Earlier this year, Wine Tourism South Africa invited foodies, wine lovers, outdoor adventurers and wine farm visitors to show their love and appreciation for South Africa’s Winelands by voting for their favourite nominees in South Africa’s first ever, consumer-driven, interactive wine tourism awards. Harvest at Laborie, offers patrons an array of delectable dishes created by internationally acclaimed chef Matthew Gordon. During his 26 years as a chef Matthew has built up an impressive curriculum vitae, heading up restaurant kitchens at the Sandton Sun and the Mount Nelson Hotels, appearing as guest chef in Houston, Texas, and at the James Beard Foundation in New York (established by Julia Child to celebrate, nurture and preserve America’s culinary heritage and diversity), as well as doing a short spell at the Tokyo Hilton – all this in addition to owning five of his own restaurants. Boasting a menu that is contemporary South African with the focus on produce from the Paarl Winelands region, Matthew sources produce locally from the Paarl region. Free range and organic, with Karoo lamb, beef and fresh line fish featuring on the menu as far as possible, most herbs and vegetables are harvested from the restaurant garden. This attention to detail ensures a gastronomic experience epitomising the two components regarded by Matthew as being paramount in every dish he presents – depth of flavour and superb presentation. The family friendly restaurant which seats a total of 80 guests inside and a further 100 on the beautiful terrace and overlooks the immaculate vineyards of the wine farm also caters for weddings, corporate functions and special occasions. Boasting modern contemporary décor, the Private Dining Room is able to host smaller, intimate groups. Patrons are able to relax and socialise whilst enjoying a glass or two of the superb Laborie wines in The Wine Lounge Serving lunch seven days a week and breakfast on Saturday mornings, the restaurant is open for dinner on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings. Laborie Wine Farm, less than an hour’s drive from Cape Town, is one of the oldest operational wine farms in South Africa and produces some of the best Méthode Cap Classic and an array of award-winning wines, the Alambic brandy which has been named “Best Brandy in the World” for two consecutive years, as well as a unique fortified Pinotage dessert wine – all of which feature on the restaurant menu. For more information visit www.laboriewines.co.za.