Almost 320 years ago, some 200 Huguenots fled France and, assisted by the Dutch East India Company, emigrated to the Cape.

Hard-working and highly skilled, they were quickly assimilated into the predominantly Dutch community of the Cape, and farmers were granted land in the regions of what are now Paarl, Drakenstein and Franschhoek.  The Franschhoek Valley was then known as De Olifantshoek, and over the years has also been known as the Fransche Quartier, Le Coin Français, and La Petite Rochelle before coming to Franschhoek.

From a wine legislation standpoint, Franschhoek is a Ward of Paarl which is a District within the Coastal Region.  You might therefore see "Wine of Origin - Coastal Region" on Franschhoek wines, although there is little chance of any cooling sea-breezes reaching into the depths of this fertile valley!

Altogether, some 30 farms make up the "Vignerons de Franschhoek", ranging from Rupert & Rothschild and Plaisir de Merle in the West, past Boschendal, L'Ormarins, Graham Beck, and La Motte, through to Cabrière and Boekenhoutskloof at the far end of town, beyond the famous Huguenot Monument.

The Rupert Family has significant interests in the Valley through their connections with Rupert & Rothschild, L'Ormarins, and La Motte.

With quite a wide range of micro-climates, many different styles of wine are produced.  Graham Beck and Cabrière are renowned for their Cap Classiques; Boekenhohoutskloof winemaker, Marc Kent, produces a world-class Syrah, with his Cabernet and Chocolate Block blend not far behind; Sauvignon Blancs from La Motte and Boschendal; Chardonnays from Chamonix & GlenWood; Pinotage from Môreson; Pinot Noir from Cabrière.  These are, of course, just the tip of the iceberg, with people who know the wines of the Valley having their own favourites at all price points.

Another string to Franschhoek's bow is its claim to fame as the Cape's Food Capital, with many fine restaurants showcasing the local wines.  Names such as Reuben's, Le Quartier Francais and Cabrière are synonymous with fine dining.

To bring all these elements together, Franschhoek has a variety of events throughout the year that keep the town at the forefront of the public's wining and dining conscious.  Bastille Day; the Champagne Festival; Cheese and Wine Festival - these are all "must-dos".

So, take a drive, or better still, take a break, don a beret, say "Haw-He-Haw" in a funny French accent, and take in the Gallic atmosphere of this unique French Corner.

And in the meantime, visit your local Manuka Fine Wines Boutique to find about, not only the Fine Wines of Franschhoek, but any local wines.

Stephen Digby
Manuka @ Southeys