Manuka cafe and Fine Wine shop




While even though our super markets are getting better at stocking more varieties of wine, they still aren't really up to scratch, and if you're looking for something unusual and less mass produced, you'll have to stumble upon it while driving through the winelands or at festivals.


A couple weeks ago I was in the Somerset West area, with big plans for wine farm visiting, but not only was the weather dreadful, but no sooner had we started our trip when we were turned away as private functions were being held at the estates.
So we soon gave up and went for brunch. Yes, here in Cape Town we start wine tasting during the late morning.

We stopped in at a cafe called Manuka @ Southeys on the main road going into Somerset West. It's a lovely little spot with a garden and jungle gym for kids. Chickens and ducks mill around the lawn and pond and it's warm and bustling inside.

But what I love most about Manuka is the Fine Wine shop inside, just next to the entrance.
I ended up having a long conversation (not hard for me) with the wine guy inside, asking him about garagiste wines, boutique farms, limited editions etc. I walked away with some interesting bottles, including a shiraz mourvedre from garagiste winery, Osbloed (Paarl region) and some shiraz from a boutique winery called Migliarina (migliarina.co.za), both of which I had never heard of before. It was great to deal with someone who is so informative, and offers good recommendations.

Since then, I've found out that Manuka apparently hosts 'meet the winemaker' dinners (R160pp inc two courses and 8 wines). I haven't been to any, but it could make for a cool evening out if you happen to be that side.


021 851 6060
www.manukaatsoutheys.co.za

Comments

MornĂ© said…
Hi Amy

Just to rectify - our Wine Dinners are R160pp and includes up to 8 wines tasted and a two course meal( cheese platter per table and either Meat, Fish or Vegetarian as Main Course.How was the OSBLOED?

The wine guy( Morné ) at Manuka
Amy said…
Thanks so much Morne :-)
It was listed on the website as R125.
Sounds awesome though! would love to do it some time :-)
Amy said…
Will update the price above