Johannesburg - Africa’s most awarded airline, SAA, has welcomed Tsogo Sun’s executive chef, Benny Masekwameng, on board to upgrade its premium and regional menu.
The signature dishes of Masekwameng, executive chef of the Tsogo Sun group and celebrated MasterChef South Africa judge, will be introduced on all of SAA’s international premium class and regional flights.
“We are excited about our partnership with seasoned executive chef Benny Masekwameng and are confident that his expert advice on our premium class menus and menus on our regional flights will delight our customers’ discerning palates,” says Manoj Papa, SAA’s acting general manager: commercial.
In keeping abreast of global food and beverage trends, SAA refreshes its food and beverage menu every year. Each SAA customer is offered a menu selection, free of charge, which includes halaal, kosher and vegetarian options.
Earlier this month, the airline announced the winners of its competition for wines to be served on board its aircraft next year.
The winning wines will be served on all SAA domestic, regional and international flights and in the airline’s business class lounges. South Africa’s top wine producers submitted a total of 1 030 local whites, reds and dessert and sparkling wines to an international judging panel.
“South African wines are consistently rated amongst the best in the world, and as South Africa’s international flag carrier, we are very proud to serve some of the best products our vintners have to offer,” said Tlali Tlali, SAA’s group corporate affairs executive.
“Our annual on-board wine competition gives South African winemakers the opportunity to have their wines profiled globally to SAA customers’ discerning palates.”
A distinguished panel of 12 judges tasted the submitted wines in Paarl earlier this year. Awards were presented to the winning wines in Somerset West.
SAA’s 2013 Trophy Wines are:
White: Stellenrust Chenin Blanc 2012
Red: Cederberg Cabernet Sauvignon 2009
Methode Cap Classic: Anura Brut Chardonnay/Pinot Noir 2009
Port: KWV Tawny Port N/V
Two special awards for best vineyards were also announced:
SAA CEO’s Award for best performance by a single vineyard: Anura Vineyards
SAA Chairperson’s Award for largest wine supplier to SAA: Anura Vineyards
The annual selection process for wines to be served on SAA flights gives local producers valuable feedback from an expert panel on the quality of their produce. - Saturday Star