A celebration of the Paardeberg's finest

Friday, 1 February, 2019
Ayama Wines
Ayama Wines on Slent Farm, in the Voor Paardeberg, hosted the Paardeberg Country Tasting Experience on Sunday, 27 January from 12h00 to 17h00. Spearheaded by Slent Farm owners, Michela and Attilio Dalpiaz, the five-course luncheon highlighted a variety of exquisite wines from the area.

As Master of Ceremonies, Michela introduced each of the esteemed producers, unveiling their respective viticulture origins and legacies, merged by their mutual love and passion for fine wines. Each of the producers spoke of the history and production of their celebrated berries and vines.

The immersive sensory experience kicked off with a welcome glass of Huis Van Chevallerie “Circa” Rosecco NV, and Caperitif produced by The Badenhorst Family Wines. Aubergine Croquettes, Red beet hummus on chickpea cake, Italian salami tramezzini and baby tomatoes with tuna. Lunch started with Vondeling Chardonnay; the freshness of the wine makes for an ideal pairing with Broccoletti Flan with Gorgonzola cream sauce.

Next was a labour of love bringing together fourteen vineyards across the Swartland but anchored firmly in the characteristics of the granite soils of the Paardeberg - David & Nadia Sadie’s Chenin-based blend. Executive chefs; Gianni Minori and Cristiana Ariotto delighted the taste buds with the second pairing, a fresh baby lobster and prawns with catalana tartare, avo and celery.

After a quick break and a peruse around the local art filled room, the guests were seated for their first course; aubergines Parmesan paired perfectly with the rich, fresh acidity and typically spicy Shiraz of Doran Vineyards. The main course encouraged guests to step out of their comfort zones and enjoy a mouth-watering braised and seared beef tongue with Sicilian Caponata, the Ayama Petite Sirah had an excellent flow through onto the palate resulting in the perfect pairing for the main course.

Christa von La Chevallerie, a top Swartland grape grower, utilized Chenin Blanc to make her Filia Brut Nature, paired perfectly with a Peach Clafoutis to round off the tasting.

The up-and-coming PaardebergCountry offers tourists, visitors and wine lovers a unique experience of fine wine as well as accommodation and a variety of fresh produce.The community’s efforts and comradery are inspiring and exceeded the expectations of the guests, leaving them with a more than satisfactory experience.

Following the showcase of this gourmet delicacy will be Slent Farm’s Ayama Under The Stars - Valentine’s Day. The night promises to be a romantic twilight dinner for this Valentine’s Day. Upon arrival, guests will be treated to a glass of bubbly to set the mood for an evening spent under the stars. The dinner features an array of treats-curated by executive chefs Gianni and Cristiana. Delight your palate and your senses with extraordinary Italian Food, Ayama-Style Wines and soft live music. Cost: R750 p/p and includes a glass of bubbly, full dinner, a bottle of wine, entertainment and Valentine’s Day gift. Time: 06h00 - 09h30. LIMITED TO 50 people attending.

For more information, contact: +27.218698313, info@slentfarms.com, see http://ayama.co.za/