WANTED and the South African Brandy Foundation invite you and a partner to taste the best local and international brandies.
We’ve got three sets of tickets to give away to three lucky couples for the Fine Brandy Fusion event, taking place at the Sandton Convention Centre from 27-29 June at the Sandton Convention Centre. One couple will also get access to the Masterclass Session — From grape to best brandy in the world — Wednesday the 27th at 5.30pm, on 27 June at 5:30pm presented by master distiller Kobus Gelderblom from Mountain Spirit . Enter now and you could also win a his and hers hamper stuffed with goodies from the South African Brandy Foundation.
To enter send us the name of your favourite brandy. Email your answers here, with “Brandy” in the subject line this winter and we’ll let you know if you’re a winner. Competition closes Friday 15 June.
IWC’s CEO Georges Kern was in fine form at this year’s Salon Internationale de la Haute Horlogerie (SIHH) in Geneva, and it wasn’t just because of the flight simulator he had hired for his stand either. After 10 years with the company he has the wind in his sails and is determined to leave his imprint on the new collections. Cue a major relaunch of IWC’s entire Pilot line and an all-new Top Gun collection.
Kern bullishly announced a “significant increase” in the average price of all Pilot watches this year. “This reflects the introduction of in-house manufacture movements in all the Top Gun watches, just as we have done previously with the Portuguese and Portofino lines. We’re also using ceramic here, a notoriously expensive material that pushes the price up further.”
Inspired by the elite pilots who graduate from the US Navy Fighter Weapons School in Miramar, California, known as Top Guns, this is a sporty, retro watch with bags of individuality. A polished grey ceramic case 48mm in diameter and 15mm in height will make its presence known under even the most generous of shirt cuffs. Team it with a white tee, jeans and a set of dog tags around your neck though, and you’ll be fine.
An over-sized titanium crown allows for easy time-changes even when at a 10000ft mid-aerial manoeuvre. Similarly, the large, clear anthracite grey dial and contrasting peach coloured hour/minute hands are designed to maximise legibility even in adverse conditions.
Notice how the Arabic numerals around the exterior of the dial refer to minutes, while an inner dial in red houses the hour markers, a detail common in classic pilot’s watches. A power reserve display at 3 o’clock has to accommodate a seven-day countdown, a huge number for any watch and an impressive feat from IWC.
In the version shown here, the date display sits at 6 o’clock, whereas in the chronograph version the power reserve display is removed in favour of minutes and seconds sub-dials at 12 and 6 o’clock, with the date display now at 3 o’clock.
All in all, this is a man’s watch for a highly functional man and stands out with its vintage-inspired aesthetics and tough military style strap. For Kern though, that’s not enough. For him it’s about selling the dream as much as the product: “You have to tell a story, you need evocative names and histories; it’s a fundamental element of our business.”
WANTED’s editor, GARY COTTERELL, shares his highlights from the June issue, delivered to subscribers of Business Day tomorrow.
Print is dead, long live print. It is lovely to know that there are others like us out there just as obsessed with print. Key ingredients for a successful publication are a strong idea and a really great team. We take pride in this and surround ourselves with the best people and the best contributors in the business. It is still a tough market out there, but it is reassuring to know there are like-minded folk championing print and spearheading a revival of the beleaguered medium.
The printed page has a new lease on life if the new wave of independents, and ourselves, of course, are anything to go by. Alexander Matthews hung out with the design duo at The President for two days and spoke to the editors of a few marvellous titles from SA and abroad during the recent Toffie Festival in Cape Town. They share their trade secrets with us.
If the early chills have already bitten your toes maybe it’s time for a mid-year break to warmer climes. The Med will soon be teaming with tourists, but the azure waters, white sandy beaches and pristine marine environments of our neighbouring Indian Ocean islands offer an easy, luxurious escape for discerning travellers with a conscience. David Allardice visited Matemo and Medjumbe islands off the north east coast of Mozambique and chatted to key industry players in this segment at the recent Tourism Indaba in Durban. Pirates and a general slump in the global market have seen the industry take a fresh approach, with new opportunities for high-end operators and travellers.
