From blushers to dyeballs, laughing gyms and deceivers – there’s plenty of fungus in store, and more, now that the splendid hunt for wild mushrooms at Delheim Estate in Stellenbosch is back.
These delicious forest treats will be foraged alongside a expert, leading the way from start to forage. So, get ready to float like a forest fairy through the gorgeous family-owned winery.
Foragers will learn at the hands of the host duo that has made this a highlight of the Cape Winelands for 15 years. Delheim’s Nora Thiel was raised in a home that regularly foraged for mushrooms and she’ll be joined by author and specialist, Gary Goldman. Both master mycophiles, adept in the art of finding the fungi.
If you’re keen to get involved, you’ll have to act fast:
The event is in high demand and takes place once a year during a short, seasonal window: after the winter’s first rains when conditions are just right. For these reasons, the Delheim Wild Mushroom Forage will take place for members of the public for one day only – the public holiday of 16 June (Youth Day).
Another day is planned for 2 July, but it’s reserved for members of the estate’s wine club. If you’re not a member already, then now’s the time to sign up. In addition to receiving access to special events like the wild mushroom forage, members of Delheim’s Wine Club also receive great access to wine. This includes a 20% discount on specified wines; and a free tasting at the farm.
Participating groups have been limited to 30 people. Each ticket includes a presentation about foraging and mushroom varieties, which covers those to be avoided and those that are edible; the forage excursion into Delheim’s forest; and a three-course, mushroom-inspired lunch served with wines from the estate.
Apart from the quality of tuition and fun experience overall, the Delheim Wild Mushroom Forage is supremely popular for the forest where the toadstools sprout. It is here that the fungus thrives undisturbed, weaving its threads beneath the forest floor, transforming organic matter into healthy soil.
Edible mushrooms are often linked with health benefits and some cultures even claim they possess a supernatural aura. Whatever their magic, many specimens are sumptuous as a dish, with some of the finest examples served at Delheim.
So, whether you’re seeking vroom through ‘shrooms’ or just out for a fun(gi) experience, it’s time to venture out with the pixies and sprites. It’s time to head for Delheim.
*Note: The appearance of wild mushrooms depends completely on natural phenomena that are impossible to forecast with absolute accuracy. Although the Delheim events take place during the high season for wild mushrooms, the estate cannot guarantee the appearance of mushrooms on the day.
The details:
- Cost: R650 per person.
- Bookings: Required, email [email protected] to reserve your spot.
- Bring: A basket, pocket knife, walking boots and rain jacket
- Age limit: No under 18’s
- Location: Delheim Estate is in the Simonsberg sub-region of the Stellenbosch Wine Routes, on the Knorhoek Road, off the R44.
For more information about Delheim Estate in general, visit www.delheim.com or contact [email protected] or 021 888 4600.
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Picture: Unsplash