Why Not Have Tea on a Wine Farm?

Have you ever thought about enjoying a cup of tea in a unique setting? Well, I have the perfect suggestion for you: tea on a wine farm. It may sound unconventional, but trust me, it’s an experience worth trying.

Picture this: you’re sitting in a picturesque vineyard, surrounded by rolling hills and lush greenery. The sun is shining, casting a warm glow on the grapes hanging from the vines. You take a sip of your hot tea, savoring its comforting flavors, while also taking in the breathtaking scenery. It’s a moment of tranquility and beauty.

What makes tea on a wine farm even more special is the combination of two worlds: the elegance and sophistication of wine and the simplicity of tea. Both beverages have their own unique characteristics and rituals, and when they come together, it creates a delightful harmony.

Imagine sipping a cup of aromatic tea while learning about the wine-making process from knowledgeable experts. You’ll gain insights into the art and science of winemaking, all while indulging in the soothing pleasure of tea.

And if you’re worried about not being a wine connoisseur, fret not. Tea on a wine farm is not just for wine aficionados; it’s for anyone who appreciates the finer things in life. Whether you’re a tea lover or a curious explorer, this experience will captivate your senses and leave you with lasting memories.

So, why not break away from the ordinary and embark on a journey that combines the tranquility of tea with the allure of a wine farm? Treat yourself to a unique experience that will elevate your senses and rejuvenate your spirit. The world of tea and wine awaits you!

In the beautiful Stellenbosch Winelands, you wouldn’t typically think of tea when it comes to a tasting experience. Tea is often associated with adding milk and sugar or being a companion to dunk your Ouma rusk into. However, at Gåte at Quoin Rock, they have redefined the tea experience.

During our lunch, I was pleasantly surprised to discover that chilled teas were a part of the gourmet menu prepared by the talented team at Gåte. Instead of the usual wine pairings, they introduced teas that complemented the flavors of the dishes perfectly. It was an unexpected but delightful addition to the Quoin Rock experience.

Quoin Rock has truly elevated the art of tea by incorporating it into their repertoire. They have shown that tea can be just as sophisticated and exciting as the world of wines. So, if you’re looking for a unique and refreshing twist on a tasting experience, I highly recommend exploring the chilled teas at Gåte. You’ll be surprised and delighted by the blend of flavors and the innovative culinary journey that awaits you.

The journey began with a delightful surprise – a neatly presented cigar with golden trimmings balanced on a plate before me. I hesitated for a moment, but the intriguing combination lured me in. As I prepared to take my first bite, an ashtray caught my eye, adorned with a glass dome filled with ash. To my astonishment, the ash was actually activated charcoal, complementing a smoky mousse made from black garlic and tomatoes.

Reflecting on that moment, I realized that the accompanying beverage wouldn’t be traditional coffee. Bracing myself for the unexpected, I took a sip and was greeted by a burst of flavors – a tangy tomato consommé.

I had the chance to experience five courses, each expertly matched with a specific tea, thanks to Leva Tomase from The Tea Chest. It felt like having a sommelier guide me through the flavors, just like they do with wine.

Since I don’t eat oysters, I was instead treated to a vegan cheese dish for my second course. It was artfully arranged on a bed of seaweed, accompanied by an impressive display of dry ice that created a mesmerizing effect. It even carried the aroma of the ocean.

Imagine this: I was about to dig into a dish that I thought I knew so well, only to find that it had transformed into something totally new. The clever chefs at Gåte took the classic caprese salad and turned it into an absolute showstopper – a melting dome of flavors. As I took my first bite, the dome collapsed, revealing a delightful mix of cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and pearls of balsamic vinegar and olive oil. Everything was soaked up by a sponge made of basil. It was a true work of art for my taste buds.

After enjoying the first two delectable savory dishes, I eagerly awaited the arrival of dessert. And let me tell you, it was definitely worth the wait. Inspired by the flavors of a Piña Colada, the panna cotta was presented in a creative and enticing way.

Picture this: a creamy panna cotta nestled inside a coconut shell, with a delicate cinnamon tuile perched on top. A pineapple glass added a refreshing touch, and the whole dessert was adorned with fragrant petals. But that’s not all. The final touch was truly captivating – dry ice and liquid nitrogen were used to create a mesmerizing visual effect.

Sitting there, I couldn’t help but be amazed by the whole spectacle. The dry ice created an ethereal haze, and the liquid nitrogen added a dramatic touch. It was like a scene from a movie, and I felt like I was part of it.

Needless to say, I savored every spoonful of that Piña Colada panna cotta. The creamy texture and tropical flavors were a blissful combination. It was the perfect ending to an unforgettable dining experience.

I had the pleasure of experiencing a truly unique dining experience recently. The combination of flavors from the meals and teas was nothing short of extraordinary. The teas were served differently with each course, in various vessels like shot glasses and glass pipes. It added an exciting element to the meal.

When I left the restaurant, I had a sense of contentment, similar to the feeling you get after a leisurely lunch in the beautiful Winelands, but without the usual wine-induced haze. It was a refreshing change.

If you’re curious about the cost, the ‘Journey around the world’ six-course set menu is priced at R800. Alternatively, you can opt for the wine pairing option, which costs R1,100. Both options offer exceptional value for the experience you’ll have.