Shiraz fest in Paarl
2006-08-17
THE first Shiraz Festival to be held in South Africa, titled “From Persia to Paarl”, will take place at Nederburg on Saturday.
It is a celebration of the arrival of Shiraz in Paarl and also the outstanding wines made in this area from this grape.
At the festival, the guest of honour is Charlene Truter (television presenter), with master of ceremonies singer-actor Richard van der Westhuizen.
There will be music, interesting foodstuffs and other treats in keeping with the theme From Persia to Paarl. Gates will open at 10:00.
With 2006 being the tenth anniversary of what started off as the Paarl Vintners Wine Challenge, Vintners has decided to turn the event into a major celebration of Paarl Shiraz.
Initially the event was launched as a competition for the best red blend and best Chardonnay variety, before the focus moved to Shiraz in 2002.
A number of events had been planned for 2006, peaking at the one-day festival containing elements that proved successful with the old Paarl Nouveau Festival.
The 2006 anniversary festivities include a vineyard block competition for Shiraz vineyards only, within Paarl Vintners’ boundaries.
The winner’s trophy will be presented at the festival.
The winners of the various competitions will be announced at the festival, where the highlight is bound to be the arrival of the Persian Parade.
Each winery will arrive at the venue dressed up and á la Persian style. Winemakers and marketing managers are all keeping mum about the uniqeu ways they intend arriving.
Also presented at the festival will be the trophy for the best winetaster among participating cellar assistants.
Tickets at R60 (under 18’s R20) are available from Computicket and the gates.
For more information, contact Paarl Vintners office 863-4886 or 082-924-7254 or visit the website www.paarlwine.co.za.
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