Vineyard workers
Oil on Canvas 60cmx60cm

Clos Malverne

In fairness, I think this is one of our favourite places. For value, experience and an incredible day out. As such, I may be biased.

The new pairing menu is such that it will demand repeat visits to sample the various combinations and favorites, which they have fortunately retained. Menu envy a given!

The phyllo parcel of roasted butternut and goats cheese look amazing, and for a non-goats cheese fan, it came as a relief that the cheese did not dominate. The pork belly was scrumptious, or perhaps that was the cabshiraz wine??? Visually the fish was bland and uninteresting and certainly in a walk-past sensation selection, the chicken or meat dishes won hands down. Fortunately, the taste was subtle and moreish. The desert, of vanilla panna cotta was light and tasty. Probably not a first selection on a cold, wet, rainy day.

Service was exceptional, with the staff understanding of taste and wine preferences, ensuring that while attentive, the experiences wasn’t rushed. It’s definitely advisable to have a designated driver clearly identified, as the wine quantities are generous.

Art within the restaurant is confined to a small space above the windows. The selection of works on display are varied with the whimsical alongside more demanding vineyard paintings. Wth my back to the view, I had more time to look at the works, but did’t find much connection between the art and the bold, smooth wines, or the pairing menu. A bit like the fish course??? Undemanding, but tasty if given attention??

Or perhaps the art wasn’t that interesting because I had Terry and Hesta next to me, and Edith across the table!!

The view, still demands to be painted. Even on an overcast, and not quite perfect day. The grape vines turning their autumn shades of gold, red and yellow.