‘Die Ou Pastorie Country House and Restaurant’ in Somerset West, in conjunction with a handful of winemakers from the Helderberg, Stellenbosch, Franschhoek and Worcester Wine Routes, have united to launch the Ou Pastorie's ‘aficionado project’ for 2002. Continuing in the tradition, they have once again decided to host ‘fine food and wine’ promotions over this Secret Season. Commencing in the month of June, and continuing through until the month of September, they are giving epicureans the opportunity to let their taste buds do the talking. Aficionados of fine food and wine will have the opportunity to experience a harmony of innovative food and unique wines.The program is as follows: In June they will be Highlighting the Helderberg - with wines from the female team at Avontuur, the Swiss perfection from Eikendal Vineyards and the old world styles from Vergenoegd Wine Estate. In July they are ‘Focusing on Franschhoek’ - with estates such as Cape Chamonix Wine Farm with its charming ambience, La Motte from the Rupert trio of farms and Mont Rochelle Mountain Vineyards set on the slopes above Franschhoek. During August they take a break and a well earned rest, only to return in the month of September, when on offer is ‘A Selection of Stellenbosch’ - including the northern Rhône style of Uiterwyk Estate, Hartenberg with their red wine credentials and family crafted wines from Mooiplaas.The format for each month will be the three participating estates or wine farm from each area will be featured individually for an entire week in the restaurant. A special wine inspired 3-course set menu will be served during this week, where the starters and main courses will be paired with a glass of complimenting wine from each of the individual estates.The last Friday of the month the wonderful South African treasures of ‘Soetes’ is re-awoken once again. These evening commence with a tasting of unique Muscadels, Hanepoots and Jerepikos from the Worcester area. These informal tasting will be hosted by different wine makers and sweet wine fundi's, from the Worcester region. Thereafter a 3-course ‘sweet wine’ inspired menu will be served, created by Carmen Truter, the chef and her dedicated team in the kitchen to complete the evening. On the last Saturday night of every month the three featured wine farms of that particular month unite to present a Grand Gourmet Dinner. This includes a specially prepared 6-course gourmet meal with accompanying wines from the month’s chosen estates. The wine makers for all three estates for that particular month will be introducing their estates and wines to diners, to be followed by the executive chef, Carmen Truter, introducing the dishes and her philosophy behind the food and wine pairings. This will definitely prove to be an experience not to be missed. With superior accommodation, an award winning restaurant and our unique winter programs, Die Ou Pastorie is adding a new dimension to the Cape Secret Season Experience. Rates: Weekly 3-course menu inclusive of wines: R 120-00 per person. (Served every night of the week Monday to Saturday) ‘Soets’ 3-course menu, wine with the meal and the tasting: R 150-00 per person. (Served on the last Friday of the month) Grand Gourmet Dinner inclusive of the wines: R250-00 per person. (Served on the last Saturday of the month) Special accommodation rates in the guesthouse during this period, for those who wish to stay over and make this a special short break.Information & Reservation - Garry Roberts or Jacques Van RensburgDie Ou Pastorie Restaurant, 41 Lourens Street, Somerset West, 7130Tel: +27 (0) 21 852-2120Email: info@dieoupastorie.co.zaWebsite: http://www.dieoupastorie.co.za(detailed programme listed on web site)