Visit Louisvale : Luscious Lunch and Luxurious Wines

After reading countless reviews we headed out to Louisvale Wines, this beautiful estate is located in the heart of Devon Valley, Stellenbosch.

The striking building was designed by award-winning architect, Christof Albertyn and represents the fusion of African and European building aesthetics.  I marvel at how the architect incorporated elements of Khoekhoen (who built the first man-made domed structure in the area).

On the day we were to meet with Mouton, the Venue Manager, for a lunch and wine tasting. We were lucky to be seated on the deck facing the spectacular views of the valley. The restaurant at Louisvale prides itself on being family-friendly offering something for everyone. Executive chef Kirstie du Toit has a knack in making tantalizing dishes that’s guaranteed to make any food lover drool. Louisvale is also known for their internationally renowned wines available to savour while dining

Mouton walked us through the restaurant and tasting room and shared the deep-rooted history of Louisvale, who produced its first wines in 1988. One of South Africa’s pioneers of the Chardonnay cultivar.

We ordered our meals and Mogamad guided us through the wine tasting. I must admit I was rather surprised to discover that the popular Stone Road range formed part of Louisvale wines. We tasted the following:

Louisvale Brut MCC

Louisvale Rose MCC

Stone Road Cinsault Rose – 2018

Stone Road Unwooded Chardonnay 2019

Stone Road Sauvignon Blanc 2019

Louisvale Chavant -2019 (lightly oaked Chardonnay

Louisvale Chardonnay 2019

Louisvale Dominique 2017

Louisvale is known for their signature award winning Chardonnay wines and it didn’t disappoint. While we were tasting our wines, the starters arrived Smoked Mackerel Terine (R90) & Beetroot Ravioli (R85). Each dish radiates with the vibrancy of fresh ingredients used and simplistic marriage of flavors.

After the tasting, our main course arrived, after tasting our way through their range of wines I was convinced that the Louisvale Chavant was bottled for me. However, Mouton convinced me that Louisvale Chardonnay 2019 was best suited for my dish which was the Prawn Rissoto) R170), the risotto has excellent flavour and consistency. I was impressed by how the intense aromas and buttery-ness of the Chardonnay swirl together and amplified the dish. My husband settled on the Slow Braised Beef Short Rib which he thoroughly enjoyed; you can tell the ingredients are of the highest quality this combined with the chef’s culinary skills integrates fine dining with an authentic home-made feel.

The weather may be a bit cold and dreary now, which might make you  want to enjoy your meal or wine tasting indoors but this is a popular spot during the summer months and the kids will enjoy it. I was mesmerized by the beautiful landscape and I can clearly picture myself enjoying a picnic on the grass once the weather allows for it.

If its not abundantly clear already , we had a fantastic time at Louisvale. Mouton and Mogamad were the perfect hosts and make you feel like part of the family. I enjoyed conversing with Mouton & Mogamad as they freely share their incredible knowledge about the history of the farm and wines in general, but also passionately represent Louisvale and the great wines they are producing. Mogamad has so many interesting stories about each of the wines and the history of the farm itself I highly recommend you visit and see for yourself.

COVID 19 DISCLAIMER

Safety measures are in place to protect employees and customers. Kindly note that due to restrictions the restaurant cannot accommodate tables larger than six people, and all guests are screened upon arrival as per government regulations. 

Note: We were invited to visit Louisvale and everything we received was complementary. This review is therefore based on this experience alone.

For Bookings or Enquiries more information please visit  www.louisvalewine.com

Alternatively

Contact Louisvale directly: +27 21 865 2422

Trading hours – Mondays to Saturdays 10 am – 4 pm daily

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LVWinesSA/

IG: https://www.instagram.com/lvwinessa/