L’Avenir in Stellenbosch has unveiled a sleek new wine lounge with a truly grand opening party for media and local dignitaries on Thursday, 5 March 2015.
The new space brings to Stellensboch what this wine-oriented region has always needed; South Africa’s first lounge dedicated exclusively to the emblematic varietal, Pinotage. The Pinotage Lounge is a place where enthusiasts of the varietal can explore the award-winning wines and experience exclusive tastings hosted by the winemaker, Dirk Coetzee.
L’Avenir spared no expense in welcoming guests to the opening. The launch party began with tastings of the latest vintage of L’Avenir’s Single Block Pinotage 2013 out of barrel, the latest vintage under Dirk Coetzee; moving to the current release Single Block 2012 & ending with a selection of previous winemaker, Francois Naude’s favourite rare vintages. Francois Naude, winemaker at L’Avenir for 13 years from 1992 until 2005, is recognized as one of the original pioneers of Pinotage in South Africa and relished the opportunity to share his experience with the uniquely South African varietal.
The chefs put on a fantastic, tapas-style feast, with each delectable item paired perfectly with the Pinotage wines of the estate.
Minced abalone sourced from Abagold in Hermanus; prepared with chopped onions, mushrooms, L’Avenir Chenin Blanc, nutmeg and cream. served with fresh lemon black pepper and parsley on basmati rice.
The opening of the Pinotage Lounge marks the culmination of several years of steady investment in L’Avenir. These investments have included the acquisition of vineyard land, the introduction of state-of-the-art winemaking equipment, and a significantly increased barrel-ageing program. The estate also offers splendid accommodation at the 4 star L’Avenir Lodge.
The L’Avenir Pinotage Lounge is open during tasting room operating hours and for private functions. Bookings are essential.
Operating hours:
Monday to Friday from 09h00 to 17h00.
Saturday & Public Holidays from 10h00 to 16h00.
