Sponsored by Investec Specialist Bank, this popular festival will have a new fashionable twist with a black and white emphasis. Franschhoek situated in the heart of the South African Winelands and with its French heritage character, provides the perfect location for visitors to delight in sampling both Champagne and Cap Classique wines. Investec Specialist Bank delivers exceptional standards through its distinctive, bespoke offering, and is a proud partner of this outstanding event, which provides an impressive showcase of the broadest selection of exclusive Champagnes and Cap Classiques. Commenting on this very special event and their continued support of it, Wouter de Vos, head of Investec Specialist Bank in Cape Town said, “Investec is delighted to be sponsoring the Franschhoek Cap Classique and Champagne festival again this year. It is a truly prestigious occasion which enables us to build on our existing client relationships, facilitating the tailored solutions we offer and helping to broaden our network throughout the region. There is a strong affiliation between Investec and the Champagne Festival with its appreciation for individual tastes and association to world class brands.” Taste some of France’s best Champagnes alongside the finest Cap Classiques to emerge from the wine cellars of South Africa. With the winemaking method virtually the same, it comes down to the terroir and skill of the winemakers, something which South African winemakers have mastered throughout the years. Renowned wineries participating in this popular festival include Backsberg, Colmant, Graham Beck Wines, Krone, La Motte, Morena, Môreson, Pierre Jourdan, Simonsig, Steenberg, Topiary Wines and Villiera. World renowned Champagnes will be represented by brands such as Billecart Salmon, Tribaut and Veuve Clicquot. The centrepiece of the festival is the grand marquee situated on the sprawling lawns surrounding Franschhoek’s famous Huguenot Monument, where Cap Classique and Champagne stalls will be interspersed with local restaurants offering delicious delicacies to match, and live entertainment setting the tone for the celebrations. Visitors to the festival will be treated to multilayered gastronomic delights, as local restaurants get the chance to showcase Franschhoek’s status as one of the world’s premier culinary destinations. Some of the participating fine dining restaurants include Babylonstoren, Le Quartier Français, The Restaurant at Grande Provence, Bread & Wine, Mange Tout at Mont Rochelle Hotel, La Petite Ferme, Pierneef à La Motte Restaurant, L’Ermitage, Monneaux Restaurant, Reuben’s, The SalmonBar, Dieu Donné, Bistro Allée Bleue and Le Franschhoek. A short wander down the main road in Franschhoek will uncover world-class shops and boutiques for an intimate and relaxed shopping experience. And not to be overlooked are the wine farms, situated in and around the area. Those wishing to spend the night will be spoilt for choice with accommodation ranging from the finest bed and breakfasts to luxurious boutique hotels, all nestling in a picturesque and safe environment. This year the festival will take full advantage of the Cape’s glorious summer evenings, with the festival open from 18h00 to 22h00 on Friday, 2 December, and then between 12h00 and 17h00 on both Saturday, 3 and Sunday, 4 December. The theme for this year’s festival is black and white, with the emphasis on hats, and a prize will be awarded to the best dressed couple. A best dressed couple will be chosen every day of the festival. Cost: A R180 per person entrance fee allows you access to the festival. You’ll also receive a complimentary tasting glass and booklet of tasting coupons. Additional tasting coupons will be available for purchase. Children under 18 years of age will be allowed free entry to the festival. Bookings: Tickets can be purchased through www.webtickets.co.za, but hurry as tickets are limited. Once the marquee is full no further patrons will be admitted.