A visit to Franschhoek is always a special occasion and although it’s only an hour’s drive from Cape Town, the tranquility and beauty of the area makes you believe you are much further away …almost in another country.

One of my visits several years ago in 1997 was to Rickety Bridge then owned by Robin Singer. Robin had just revamped the Manor House, built a new cellar and tasting room.

The old rickety bridge made from railway sleepers was rebuilt with concrete and could now carry a tank. The range of wines expanded and I remember, in particular, tasting an excellent Semillon from the 1996 vintage.

Rickety Bridge is currently owned by British businessman Duncan Spence (since 2000) who transformed the farms wine producing capacity with a modern 200 tonne wine cellar. Along with this he built a restaurant where one can enjoy picnic lunches on a deck in the middle of the vines. Added to this there is an intimate luxury hotel, a function room ideal for weddings and a few self catering cottages.