By Take Note Reputation Management
We all know St Francis Bay for its laid-back charm, ocean breeze and friendly faces. This Heritage Day, 24th September, we’re swapping the beach for finesse of grape-induced nectar. The Tops Classic Wine Tasting is hosted this year by The Riverclub on Wednesday, 24 September 2025.
Presented by SUPERSPAR St Francis, this special tasting is held during the week of the annual St Francis Bay Golf and Bowls Classic. This tradition has been part of village life for nearly three decades.
While the sporting action brings people together, this year’s tasting event offers something just as memorable. It’s a celebration of 100 years of Pinotage, South Africa’s very own wine varietal.
A SOUTH AFRICAN CLASSIC TURNS 100
Back in 1925, Professor Abraham Perold created Pinotage by crossing Pinot Noir with Cinsaut. A century later, it’s become a proud symbol of South African winemaking. To honour this milestone, one of the country’s most respected winemakers, Abrie Beeslaar, the man behind Beeslaar Wines and former winemaker at Kanonkop, will be giving a presentation at 5pm. Furthermore, his Pinotage has won awards around the world and his presentation will be a rare opportunity for any wine lover.
AN AFTERNOON OF DISCOVERY
So, this isn’t your typical tasting. Guests can expect a range of carefully selected South African wines, from crisp whites and delicate MCCs to bold reds and, of course, standout Pinotage. The list of estates that is represented by owners reads like a “who is who” in the South African wine industry and includes:
- Bartho Eksteen Wines, with their focused Sauvignon Blanc
- Colmant, known for their elegant Cap Classique
- David Finlayson Wines, offering top-tier Chardonnay and Cabernet
- Grangehurst, bringing mature red blends
- Hogan Wines, with nuanced whites and reds
- Restless River, recognised for its Chardonnay and Pinot Noir
- Trizanne Signature Wines, shaped by coastal terroir
- La Bri Wine estate represented by owner and winemaker Irene de Fleuriot
Also represented at the tasting are Creation, Gabriëlskloof, Crystallum, Fairview, Fryer’s Cove, Groote Post, Louisvale, Meerlust, Mullineux, Newton Johnson, Reyneke Wines and Vrede & Lust, all well-known names in local wine circles.
With so many winemakers and owners attending in person, be prepared to learn new insights into what has positioned these estates and their wines as some of the best in South Africa.
Thus it’s a laid-back, personal experience, no pretence, just great wine and good conversation.
RELAXED, REFINED, AND RIGHT HERE IN THE VILLAGE
The tasting takes place at the Riverclub, under the tent surrounded by trees, with light canapés and live music in the background. It’s set to be a calm, sociable afternoon, the perfect way to celebrate a public holiday. Also, from 6 pm, the Riverclub restaurant will be open for those who’d like to stay on for dinner.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just enjoy a good glass of wine, this is an easy, enjoyable way to explore some of South Africa’s finest wines without leaving the village.
BOOKING DETAILS
Date: Wednesday, 24 September 2025 (Heritage Day – public holiday)
Time: 3pm to 8pm
Venue: Riverclub, St Francis Bay
Tickets: R350 per person (includes tastings and canapés)
Tickets are limited, so it’s best to book early. Simply scan the QR code on posters around town and at SUPERSPAR, or pop into the store for more info. Bookings on Quicket Here.
This event is more than just a tasting, it is a celebration of South Africa’s wine heritage, our local community and the people behind these world-class creations.
We’ll see you there – glass in hand.
Recent Comments