Manor-house conserved
2007-03-01
MUCH of the land being bought up by developers in the Western Cape is historic farm land containing artifacts from a bygone era that they are choosing to preserve and incorporate into their projects.
When Martin Venter, developer at the R2 billion Val de Vie Wine and Polo estate outside Paarl purchased 1,8 km Berg River frontage six years ago, to embark on one of the largest luxury projects ever seen in the Cape Winelands, with it came an historic manor-house and wine cellar dating back to 1825.
Venter says he feels these historic aspects to the estate add to the ambience at Val de Vie where 80% of the plots ranging from R1,2 to R4 million are already sold.
“Although it is difficult for us to use the historic blending facilities due to the undeniable convenience of modern stainless steel, we spent large amounts on equipping the cellar which now provides optimum storage conditions for the new Val de Vie wines being produced on the estate.”
Venter says the cellar will meet ISO 9001 (International Standards Organisation) environmental and health management standards that ensure minimal environmental impact through temperature control systems and that the storage facility meets international health standards.
“We have carefully renovated and refurbished the historic manor-house which we plan to transform into an exclusive guesthouse and restaurant.
“Original fittings and Oregon pine floors have been retained and the Louis IV theme of the day restored with beautiful antique pieces we have individually sourced.”
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