PLETTENBERG BAY NEWS - The highly anticipated Plett Wine & Bubbly Festival is back, bringing its signature sparkle to Kay & Monty Vineyards this weekend, 26 and 27 April, and an exclusive launch event on Friday 25 April.

"The Plett Wine Route and Plett Tourism are thrilled - after many requests from visitors - to celebrate the vibrant return of the festival that highlights the exceptional wines emerging from South Africa's best-kept secret: the WO [Wine of Origin] Plettenberg Bay region," said Plett Tourism.

"Plett’s wine estates will be in attendance, including a new mystery estate that will be launching at the festival. Prepare your palate for tastings perfectly paired with delectable snacks and groovy music beneath the majestic Tsitsikamma mountains. This sophisticated two-day affair, perfectly timed for the Freedom Day long weekend, will connect passionate wine lovers - from seasoned collectors to curious newcomers - with the very artisans who nurture each vine, from grape to glorious glass."

Masterclasses

In a first for the Plett Wine and Bubbly Festival, a series of masterclasses will be presented this year. Legendary local winemaker Anton Smal will lead a guided tasting of a selection of Plett’s best Cap Classiques. Solly Sauerman of Packwood Wine Estate will present on white wines, aged and new, and Plett’s unique terroir which gives them their ageability.

And Jaco van der Watt will present his masterclass on pinot noir - known as the heartbreak grape - the struggles and successes of growing it, and some of Plett’s best examples.

Oysters at the Bubbly Bar

Each masterclass will be a guided tasting journey through local vineyards by those who know them best. Booking is necessary for masterclasses.

Jennifer Woods, general manager of Kay & Monty Vineyards, explains the motivation behind revisiting the popular festival: “After having guests comment through the last few years on how they have missed the Plett Wine & Bubbly Festival, Kay & Monty are thrilled to be reviving and hosting this incredible event this year.”

Food offerings

Plett Tourism said: "Prepare your palate, for what would good wine be without delicious food? Cheeseboards, sweet treats and oysters will, of course, be available at the famous Bubbly Bar. Additionally, attendees can sample local Mediterranean, homemade pasta, and Mexican cuisine. Of course, Ice Palazzo returns with signature flavours for the event and Beau de Jour will pop up with wine paraphernalia, including wine gums made from local produce.

"It’s set to be a weekend of feasting to remember!"

Woods says autumn is an excellent time to hold the Plett Wine & Bubbly Festival. "While it is a busy time for us all, coming off our harvest season, we are ready to come together as Plett Wine Route and celebrate all we have to offer!" she says.

“With Plett wines really starting to shine in the industry, there is no better time to show these off together and create a space where wine lovers can taste and enjoy them all under one roof in a beautiful setting, along with delicious snacks and live music. There is such a variety on offer - special and unique masterclass, tastings of vintages not usually available, the launch of a new wine estate never tasted before, and a one-of-a-kind opening night cocktail event: Into the Night."

Bespoke opening night

On Friday 25 April, Kay & Monty will host Into the Night, an exclusive launch of the Plett Wine & Bubbly Festival and a story told in five chapters: a journey into one wild night that unfolds through a unique pairing of music, food and wine. 

Expect a charming evening of good cheer to set the tone for the return of the Plett Wine & Bubbly Festival! Book tickets for Into the Night.

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