A Sweet Encounter with Eric Lanlard at Simonsig Estate

Not long ago, I had the incredible opportunity to spend a few hours in the delightful presence of the renowned chef and Master Pâtissier, the one and only Eric Lanlard. This extravagant event took place at the beautiful Simonsig Estate, and it was graciously put together by the esteemed Cuvée Restaurant. I have to say, being able to get so close to this celebrity chef made my friends green with envy!

I attended an incredible event where I got to witness the art of making soufflés. The chef demonstrated the process, and it was truly mesmerizing. But that was just the beginning. We were then served a four-course meal, and the fascinating part was that each dish had chocolate as one of the ingredients. It was a delightful surprise to see how chocolate could be combined with other flavors to create such unique and delicious dishes.

One example that stood out was the carrot risotto. It was paired with carrot crisps, cheese, and a white chocolate sauce. The combination may sound unusual, but it was absolutely divine. The flavors complemented each other in a way that I never would have expected. Another dish that caught my attention was the springbok with chocolate-blueberry sauce by Reuben Riffel. It was a perfect blend of savory and sweet, creating a truly unforgettable experience.

The entire meal was an adventure for the taste buds, and it was made even more special by the wine pairings from Simonsig. We had the opportunity to try their flagship red wine, Tiara, which was bold and full-bodied. It perfectly complemented the rich flavors of the dishes. And to finish off the meal, we enjoyed the delightful Kaapse Vonkel Brut Rosé, which added a touch of elegance to the experience.

Attending this event opened my eyes to the incredible versatility of chocolate. It can be so much more than just a dessert ingredient. It can elevate savory dishes and add depth to flavors. The combination of chocolate with unexpected ingredients is truly a culinary masterpiece. If you’re a fan of chocolate, I highly recommend exploring this world of flavors. You’ll be amazed at what you discover!

Meeting Mr. Lanlard in person was such a treat! Not only are his recipes scrumptious, but he is also down-to-earth and took the time to chat with everyone. He even answered questions, signed books, and happily posed for photos with his fans. It’s true what they say – charm and good looks can take you far!

His book, Chocolat, is just as charming as he is. It’s a delightful read that will make any chocolate-lover melt with joy.

And to make your mouth water, we have three fantastic recipes from Chocolat! We’ll be sharing them with you in the upcoming week, so keep an eye out.

Experience the Delights of Cuvée Restaurant

Hey there! I’m excited to share with you a little secret. Ever dreamt of dining in a fancy restaurant and rubbing shoulders with celebrity chefs? Well, Cuvée Restaurant at Simonsig Estate is one such place you simply can’t miss when you’re in Stellenbosch (check out these top 10 things to do in Stellenbosch for more inspiration!). Trust me, it’s worth every bite!

When you step into Cuvée, you’re instantly greeted with a warm and posh ambiance. The restaurant is bright and airy during summer, and in winter, cozy warmth emanates from a crackling fireplace. Amidst ancient trees, you can even choose to dine outside and soak up the natural beauty.

What sets Cuvée apart is their farm-to-table approach. They source most of their ingredients and vegetables from their very own herb and vegetable garden. Doesn’t that sound amazing? Every dish is carefully crafted with love and can be expertly paired with Simonsig’s exquisite wines.

And the cherry on top? The staff at Cuvée are friendly and always ready to assist you. So, why wait? Treat yourself to an unforgettable dining experience at Cuvée Restaurant and savor the flavors that will make your taste buds dance!

During the winter months, Cuvée Restaurant hosts special evenings that are truly unique and delightful. From the enticing flavors of Cabernet & Venison to the captivating aromas of the Orient, these signature evenings offer an extraordinary five-course meal at an affordable price. It’s a marvelous opportunity to not only savor their delectable cuisine but also experience the exquisite wines they have to offer. I assure you that after indulging in this culinary adventure, your stomach will be content, and you may find yourself leaving with a bottle or two to savor at home!

In the summer, Cuvée Restaurant becomes the perfect destination for a family outing. While parents enjoy their well-deserved glass (or two) of wine, children can have an absolute blast on the jungle gym. It’s a splendid venue where the whole family can come together, creating unforgettable memories in the warm sunshine.

Simonsig Estate

When you visit Simonsig Estate, you’ll be greeted by breathtaking views of the majestic Simonsberg Mountain. As you make your way along the tree-lined avenue, you’ll be surrounded by beautiful gardens and ancient oaks. The sheer beauty of this place is enough to make your visit worthwhile.

Simonsig wines are renowned for their quality, and they are made with utmost care, following the time-honored traditions of the Malan family. You can taste these exceptional wines and even explore the cellar on a guided tour. No matter the season, there’s always something special in store for you at Simonsig Estate. During the summer, you can enjoy your wine at outdoor tables in the gardens, while in winter, you can cozy up by the fire.

Simonsig Estate is not only a haven for wine lovers; it also hosts a variety of events throughout the year. One such event is the Vintage Wine Day, happening on Saturday, 24 August 2013. It’s an opportunity to savor vintage wines and immerse yourself in the world of winemaking.