Our trip around the world kicked off with all the European charm of April in Amsterdam, followed by May in Maputo filled with spicy food, mellow weather and lazy days at the coast. In June, we step up the tempo to make the most of the energy, bright blue skies, and crisp days of winter in the Highveld. Join us for June in Joburg!
Johannesburg has an exciting food scene and on any night of the week, you can take your pick – from the famous Throbbing Strawberry to snazzy Sandton fine dining or casual Soweto food stalls.
Chef Christiaan also used this inspiration in his food theme for June: Sexy Samp! Yes, samp! He reinterpreted this humble and affordable staple that is served in many local households on a daily basis, to bring us three of the most delicious and comforting winter meals we will enjoy and serve this season! Paired with Leopard's Leap wines, this is samp like you've never had it before.
Chef Christaan's Sexy Samp recipes
Creamy Samp with mushroom purée, sauteed wild mushroom and parmesan. This risotto-style dish will cost you a fraction of a regular mushroom risotto and will impress dinner guests with its play on textures – from the chew of the samp to creamy mushroom puree and a grating of Parmesan! This recipe is a marvel with the subdued fruit and earthy notes of our Culinaria Pinot Noir and a treat with Leopard's Leap Merlot for those who prefer bright berries and mellow notes in their winter red.
Ever considered samp and sparkling wine? Probably not! You will be blown away by this combination of fresh and nutty flavours in Chef Christiaan's samp recipe. It is the perfect partner to our Culinaria MCC! If you are one of the few who like to keep sparkling wine for celebrations (if there are still any of you out there!), rather open a bottle of Leopard's Leap Sauvignon Blanc, it adores the seasonal greens!
The warmth of the chorizo's smoky paprika meets the freshness of Mediterranean tomato in this delicious and easy one-dish wonder. You might consider swopping your braaibroodjie for this samp sensation as a regular side to the braai! But don't swop all your local traditions... Do open a bottle of Leopard's Leap Special Edition Pinotage. It is a delight with the baked samp and will have you go back for more. Are you the designated driver? You don't have to miss out! The Natura De-alc Red is your answer. With less than 0.5% alcohol by volume, it brings you beautiful red wine flavours to complement the dish while getting the family home safe and sound.
Leopard's Leap wines are available in most supermarkets selling your favourite brand of samp, so whether you are entertaining in Joburg or in Jansenville, it can be a one-stop-shop! And if you already have your staple in the grocery cupboard, just order your favourite wines from leopardsleap.co.za and qualify for free nationwide delivery when you buy any 12 bottles. It is even more worth your while in June as both our special edition wines – the award-winning Pinotage and popular Red Blend – are available at 10% less when you buy any 6. It's a no brainer, just add the samp and warm up winter!
But the City of Gold offers more than food and wine! When you had your culinary fix, remember, June is a great time to do a walking tour of the city as day temperatures are lovely and mild. Choose between a historic tour of Soweto, a city centre walkabout, or even a local food tasting guided walk. There are hop on and off busses, guided bicycle tours and of course, you are very close to a variety of game viewing options.