A South African Celebration: From Winelands to Wilderness, Bubbles Included

What is Méthode Cap Classique?

Méthode Cap Classique (MCC) is South Africa’s version of champagne — made using the traditional French method (méthode champenoise), but crafted with local grapes and plenty of South African sunshine. The result? A sparkling wine with fine, persistent bubbles, refreshing acidity, and layered flavours that reflect our diverse terroir.

Unlike Prosecco or other sparkling wines made by tank fermentation, MCC undergoes a second fermentation in the bottle — the same labour-intensive process used in Champagne. But while the method may be French, MCC has a proudly South African character: expressive, elegant, and unpretentious.

Franschhoek: The Celebration Begins in the Cape Winelands

The Franschhoek valley

Your journey begins at our spectacular sister property, Franschhoek Country House & Villas, in the heart of the Cape Winelands. Franschhoek is well known as the food and wine capital of South Africa — a village steeped in French Huguenot heritage, with centuries-old vineyards, dramatic mountain surrounds and a small village atmosphere.

Here, MCC is more than a drink. It’s part of the rhythm of life.

Picture slow afternoons under the oaks, golden flutes shared over garden lunches, and vineyard views softened by late afternoon light. Whether you’re sipping on a crisp Blanc de Blanc or a rosé with delicate berry notes, the moment is made for lingering — and for celebrating.

At Franschhoek Country House & Villas, the experience extends beyond the glass. With elegant suites, thoughtful dining, and a tranquil setting near the village, it’s the perfect place to begin — or end — your South African journey.

Franschhoek Country House & Villas

From Vines to Veld: The Journey Continues North

From the mountain-framed valleys of Franschhoek, your celebration continues — but in an entirely different setting.

A short flight takes you north, into the heart of Limpopo, where Shumbalala Game Lodge waits among the mopani and marula trees of the Thornybush Nature Reserve. Here, the stillness is deeper, the air warmer, and the stars brighter.

Thornybush Nature Reserve

And yes — the bubbles continue, too.

Hidden beneath the lodge, our underground wine cellar holds a thoughtful collection of South African wines, including several of the country’s finest MCCs. Guests are welcome to select a bottle to enjoy as part of a sundowner stop on safari, or paired with a starlit, multi-course dinner on the deck.

A Different Kind of Celebration

There’s something quietly extraordinary about clinking glasses as elephants move in the distance, or hearing the gentle fizz of MCC as the fire crackles nearby.

At Shumbalala Game Lodge, celebration feels different. It might be a soft toast beneath the stars, a fire crackling nearby, or a guide placing your favourite bottle on ice before you’ve even asked. 

Shumbalala Game Lodge

Celebrate the Festive Season the South African Way

As the festive season approaches, many of us start to reflect — on the year behind us, the people around us, and the quiet joy of simply being here. At both Franschhoek Country House & Villas and Shumbalala Game Lodge, we honour that spirit of celebration with warmth, generosity, and a touch of sparkle.

We invite you to experience both:
The refined charm of the Cape Winelands
And the wild wonder of the African bush

Learn more about our Cape to Bush combination offer:
👉 https://www.shumbalala.co.za/offers/combination-special

📍Where You’ll Stay:

Franschhoek Country House & Villas
Cape Winelands, Western Cape 🇿🇦
www.fch.co.za

Shumbalala Game Lodge
Thornybush Private Nature Reserve, Limpopo 🇿🇦
www.shumbalala.co.za

Shumbalala Game Lodge

As small, family-owned properties, we cherish the connections we’ve built with our guests over the years — welcoming you not just as visitors, but as part of our extended family.

Whether you’re toasting with loved ones under oak trees or raising a glass in the golden bushveld light, we hope your season is filled with connection, nature, and just the right amount of sparkle.