Delheim hauls out the barrels for Start of Harvest Celebration 2014

Wednesday, 4 December, 2013
Delheim estate
Grape stomping action and family fun galore to kick start the harvest.

Delheim Wine Estate, a Stellenbosch stalwart nestled on the slopes of the Simonsberg, will stomp in the 2014 harvest in high spirits, when it hauls out the barrels for its ever-popular Start of Harvest Celebration on the weekend of 25 & 26 January 2014.

It is a vibrant celebration for young and old to get knee deep in grape juice and close to the harvesting action, when the Sperling family swops all the commotion in the cellar and vineyard for a fun-filled ‘Day in the life of Delheim’ which ranges from a riveting grape stomping race to a more laid-back picnic indulgence.

The festivities kick off at noon, each day, when guests are welcomed with a glass of fermenting grape must and a sweet ‘mosbolletjie’, a traditional harvest treat, to toast the new vintage, whilst grapes harvested on the day will also be out for sampling.

The Winelands fun then rolls on at a leisurely pace with a guided cellar tour, for enthusiasts to catch a rare glimpse of the inner-works of a winery in the midst of harvest.

A sumptuous buffet-style lunch will be laid out in the Vat Cellar, where families and friends help themselves and enjoy their picnic on the shaded lawn at the river’s edge behind the historic Delheim cellar to the sounds of the live band. Mom and Dad, this is your ticket to take some time out as child minders will keep the little ones busy with various activities, just remember to pack those hats and sunscreen.

Set to entertain the intrepid and amuse onlookers, the highlight of the 4th annual Delheim Start of Harvest Celebration will once again be the main grape stomping contest. This is a mushy clash in which teams barrel-roll, grape-grab and ultimately stomp their hearts out to produce the most juice. Fabulous prizes are up for grabs for the best team, boldest spirit, and best dressed on the day – so make up a team and get down and dirty in the name of Delheim.

Tickets to the 2014 Delheim Start of Harvest Celebration are limited to 120 per day and cost R220 per adult (R110 per child under 12; kids under 2 are free). Your ticket includes all the activities and food on the day, including a Delheim wine glass, and the grape must and mosbolletjie on arrival. Pre-booking is essential to avoid disappointment.

For more information or to book your spot at this legendary wine farm, contact Delheim Estate (Juliet du Toit) at Tel: 021 888 4600 or send an email to pr@delheim.com.