Posted on: 20 August 2024 | Written by: Remi Guiot
Introduction
Catherine and I had the pleasure of being invited by Rickety Bridge Estate in Franschhoek, South Africa, for a full day of wine tasting and activities. From the moment we arrived, we were greeted with a warm welcome and handed a glass of MCC (Méthode Cap Classique) to sip on while we toured the Cellar, setting the tone for what would be a remarkable day.
The Estate Wine Tasting
Our first wine-tasting experience was the Estate Wine tasting, featuring four exquisite wines paired perfectly with a selection of cheeses. The combination of rich flavors and expert craftsmanship left us eagerly anticipating what was to come.
Sabrage Experience
We all made our way outside for the incredible Sabrage experience. This thrilling tradition, where a bottle of sparkling wine is opened with a sword, added a touch of excitement to our visit. Under the guidance of the knowledgeable Rickety Bridge team, we both had the chance to try our hand at this unique art form, making the moment even more memorable.
See the video below:
Accommodation
Next, we had the chance to explore Rickety Bridge’s two Cape Dutch guest houses. We started with the 5-star Manor House which is located right next to the wine tasting rooms and restaurant. The Manor House is a stunning example of classic Cape Dutch farm style accommodation. We then drove 2 minutes to the 4-star Basse Provence Manor House located a bit further from the main estate, Basse Provence offered a more relaxed family feel, yet it had an equally charming atmosphere also very Cape Dutch style like the Manor House. Both accommodations were beautiful, each offering a unique taste of what a stay at Rickety Bridge could be like.
The Paulina’s Reserve Tasting
After the accommodation tour, we indulged in a second wine tasting—the Paulina’s Reserve Tasting. This exclusive selection of four wines was accompanied by a showcase of additional activities offered by the estate, including a potjiekos cooking experience and a wine blending session. It was fascinating to see the various ways Rickety Bridge immerses guests in the world of wine and South African culture.
Tasting Lunch at Paulina’s
As midday approached, we made our way to Paulina’s Restaurant for a wine and food pairing lunch platter. The meal was an absolute treat, with each dish thoughtfully paired with wines that highlighted the flavors and textures beautifully. After our meal we were served a non-alcoholic infused rooibos flavoured tasting as a cleanser. The ambiance of the restaurant, combined with the exceptional food and wine, made for a truly memorable dining experience.
Icon Wine Tasting and Panna Cotta & Wine Pairing
Our day concluded on the terrace with the Icon wine tasting and stunning views of Franschhoek, where we sampled three wines from Rickety Bridge’s premium range. As if the day hadn’t already been extraordinary, we finished with a unique Panna Cotta & Wine Pairing, featuring four distinct panna cottas, each paired with a different wine. The combination of creamy panna cotta and carefully selected wines was the perfect way to end our visit.
Conclusion
We cannot thank Rickety Bridge Estate, Chloe Saville and the whole team enough for their hospitality. The team went above and beyond to ensure our day was not only enjoyable but also deeply memorable. Their attention to detail and passion for what they do truly shine through in every aspect of the experience. If you’re looking for a great day of wine, food, and South African culture, Rickety Bridge Estate should be on your list. We hope you enjoyed this update. Be sure to follow Go Tourism for more reviews and insights into Southern Africa’s most remarkable travel destinations.