Topiary Wines Restaurant Launch
Topiary Wines Restaurant Launch
We were ecstatic when Janine of JS Customized events invited us to photograph the launch of the brand new Topiary Wines Restaurant.
Originally a fruit farm and now under ownership of the acclaimed Burgundy producer Philippe Colin, Topiary Wine Estate is a little slice of heaven. Not only does this 64 hectare estate offer award winning wines, it also has beautiful accommodation and mountain walks, all with views to die for. As of last week a brand new restaurant under the management of Chef Duncan of Duncan & Co started serving gastronomic delights that will definitely have you coming back for more.
As we made our way up from the Wemmershoek road, two things struck us. The first was the amazing setting. The restaurant and wine tasting facility are nestled below the Sewe Koppies (Seven Hills) and offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The second was the French & South African flags flying side by side in the breeze. This was a little reminder of the history of the area dating back to the late 1600’s, when the French Huguenots first settled in the valley.
On arrival, we were warmly welcomed by Janine with a glass of the wonderful Topiary MCC.
Its palate perfectly described in their write up: “Apple pie and brioche with creamy richness from the lees, with a fine lime undertone and a long clean finish.”
Then it was down to the business of the day, the Topiary Wines Restaurant Launch. The menu is tapas style and changes seasonally. What a treat joining Chef Duncan in his domain. I don’t think you could easily beat the view he has from his kitchen window. Duncan is passionate about food. And he makes the preparation look so effortless. Swift and agile and with particular attention to detail, he is able to prepare dishes faster than you can photograph them! Not only is he a food genius, he is a nice chap too. We loved how he was present with the guests to give an explanation of the various dishes.
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- Best kitchen view we’ve ever seen
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- Chardonnay braised crayfish with brown lentil, lime and chili ginger salad
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- If you’re a fan of a complex French oak aged chardonnay, then this one is for you.
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- Duck liver parfait with shiraz onion marmalade and spiced croutons
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- Smoked salmon and sea bass croquettes with spiced lemon and grain mustard dip
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- We loved how Chef Duncan was there to personally run through the menu
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- Most interesting dish of the day! Tomato water, rainbow tomatoes, olives, buffalo milk cheese and coriander
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- I really enjoyed the easy drinking Rosé
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- Janine, our very hospitable hostess
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- My favourite dish. Sashimi of tuna, slaw, chili lime syrup, sesame oil and balsamic dip
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- Beef tartare, smoked paprika, green tobasco, virgin oil and quail egg dressing
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- Pecorino gnocchi, rosé and wild mushroom pea sauce
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- Ostrich fillet korma, soba noodles & pickled pepper salad
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- Mini lamb burger, tomato chutney, tsatziki dressing and mini chips
After our tummies were filled with delights, as well as indulging in copious amounts of gifts from the grape, we had the wonderful opportunity of staying over in one of the guests cottages. A luxurious king size bed, full bathroom with our favourite “his and hers” basins and a well kitted out kitchenette offers a fabulous self-catering option. There’s a lovely deck and built in braai – a perfect spot for sundowners. Our advice would be to book in for a few days, have lunch at the Topiary Wines Restaurant and organize your own breakfasts and dinners. Of course Franschhoek village is only a ten minute drive away if you’re feeling a little lazy.
After a peaceful nights rest, we took a short walk and Janine pointed out the start of the walking trail. I can only imagine how beautiful it must be to do this at either sunrise or sunset.
So next time you’re looking for a fabulous lunch spot, a place to host a special celebration or wedding venue, give the Topiary Wines Restaurant a call. You can thank us later!
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- Which Tapas dish will be your favourite?
2 Comments
Andre and Selma
Thank, Thank You thank you for another wow experience with you as photographers.
The photos are beautiful and the results in minutes.
Awesome people, prompt delivery and top notch photos on another level.
Thx
Janine Spies
Jscustomisedevents@gmail.com
083 4599858
And it’s always a pleasure working with such a professional hostess and event organizer who is able to keep her cool even in stressful situations!