A Globetrotting Guide to Winery Restaurants
Come for the vineyards, stay for the food at these world-class restaurants at wineries in Napa, South Africa and beyond. [...] Read More... The post A Globetrotting Guide to Winery Restaurants appeared first on Wine Enthusiast.
We believe in too much of a good thing, but not when it comes to winery restaurants. As if best-in-class wineries and restaurants weren’t enjoyable enough on their own, restaurants set on stunning wine-producing estates are simply divine. What could be better than enjoying a meal surrounded by vineyards, sipping on stellar wines made on site?
We spoke with wine industry pros to find the very best winery restaurants around the world, from Stellenbosch to Napa. Many of these restaurants are recognized by the Michelin Guide, but what really sets them apart is their spectacular surroundings and, of course, the wines.
Farmstead at Long Meadow Ranch
Napa Valley, California
“I always feel like I am visiting someone’s home when at Farmstead,” says Cha McCoy, a sommelier and author of the forthcoming 100 Wine Journeys of a Lifetime. At the foothills of the Mayacamas Mountains, the acclaimed New American restaurant is nestled among the surrounding ranch and winery. With wood-fired pizzas and non-fussy farmstead cuisine, the menu shows off ingredients sourced directly from the ranch, including the olive oil, honey and grass-fed highland beef and lamb.
“I don’t know if it’s the inviting garden, the sweet heat from the barbecue in the air, or getting a chance to connect with my fellow Wine Enthusiast 40 Under 40 Tastemaker Chris Hall, the owner,” she adds. Whatever the reason, it’s well worth the trip.
Ten Minutes by Tractor
Mornington Peninsula, Australia
Paul Robineau, master sommelier at Domaine les Crayères, a Relais & Châteaux property in the heart of Reims, France, says fine-dining restaurant and winery, Ten Minutes by Tractor, holds some of his favorite memories of Australia.
In a chic, modern setting, executive chef Hayden Ellis serves a playful French-inflected tasting menu (think bone marrow short rib doughnuts) designed to show off the cool-climate wines of Mornington Peninsula.
“The winery is known for producing high-quality Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, [and] the cool climate and unique soil conditions contribute to the wines’ distinct characteristics,” says Robineau. “The Chardonnay often exhibits bright acidity and mineral notes, while the Pinot Noir typically displays red fruit flavors and earthy undertones. These wines pair well with the regional cuisine, offering a taste of the Mornington Peninsula terroir.”
Palma at Torre de Palma Wine Hotel
Vaiamonte, Portugal
This picturesque hotel in the Alentejo also happens to be the site of a 14th-century vineyard, as well as Palma, a celebrated restaurant serving inventive takes on regional cuisine like slow-roasted Alentejo pork tenderloin served with chorizo ravioli and bacalhau no forno (baked codfish) with cornbread crumbs. Served in a warm yet elegant dining room within the castle, the menu also shows off simpler fare like homemade sausages, regional cheeses and house-baked bread served with olive oils made on-site.
“I love a winery that covers all of my hospitality needs,” says McCoy. “Torre de Palma is the perfect wine and wellness destination. It’s a great example of the perfect stress-free wine getaway with an onsite chef and overnight suites.”
Bistro Sixteen82 at Steenberg Wine Farm
Cape Town, South Africa
“Steenberg in Constantia offers a complete winelands experience,“ says Michael Langenhoven, cellar master at Mont Rochelle in Franschhoek, South Africa. And its restaurant, Bistro Sixteen82, lives up to the exceptional wines with a contemporary bistro menu.
The terraced dining area is surrounded by striking reflective water features and sweeping views of the local gardens and mountains.
“You can enjoy a sophisticated, contemporary menu with dishes showcasing fresh, seasonal ingredients, all perfectly paired with Steenberg wines,” he says. “Beyond the excellent food and wine, Steenberg boasts a world-class 18-hole golf course set against the stunning backdrop of the Constantia mountains.”
Cucine Nervi
Gattinara, Italy
The highly acclaimed restaurant, Cucine Nervi, serves contemporary Italian cuisine, featuring housemade fresh pastas like tortello and broccoli rabe gnudi, from inside the beautiful Cantine Nervi winery, which is the oldest cantina (i.e. cellar) in Gattinara.
