It’s Wine and Dine season at Signal Restaurant and this month the spotlight falls on Fairview Wine Estate’s winemaker, Anthony de Jager.

Have you always wanted to be a winemaker and did you start out as one?

All I was sure of was that I didn’t want a normal office job.  I just wanted to be out there…

If you weren’t making wine and could do any other job in the world, what would you do?

Pro sportsman – something like a mountain biker, surfer etc.

What’s the best wine you’ve had to date (other than your own)?

Many! Most memorable was a 1964 Baychevelle (my birth year) at a really special evening in Sweden.

What ‘cheap & cheerful’ wine would you recommend as an everyday drinking wine?

Look out for great specials at the Co-ops in Paarl, e.g. Windmeul Chenin Blanc or Pinotage.

Cork or screw cap?

Cork.

What’s the best cure for a hangover?

An early morning in the mountains on my bike.

Do you enjoy cooking and if so, what’s your specialty?

I love food, but I’m a lazy chef. I make great pasta and could braai every day!!

What would you order as your last meal?

A braai!

What food would you love to try but haven’t yet had an opportunity to?

Nothing rare or exotic, but rather something fresh and wholesome.

Who would you most like to share a bottle of wine with and why?

My mates – fun guaranteed

What’s the best thing about winter in the Cape?

The rain and a fireplace!

And lastly, tell us one thing about yourself that not everyone knows

I will never bungee jump and I absolutely love beer!

 Now that you know a little more about the Fairview winemaker, join him and Executive Chef, Malika van Reenen on 29 September as they take you on culinary journey showcasing the finest wines and freshest ingredients the Cape has to offer. Starting with canapés in the Library, you’ll enjoy a 3 course menu at R330 per person. To book, please contact Rene on 021 410 7097 / renec@capegrace.com.