.

What makes the Waterkloof restaurant, with its over scaled, pictorial views of the farm and nature in progress, so unique is that at all times one feels part of the farming and winemaking process, no matter if you are outside on the balcony or inside enjoying the best man’s speech. With the restaurant’s beautiful interior the bride does not have to stress about extra decorations and those exorbitant expenses for flower arrangements on her special day.

At Waterkloof, wedding couples can celebrate with up to 120 guests. To book your dream wedding at Waterkloof contact the estate at Tel: 021 858 1292 or send an email to restaurant@waterkloofwines.co.za.

Waterkloof Estate is located outside Somerset West on the M9 Sir Lowry’s Pass Village Road.
On behalf of:            Waterkloof Estate
                              Contact: Claudia Young-Kelly
                              Tel: (+27)21 858 1292
                              Email: claudia@waterkloofwines.co.za

Photos courtesy of Zara Zoo.

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