Franschhoek bubbles in early December

Sponsored by Investec Specialist Bank, this popular festival will have a new fashionable twist with a black and white emphasis on hats and a prize will be awarded to the best-dressed couple every day of the festival.

Commenting on this event and its continued support, Wouter de Vos, head of Investec Specialist Bank in Cape Town said, "Investec is delighted to be sponsoring the Franschhoek Cap Classique and Champagne festival again this year. It is a truly prestigious occasion, which enables us to build on our existing client relationships. There is a strong affiliation between the bank and the festival, with its appreciation for individual tastes and association with world class brands."

Wineries participating include Backsberg, Colmant, Graham Beck Wines, Krone, La Motte, Morena, Môreson, Pierre Jourdan, Simonsig, Steenberg, Topiary Wines and Villiera. Champagnes will be represented by brands such as Billecart Salmon, Tribaut and Veuve Clicquot.

The centrepiece of the festival is the grand marquee situated on the sprawling lawns surrounding the town's famous Huguenot Monument, where Cap Classique and Champagne stalls will be interspersed with local restaurants offering delicious delicacies to match and live entertainment setting the tone for the celebrations.

Visitors to the festival will be treated to multi-layered gastronomic delights, as local restaurants get the chance to showcase the town's status as one of the world's premier culinary destinations. Some of the participating fine dining restaurants include Babylonstoren, Le Quartier Français, The Restaurant at Grande Provence, Bread & Wine, Mange Tout at Mont Rochelle Hotel, La Petite Ferme, Pierneef à La Motte Restaurant, L'Ermitage, Monneaux Restaurant, Reuben's, The SalmonBar, Dieu Donné, Bistro Allée Bleue and Le Franschhoek.

For a list of exhibitors, go to www.franschhoek.org.za.