Straddling the Franschhoek River, is the 'rickety bridge' at the entrance to the eponymous Rickety Bridge Winery, which ushers visitors into the sanctuary which bears testament to the marriage of old and new.
Renaissance, innovation and history characterise all aspects of the mosaic that comprises this magical destination, and the culinary dimension is no different! Step over the bridge and into the Restaurant in the Vines, where a gastronomic exploration of seismic proportions awaits you...
Precious little compares with sipping on a glass of exquisitely paired estate wine, while partaking in a Cape-inspired gourmet dining experience. The charismatic and talented Executive Chef, Rob Hahn, has prepared unique expressions of hearty, home-made soups, traditional and spicy curries and succulent and full-bodied casseroles: all of which are served in cast-iron pots, bringing out the most subtle aromas, while retaining optimal flavour. And, with this winter special on offer - a choice of a two- or three- course combination, with a glass of fine Rickety Bridge wine; for under R100 and under R150 respectively - who can resist such temptation?
A carnivore's delight, the Restaurant's slow-cooked and utterly delectable Oxtail Casserole is simmered for three hours in Rickety Bridge's Cabernet Sauvignon until the tender, succulent meat literally falls off the bone. Or perhaps the more adventurous palate may prefer the signature Cape Malay Chicken Curry, delicately infused with a glorious complexity of herbs and spices? This dish is paired with the Paulina's Reserve Sauvignon Blanc, with a fruity complexity and intense finish which accentuates the piquancy of the Curry. Why not try a creative vegetarian inspiration of conventional 'Bobotie' substituting ground beef with fleshy lentils and chickpeas? Pair this eclectic dish, which perfectly intersperses a combination of sweet and savoury tastes, with the recommended Rickety Bridge Shiraz, and one has a match made in heaven.
The estate boasts a delicious range of hand-produced Rickety Bridge Fine Foods. These delectable coulis, relishes and accompaniments, hand-produced by Rob Hahn, promise to complement any meal.
Culminate your dining experience with the well-loved South African favourite, Malva Pudding with Brandy Custard. Alternatively, relish the cornucopia of local cheese and biscuits, accompanied with watermelon, ginger and fig preserve. Pair this glorious array with Rickety Bridge Natural Sweet Chenin Blanc, where the honeyed nose and fruity palate will complement the tangy sharpness of cheddar, while delicate and subtle sweet floral notes permeate.
A kiddies menu (comprised of a choice of: hamburger or boerewors roll and chips or spaghetti bolognaise and a dessert of ice-cream and chocolate sauce), and jungle gym, promise to keep the children entertained, making the Restaurant in the Vines a perfect family destination.
In addition to fine wines and epicurean delights, Rickety Bridge offers 4 Star accommodation which bespeaks comfort, offering patrons a sense of being in a 'home away from home'. Boasting three stylishly renovated 19th century suites, the Manor House's design seamlessly integrates exquisite detail and timelessness of the old with contemporary-chic elements. Rickety Bridge also offers both full- and half-day conferencing packages, at highly competitive rates, with all culinary and hospitality aspects carried out with meticulous precision by the Rickety Bridge team. And which destination could be more idyllic in ambience and more nostalgic and romantic, for a wedding destination?
So, step over the bridge and enter the sanctuary of beauty, mystery and multi-faceted splendour that is Rickety Bridge.
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