Hidden Valley Wines

A morning to explore Stellenbosch and see where Josh had spent 4 years at University and a year working afterwards. A relaxed, open town, brimming with students, tourists and retired ,middle class white South Africans. Naturally, we felt quite at home... and enjoyed an expensive coffee before indulging in some retail therapy for the ladies amongst the fabric, leather and carved wooden tat shops that that they seemed to need to visit.
Jill met us later for lunch with her parents, at the “Guardian Peak Winery” nestled in the hills above Stellenbosch. There were stunning views, from the panoramic windows, of the vineyards and hills surrounding Stellenbosch and the restaurant served superb locally sourced food. My Kudu steaks were superb but about a quarter of the size of Dave’s Aberdeen Angus chop.which he manfully waded his way through. Prize for the day, however, went to Margie’s Stumpnose fish fillets (a farmed relation of Sea Bream) which we agreed was the fish of the holiday so far. The meal was a relaxed affair and most enjoyable. Josh’s 93 year old grandfather (Trevor) was a bit shaky on his feet and used a three wheeled walker to get around. It was worth the effort as he greatly enjoyed being part of the occasion and his comments were relevant and incisive. Josh’s Grandmother (Dotty) was the picture of elegance and had a quick, cutting wit. She clearly was very fond of Josh and even seemed to approve of Julia. 
After packing off the greats, we took a visit to the Hidden Valley Winery to check out the exclusive panorama and Nature Trail, whilst we spotted the wine varieties that we had sampled the day before (just ask Margie any question about Chenin Blanc…)
Back at our Farm Cottages, Josh was on duty for his first full Braai of the holiday (Yesterdays Boerewors didn’t count apparently) and as we watched the glorious sunset over the hills behind our cabin, he ceremoniously lit the fire in our very own Braai pit. Sweet corn, two different kinds of steaks and basted ribs were cooked to perfection and washed down with locally sourced wines and an occasional beer. What not to like?

Night spent at Two Rivers Farm, Franschhoek