Showcasing
its wealth of creative, culinary talent and top end gourmet distinction, the
Stellenbosch Wine Routes was deliciously represented in this year’s winning
line-up with
all
four winners stemming from prominent wine estates.
Camphors, the signature restaurant
at Vergelegen Estate – nestled on the outskirts of Somerset West but still part
of the wine route – opened its doors in 2012 and less than a
year
later it clinched the number eight spot in this highly contested ‘foodie
Oscars’. Headed up by chef PJ Vadas, the restaurant was lauded for its high
quality food enjoyed in a polished yet casual setting.
No
newcomer to the Top 10 hot list, Overture Restaurant styling on
the prime Hidden Valley Estate outside Stellenbosch where fine dining comes
with a yum factor and awe-inspiring views, came in at lucky number seven. The
much-lauded chef Bertus Basson is at his best with bold, innovative dishes that
put flavour first and he makes a high impact with techniques executed in an
honest way.
Jordan
Restaurant,
where seasoned chef George Jardine and his acolytes
cook up a storm in plain sight, scooped the sixth position. Twice the winner of
the Eat Out Chef of the Year award (2006 and 2007), George continues to delight
with food that is delicious to eat and gorgeous to look at without being
precious.
This year’s number three spot belongs to the
stylish Rust en Vrede situated on the starlit Annandale strip. Chef John
Shuttleworth’s graceful food and intricate combinations of elements and
flavours, accompanied by superior service by sommelier Joakim Hansi Blackadder,
earned the restaurant its sought-after position as well as the inaugural 2013 Eat
Out Wine Service Award.
In addition, Towerbosch Restaurant
at Knorhoek Estate, a hidden Stellenbosch Winelands gem on the foot of the Simonsberg,
won Best Country-style Restaurant at the
awards.
“Our winning foursome highlights the growing
trend of good quality restaurants opening their doors at wine estates to offer
a complete wine and dine experience. We applaud our chefs and their
restaurants as they continue to push the culinary boundaries through
innovation,” shares Annareth Bolton, CEO of the Stellenbosch Wine Routes.
For
more information on the Stellenbosch Wine Routes, visit www.wineroute.co.za, or phone 021 886
8275.