Town stops to smell the rosé

GRAAFF-REINET NEWS - Wine enthusiasts from across South Africa travelled to Graaff-Reinet over the weekend, for the highly-anticipated Stoep Tasting 2020.

Organisers estimate that the tourism weekend, which saw over 3 000 visitors to the town, resulted in an over R20-million economic injection for Graaff-Reinet.

"We are beyond happy with how the weekend turned out," said organiser Rose Wright, of the Karoo Wine Club. According to her, Covid-19 regulations made it tricky to organise, but Stoep-goers were generally considerate towards the rules.

This year, ticket sales were capped to prevent large crowds, stoeps were spaced further apart, and those attending the two-day shindig could not purchase wine, under the gazetted lockdown regulation that prevents alcohol sales over weekends.

Wine orders could be placed, which can either be collected or will be shipped by the producers. The number of wine producers was also reduced to 30.

"It was an absolute pleasure to see how respectful everyone was and what a wonderful type of crowd Stoep Tasting continues to attract," said Wright.

According to her, tourists travelled from the Free State, Western Cape and Gauteng to attend. Eastern Cape residents also showed their support, travelling from East London, Grahamstown, Port Alfred, Kenton-on-Sea, Port Elizabeth and St Francis Bay.

"Stoep Tasting weekend is now a critical part of the financial year for many business owners and employees in Graaff Reinet," explained Wright. "It has a huge impact on the economy of this little town and region."

The long-awaited weekend, which usually takes place in May, almost didn't take place, due to the outbreak of Covid-19 and regulations implemented at the time. "As organisers, we had written off this year's Stoep Tasting," said Wright. After the announcement of Lockdown level 2, we received pleas from producers and locals in the hospitality industry for us to try to make it happen." Following conversations with legal advisers and role players in the industry, Stoep Tasting received the go-ahead from all role players.

"Graaff Reinet is a world-class tourist destination and the Stoep Tasting Wine Weekend is one of the best in the world. Without the help and support of the community, it could not happen," said Wright, thanking those who attended.

The Karoo Wine Club also thanked the Graaff-Reinet SAPS, Traffic Police and fire brigade for their crucial role in making the weekend as safe as possible. Jack van Niekerk and his team at the Graaff-Reinet Tourism Office were also thanked, for their tireless work to make Stoep Tasting a success. Local business, schools and small food vendors were thanked for their support.

Stoep Tasting 2021 is already in the works and expected to take place from 27 to 30 May. An extra day, the Thursday will be included. "Next year will be bigger and better and a few new innovative add-ons and surprises," said Wright.

Locals can follow Karoo Wine Club on Facebook for more information.

Fun at Drostdy.