The popular themed Tasting 101 events are an eagerly anticipated monthly happening on the Franschhoek calendar, and were created by the Mont Rochelle team to provide an informal and informative forum for all individuals wishing to learn more about wines from the Franschhoek valley and beyond. Presented at the Mont Rochelle cellar door restaurant the Country Kitchen, these events are hosted by Mont Rochelle’s new winemaker Darran Stone, accompanied by a different guest winemaker every month.
Guests attending the ‘Tasting 101’ event on Tuesday 2 August were taken through a tasting profile of Cabernet Sauvignon varietals produced by winemakers in and around the valley. The hosting winemakers shared valuable tips and insight into this love-child of cabernet franc and sauvignon blanc and it was an enlightening evening for all.
On Wednesday 7 September winemaker Darran Stone will partner with Mont Rochelle’s chefs to present a food and wine pairing evening of note. Guests may indulge in tastings of these selected dishes from the menus of both Mont Rochelle’s superb restaurants, Mange Tout and the Country Kitchen, perfectly matched with wines from the Mont Rochelle cellars:
Potato rosti, basil and mozzarella – Sauvignon Blanc 2010
Kingklip mousse, apricot – Barrel Fermented Chardonnay 2007
Chicken Biryani, passion fruit coconut milk – Merlot 2005
Beef& Chocolate risotto – Cabernet 2006
Lamb, couscous& potato wrap – Syrah 2006
Berry cheesecake, vanilla milkshake – Straw Syrah (sweet wine)
The Tasting 101 events take place at the Country Kitchen from 18h00 to 20h00 on the first Wednesday of every month, with a selected theme for each event. Participation (without stay over accommodation and breakfast) is R100 per person.