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Bouchard Finlayson

Hermanus, Western Cape

Bouchard Finlayson Vineyard Background

A vineyard between heaven & earth

Cradled amid the hills of the Hemel-en-Aarde (Heaven and Earth) valley,
Bouchard Finlayson is widely acclaimed as one of South Africa’s leading boutique wine cellars.

With a terroir defined by both ancient soils and a cool maritime climate, the vineyards of Bouchard Finlayson are famous for producing award-winning
Pinot Noir, elegant Chardonnay and terroir-driven Sauvignon Blanc, while inspired blends showcase the depth of skill and innovation in our winemaking team.

The Bouchard Finlayson cellar is conveniently located a scenic 90 minutes’ drive from Cape Town, close to the world-famous whale-watching centre of Hermanus.

Meet the flagbearers of traditional Irish culture

Enquire now
Ashford castle Spa background pattern

Fire & wood: Itinerary 1

Blacksmith hammering an iron rode with sparks

The blacksmith

Visit a working forge and learn how the bars of metal are transformed into the most ornate contemporary artwork by this internationally acclaimed blacksmith. Work the blacksmith’s bellows to redden the fire, take up the hammer and work metal on the anvil to make your own piece of artwork.

irish craftmsan carving wood

The furniture maker

Follow the journey of our native Irish trees from sawn planks through the workshop to their final iteration as a beautiful piece of furniture. Learn the time-honoured skills of craftsmanship that shape this natural medium, find a real appreciation for the almost meditative qualities of working wood with hand tools.

The chef

To further enhance your day of craft, enjoy a private lunch inspired by the lush fields, wild mountains, and rich waters of the West of Ireland. Every country has its own culinary interpretation of the craft of cooking, here you will explore and take away some new skills to try at home.

Clay & cloth: Itinerary 2

Cutting out a section of Irish tweed

The textile designer

A veritable force in Irish textile design, this local designer is pushing the boundaries of contemporary Irish fashion. Explore how Irish textiles are used to create handmade, one-off pieces that combine beautiful Irish fabrics with modern tailoring - a must-see for fashion aficionados.

Spinning wet pottery on a pottery wheel

The ceramicist

Visit a local ceramicist's studio and peruse her collection of stoneware and porcelain inspired by the Connemara landscape. Known for experimenting with smoke-firing techniques and making her own glazes, join our ceramicist at her potter’s wheel and get a hands-on feel for throwing Irish pottery.

The organic grower

To further enhance your day of craft, join this organic and biodynamic vegetable grower who has spent a lifetime working with nature, crafting amazing tasting food. Enjoy a private lunch in the grower's home inspired by the bounty of the season.

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