Discover the Harmony of Cape Town’s Art Scene and Renowned Wine Regions
Cape Town, with its rich cultural tapestry and breathtaking landscapes, is a haven for those who appreciate the finer things in life. The city’s vibrant art scene and world-class wine regions offer an enchanting experience that beautifully marries visual and sensory delights. At 21 Nettleton, we invite you to explore this perfect pairing of art and wine, where every moment celebrates creativity and flavour.
Cape Town’s Art Scene: A Canvas of Diversity
Cape Town’s art scene is as diverse and dynamic as the city. From contemporary galleries to street art, the city is a living canvas that showcases the works of both emerging and established artists. The 21 Nettleton collection proudly features pieces by some of South Africa’s most renowned artists. These artists, known for their unique perspectives and profound impact on the art world, capture the essence of South African culture and history.
Local Artists on Show at 21 Nettleton
Keith Calder
Keith Calder is renowned for his striking sculptures that often draw inspiration from the natural world. He was born in the quiet Eastern Cape town of Cradock in 1959 and currently lives and works in Cape Town. His works, characterised by their intricate detail and dynamic forms, capture the essence of South African wildlife and landscapes. Calder’s ability to transform metal into lifelike representations of animals and nature has earned him a distinguished place in the art world. His sculptures, which can be found in both private and public collections, reflect his deep appreciation for the beauty and diversity of the African continent.
Francois Krige
Francois Krige is celebrated for his evocative landscapes and portraits that depict the rural and pastoral scenes of South Africa. Born in the Klein Karoo in 1919, Krige felt the undeniable call to pursue a career within the arts. His paintings, known for their rich textures and vibrant colours, offer a nostalgic glimpse into the country’s countryside and its people. Krige’s art captures the simplicity and tranquillity of rural life, imbuing his works with a sense of timelessness and connection to the land. His detailed and emotive approach has made him a beloved figure in South African art.
Conrad Hicks
Born in Cape Town in 1966, he continues to live in the city where his works are housed, in a refurbished Art Deco cinema in Observatory. Conrad Hicks is a master blacksmith and sculptor whose work is marked by its fusion of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary design. His pieces, often created from iron and steel, explore themes of strength, resilience, and transformation. Hicks’ sculptures and functional art pieces, such as furniture and architectural elements, showcase his skill in manipulating metal to create both aesthetic and practical objects. His innovative approach and dedication to his craft have made him a significant figure in the South African art and design landscape.
Notable Wine Regions in South Africa
South Africa’s wine regions are celebrated for their unique terroirs and the diversity of grapes and varietals they produce. These regions not only offer breathtaking landscapes but also a rich history of winemaking that dates back centuries.
Constantia
South Africa’s wine regions are celebrated for their unique terroirs and the diversity of grapes and varietals they produce. These regions not only offer breathtaking landscapes but also a rich history of winemaking that dates back centuries.
- Sauvignon Blanc: Constantia’s Sauvignon Blanc is celebrated for its vibrant acidity and notes of green fig, gooseberry, and tropical fruits. The cool maritime climate contributes to the fresh, zesty characteristics of this varietal.
- Vin de Constance: This legendary dessert wine, made from Muscat de Frontignan grapes, is known for its luscious sweetness and complex flavours of dried apricots, honey, and nuts.
Stellenbosch
Stellenbosch, with its picturesque vineyards and historic estates, is synonymous with robust reds and innovative winemaking. The diverse terroir, ranging from granite and sandstone soils to cooler mountain slopes, allows for the cultivation of a variety of grapes.
- Cabernet Sauvignon: Stellenbosch is particularly famous for its Cabernet Sauvignon, which offers rich flavours of blackcurrant, dark chocolate, and tobacco, with a firm tannic structure and excellent ageing potential.
- Merlot: Often used in Bordeaux-style blends, Stellenbosch Merlot is appreciated for its soft, velvety tannins and flavours of plum, blackberry, and subtle spice.
