Cape Chamonix tasting room review
Cape Chamonix Tasting Room Review
Franschhoek attracts a fair share of European visitors, which is not without irony since visitors are treated to almost a mirror image of their homeland. It does however beg the question whether amenities beyond the scenic are on par with what the travellers might expect.
Signposts to Chamonix follow shortly after entering the valley and the drive to the winery is easy, as is finding the tasting room. Also appreciated are the numerous shaded parking bays. It is harvest season, which means that the cellar operations, situated close to the tasting room, are loud and smell-able. There are also a number of crates stacked outside; sights and sounds that contribute to making the visit on the day a very "natural" experience.
Disappointing is that the tasting room attendant at the "300-year-old building" initially seems reluctant to tend to me. When she does, her approach is clinical and automatic: "Only six wines are available for tasting, of which you can choose five. Here is your list... oh, and there's a tasting fee of R15."
Slightly taken aback, I sit at one of the tables outside beneath a huge oak tree. After a long wait the tasting attendant finally arrives at my table, but in a friendlier manner than before, and in discussing the wines she comes across as enthusiastic enough.
Still, none of the reserve ranges is available, and my begging only results in smiles that indicate "no". But she will allow me to taste six, and not just five, wines. Thanks. That said, I am pleasantly surprised by the value still to be found in the valley. In their entry level category (which are the wines offered for tastings) I find an exceptional bargain in the Rouge 2006 - it is sold for R28 from the farm. My company is delighted; in these times, what can you still buy sub-R30 and be satisfied?
Less satisfying is the service that really drags between pourings. The attendant disappears after every pouring for long interludes. The reason for this becomes clear when we move inside to pay the tasting fee and buy wines. The area around the counter has been turned into a social gathering, with girls preoccupied with their cell phones hovering around aimlessly. I concede, though, that the building with its blacksmith mementos and cosy corners has an agreeable atmosphere.
All is forgiven when a Chardonnay 2007 (R80), said to be sold out, is dug up for me. I leave with this and, of course, a couple of bottles of the Rouge 2006...
Tel 021 876 2494; www.chamonix.co.za
OPEN: Mon - Sun 09:30-17:00
SERVICE: 5/10 - there is product
knowledge but little patron interest
AMBIENCE: 7/10 - the unique
blacksmith house is charming
VALUES: 6/10 - must off er some of
the best buys in the valley
QUALITY: 5/10 - disappointing that
the reserve range was not available
