Wintertime Wandering: A visit to Zevenwacht Wine Estate

The restaurant is located in an idyllic setting, the picture of tranquillity and calm. The luxurious surroundings are enhanced by the charming, 19^th Century Cape Dutch architecture and this is where we found ourselves dining in a beautifully decked out Manor house.

Chef Germaine puts together contemporary cuisine in an impeccable manner. One could describe these dishes as comfort food, the dishes are memorable and leaves no doubt about the Chef’s remarkable culinary skills. All dishes were prepared with the highest quality and the customer’s enjoyment in mind.

Zevenwacht background

Any review pertaining to Zevenwacht has to give a nod to the expansive and renowned wine estate. The estate itself boasts in scenic views of the Stellenbosch wine route, Table Mountain, and False Bay. The estate is family-owned, and the owners are determined to preserve the landscape, as well as the historical and cultural essence of this location.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Zevenwacht wines are known for its value and quality and the extensive range include Chenin Blanc, Pinotage, Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah varietals. They offer a range of tasting including their new Z Collection tasting which includes a tasting of their four handcrafted Z Collection wines

The Zevenwacht grounds are a clear example of lush countryside where the stunning indigenous vegetation has been conserved and allowed to thrive through expert care.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

My visit took place in the heart of the Western Cape’s rainy, winter season which means that dining indoors by the comforting fireplace was the best option. The space has a cosy and quaint atmosphere. It has a sophisticated, countryside feeling to it—further enhanced by the warm, rich colour scheme and decorative pieces.

Chef Germaine’s dishes can be described as authentic South African with fresh ingredients and creative pairings, the dishes are imaginative, yet subtle. When scanning the menu, several ingredients jump out at you, making it relatable to its local diners, and is sure to pique the interest of the international ones.

At the time of my visit, I had the opportunity to choose from a three-course menu with affordable pricing. Considering the economic state of things and the effects of inflation, the options are reasonably priced with dessert options as low as R85.00. The kiddies menu is filled with delicious treats from crumbed chicken strips and chips to homemade fish fingers. 

As one would come to expect, the wine list is wide-ranging all economic conditions considered, as mentioned above. Prices are practical with options as low as R65.00 (for a glass of 2022 Sauvignon Blanc). The waiter, Leon, did a fantastic job at conveying how the various wine options pair with the respective dishes and how they were made.

 

What I ate at Zevenwacht

We started out with the comforting homemade bread, with mouthwatering Biltong butter. This was undeniably something to savour. The bread is what one could refer to as “a hug from the inside”—simply delicious and makes one crave even more.

We then went onto the starters. I ordered the Butternut Velouté with Chicken Wing Candy and Caramelised Apple and would describe this dish as familiar, yet imaginative and unique. The blend of apple and butternut blended sweet and savoury ingredients in an expert manner. This dish is definitely unforgettable due to its unique combination of flavours.

The next dish I tried was the Winelands Goat’s Cheese Soufflés with a Zevenwacht Chenin fondue of Leek and I can safely say that this was the stand-out dish for me. The creaminess of this dish, coupled with the burst of flavours and freshness provided by the incorporation of the leek, made it undeniably decadent and appetising.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I would definitely give this dish another go when I visit this amazing location once again. One can certainly tell that Chef Germaine is determined to give customers a superior dining experience.

I cannot omit the fact that alongside these amazing dishes, I also enjoyed the Old Vine Chenin Blanc. This was a flawless pairing, it complemented both dishes so well and its smooth texture made it all the more enjoyable.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The starters were impressive but the main course was a flavourful sensation. I enjoyed the sustainably sourced freshly caught Seared Salmon set on creamed potato with a Pea and Chorizo Reduction and the Montagu Fruit and Beef Babotie with Cape Sambals, samosa and Roti. The menu has a selection of traditional dishes at great value that will have locals craving more.

Finally, we were fortunate to have some Pampoenkoekies or Pumpkin Cakes, these are a local favourite.

They offer a taste of home, and its no hardship to consume several of these in a single sitting. The chef put his mark on this traditional luxury and its sure to be hit with anyone that enjoys some comfort food (who doesn’t?).

Zevenwacht is always an amazing experience second to none. They provide excellence and value for money, coupled with amazing views and even better service. 

BOOKINGS & OPENING HOURS

Bookings for wine tasting recommended: (021) 900 5700 or wine-tasting@zevenwacht.co.za

For bookings email  restaurant@zevenwacht.co.za.

The Restaurant is open from Monday to Saturday from 7.30am until 11.00pm.

On Sunday it is open from 7.30am until 5.00pm.

Disclaimer : The prices quoted in the blog post are at the time of my visit.