We take you on a journey of another kind, this time in a modern vintage. Like a good wine, the Morgan appears to have improved with age — well, at least for those who have a palette for cars with classic looks and handling a little on the wild side. The new Plus 8 is equipped with a BMW V8 under its hood and all the mod cons to deliver a thrilling mix of old and new.
A nostalgic mood caught us this month and we headed out to the Cape West Coast for a bit of wandering with globe trotting fashion photographer Oliver Sutton.
Artist and poet Pitika Ntuli appears to have avoided mainstream press and gallery previews until recently. Although his stone, bone and metal sculptures tell stories of our beginnings, our greed and burdens, he won’t be jerking chains or making tabloid news. Fellow poet and published author Lebo Mashile tells this creator’s story.
TV actress (Generations and Backstage) and model agency owner Shashi Naidoo is as multi-talented as she is beautiful. Her work and leisure have taken her far and wide, yet she never seems to lose her appreciation for finer details. A recent Style Award winner, she shares her travel insights.
Most inspiring holiday destination?
I am lucky enough to be on a four-month sabbatical in India. I have visited before but a two-week holiday gives you a very superficial view of this massive country steeped in values, cultures and traditions. What makes India inspirational to me is that the soul of the country is its spirituality.
Most interesting person you’ve met on your travels?
For me the most interesting people on any trip are the locals. Not only will they give you the best references on where to go and what to eat, they will also give you insight into the local culture and beliefs which gives meaning to your trip.
The one gadget you would never travel without?
As I am sure is the case for most people, that would be my iPad.
Favourite restaurant abroad and why?
Nahm Restaurant at the Metropolitan in Bangkok. It is one of the few Michelin-rated Thai restaurants in the world. I am addicted to Asian cuisine and this restaurant is particularly good because there is no fusion food or Westernisation of flavours. The food is delicious but be warned, it’s blow-your-head-off hot.
An insider tip for coping with a long-haul flight?
I don’t drink fizzy or alcoholic beverages, I stick to water and lots of it. If I am travelling economy I always take my Tempur travel pillow on the flight and if the flight is longer than 12 hours, I usually call my GP for a prescription of a sleeping tablet for the way there and back.
Your next destination?
During the course of the next month I will be doing a train journey through incredible India. My travels will begin in Delhi, then visit the cities of Jodhpur, Udaipur, Chittor, Sawai Madhopur and Jaipur in the state of Rajasthan, after which I will travel to the Khajuraho temples and Varanasi. Lastly, I have always wanted to see the Taj Mahal in Agra so that is where my journey will end.
Favourite city abroad?
Hong Kong, London and New York would all have to be a close tie for second but Paris would still have to be my favourite city abroad. I love the romance, I love the beautifully dressed and manicured women, I love the architecture, I love the delicious pastries. Ah, the pastries. And I even love the snobbish waiters.
Worst travel experience?
The one destination I won’t be revisiting in a hurry is Egypt.
What is the first thing you do when you check into a hotel room?
I grab a chocolate from the mini bar and unpack my bags.
Which three items will you always find in your suitcase?
Sunscreen, snacks and comfy shoes (there is no better way to experience new territory than by walking its streets).
Your definition of luxurious travel?
Luxury is relative. I believe it relates to the overall experience and not just the material trappings. From the opulence of a five-star boutique hotel, to the peace and solitude of walking a deserted beach at sunrise, or being able to experience wildlife in their natural habitat. Luxury is the privilege of discovery, adventure, relaxation and insight enjoyed in a context that suits that situation.
What do you prefer: beach, city or bush vacations?
If I am really stressed, nothing beats a beach holiday; being close to the ocean is good for the soul.
