In an awards ceremony held on 29 March the Franschhoek Wine Valley was presented with the Best Tourism-Related Events Award at the annual Cape Winelands District Municipality Mayoral Tourism Awards. Franschhoek Wine Valley CEO, Jenny Prinsloo, who passed away tragically late last year, was also honoured at the ceremony with a special award, which paid tribute to her contribution to the industry.
The Best Tourism-Related Event Award was presented to the Franschhoek Cap Classique & Champagne Festival, which stood out amongst the rest as playing a crucial role in attracting visitors into the Cape Winelands. Criteria for this category included how the event was marketed in order to attract visitors and in doing so contribute to the revenue into the region. Over the years the festival has attracted visitors to Franschhoek from all over South Africa and further afield resulting in a sell-out event and most notable a social calendar highlight. Festival goers love dressing up according to the theme, making a day of the fun filled festivities with friends whilst sipping superb MCC’s and sampling delicious food.
Jenny Prinsloo’s passing came as a huge shock to the whole industry and what better way to honour her memory than with the presentation of the Special Discretionary Award. She was respected by her peers and the list of accolades reaffirmed her dedication and passion for the industry, and the Franschhoek Wine Valley. She has been succeeded by Reinher Behrens who took over her position as Franschhoek Wine Valley CEO on 1 February.
Sharing the spotlight with the Franschhoek Wine Valley were two Franschhoek vignerons who also took top honours in their relevant categories. The Franschhoek Cellar was presented with the New Tourism Business of the Year Award. Criteria for this award included demonstrating a positive impact on tourism as well as the potential to generate future tourism growth.
In addition Leopard’s Leap Family Vineyards was presented with the Wine Tourism Destination of the Year Award. This is bestowed upon a wine estate or distillery which offers a unique tourism experience.
