SA Wine Country -- Full Speed Ahead

Awaken by the sounds of the waves only meters away is absolutely the most refreshing alarm. The Santos Express was not the most comfortable, as the vinyl covered bench bed was insulated only with a matress cover and a sheet. However, at my age waking warm in the middle of the night is no surprise. At least the shower was warm and refreshing and operational this morning vs check-in. Apparently there was a break in the water main that fed the restaurant/hotel shortly before check-in last night when showers were completely out of order. Breakfast consisted of cereal and toast with appropriate beverages--coffee, tea, juice, milk. It's been a long time since I had Corn flakes, but they were GREAT! Not to be confused with Frosted Flakes--even though it's Africa. We locked and loaded and were off again for the wine country.

Among the renowned wines of the world, South African wines rate among the best--including the Bourdeaux region of France, Napa Valley of California, Austrailia along with the South American wine giants of Argentina and Chile. Our wine tour of South Africa began at Vergeleglen--a large winery off highway N2 near Somerset West. We tasted all of their wines including whites and reds and enjoyed an excellent lunch on the Rose Terrace. The weather warmed up considerably, and we ventured on. Our next stop took us to the Cordoba Winery. While we were on our way, Lindsay timidly mentioned that her guide book said that wine tastings were by appointment only. Unannounced, we were greeted with open arms and had a very exquisite 'private tasting.' The views were spectacular as well as their wines. We made our purchase and bade farewell. The Rust En Vrede Estate was our next stop where the estate grounds surrounded by fragrant red roses prompted another Kodak moment. This winery, known for its award winning reds was a favorite of Don and Lindsay--the red wine afficianados of the group. Sho however was acquiring a taste beyond Chardonnay. She learned that names of wines exude from the viretal of the grape--Shiraz, cabernet, Merlot, and the exclusive South African Pinotage.

We located our would-be-accomodation at the Power House (B&B) only to find that the Reception Office was closed. Although we had called ahead and booked over the phone, no one answered when we called the posted number. Feeling a bit tired and grungy, we embarked on a mission to find a place to call home for the next couple of nights. Stellenboch is a university town with many potentials. As we searched we found that most were booked. The Yellow House (Guest House B&B) did have availability and we jumped on it. The pool was clear, the rooms spacious and clean--we felt like we found home.

Dinner tonight was a treat for all pallets. We found ourselves lost in a strange city and stopped for directions. The inquiry resulted in a Police escort to Spier--a 300-year-old wind farm that has become synonymous with fine food. We dined at Moyo, the spectacular African restaurant that caters to all tastes. Their delicacies included lamb, beef, ostrich, fish, chicken cooked to order along with accompaniments of corn, potato, couscous, and various vegetables to please even the most particular diner. Service was surpurb and the entertainment bordering on fantastic. This was the African version of the best Hawaiian Luau.