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Review by Tasneema Diest
Some places don’t just offer a venue — they offer a feeling. Sunset Smooth at Leopard’s Leap Family Vineyards was one of those rare experiences where everything just came together effortlessly, creating the kind of day you’ll remember and want to repeat.
From the moment we arrived, we were welcomed with a glass of champagne and warm smiles. The staff were genuinely friendly and attentive, and our waiter, Celeste, was exceptional. She took the time to recommend dishes, explain the menu, and make sure everything we needed was taken care of. Her thoughtful service added so much to the experience.
We found the perfect spot under the generous shade of tall trees, overlooking beautiful lawns and surrounded by the peaceful Franschhoek Valley scenery. The weather was ideal — calm, bright, and gentle — making it the perfect backdrop for a relaxed afternoon.
We began with two wood-fired pizzas: The Italian – flavourful, balanced, and perfectly crisp and Mushroom & Brie – creamy, rich, and beautifully indulgent. We also ordered the Savoury Platter, which came with bread and included: Local cheeses, bitterballen, beef biltong, biltong pâté, hummus, marinated olives, gooseberry chutney, sourdough, seasonal jam, and whipped butter — a generous spread that felt authentically local and lovingly curated.
To keep cool as the afternoon sun lingered, we enjoyed their cocktails — including a refreshing gin slushy-style cocktail that was absolutely perfect for the warm weather. It was delicious, icy, and one of those drinks you want to sip slowly just to make it last longer.
A sweet ending – We ended the experience with dessert, sharing: Peppermint Crisp – nostalgic and decadent, Lemon Meringue – bright, zesty, and beautifully balanced and Cake of the Day: Vanilla Berry – soft, sweet and the perfect finish
Finally, we stopped by the winery store to pick up some bottles to take home — because once you’ve tasted and experienced the atmosphere, you definitely want a piece of it to continue with you.
Overall, Sunset Smooth at Leopard’s Leap was a relaxed, memorable and beautifully enjoyable experience — from the food, to the wine, to the people, to the setting. It felt like the perfect balance of sophistication and ease — a place where time slows down just enough for you to enjoy the moment.
Join us at Leopard’s Leap Family Vineyards for our Sunset Smooth Event: 20 December 2025
Bask in the beauty of our Franschhoek Valley Vineyard setting while enjoying a picturesque and sultry sunset with some laid-back tunes, your favourite glass of wine and a nibble or two. Chill, sway, and dance to Rhythm Divine! Rhythm Divine conjures the soundtrack to an idyllic Franschhoek experience, blending jazzy, hip and impossibly cool sounds. This bespoke collective of top musicians is led by Neil Benjamin on decks & guitar, together with John Hassan on percussion, Rayelle on violin and Buddy Wells on saxophone. Their performances are a sensory journey – let their energy and groove permeate as you soak in the golden moments as the sun sets behind breathtaking Franschhoek vistas. Think Café Del Mar, Saint Germain, and the softer, more soulful edge of Daft Punk and Laurent Garnier.
Entrance & live entertainment: R350 per person book online.
Leopard’s Leap wine at cellar door prices, a selection of drinks and delicious, easy food will be available on the evening.