High on a hill in Devon Valley with majestic views of the Stellenbosch mountains sits a stately winery named Le Grand Domaine, an unlikely place for a braai but that's exactly what was in store for us.
Of course in keeping with the magnificent setting, this was no ordinary braai.
Le Grand Domaine Wines and Spek & Bone restaurant are collaborating for a limited five-week period for a pop-up of shared plates, cooked on open fire.
You might recognise the owner and chef behind Spek & Bone, Bertus Basson, as a host and judge from the TV show The Ultimate Braai Master. He is also a award-winning chef, well-known for his family of restaurants which includes Overture, Eike and De Vrije Burger in Stellenbosch.
The very special Spek & Bone Pop-Up on Fire menu is cooked on open fire using seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. Highlights include roosterkoek with apricot whipped butter and whole baked brie; fire-grilled aubergine with tahini, cucumber and mint dressing; charred corn ribs; whole sustainable fish with palm sugar, chili and coriander; hang hoender with fire roasted cauliflower; sout ribbetjie; and for dessert brioche and apple doughnuts; and lemon possets.
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Nou gaan ons braai this is what's on the menu at the @legranddomainewine @spekenbone #popuponfire
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All this deliciousness was shared at long tables while the sun set and then under the star, with heaters and blankets and, of course, a gorgeous Rosé, a vibrant Sauvignon Blanc, and my personal favourite the Grand Vin de Stellenbosch Shiraz - Mourvedre 2018.
Le Grand Domaine winemaker Debbie Thompson says, "We are excited to be collaborating with Spek & Bone on this festive event. The wines we have selected will pair perfectly with the open fire-cooked dishes on offer ... all originating from some of South Africa’s best vineyards.”
A lekker braai with lekker wine, what a wonderful truly South African summer treat.
Spek & Bone Pop-Up on Fire starts runs until 29 March, every Friday and Saturday for dinner and Sundays for lunch.
Tickets for sale on Dineplan at R500 per head, which includes a welcome drink, snacks on arrival and 3 flights of food. Le Grand Domaine wines can be purchased at the event. Bookings are essential.
Book on Dineplan: https://www.dineplan.com/widgetframe/6wj59BXS
For queries, contact [email protected] or 064 689 0049.