Marina & The Diamonds packs one hefty punch of pop. The runner-up in the BBC’s Sound of 2010, the half-Greek, half-Welsh star serves up a saucily restless Madonna-inspired concoction in Primadonna.
Warm & Glad in Craighall Park is a space that has been filled with owner Jonathan Shaw’s favourite things. A great selection of international magazine titles, old vinyl LPs, imported grocery produce and great coffee make this cosy little hideaway a welcome addition to the rather drab and grey shops and outlets lining this side of Jan Smuts Avenue.
“It started as an experiment,” Jonathan says as he explains the variety of different products on offer. “But it’s been a huge success as we’ve found that there are many people who want to come in and have a coffee while being surrounded by cool stuff.”
The selection of original prints by contemporary artists adorning the far wall of Warm & Glad are brought in by Like Limited Editions, a collective that collaborates with galleries in the UK to bring art to SA at much lower margins.There were a few pieces that might have tempted me if it weren’t for end-of-the-month induced conservatism with my debit card.
The hot chocolate made with imported French Valrhona chocolate made the visit worthwhile, as did the free wireless and the aroma of freshly-percolated Delta coffee brought in from Portugal by one of Jonathan’s suppliers.
Warm & Glad, Alban’s Square, 357 Jan Smuts Avenue, Craighall Park, 0117810455,
With Bronze Age Foundry (formerly based in Simon’s Town) at its heart, the Woodstock Foundry at 160 Albert Road has a delightful mix of creative ateliers and stores. We round up our favourites.
Explain the Woodstock Foundry concept. The concept for the Woodstock Foundry is a creative community that brings together different design disciplines and makes them accessible to the public. It is a destination where you can have lunch, buy some furniture, visit a barber and buy a piece of jewellery for the wife, all under one roof. Why did you choose to move Bronze Age to Woodstock? Being based in Simon’s Town meant that our business was quite isolated. So, for the past couple of years we have looked at relocating our business closer to the city. For us, Woodstock was the obvious choice as it is centrally located between the city centre as well as all the surrounds. Also Woodstock is quickly turning into the creative hub of Cape Town. After looking at quite a few options in the Woodstock area, we came upon the Woodstock Foundry building, and knew that the space had the potential for what we envisaged. Your biggest challenge to developing the Foundry? It was essential to create the right mixture of tenants for the development, as this was key for the overall atmosphere of the Foundry.
This is the studio space where artist Andrew Breitenberg works on his bone artworks and ink sketches, but the real excitement is the stash of Muji pens and homemade notebooks for sale tucked away on Breitenberg’s antique shelves.
Casamento’s Eve Collette has closed down her Kommetjie workshop and store at Woodstock’s Old Biscuit Mill, bringing work space and showroom together in this light and airy studio. You can watch your couch being crafted, choose your fabric samples or pick up other mid-century-inspired pieces for which Casamento has become well known.
Tucked away at the top of a narrow wooden staircase, Marissa Pretorius creates hanging baskets for the aspiring urban gardener as well as flower arrangements for weddings.
Favourite flower? The orchid.
0727856002.
Dear Rae
Owner Karin Matthee defines the Dear Rae aesthetic as simple shapes that are a little bit irregular and quirky but still classical. “I’ve got a lot of links to botanical designs.”
Conveniently close to his workshop in Woodstock industria, the Woodstock Foundry sees the launch of John Vogel’s first store. The space is home to his distinctive furniture pieces inspired by natural African forms. The new Nguni dining table is a perfect accompaniment to the popular Nguni chairs (the backs of which are shaped like cattle horns). We loved the Flo Cell chairs, which are available both upright and inclined.
This beautiful white-walled space is the first window-dressing school in SA. Run by Sanet Coetzee and Rupert Smith, the space is also home to the latter’s O.live Studio where products are made for O.live’s two lifestyle and interior stores.
