South African band The Parlotones
The Parlotones
Local band The Parlotones have released their own wine called Giant Mistake - an experience that has changed their outlook on wine drinking completely. Jeanri-Tine van Zyl caught up with the talkative members at the official launch of their product.
What was the first bottle of wine that all made sense and why?
Kahn Morbee (lead singer): I can't remember my first wine, but when I was growing up I used to have a small glass at family parties.
What was your most memorable wine experience?
We don't remember - if you do, it wasn't that memorable, was it? But seriously, ever since we've been involved in the winemaking experience, we haven't drunk wine the same way.
What wine that you have not yet tasted do you most want to?
Loads. We haven't really gone above R200.
What was the last wine that you bought?
Neil Pauw (drummer): I've got no freakin' clue what it was; I bought it in the Magaliesburg last week - a wine that comes in a small casket. How novel.
How big is your wine collection and where do you store it?
Morbee: I've got about 18 bottles.
Pauw: I have a case of Versus.
Paul Hodgson (guitar): I belong to a wine club that sends me a random selection of wines; it's always a surprise.
Which are your favourite South African wine producers?
Who are the guys who make Giant Mistake again? [Band laughs hysterically]
What was your most embarrassing moment to do with wine?
Morbee: I fell asleep in company.
What do you like least about wine?
That it can be so formal. And the fact that it makes you sleepy and gives you a hangover.
What is your favourite meal?
Burgers and wine.
What are your favourite restaurants in South Africa?
Saigon in Rivonia, Babylon Again in Randburg.
Which three people would you invite to your fantasy dinner party?
Excluding us? Cameron Diaz (she looks like fun), Phil Ivey the poker player and Paul McCartney.
What is your most treasured possession?
Morbee: My Gretsch Guitar.
Pauw: I can't think of anything.
Hodgson: My daughter
What is your greatest extravagance?
Morbee: I bought a pen once for R3 000, a Mont Blanc. Pauw: Is that what you write songs with?
How do you relax?
Glen Hodgson (bass, piano, backing vocals): I have a bubble bath.
Morbee: I can't quite relax [rest of the band nods in agreement].
Who are your favourite writers?
Wallace Wattles, Dan Martin, Bill Bryson, George RR Martin
Who are your favourite musicians?
Roy Orbison, Tim Armstrong, Paul McCartney, John Lennon, Rancid, Jeff Tweedy.
