The Pinotage on Tap festival (aka POT) was a huge success here. Not only did many South Africans support the event, but with the weather being so beautiful, it truly marked the advent of the start of summer (something we could finally gloat about to friends back home). As if drinking Pinotage on a beautiful farm was not blissful enough, the tickets also included traditional SA food.

Various culinary treats, including lunch and snacks were provided throughout the day. The main course was a choice of lamb potjie or bobotie and pudding was melktert or malva pudding topped off by a strawberry and chocolate fountain! I know what you are thinking – wine and chocolate: the things dreams are made of!  Of course the wine, being an original coffee Pinotage containing aromas of chocolate, truly complemented the pudding. In fact it complemented, well… everything!

No day would be complete without some music and the day also saw some brilliant SA artists take to the stage.  Lonesome Dave Ferguson, Robin Auld and Albert Frost really got everyone in a vibrant and lively mood to let their hair down and party.  Of course, being a South African event there was also a choice of rugby or cricket in which to participate, as well as a poetry competition for those who felt the need to express their creativity and produce a love poem dedicated to Diemersfontein. Seven candidates won a bottle of Pinotage to take home, with the overall winner receiving a case.

What made the event incredibly special was the fact that not only could Pinotage lovers enjoy their favourite pastime of drinking delectable wine, but families and children could all enjoy a day out in the countryside. I see why the event is usually a sell out in Joburg, Durban and Wellington and is running in its eighth consecutive year. Having attended this event I think my trips back home from now on will be in accordance with their annual events