Exploring Idiom: The Most Italian Winery at the Cape

There are places at the Cape that few people visit, even though true wine jewels hide there.

One such place is surely Sir Lowry’s Pass, at the foot of the pass of the same name and just a few kilometers away from the German colony at the Cape, "Somerset West".

The jewel hidden in the hills above Sir Lowry’s Pass is Idiom, the winery of the Italian family Bottega.

If you're wondering whether they are true Italians, just ask yourself what car Chef Roberto drives. Well? An Alfa, of course! And indeed, that's the case.

Anyone who's Italian and drives an Alfa naturally grows not just the usual suspects at the Cape but also Italian grape varieties: Pinot Grigio, Barbera, Sangiovese, and Nebiolo peacefully coexist alongside Viognier, Zinfandel, Grenache, and others in the tank. Once bottled and matured, they all become a delight for any connoisseur. Some are serious and profound; others serve as convincing everyday table companions. But they are always authentic and full of Italian zest for life.

This is particularly true when enjoyed on-site in their restaurant. We knew it was good, but we only realized how good during the Christmas party we celebrated there with our South African team and their families. The view over False Bay, exceptional friendly service, and a plate more beautiful than the last. The stunning first impression was consistently confirmed in taste, and together with the wine pairing, that afternoon became an unforgettable experience and our best Christmas party ever.

Here in Germany, we can only offer you the wine pairing today, however, at special prices. Unfortunately, you’ll have to cook for yourself. Alternatively, you could spontaneously fly out and enjoy a bit of late summer at the Cape.

Finally, a few words about the current situation in South Africa.

Like with us, the ongoing topic of the last two years has disappeared from the front pages. ……

Last week, when we wrote that we felt the world was in turmoil, we hoped the situation would improve. Unfortunately, it turned out worse than we could have imagined. Triggered by all the suffering in Ukraine, it seems we are now experiencing a political turning point in Germany as well. Under these circumstances, we feel guilty for writing amusing emails about such a trivial luxury item as wine. On the other hand, we bear responsibility for our company, our employees, our suppliers, and, not least, you, who may still want to enjoy your favorite wines. Therefore, we will continue as before, but rest assured that we care just as much about these issues as we do about the fate of the people, especially the children at the Cape.