Mark Wednesday 28 October on your calendar; this is the day when the much-loved open-air series of Stellenbosch Street Soirées returns to Drostdy Street for a milestone year.

Event owner, Stellenbosch Wine Routes, marks its 55th anniversary and founded the soiree concept precisely 15 years ago.

The popularity of the soirées has kept that tradition alive and well, in a celebration of the makers of some of South Africa’s most renowned wines.

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Uniquely Stellenbosch

“The Stellenbosch Street Soirées are a taste of the good life, designed around the things we love most: good food, fine wine, live music and great company,” says Elmarie Rabe, manager of the Stellenbosch Wine Routes.

“It’s the best way to enjoy the beautiful summer evenings. And once you’ve soaked it all up, make an evening of it. Each soiree takes place for two hours only, from 18:00 to 20:00, making them the potential start of something longer. It’s easily a precursor to dinner at one of Stellenbosch’s many wonderful restaurants.”

There are nine soirees in the series, but don’t be lulled into postponing your attendance. “The events sell out rapidly and it won’t be any different for this season,” warns Rabe.

With a long history as the epicentre of wine and food excellence in SA, Stellenbosch remains a top destination for visitors.

It’s home to many of the country’s most prized wineries, awarded chefs and eateries. Its street cafés, wine bars and restaurants come alive in summer, precisely the time when these ever-popular Stellenbosch Street Soirées take place.

Wine meets food and music

During the event, as dusk settles, Drostdy Street is transformed. Strings of festive lights are suspended overhead and comfy islands of casual seating become hubs for a friendly catch-up between friends.

Every ticket guarantees entry to an evening built for savouring – wine stalls pouring the region’s finest, food stalls offering a diversity of flavours and performers providing the soundtrack in the background.

The soirées, all happen mid-week on Wednesdays: 28 October, 11 November, 25 November and 9 December. Next year’s dates are 20 January, 3 February, 17 February, 3 March and 17 March.

The cost of R280 per person includes a branded glass and 10 wine tasting tokens. Guests are advised to reserve their tickets online at https://plankton.mobi/

• For more information, send an email to info@wineroute.co.za or call 021 886 4310.

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