This unisex salon offers affordable haircuts, friendly service and a great cuppa of Deluxe Coffeeworks. Having earned his styling stripes at cult local salon Scar and in London, owner and stylist Craig Johns has a natural finesse with hair coupled with an attentive approach. He also envisioned the old school cool décor.
Gents cuts R120-R150, ladies cut and finish R200-R250. 0218253714.
THE WOODSTOCK FOUNDRY, 160 ALBERT ROAD, WOODSTOCK, CAPE TOWN.
BY ALEXANDER MATTHEWS & PAUL CHRISTOPHER DANIELS | PHOTOGRAPHY JON COTTAM
Head down to Hartenberg in Stellenbosch and enjoy some of the finest examples of Shriaz in South Africa paired with a selection of charcuterie, cheeses, bread and olives.Tickets cost R180 per person and are available at Webtickets.co.za. For more information, tel 021 865 2541.
This year marks the ninth anniversary of the Robertson Wine Valley’s biggest annual wine festival with 48 wineries showcasing their produce. A R90.00 passport must be purchased at your first port-of-call and is valid for the whole weekend. For more information, tel 023 626 3167.
Taste the top performing wines from the Old Mutual Trophy Wine Show, now in its 11th year. Wines presented include all the trophy winners as well as those awarded gold and silver medals. Tickets are R120 each. To book, tel 083 915 8000 or visit Computicket.
Join some of Franschhoek’s highly acclaimed chefs and winemakers as they present hands-on demonstration kitchens. Participating restaurants include Liam Tomlin Food at Leopard’s Leap Vineyards and Le Quartier Françias among others. For more information, tel 021 876 2861.
WINE OF THE MONTH: Scali Syrah 2008
When owner-winemaker Willie de Waal of Scali in the Paardeberg speaks of “preserving the land for future generations”, he means it – he and his wife Tania becoming parents of their fifth child in 2010.
A major step towards sustainability occurred recently when Scali was certified organic. De Waal relates that yields dropped quite significantly during the conversion process, not entirely a bad thing in the case of the Syrah 2008 –the vines produced grapes of more intense flavour as a result of carrying less fruit.
In the cellar, 15% of the grapes underwent whole-bunch fermentation (instead of first being destalked and crushed) for extra complexity and the wine was matured for 24 months in French oak, 30% new. The result is a wine with a real sense of place: a distinct fynbos note on the nose along with red and black fruit, pepper and spice while the palate is rich but balanced with fresh acidity and fine tannins. Price per bottle: R175. For more information, call 021 869 8340.
As New Year detox and healthy living resolutions wane, consider the boon of raw food. Raw foodism is a growing movement in SA and is gaining traction among people from all walks of life. Essentially, raw foodists follow a diet comprising mostly uncooked and unprocessed foods. Think veggies, nuts and all things natural creatively assembled as a raw food meal. Surprisingly tasty and filling, eating raw food brings you closer to nature, is bursting with nutrition, creates boundless energy and is kind to the earth.
Former advertising agency exec Shelley Robertson opened SA’s first set menu raw food restaurant in Joburg in October last year. Nestled in the tranquil surrounds of the 44 Stanley designer boutique complex, the restaurant, simply named Raw Food and Juice Bar, is a gourmet raw nirvana. Over the past three months, the space has become a firm favourite for everything from smoothies to pizzas.
Robertson lives the life she loves and loves the life she lives as a raw foodist. Currently living a 70% raw lifestyle, Robertson, who chose to be vegan for ethical reasons, is working up to a 100% raw diet. Propelled by a vision to share her journey, she translates her experience into beautifully presented, seasonal dishes. In Robertson’s words: “The best thing about eating at Raw is that it’s an experience. You walk away feeling invigorated and alive.”
Peter Harris, the author of the award-winning In a Different Time chats to WANTED’s ALEXANDER MATTHEWS about the Franschhoek Literary Festival, getting South Africans reading, and SA’s new writing talent.
