Located in the Cape Winelands off Route 44 in Stellenbosch, lies the brand new Pink Valley Wines. Pink Valley is literally the new kid of the wine block as it opened its doors on 11 November 2019. Specialising only in rosé wines, the aptly named Pink Valley Wines graciously hosted me on their farm to taste their new menu at their beautiful restaurant located in its vineyards at the foot of the looming Helderberg Mountains.
Who is Pink Valley Wines?
Pink Valley Wines is owned by the Oddo’s a French wine-making family who recently bought the farm here in Stellenbosch, South Africa. The family has farms in Provence and Sancerre in France, in Sicily, Italy as well as in Spain. The Rosé’s here in the Pink Valley are created using the same method as the Rosé produced in Provence. Ultimately, you now have a wine created using their French method with our home-grown vines and soil.
The result is an interesting light rosé that looks almost like a white wine. You can barely see the pink shimmer in it until closer inspection. The taste will reveal that it is indeed a rosé though.
Pink Valley is currently the first winemakers to specialise only in the production of Rosé here in South Africa. I think it’s a perfect concept seeing as Rosé is not limited only to the summer season in our warm climate.
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The Pink Valley Wines Menu
The restaurant is situated alongside and overlooking the vineyard offering calming views of the valley far away from the traffic. The interior is comfortably decorated in bright pastels with interesting artwork pieces on the wall. The owners are avid patrons of the arts and love to show off their collections. In fact, they commissioned local abstract artist Walter Battiss to design their label and logo.
Starters
I opted for the Sweet and Sticky Pork and cucumber skewers. This tasted DELICIOUS. I highly recommend this one! It is the ultimate savoury treat.
Mains
Their mains are generous if there’s one word to describe it.
The beef rib and grilled corn with salad
I couldn’t even finish this huge offering. While I always prefer my beef with a side of potato, I have to say this corn strips were amazing. I really enjoyed the two together.
The Whole Baked Mackerel with Salad
Freshly baked mackerel covered in a savoury sauce makes for an excellent summer option.
Dessert
The strawberry and vanilla panna cotta slice
Now I am not a sweet person and this is actually the first time I have ever tried a panna cotta. This was nothing short of amazing and the best thing was that it was not over sweet. It had a fruity taste and the mix of wafer and bitterness was perfect. Plus, just look at it!
Deluxe chocolate and hazelnut sandwiches.
Served chilled, these decadent biscuits are filled with a creamy slightly bitter chocolate that just comes forth on breaking it. Delish.
If you are looking for THE wine farm to visit this summer, Pink Valley Wines is one to add to your list. I personally enjoyed the wine’s light and refreshing taste and like me, you’ll probably be walking away with your own bottle after the visit!
Cheers,
Bee
Pink Valley Wines
https://www.pinkvalleywines.com/
Pink Valley Wines
Cordoba Road (R44)
Helderberg Rural
Stellenbosch – Somerset West
South Africa
T: +27 (0) 21 855 3744
E: tasting@pinkvalleywines.com