On Saturday, June 27, guests gathered at Feast & Merriment for an intimate evening celebrating the artistry of fine wine and thoughtfully curated cuisine. Surrounded by fellow wine enthusiasts, each course offered an opportunity to slow down, savor the moment, and experience the remarkable connection between food and wine.

The evening was led by our Director of Wine, David Bradbury, who guided guests through a collection of some of Rhinory’s most distinguished wines. Throughout the dinner, David shared the stories behind each vintage, offering insight into the vineyards, craftsmanship, and winemaking philosophy that shape every bottle.

What made the evening especially memorable was the collaboration behind the menu. Rather than pairing finished dishes with existing wines, David carefully designed each course to complement the unique character of every wine being served. The talented culinary team at Feast & Merriment then brought that vision to life, creating an extraordinary dining experience where every ingredient had a purpose and every pairing elevated the next.

Guests began the evening with our Keras Collection South Africa Wijde Sparkling Wine alongside a Sweet Corn Velouté with Lump Crab, Brown Butter, and Chive Oil. The richness of the soup was beautifully balanced by the sparkling wine’s vibrant acidity and refined elegance.

The second course featured Seared Halibut with Confit Egg Yolk, Parmesan Seafoam, Lemon Zest, and Puffed Wild Rice, thoughtfully paired with the 2024 South Africa Chenin Blanc. The wine’s freshness and mineral-driven character complemented the delicate flavors of the seafood while enhancing the dish’s bright citrus notes.

Next came a Juniper and Rosemary Crusted Quail Breast wrapped in Prosciutto with Blackberry Jus, Herb Oil, White Bean Purée, and Creamed Leeks. Paired with the 2023 South Africa Five Species Bordeaux Blend, the course showcased the wine’s depth and complexity while highlighting the savory herbs and rich berry flavors of the dish.

The evening continued with a Classic Beef Wellington featuring Tarragon Cremini Duxelles and Sticky Beef Demi, served alongside the early release of our 2023 South Africa Pinotage. This pairing demonstrated the structure and bold character of the Pinotage, creating one of the evening’s most memorable combinations.

To conclude the experience, guests enjoyed a Roasted Mission Fig Tartlet with Mascarpone, Buckwheat Honey, Toasted Pistachio, and Sea Salt, paired with our 2021 South Africa Renoster. The wine’s rich layers and elegant finish complemented the sweetness of the dessert while bringing the evening to a graceful close.

Evenings like these are a reminder that wine is about far more than what’s in the glass. It is about bringing people together, sharing stories, exploring craftsmanship, and creating memorable experiences around the table.

We are incredibly grateful to everyone who joined us for this special evening and extend our sincere thanks to the wonderful team at Feast & Merriment for their outstanding hospitality and culinary expertise. Their passion and attention to detail helped transform a thoughtfully curated menu into an unforgettable dining experience.

We look forward to welcoming you to another exclusive Wine Dinner, where exceptional wines, remarkable cuisine, and meaningful conversation come together once again.