Yesterday I was invited to Allée Bleue's Christmas in July. Some people might think it's strange to celebrate Christmas twice a year, but let me explain the reasoning behind Christmas in July. In South Africa, Christmas is held in the height of summer. People are braaing, swimming in the sea, tanning in bikinis – snowmen and reindeer don't normally fit into this picture so well. So Christmas in July is all about having a wintery Christmas, where the snowflake decorations won't feel out of place.
It's also because South Africans love to eat big meals and drink good wine around big tables filled with friends and family – which is exactly what yesterday was all about!
I piled my plate high with sausages and finger foods, while my husband tucked into waffles and pancakes, ending off with toffee apples and, of course, some excellent wine. Allée Bleue's MCC brut rose is a superb bubbly, with a soft pink hue and flavours of strawberries, raspberries and candy floss. YUM!
I also fell in love with the white blend called Isabeau – a blend of Semillon and Chardonnay. Great oak characteristics, perfect to have with food as it's not a light white.
I have been a fan of the farm's chocolate spicy Shiraz for a long time too... Excellent red wine, showing flavours of dark berries with a smooth finish (ie: many many bottles can easily be consumed).
The function venue was set up in such a clever way, with food stalls offering various items places along the walls, with a big merry merry Christmas tree in the middle. There was also plenty for the kids to do, with jumping castles and an 'activity' area, meaning the whole family was catered for. What a fun day it was!
For more information on Allée Bleue', visit their website here: http://www.alleebleue.co.za/index.php/contact-us
The farm is open for wine tasting at the following times:
Monday to Friday, 9.00 a.m. - 5.00 p.m.
Saturday: 10.00 a.m. - 5.00 p.m.
Sunday: 10.00 a.m. - 4.00 p.m.
Comments