While Allée Bleue is
most widely known for its wines and fruit, the 200ha estate is ranked among the
top three herb growers in the province. Allée Bleue’s herb production takes
place in 31 hydroponic tunnels spread across 2.4ha. It is a key supplier to
major South African retailers including Pick ‘n Pay, Checkers, Fruit and Veg
City and Spar.
The immense herb
tunnels on the estate are something truly unique to experience, and for R185 per
person you can do just that. Allée Bleue invites foodies, gardeners, families and
anyone interested in how herbs are grown to take a tour of their herb farm
under the guidance of the estate’s resident herb grower, Lario Moolman. Moolman
studied Agriculture and is among very few in South Africa with more than a
decade of experience in herb farming.
“With herbs, the
learning process never ends,” she says. “And even if you have years of
experience, this is no guarantee of success as herbs are a living plants,
impacted by constant changes in the environment and weather. Plus, we’re
continuously looking for ways to improve what we do.”
The 1.5 hour herb
tour will allow visitors to see first-hand how herbs are nurtured from seedling
to full growth; and, how the best is coaxed from the plants through the use of
fascinating, all-natural materials such as “coco peat”, made from coconut
husks. The tour is followed by a three course herb-inspired lunch, including
wine pairings, at the reinvigorated Allée Bleue Bistro.
These insightful
and educational tours are available every Friday, and booking is essential.
Tickets are priced at R185 per person and include: a welcome drink, a 1.5 hour Herb Tour, and a 3
course lunch with wine pairings. Bookings can be made by calling (021) 874
1021. For more information about the farm, visit www.alleebleue.com
Allée Bleue grows a
range of herbs including Parsley, Chives, Wild Rocket, Dill, Fennel, Sage,
Oregano and Thyme, but their biggest varieties are Basil, Coriander, Rocket and
Rosemary. The estate is also a leading producer of micro-herbs.