In the shadow of Shaka, KwaZulu-Natal

Since the first vine was eased into the virgin Constantia soils back in the 1650s, wines have been made almost exclusively in the Western Cape. Little success has been achieved in the northern provinces to date, but now a group of entrepreneurs are taking wine production across the border to KwaZulu-Natal. Leonie Joubert investigated.

Loire Landscapes, france

Land of great castles, gentle countryside and fine wines, home to Chenin Blanc and Sauvignon Blanc grapes, the Loire is an essential stopping point for any wine-loving visitor to France. Roger Voss reports.

Serendipitous Sicilia , italy

The island perched at the tip of the Italian boot has donned a scruffy overcoat of urban decay around its rich history. The undiscovered cindered sister of Italy has a fairy tale of her own. Text and pictures by Leonie Joubert.

The ultimate wine buy, france

It's the definitive hedonistic wine event, the annual weekend brought to you by WINE magazine and Michael Fridjhon. The 2002 version of the Michael Fridjhon WINE Experience to be held at Johannesburg's Park Hyatt on August 3 and 4 will be no exception, with a tasting of legendary. First Growth Chateau Lafite a highlight on the programme.

Under Tuscan Sun, italy

For two weeks during an early Italian autumn, Jenny Crwys-Williams walked along ancient Etruscan trails in Tuscany and Umbria. Eating, drinking and feeling beauty left indelible memories.

Vinous vivacity , italy

Given the boot by Italy since history was first recorded, the irresistible island of Sicily offers not only great beauty, great new wines and unique cuisine, but a cultural backdrop of relics dating back more than 3000 years. Tony Mossop CWM shares his recent visit.

Constantia – The Mecca of Cape Wine , Constantia1

LEONIE JOUBERT rediscovers the Constantia Wine Route, redolent of winemaking history with an interna