To the Root of my soul

The prospect of a night filled with French wine is most certainly an exciting one. Add to that a promise of beautifully paired food – there’s no need to ask twice; I will be there!

Tasting and pairing menus are not everyone’s cup of tea, but if you can get past the idea of small fiddly portion sizes and the notion that it always pretentious you might be surprised by where the journey takes you.

Of course, for me it’s easy, as a chef I have full understanding of the time and planning that goes into the evening like this. Every detail I see on a plate is hours of work from a passionate team behind those swing doors.

I truly believe the only way you can enjoy a set tasting menu is to go with an open mind. Yes, you may see things you wouldn’t normally order, or drink a varietal that usually would make your stomach turn, but more often than not, the talented masterminds behind the pairing have done it for a reason. Surprise. So be surprised, I promise you there is nothing more rewarding or enjoyable!

Wine in general is something both my husband and I are passionate about. (Yes, I know, who’s not passionate about wine these days?) But French wine, we hold in high esteem. We have been lucky enough to share intimate wine tastings and lush dinners in Bordeaux, and in pure celebratory style got married in Fraanchhoek on Bastille day. So, when Roots came up with a five course French wine food pairing, my husband jumped at the opportunity to surprise me. (Yes! He is a keeper!)

Having recently moved back from the USA, we tend to immerse ourselves in our South African surroundings, what better place to do it than at Forum Homini and Roots restaurant. Where the cradle of humankind has very tastefully inspired the theme and atmosphere of both the lodge and restaurant.

I could go on for hours on the magical evening we shared, but instead I will keep is short and concise – hopefully you will go one day and experience it for yourself! First note, the one down side of these pairing menu’s, is that by the time you get to the last wine pairing, you can barely taste it. So, when we started with a pre-pairing with Great Domaines Sommelier, I was immediately impressed by the fore-thought. After that the evening just flowed, from beautiful breads all the way to a delightful dessert! And of course, service was spot on.

Oh, did I forget to mention that the next morning we awoke to a five-course breakfast! Honestly, I was in my absolute element – foodie heaven!