Going into our 7th year with over 30 hotels participating we are immensely proud of what has been achieved. This year we will be introducing the teams for the 2019 Distell Inter Hotel Challenge in a series of five elegant launches where they will produce a moveable feast held at some of South Africa's most superb properties.
Each of the hotels where the launches are being held are special in their own way. The dynamic Time Square in Menlyn where talented Adrian Vaughan wields his wooden spoon with grace and certainty.
In Durban at Tsogo Sun Southern Sun Elangeni & Maharani, which typifies Natal’s colourful heritage and where Shaun Munro who has in the past been our ‘Man of the Match’ and in many ways remains a fine example of utter professionalism at all times.
In the Cape, at The Royal Portfolio La Residence, tranquil and enchanting set among vineyards in Franschhoek and where Lennard Marais is an expert at satisfying all the culinary needs of his discerning clientele.
At Lanzerac Hotel & Spa, an historical gem in Stellenbosch that has been recently exquisitely restored. Stephen Fraser has been at the hot piano for many years producing the fine table that Lanzerac has become renowned for.
Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa, one of Red Carnation's most scintillating hotels with an unrivalled position. Christo Pretorius, besides being a most creative excellent chef, typifies mentorship and is very caring of the young people that are coming through his kitchen. As it happens our winning Distell Inter Hotel Challenge Wine Steward of 2018, Samantha Swartz, will be spending two nights at their gorgeous Summer Lodge Country House Hotel, Restaurant and Spa in May.
What is so exciting is that each one of these events will show off the skills and flair of all our Executive Chefs as the launch menus are of course a collaborative effort. Not only is a fabulous menu achieved but each event offers stimulation, a great time to network and for our chefs to be cooking alongside each other.
More on the challenge from Wendy Coetzer's podcast HERE. #DistellIHC2019 #InterHotelChallenge