The Spier Secret Courtyard opened its doors in February and will close at the end of April. Arriving at 64A Wale Street, it is almost impossible to realise what is in store as geometric patterns conceal the windows. Head inside and you're in a long room, where Capetonians (and tourists in the know) are happily catching up over a glass of wine. Carry on walking and then you're suddenly in the courtyard itself, surrounded by rugged brick walls and with storied tiles underfoot. You might be content to sit down on one of the stools designed by Thingking, which, like the light fittings, show Spier's commitment to sustainability through the artful redeployment of old wine boxes. But, if you head on further, you'll encounter the cosy bar - the engine room of this establishment, which dispatches Chenin Blanc slush puppies to thirsty patrons, and offers seven of Spier's wines by the glass at cellar door prices.
For those feeling summery, Creative Block 2, a crisp white Sauvignon blend (R25) or the rich-and-ripe 21 Gables Chenin Blanc (R30) will most certainly do the trick. If you're in a cosy mood, try the Spier Creative Block 3 or Creative Block 5 - both award-winning red blends - or Spier's flagship 21 Gables Pinotage. Luckily, beer drinkers don't have to feel left out in the cold - enjoy an icy First Light Golden Ale or King's Blockhouse India Pale Ale from local brewery Devil's Peak. There's homemade ginger beer too.
If you're feeling peckish there's a nifty list of snacks, all ranging between R35 and R45, dreamed up by nearby Dear Me brasserie's Vanessa Marx - who is well known for her commitment to ethical cuisine. Munch on biltong (from beef raised on Farmer Angus's pastures at Spier), a Scotch Egg with homemade aioli, or more-ish chilli and buchu salted candy peanuts, among other things.
Showing the magic that can be achieved through collaboration, the Spier Secret team has worked with graphic designers the Kinsmen Collective, stylist Hendrik Coetzee and architect Renée Rossouw (who concepetualised the geometric tile wall installation that pays homage to the courtyard's floor) to bring the courtyard to life.
A magical space deserves magical happenings. On Friday and Saturday evenings, there are relaxed live music sessions. Food Jams with Jade de Waal puts you in the apron as you collaborate on creating a mouth-watering meal. If sitting back and being served something scrumptious is more your style, then the Secret Dinners (between R200 and R300 per person), hosted by leading members of the Cape creative community, are for you. It's important to book for these events in advance, as space is limited. You can do so (in addition to viewing the full programme) on spiersecret.co.za.
The small gift shop has a lovely range of gifts: from meat knives to wine glasses and books. It also sells Spier's wines at cellar door prices, saving you the schlep to Stellenbosch if you're a time-starved city slicker.
The Spier Secret Courtyard runs till the end of April. In the meantime, it's open from 4pm on Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Live music begins on Fridays and Saturdays at 6.30pm.
64A Wale Street, Cape Town
spiersecret.co.za
