Persia to Paarl - wine and dine in true Persian style

Upon venturing through the doors of the Nederburg Auction Complex you will enter a Persian souq (market) with richly decorated stalls boasting a variety of must-have eats and treats. Some twenty Paarl wine cellars will remind you why this region is world renowned for its outstanding wines - especially its flagship cultivars, namely Shiraz (which according to legend had its origin in Persia) and Chenin Blanc. After sampling the many award-winning wines and tasting quality Eastern, Cape/Malay or traditional South African dishes, you can enjoy some time in the Persian matbakh (kitchen) and learn some tricks of the trade from chefs, wine makers and other local experts.

A highlight of the festival is the Persian tawla (table) where 350 guests will be treated to a gourmand experience second to none in celebration of 350 years of wine. No less than ten chefs will prepare food tastings paired with a supreme selection of 100 wines. Tickets for this event which takes place on Friday evening, 25 September, are available at R150 per person.

The Persian parade, which commemorates the legendary arrival of Shiraz from the East, will take place on Saturday amidst an exuberant atmosphere of music, belly dancing and merriment. Paarl Vintner members clad in true Middle Eastern garb will present the festival's celebrity guest with the best their cellars have to offer. Aladdin's Corner will keep the young ones entertained and parents can make use of a professional child minding service.

Tickets for adults are R80 (Sat) /R150 (Fri) and for children from 2-18 years R25. Tickets can be booked at www.cultivaria.com or purchased at the door.

For more information go to www.persiatopaarl.co.za.