- Chenin Blanc: Although primarily a red wine region, Stellenbosch also produces exceptional Chenin Blanc, known for its versatility and vibrant acidity, with notes of apple, pear, and honey.
Franschhoek
Often referred to as the “food and wine capital” of South Africa, Franschhoek boasts a rich French Huguenot heritage and a reputation for exquisite wine blends. This region is not only known for its wines but also its culinary excellence and the popular Franschhoek Wine Tram experience.
- Chardonnay: Franschhoek Chardonnay ranges from fresh, citrusy styles to rich, barrel-fermented wines with notes of butter and vanilla, thanks to the region’s varied microclimates.
- Shiraz (Syrah): This varietal thrives in Franschhoek’s warmer conditions, producing wines with bold flavours of black fruit, pepper, and spice, often with a smooth, velvety finish.
- Sémillon: Franschhoek is renowned for its old vine Sémillon, which offers rich, textured wines with notes of citrus, honey, and lanolin, capable of ageing beautifully.
A Perfect Pairing: How Art and Wine Complement Each Other
The combination of art and wine creates a multi-sensory experience that enhances the appreciation of both. The ambience of a winery, with its scenic vineyards and elegant tasting rooms, provides a perfect backdrop for enjoying art. The vibrant colours, intricate details, and creative expressions in art reflect and amplify the nuances and complexity of the wines. Displaying works by local artists enhances the storytelling aspect of wine, offering visitors a deeper connection to the region’s culture and heritage. This carefully curated environment makes the wine-tasting experience feel more special and memorable, encouraging guests to linger and savour each moment.
Cape Town offers numerous unique experiences that seamlessly blend art and wine, making your visit truly unforgettable. Several wineries have embraced the fusion of art and wine, offering visitors a multi-sensory experience that celebrates both the region’s viticultural excellence and artistic heritage.
Art Installations at Wine Farms in Cape Town
Here are three notable art installations at wineries in Cape Town that you should not miss:
Delaire Graff Estate
Delaire Graff Estate is renowned for its world-class wines and its exceptional art collection, curated by owner Laurence Graff. The estate’s galleries and gardens feature works by prominent South African artists, creating a luxurious environment where art and wine coexist harmoniously. One of the standout installations is the striking bronze sculpture “Sculptor’s Walk” by Lionel Smit. This piece, along with other artworks spread throughout the estate, invites guests to contemplate the beauty and complexity of South African art while enjoying a glass of Delaire Graff’s award-winning wine.
Tokara Wine Estate
Tokara Wine Estate offers a sophisticated blend of contemporary art and fine wine, making it a must-visit destination for those who appreciate both. Tokara features large-scale outdoor sculptures that enhance the stunning landscape. The “Elaborate” series by Angus Taylor, consisting of monumental stone and bronze sculptures, beautifully juxtaposes the natural elements with human craftsmanship, providing a contemplative backdrop for visitors as they explore the vineyards.
Spier Wine Farm
Spier Wine Farm is a leader in combining art and wine, with a strong commitment to supporting South African artists. The estate’s Spier Art Collection is one of the largest collections of contemporary South African art, displayed throughout the property. One of the most notable installations is the “Elemental” series by Marco Cianfanelli, featuring intricate steel sculptures that play with light and shadow. These sculptures are thoughtfully integrated into the estate’s landscape, creating a serene and inspiring environment for visitors to enjoy Spier’s organic wines while appreciating the creativity of local artists.
Bespoke Art and Wine Experiences at 21 Nettleton
At 21 Nettleton, we pride ourselves on offering bespoke and curated experiences tailored to your preferences. Imagine a private painting session in our stunning gardens, guided by a local art teacher, with the majestic ocean and the Twelve Apostles as your backdrop. Pair this creative endeavour with a glass of your favourite wine from a nearby estate, and you have an experience that epitomises luxury and exclusivity.
Book your getaway to luxury at 21 Nettleton now, the most sought after address in Cape Town.
