Now in its third year, the Protea Party - created to embody and celebrate the spirit of Anthonij Rupert Wyne’s Protea wine range - has firmly established itself as a sought-after event on the annual Franschhoek social calendar. The party provides guests with the opportunity to enjoy an evening of fine food, wine and unmatched hospitality, while soaking up beautiful views from the Anthonij Rupert Tasting room.
The Protea range consists of eight wines and is named for the flower species that is so unique to the Cape floral kingdom. The distinctive wine bottles, at the heart of this celebration, are displayed in a variety of functional ways every year: from vases and water glasses to olive oil and balsamic vinegar bottles, and a whimsical candle-chandelier hanging in the magnolia tree on the lawn. Décor is rustic with country-style elegance: wooden dining tables, intimate lounge-style seating areas and fresh proteas create a feeling of organic chic beneath the party marquee.
With the setting sun signalling the start of the evening, tantalising Protea Pinot Grigio and granadilla cocktails will welcome guests. The harvest-style menu of dishes meant for sharing - a signature of the Protea Party - showcases local winelands produce:
Platters of chargrilled asparagus with artichoke salsa, wood-fired ciabatta with trout pâté and seared Angus beef tataki with radish and watercress begin the three-course dinner. A succulent slow roasted shoulder of Karoo Lamb, infused with lemon and oregano and accompanied by seasonal estate-grown salad and vegetables, takes centre-stage for the main course. Dessert draws its inspiration from the pale-pink hues of the Protea Rosé, in the form of a poached guava frangipane tart with elderflower syrup and Italian meringue.
Protea wines can be enjoyed throughout the evening with live music and a dance floor to complete this celebration under the stars in Franschhoek.
Tickets cost R495 per person, which includes a three-course meal, wines and live entertainment. Pre-booking is essential as seating is limited.
Book directly through www.webtickets.co.za.