Eat Cape Town: Waterkloof Wines

The Waterkloof Wines estate is pretty much candy for the eyes in every possible direction. Three-hundred-and-sixty-degrees. Delicious. From the scenic drive through the vineyard up to the tasting venue, to the floor to ceiling glass restaurant that offers views all the way to the blue waters of Gordon’s Bay.

The aptly-named “cellar in the sky” is an award-winning venue known for it’s architectural excellence. And it’s here where Chef Gregory Czarnecki serves up plate after plate of his signature food art.

I say food art and I know you’re rolling your eyes. But wait till you see it.

The glass venue blends in with nature, with views over fynbos, mountains and vineyards. While we were eating, two hawks were engaged in a mid-air duel – one of the most beautiful things I’ve ever seen. I mean, I can’t make this stuff up!

I believe that humans eat with their eyes and every plate of the 6-course degustation menu is a colourful, thoughtful masterpiece.

Food so pretty it’s almost a shame to eat it. Until you taste it. Using unusual techniques to add flavours to his dishes, like a green pea custard (don’t knock it till you’ve tried it) and a pistachio dust, Chef Greg surprises you with every mouthful and keeps you interested from the first course all the way through to the 6th.

Of course, the wine is another highlight. Each wine pairs beautifully with your plate of edible art. My favourite wines were the salmon-pink Rose and the deep red Cabernet Franc. When I told the sommelier I loved the Cab Franc, he topped up my glass. Who am I to look a gift horse in the mouth?

I love the fact that the winemaker embraces the climate, soil and winds of the region, giving the range the name of “Curcumstance”. It’s like “we’re not trying to be anything we’re not – we’re taking what we’ve got (strong winds, extreme climate) and making the very best of it.” I like that.

The waiters and sommelier are super friendly and know their menu and wines incredibly well. Don’t ever be scared or shy to ask about what you’re eating or drinking. First of all, they genuinely enjoy telling you about it and secondly, it helps you enjoy the experience more when you understand how and why the flavours work so well together.

If you’re looking for somewhere beautiful to spend an afternoon eating and drinking in one of the most beautiful settings in the Cape, you can’t go wrong here. I’m planning on taking my folks when they come down for Christmas, although I can already here my dad saying “this food is too small”.

You can find Waterkloof Wines on the Sir Lowry’s Pass Road, Somerset West. Call them on  (021) 858 1292 for info or to book. They’re also open for wine tastings from Wednesday to Sunday from 10am to 5pm.