This month saw us visiting the 300 + year old Welgemeend Venue in Gardens, what an amazing setting just 5km from Cape Town CBD. The venue is looked after by the Friends of Welgemeend and Helena gave us some very interesting facts about the site as well as the art that was currently exhibited at the venue. You must have a look at their website and compare the “stoep” of yester years to the “stoep” we were enjoying today. Not even the vines seems to have changed.
Nederburg Wines always seem to have something for every occasion and on this one they certainly didn’t disappoint. They aptly showcased their Heritage Wine Range at this occasion.
And so our Heritage Celebration began on the “stoep” for canapés of Bobotie Springrolls, Buchu and Mint yoghurt paired with slighted wooded, crisp Sauvignon Blanc was a perfect pairing for this cool end of Winter evening. The Heritage Heroes “The Young Airhawk”, which was named in honour of winemaker Johann Grause and his wife Ilse’s son Arnold who unfortunately died in a light airplane crash.
Once all the guest had arrived we were welcomed by Sybil in the amazing room, filled with painting and artworks all the while being serenaded by the classical pianist. Helena explained a little more about Welgemeend and then handed over the Red Winemaker from Nederburg, Samuel Viljeon. He told us a little history about the Nederburg Heritage Heroes Range which was specifically created with food paring in mind and they certainly got it spot on.
Entering the Dining room, we were all oohing and aahing, its simply amazing how each month you think they can’t do any better, but Come Wine With Us always has a way of blowing you away and this time was no different. From the changing centerpieces to the Menu in a Bottle, these guys just know how to impress.
Sybil then went on to Introduce Chef Vanessa Marx from Dear Me and Tjing Tjing Bar, who especially flew in for this month’s edition of Come Wine With Us. Winner of the Eat Out Raising Star Award. Sadly she recently relocated to Port Elizabeth to open a new restaurant, we were so happy to have her create the awesome dishes for us this evening.
First Course was a Baked snoek, apricot relish paired with the Heritage Heroes The Anchorman served in “camping enamel plates”. The plates and taste evoked many memories of days camping and all those snoek braais. Our heritage for sure… paired with the fresh and fruity Chennin Blanc.The Bouquet as per Nederburg Wines – Reminiscent of ripe fruits, especially apricots and oranges.
Second Course brought on a change of scenery… centerpieces made for the spiced seared Kudu, Lentil dressing, crispy Bacon, wild Rosemary. The thorny bush and candle centerpieces created the perfect setting, to take you on that safari. Complimented by the Heritage Heroes The Motorcycle Marvel, this Rhone Style Blend, smooth and silky tannins was and excellent choice to pair the Kudu with. Bouquet as per Nederburg Wines – An abundance of spicy, peppery berry and sweet fruit characters.
Then onto a homage to our Heritage, Vanessa Marx style, Lamb knuckle ‘potjie’, samp & beans, spekboom salad paired Heritage Heroes The Brewmaster This time round it was a real do-it-yourself course. We were introduced to the “Spekboom”. The leaves we were to add to complete our salad which accompanied our main course. The best was when they brought out the potjies and you had to dish for yourselves. This was were all caution was thrown to the wind, acquaintances became friends, what an amazing idea, loved it.
Sybil as gracious as ever didn’t forget to thank her awesome kitchen and wait staff.
Lastly was a cheese course and totally South African ‘Stokbrood” included.
An awesome time had by all, usual. Thank you Come Wine With Us, Welgemeend and Nederburg Wines.
For more pic please click the links below