Rust en Vrede Wine Estate is a must-visit destination for food and wine enthusiasts. The estate is a true gem that offers an unforgettable fine dining experience set amidst the stunning Winelands.
As soon as you arrive, you’ll be surrounded by stunning scenery. The manicured gardens are in full bloom, and the treed valley and vineyards beyond somehow manage to melt away your stress and transport you to another world. The impressive historic 1785 cellar with its thatched roof and original yellowwood ceilings is just as breathtaking as the views.
The service here is impeccable; from the moment you arrive, you’ll feel welcomed and well-cared for. The staff is knowledgeable, and the pleasant and clued-up sommelier James Mukosi suggested an aperitif that hits all the right notes.
The cuisine is another highlight at Rust en Vrede. Fabio Daniel, the chef overseeing the open-plan kitchen, delivers contemporary French cuisine with flavors from his Brazilian and Italian heritage. Local and international chefs have consistently rated the restaurant as one of the finest places to eat since it opened in 2007. The menu changes depending on the availability of ingredients. Still, the chef’s perfectly portioned six-course menu is available with or without sommelier James’ carefully curated wine pairing, which features a selection of the finest Cape wines, from Stellenbosch and the Swartland to the Overberg and West Coast.
Wine lovers will appreciate the estate’s wine cellar, which houses some of the best wines in the region. The estate’s red wine is a particular highlight. The wine pairing with the six-course menu is outstanding, and the wine list is extensive.
The atmosphere is sophisticatedly pared-back and relaxed, with vases of flowers plucked from the estate’s garden complementing the warm, professional service. The staff is well-trained, with a great understanding of what the Rust en Vrede brand entails, making it an all-around fantastic experience.
Don’t let the prices deter you; they are reasonable, given the quality of the experience. For example, a six-course dinner costs R890; if you opt for the wine pairing, it costs R1 580.
Rust en Vrede Wine Estate is a fine dining restaurant, winery, lunch restaurant, and wine cellar all in one. So if you’re looking to disappear for a memorable evening in the Winelands or to celebrate a special occasion, Rust en Vrede is a superb choice.
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