La Motte

22 Jun , 2015

I can think of worse ways to spend a day than in the gorgeously quaint French Huguenot town of Franschhoek. One must-try place on your wine tasting and foodie adventures (some of South Africa’s top restaurants live in the oak-lined Franschhoek streets) is La Motte.

Boasting beautifully manicured lawns, a finely kept and colourful rose garden and vineyards that work their way right up to the entrance, it’s an idyllic setting to spend an afternoon wine tasting, enjoying a slice of cake at the farm shop or a meal at Pierneef à La Motte, the wine farm’s highly regarded restaurant.

The stylishly decorated space has a charming rustic feel, with edgy and contemporary finishes to create a well balanced and beautiful ambience. The restaurant interior blends beautifully with the external surroundings – a fresh, natural look inside is embraced by tranquil gardens. In warm (and rainless) weather, sit under the large oak tree, or walk through the elegant restaurant to curl up alongside the pond; calming and serene as you sip a glass or two of wine and share light snacks. Deciding to forego a wine tasting in the old cellar, that’s what we did at least.

Alternatively, choose to sit in the decadent interior and enjoy fresh, country-style cooking from Chef Michelle Theron – or the seasonal Chef’s Table that is worth investing a meal in.

Embark on a historic walk, sculpture walk or enjoy a food and wine pairing, among other offerings that the farm is known for. From a fruity and fresh Sauvignon Blanc, a lightly wooded Chardonnay and the 2013 La Motte Millennium red blend (which, if you remember, we enjoyed with our delicious tasting menu at La Mouette), our afternoon at La Motte with foodie friends was a refreshing break from city life; it felt like we’d been gone for days.