Absa Du Champ: Where Polo, Power and Premium Living Met in the Winelands

By Naushad Khan

The Cape Winelands has a bold new addition to its luxury events calendar. On 7 February 2026, Absa Du Champ made an unforgettable debut at Val de Vie Estate, transforming the Paarl-Franschhoek Valley into a refined playground of polo, gastronomy and contemporary culture.

Framed by the theme “Where Mastery Meets Story”, the inaugural event delivered far more than a day at the polo. It was a carefully curated lifestyle experience celebrating excellence across disciplines — from sport and art to fine dining and design.

Polo anchored the programme, described as a dialogue between horse and rider where trust, instinct and timing turn movement into art. The Ladies match took centre stage, underscoring Absa’s commitment to advancing women in sport, with Royal Reins securing a thrilling 6–5 victory. The Men’s 10 Goal Final followed with equal intensity as Inland Lakers edged Coastal Warriors 7–6 in a gripping encounter. The Best Playing Pony accolade went to Nemo, honouring exceptional partnership and performance on the field.

Beyond the sport, guests journeyed through immersive luxury experiences. A contemporary art showcase, an exclusive edit of premium lifestyle brands and a celebrated fine wine and champagne collection created an atmosphere of layered sophistication.

At the culinary helm, award-winning chef Johnny Hamman presented a striking 12-course gastronomic journey centred around the Vertical Harvest Table — a sculptural dining concept that turned each course into edible art.

With its seamless fusion of mastery, storytelling and modern luxury, Absa Du Champ has firmly established itself as a standout new signature event — refined, experiential and unmistakably world-class.