On a recent trip to Hermanus, a visit to Creation Wines was on the itinerary. I don’t know what I was thinking when I initially turned it down, but after bumping into Carolyn Martin and being seduced by her enthusiasm – as well as a string of delightful memories of meals there – the brunch pairing was restored.

It’s a fabulous treat and should never be turned down. Learn from my almost-mistake, people.

The story of Creation Wines is a partnership and marriage just as significant as that of the wine and food. Swiss-born Jean-Claude (JC) and South African-born Carolyn Martin (née Finlayson) both come from wine pioneering stock spanning at least three generations and two continents, proving themselves more than worthy of taking up the challenge in 2002 of transforming the 40 hectares of land which had never been planted with vineyards before. The range today includes fine reds and whites under three labels, an easy-drinking and affordable entry level range, and an MCC. They’ve recently launched four new wines which I’m waiting for just the right moment to open – Cool Climate Chenin Blanc, a Roussanne Viognier, Grenache Noir Viognier, and a Reserve Syrah.