Entertainer, writer and cook, Nataniël
Entertainer, writer and cook Nataniël has become a household name to those with a high regard for decadence. Known for his dry wit and outspokenness on stage, Nataniël’s offstage appeal lies in his cookbooks and other published works, as well as his luxury homeware range called Kaalkop. Interview by Jeanri-Tine van Zyl.
What was the first bottle of wine that all made sense and why?
It was a bottle from Swartland Winery; they were the first people to sponsor one of my concert tours.
What was your most memorable wine experience?
Some years ago, I stayed with Tania Torrés in Paris for a few weeks. One night, after a cabaret, the chef came to our table with a collection of matured cheeses and a bottle of unlabelled wine made by his family. That was a fantastic meal.
What wine that you have not yet tasted do you most want to?
One that makes you lose weight.
What was the last wine that you bought?
A few cases of Pierre Jourdan Brut for a launch at one of my shops.
How big is your wine collection and where do you store it?
I have no wine collection. My house is a bit like a restaurant: wine gets delivered and served.
Which are your favourite South African wine producers?
Pierre Jourdan, Jean Daneel and La Motte.
What was your most embarrassing moment to do with wine?
Being a student, having too much wine, and waking up at the wrong place.
What do you like least about wine?
Headaches.
What is your favourite meal?
Oven-baked chicken with figs, butternut, chilli and honey. I’m into one-pot dishes.
What are your favourite restaurants in South Africa?
Topsi & Company in Franschhoek, Geet in Brooklyn and Carlton Café Delicious in Menlopark.
Which three people would you invite to your fantasy dinner party?
Patti LaBelle, Tom Ford and JK Rowling.
What is your most treasured possession?
A collection of letters from my grandmother. She died over 20 years ago, but was the most exciting person I ever met.
What is your greatest extravagance?
Costume jewellery and designer watches.
How do you relax?
I don’t, I can’t, I never have.
Who are your favourite writers?
Jane Austen, Proust, Sheri Reynolds. And I’m secretly addicted to Agatha Christie.
Who are your favourite musicians?
My band: Charl du Plessis (piano), Juan Oosthuizen (guitar), Corné Dannhauser (bass), Tonia Selley (percussion), Vincenzo Henrico (drums).
Where did you spend your last holiday?
Florence.
What is your favourite city in the world and why?
London. Best shops in the world. Plus I can shop in a language I understand.
What is your idea of perfect happiness?
Silence. There is too much noise, everywhere.
