It’s Wine and Dine season at Signal Restaurant and this month the spotlight falls on the owner of Rustenberg Wines, Simon Barlow.

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

I started out as a Viticulturist in 1978 by mistake.

If you could do any other job in the world, what would you do?

I think a veterinary surgeon.

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

Chateau Mouton Rothschild 1925.

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

I am afraid to say that I don’t do “cheap and cheerful”; I usually quietly order a beer.

Cork or screw cap?

Screw cap all the way without a doubt!

What’s the best cure for a hangover?

Another glass of wine.

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

I usually help with the starters, but Rozanne is such an excellent cook I would just spoil it.

What would you order as your last meal?

Crayfish or shrimps/prawns with avocado.

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

I would love to have a meal at ‘el Buli’.

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

Winston Churchill – he had such an amazing mind and quick wit.

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

That second bottle of red wine on a cold winter’s evening in front of a big fire.

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

I keep bees.

Now that you know a little more about Simon, join him and our Executive Chef, Malika van Reenen, on Thursday 28 July 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, guests can enjoy a 3 course menu at R330 per person.  To book, please contact Rene on 021 410 7097 or renec@capegrace.com.