September 2019 –
La Petite Ferme Newsletter – Spring Edition 2019
Welcome to the Spring newsletter edition, the very first of our quarterly series, now published every three months. We at La Petite Ferme have a healthy respect for tradition, but we also like to keep abreast of trends. We understand that sometimes, ‘less is more’. With this in mind, we’ve decided to take a fresh approach to the way we share our news with you.
So, what can you expect from this change? Our quarterly newsletter, keeping step with the seasons, comprises all our newsworthy content about La Petite Ferme, our people and our beloved Franschhoek. Click to read our news online. Stay on the inside-track by reading our regular blogs, which will now be published monthly. Each one filled with bite-sized bits of communication designed to keep your inspiration levels suitably topped up.
We hope you, like us, will enjoy this refreshing change. After all, as the adage goes, ‘A change is as good as a holiday.’
Our September issue (Heritage Month in South Africa) brings with it the launch of our much-anticipated Spring menu. Also, we throw the spotlight on a couple of our long-service employees, celebrating their substantial contribution to our success and growth over the years. School holidays are just around the corner; we share our top picks of what to do in the valley to stave off boredom. Happy reading!
Launch of our Spring Menu
The cold hand of winter is loosening its vice-like grip on the valley. Spring is here! We’ve noticed the birds sounding a touch more chipper in the mornings. The days are stretching as the anticipation of summer grows. In celebration of this welcome season, Chef Kyle has put together his Spring Menu. A ‘taste bud holiday’, diners will delight in this exotic fare with a homegrown twist that will keep the palate enthralled.
For example, Chef Kyle’s take on the classic prawn cocktail is a taste experience to be treasured. Heritage lamb is as South African as our accent; Chef Kyle’s version will both delight and surprise you, leaving you with thoughts of an encore. For dessert, hints of warmer days with strawberries and granadilla feature in the most tantalising way. Don’t delay, book your table now to secure your ticket your culinary adventure at La Petite Ferme.
Perfectly paired at La Petite Ferme
The wines produced by our team on the property are designed to complement our cuisine delivering well-rounded dining experiences. Our signature dish this Spring is the Duo of Pâté. Millie Johannes, a cherished long-standing member of our culinary team comments, ‘Growing up on the La Petite Ferme farm, this land is a part of me. This dish, inspired by heritage, combines two South African classics. Chef Kyle has spiced it up with a few contemporary elements, giving this dish a fresh twist for this Spring.’
Duo of Pâté
smoked Franschhoek trout | rocket pesto | trout caviar | cured snoek pâté | lemon curd jelly black caviar | black garlic-infused ciabatta toast | Viking salted chips
Meet the Team this Heritage Month
Pictured here, left to right: Donavan Malies, Fanus Adonis, Jan Floris and Frans Malies
We caught up with Frans Malies, our longest standing employee. Frans has been caring for La Petite Ferme’s vineyards for almost three decades. Frans has seen many seasons through with us here at La Petite Ferme, working on his dream. What an achievement, Frans and thank you for being such an invaluable member of our team. Here’s to many more happy years with us.
Q: What is the best part of your day, Frans?
A: I like to see my colleagues put in a good day’s work and see their smiles at the end of the day.
Q: What has been your greatest challenge during your twenty plus years on the farm at La Petite Ferme?
A: I would say when we changed from farming with pears and plums to grapes. Also, when the building happened. Change is always a good challenge! I love what I do. I’ve always loved working with the fruit trees and now, the vines.
Q: What has been your greatest achievement during your tenure?
A: When I was appointed as a permanent farm worker, I managed to further my studies and then, being promoted to farm manager.
Q: Do you have any advice for the youth of South Africa this Heritage Month?
A: Always believe in yourself, be disciplined, set your goal and don’t let anybody stand in the way of what you want to achieve.
Frans recommends pairing Millie’s Spring dish with La Petite Ferme’s Winemaker’s Edition, the “Wikus” blend 2018. Frans says, “I chose this wine because it is light but yet has enough structure to handle the salty richness of the dish.”
Visit us for a family adventure this Spring school holiday
Spring break is on the horizon and if you’re opting for a local holiday, escape to Franschhoek. Our Vineyard Suites provide a comfortable, lush launch pad from which to explore our beautiful valley and surrounds. Contact us today to book your stay.
While you’re here, our Concierge team is happy to arrange some exciting activities for you and the family to enjoy. Here are our top picks for you which, incidentally, happen to be self-propelled, carbon-free too. Have heaps of fun with your tribe while doing your bit for the environment. We look forward to welcoming you!
Wine-tasting on horseback
Take a scenic ride through vineyards, forests and over mountains, stopping at the Rickety Bridge Winery and Mont Rochelle before returning to the stables. The total riding time is around 2 hours and 30 minutes, with 30-45 minute stops at each wine estate. Suitable for novices as well as advanced riders ages 12 years and above. Scenic outride includes wine-tasting (for riders18-years and older).
This series of biking routes established and maintained by environmental group Golden Leaf Trails offers mountain-bikers a solid workout with scenic views of the Berg River catchment area. Here, the fresh valley air combined with the cool breeze off the dam has a rejuvenating effect. Rides, including wine-tasting can be arranged.
Scootours® Franschhoek
This unusual non-motorised, gravity propelled activity offers an adventurous way to explore the magnificent mountains and wine farms surrounding the Franschhoek Valley in an exciting and family-friendly way. During the tour, you will freewheel down the gentle slopes of wine farms and also through the Mt. Rochelle Nature Reserve with breathtaking views over the Franschhoek Valley. The route is easy to navigate, and the only requirement is that you can ride a bicycle.
Ready to experience the best of what La Petite Ferme has to offer this Spring? Whether you’re keen on indulging in our new Spring menu, exploring the valley’s breathtaking attractions, or meeting the team behind our award-winning vineyard, we’re here to make your visit truly memorable. From wine-tasting on horseback to family-friendly adventures, La Petite Ferme is your perfect escape into the heart of Franschhoek. Get in touch with us today through our contact page to book a table, a stay, or to simply find out more about our upcoming events and seasonal offerings. We look forward to welcoming you soon!
