Taste of McGregor
New role for old hotel: Debbie Mosca and chef-patron Andr� Wyngaard outside M�lange restaurant and sports bar, which will offer a food and wine pairing evening on Saturday. Picture: Myrna Robins New role for old hotel: Debbie Mosca and chef-patron Andr� Wyngaard outside M�lange restaurant and sports bar, which will offer a food and wine pairing evening on Saturday. Picture: Myrna Robins
Not quite Namaqualand, but a patchwork of pink, red and yellow make a colourful floral fringe on the koppies around McGregor. Orchards are also in blossom, adding a spring feel to the village scene, in perfect keeping with preparations for the valley’s food and wine fest next weekend.
Famous for being fun, affordable and informal, this festivalcelebrates new vintages from local winemakers while village restaurateurs and caterers rise to the occasion with country tastes, from wraps and pita to bruschetta and sushi. Cellars taking part range from garagiste through boutique to co-op, producing fruity whites, an irresistible rosé, good blends, warming soetes and even an organic bubbly.
The valley also boasts some fine grappa and eaux de vies.
Wine purchases will be discounted on Saturday. The fun starts on Friday, when live entertainment includes a Taste of McGregor, a musical cocktail and cabaret of the highest standard while pupils from the Waldorf School promise a travelling play that will move from one restaurant to another.
Among the new venues is Mélange in the old McGregor hotel where chef patron André Wyngaard has created a sports bar with big screens, a coffee shop where his delicious cakes and sweet treats are displayed, a take-away and a restaurant, where he will offer pizza and pasta on Friday, and a food and wine pairing supper on Saturday.
Traditional attractions like the Eseltjiesrus donkey sanctuary and Country Kitchen make a good venue for families, and the village art galleries and pottery will be open.
Country crafts, artisanal breads, organic veggies, local cheese and more will be on sale – look out for a great new olive oil from Le Chasseur – and most restaurants are creating special festival menus. Those planning to join the Rooikat trail run through Vrolijkheid reserve should book soon and this applies to accommodation as well.
l For more information, see www.tourismmcgregor.co.za or call the tourism office at 023 625 1954. The festival takes place in and around the NG church hall from 10.30am on Saturday. Entrance, which includes glass and wine tastings, costs R50. - Weekend Argus