Bonjour French Market Friends,

I hope you are all keeping warm and enjoying the crisp winter days here in Cape Town.

France is experiencing an exceptionally hot summer. In Champagne, this has brought one of the earliest grape harvests on record. Earlier than the famous heatwave vintages of 2003 and 2020. Growers are working around the clock to protect their young vines.

While the drought has reduced yields and placed young vines under considerable stress, the grapes that remain are ripening quickly, concentrating their sugars and flavours, creating conditions that could make the 2026 vintage exceptionally rare and complex.

To celebrate the resilience of these historic estates, we are spotlighting our imported Champagne collection this weekend. There is no better way to salute the hard working winemakers of France than by opening a bottle of world-class Champagne while enjoying a cosy Cape Town winter evening.

A challenging season for our growers; but one that could produce an exceptional vintage.

This weekend we’re offering our Reblochon style at a special price while stocks last, making it the perfect opportunity to discover this exceptional cheese; or to take home another favourite if you already know and love it.

An Evening Around the Table

There’s a reason fondue has been enjoyed for generations. A blend of beautifully melting cheeses, fresh baguette and a glass of wine are often all that’s needed for a memorable evening around the table.

Our cheese counter is well stocked for fondue this winter, with Comte, 15 month Gruyère and Emmental, along with freshly baked baguettes, charcuterie, cornichons and carefully selected wines. If you’re planning a fondue evening, we’d be delighted to help you choose the perfect combination.