This Heritage Month, Lanzerac, one of the oldest and most renowned wine estates in the Western Cape, will be proudly showcasing its heritage with the launch of the unique Keldermeester Versameling Kurktrekker 2018. Created by Lanzerac Cellar Master Wynand Lategan, Kurktrekker 2018 consists of three grape varieties, namely Cinsaut (68%), Alicante Bouchet (20%) and Cabernet Franc (12%).
Alicante Bouchet, a unique teinturier grape variety with a long and fascinating history, is one of the few red grape varieties that produces red-coloured juice. It was one of the first grapes mentioned in Mrs English’s, one of the first owners of the Estate, Catalogue of household belongings that was auctioned off after her death in 1929. As such, this grape varietal is deeply linked to the history and heritage of Lanzerac.
An Estate rich in history and heritage
Lanzerac is steeped in history, having been established in 1692, just 13 years after the town of Stellenbosch itself, and is the third oldest farm in the area. The first owner was Isaac Schrijver, who planted the first vineyards and named the farm Schoongezicht, meaning ‘wonderful view’.
Elizabeth Catherina ‘Kitty’ English bought Schoongezicht in 1920 and renamed it to Lanzerac. The Manor House and Werf, which now stands proud as a Provincial Heritage Site, underwent significant changes and the estate was transformed into one of the most modern wineries in the Cape. It was also Mrs English who produced the first wine under the Lanzerac label.
The Estate was bought by Jacobus Tribelhorn in 1934, five years after Mrs English’s passing, who extended the Manor House in her memory. He continued her legacy of producing wines of exceptional quality, a legacy which Lanzerac continues to this day, almost nine decades later.
In 1942, Angus Buchanen took ownership of Lanzerac. He dedicated his time to perfecting the art of wine-making and took the Estate’s reputation to another level by winning several awards for the wines, sherry and brandy that he proudly produced over a period of 9 years and, in doing so, established Lanzerac as a leading brand.
It’s all in the name
‘Kurktrekker’, an Afrikaans word for ‘corkscrew’, is named after a well-known and unique mountain route, The Jonkershoek Kurktrekkers Neck, in the Jonkershoek Valley, the home of Lanzerac. The route resembles a corkscrew, hence its name, and links the first and second waterfall to the Panorama Route.
Lanzerac Cellar Master Wynand Lategan was born and bred in Stellenbosch, making him the perfect fit to create the unique Keldermeester Versameling Kurktrekker that encapsulates the spirit and heritage of the Estate. Kurktrekker 2018 is one of Lanzerac’s unique wines honouring some of the key role players in the Estate’s heritage.
Says Lategan, “The Keldermeester Versameling Kurktrekker 2018 has a floral nose with earthy undertones. The palate is silky with an understated length on the palate. While the three varieties each lend its own character to this unusual wine, the end product fits together seamlessly.”
He continues, “Wines should add joy and friendship to life, create memories of an occasion, place or the people you share it with.”
Lanzerac Hotel is fully operational
In addition to the launch of Kurktrekker 2018 blend during Heritage Month, Lanzerac Hotel is also fully operational, which came into effect on 1 September 2020. This comes after months of being closed to the public due to the Coronavirus pandemic and subsequent lockdown. With South Africa moving to Level 1, Lanzerac is ready for international leisure travel. From 1 October 2020, the borders will be open to African countries and other international destinations, which are still to be announced.
All hotel activities and facilities have resumed under strict health and safety conditions, including the following:
Lanzerac Deli and Taphuis Restaurant
The Lanzerac Deli is a favourite breakfast and lunch spot among locals and tourists alike. It serves a wonderful selection of freshly-baked breads, pastries, and cakes, complemented by aromatic coffees and a selection of South Africa’s finest charcuterie and cheeses.
The Taphuis welcomes guests to sit down to a wholesome breakfast or gourmet, pub-style lunch, combining traditional South African flavours with classic British fare. To ensure a pleasant and safe dining experience, table spacing at the Deli and Taphuis has been adjusted to allow for social distancing standards between tables.
Meetings and Events
In keeping with the health and safety protocols, a maximum of 100 guests can be accommodated for on the Estate. Seating inside the venue will adhere to the 1.5m distance between chairs.
Lanzerac Spa
The sought-after Lanzerac Spa offers the perfect Winelands escape to relax and unwind. For guests’ peace of mind, the spa treatment menu has been adjusted to comply with industry standards for the safety of guests and team members.
Lanzerac Rooms and Suites
With the hotel reopened, Lanzerac now welcomes local and international overnight guests in its luxurious rooms and suites. Check-in will be expedited to accommodate minimal contact and arrivals will be spaced out to allow for individualised guest check-in.
Says Emile Langenhoven, General Manager at Lanzerac, “With over 328 years of history, Lanzerac is rich in heritage, offering the finest hospitality, and a team well-versed in delivering exceptional service, regardless of recent circumstances. In preparation for this, know that we are adapting our arrival and departure interactions, adjusting activities, modifying the dining rooms for extra space and so much more.”
“We are taking every precaution, even while planning new and creative ways to delight and care for our guests. With new etiquettes and hygiene precautions, we want to assure you that our number one priority is the health and safety of our Guests and Team,” he concludes.
About Lanzerac
Steeped in history dating back to1692, Lanzerac is a Cape Winelands landmark and Stellenbosch icon. Combining old-world charm and hospitality with modern amenities and services, Lanzerac is ideally positioned in the idyllic Jonkershoek Valley on the outskirts of the historic town of Stellenbosch. The establishment caters to every visitor and holiday-maker and encompasses a hotel, a winery, several restaurants and dining venues and an on-site spa.