Today started early, as we needed to prepare the opening of the new ‘Neil Ellis’ winery in the Alexander Valley. Our distinct caterer, according to South African standards a real ‘speedy’, could use our help with the mise en place. Together with our colleague Jef Schuur from Texel, we got to work in the Culibus of the Jeunes de Restaurateurs to prepare for lunch.

At the winery, we were welcomed by the typical South African hospitality. The opening aperitif was a fresh Sauvignon Blanc (2009). The exotic character was not inferior to the sunbeams that reached a temperature of 25 degrees Celsius. In combination with the location of the winery, with highlands and vineyards stretching out, it was the perfect setting for the opening.

In the mean time, it was very busy in the kitchen. The ceremony would start, in the presence of Neil Ellis and his wife Stefanie, SVH Masterchefs and winners of the Great Grapes Competitions. The first dish to be served was a crostini of Parmesan cheese with a duxelles of mushrooms and brandade of king-klip. This delicacy was accompanied by a Sauvignon barrel fermented wine of Neil Ellis. Speeches of Marita de Beer and Neil Ellis filled up the afternoon, succeeded by dishes of cod, Cape chicken potsjie and lamb. The auction wine Dorandon (2007), containing 60% Syrah and 40% Grenache, crowned it all. Even people who usually don’t drink red wine were tempted to try this delicious wine.

Today was a beautiful day again. We were very satisfied and returned to Cape town with great memories of the domain and its hospitality. Tomorrow morning at 06:30 hrs a new day starts. Without a doubt we will have new culinary experience tomorrow, so enough reasons to keep you posted!

Culinary regards from sunny South Africa!
Noël & Onno