I do love a good bubbly and Cap Classique really hits all the right notes for me. So it was with great alactricty that Anri Steyn and I accepted an invitation to Simonsig to experience their new 'Follow the Vonkel' experience. As you may know, Cap Classique is made in the methode champenoise, following the 'Champagne' method, but South Africa coined the term Cap Classique to describe its very own category pioneered by Frans Malan, founder of Simonsig, who made the first Cap Classique (from Chenin Blanc) in South Africa in 1971. He called it Vonkel, which means 'sparkling' in Afrikaans. The Cap Classique Association was launched only in 1992 - so I am wondering about all the discussions had in the 20 years to find the right name! The Follow the Vonkel experience is a fun, slightly messy and very hands-on process - and we had renewed respect for those who still do things manually. The actual degorging removing the crown cap without losing all the spritely liquid, then adding the appropriate dosage to sweeten it accordingly, and the closing it with much effort with a real cork and muselet made us all very thirsty and enjoyed their delicious bubbles when we were victorious. The experience includes enjoying a glass of bubbles while you are busy, a bit of an educational journey through the Cap Classique history and you get to take home your newly corked bottle with your own label! The activity is offered daily at 10am and 3pm - and you need to book with Simonsig. Cost currently R420 We were treated to a very tasty brunch on the deck at Vonkel, their new aptly named restaurant, which offers scrummy bagels and freshly pressed juices and for lunch has a wide selection of interesting dishes, including pizzas and pastas. Next time you are tasked with the job of taking pals or family out for an interactive outing, look no further - the Follow the Vonkel experience is really worth while and fun!