In addition to a spectacular array of cellar gems stemming from this prime winemaking triangle, which stretches from Somerset West to Stellenbosch and Sir Lowry’s Pass Village, guests will be indulged and entertained with signature dishes by some of the most popular culinary hotspots and heroes from the area. They include Ghenwa’s Lebanese Cuisine, Pomegranate Restaurant, 96 Winery Road, The Restaurant at Longridge, Somerbosch Bistro and the Restaurant at Avontuur Estate. The ‘winter blues busting’ dishes that will be on sale in tasting-size portions on the evening include 96 Winery Road’s world-famous Duck & Cherry Pie, or a hearty Creamy Cauliflower Soup from their kitchen. Chef Craig Cormack of All Things Culinary will whip up a spectacular array of nom-nom-ness ranging from Lamb Koftas with hummus and succulent Lamb Fillets with pea puree to Quail Roulade with roasted figs. The ladies will love Avontuur’s sexy Salmon Roses stuffed with prawns, wasabi mayo and pickled ginger whilst Somerbosch Bistro will tantalise with a scrumptious Camembert, Sweet Onion, Bacon & Sage Quiche. Vegetarians will not be left out in the cold as they can tuck into Ghenwa’s more-ish offerings which include gluten free and vegan dishes. Other culinary nibbles include olives by Morgenster and Yonder Hill as well as Waterkloof’s naturally matured Healey’s Cheddar, which was recently crowned as South Africa’s Best Round Cheddar at the prestigious 2013 South African Dairy Championships. Taste of Helderberg 2013 is a true celebration of the latest tastes and triumphs of the Helderberg Wine Route – all under one roof – and guests will be able to mingle with at least 25 wine producers ranging from time-honoured stalwarts to ultra-chic boutique wineries; popular family-owned estates to eco-conscious pioneers. Participating wineries that will share their passions and pleasures include Haskell Vineyards, Lourensford Wine Estate, Lyngrove Wines and Vineyards, Peter Falke Wines, Vergenoegd, Eikendal, Waterkloof, Morgenster Wine and Olive Estate, Yonder Hill, Avontuur Estate, Grangehurst Winery, Ken Forrester Vineyards, Longridge Estate and Somerbosch Wines. “Taste of Helderberg 2013 is more than just another food and wine festival. It is a culinary occasion, revealing to locals just what fabulous, world-class food, wine and dining experiences are available right on their doorstep, and giving them the chance to sample and learn about new tastes and flavours at the same time,” shares Annareth Bolton, CEO of Stellenbosch American Express ® Wine Routes. Since its inception in 2009, Taste of the Helderberg has grown extensively, each year becoming more and more popular. At last year’s event guests turned up in the 100’s despite of rainy weather and nothing less is expected this year. The doors will be open from 17h00 to 21h00 and tickets cost R70 per person, which include an elegantly branded wine glass and access to the fruits of the Helderberg Winelands. During and after the wine tastings, guests can relax in cosy chill areas or make use of the hotel’s restaurant for dinner. Pre-bookings for the restaurant are recommended to avoid disappointment. Call 021 855 1040 to make a reservation. For more information on Taste of the Helderberg 2013 and to reserve your tickets contact Bjorn van Oort at bjorn@cvomarketing.co.za or 021 981 0216. Tickets will also be available at the door. As part of the route’s commitment to responsible drinking and driving, the NH Lord Charles is offering an accommodation special on the evening: Please contact the hotel directly on 021 855 1040 and quote reference: Taste of the Helderberg accommodation.