While Shot Lefting in the Republic of Cape Town, I ventured out to Stellenbosch for a vegan lunch experience at Quoin Rock Wine Estate. Being a non-drinker surrounded by vineyards, one would wonder why I would venture out to a wine estate?…Well, there’s a growing trend where these wine estates are creating a wholistic culinary experience.
Some have become intentional about communicating that their food is sustainably and ethically sourced from their Estates and sources locally.
Gåte restaurant – ‘a gateway to an extraordinary dining experience’ has created that experience. With a variation of menus from three-course daytime dining to the full Chef’s experience of a seven-course dinner.
I went with the the Five Course Vegan Tasting Menu without the wine pairing.
Carrot
• carrot fondant | coffee & oat tuile | watercress pesto
Barley Risotto
• kale | courgette | Limpopo black winter truffle | peanut
Pickled King Oyster Mushroom
• leek | seaweed salad | mushroom poppadom
Beet Steak
• beetroot dauphinoise | baby beetroot | hazelnuts
Pineapple & Lime
• coconut sorbet | salted caramel | pineapple confit
Bottom (Left to Right): Pickled King Oyster Mushroom, Beet Steak and Pineapple & Lime
The only course that did not tantalise my palette was the Pickled King Oyster Mushroom. I’m extremely finicky with how mushroom is prepared, and this version did not work for me. All the other courses were exquisite, particularly loved the Barley Risotto. The food experience was delectable and the service was world class.
Beautiful surroundings with stunning views of Simonsberg, not forgetting the alluring architectural design of the event venue.
“Quoin Rock Wine Estate is the inspiring home of captivating experiences, from wine-tasting to picnics, weddings, culinary adventures and tranquil mountain escapes.”
SPLENDID EXPERIENCES 