In the world of fine dining, the rule of thumb is simple: chefs craft flavourful dishes, and sommeliers seek out wines to complement each course. But at the Waterford and Heirloom dinners, that formula is flipped on its head. Here, the wines take the lead, guiding the kitchen in curating a menu that celebrates and enhances each bottle’s unique character.
“By letting the wines guide the dishes, they influence the flavours of the ingredients,” explains Alvezo Abrahams, Heirloom’s in-house sommelier.
A proud son of the Robertson wine valley, Abrahams grew up immersed in vineyard culture, with close family ties to De Wetshof Wine Estate. It’s no surprise that his relationship with wine runs deep—his pairings don’t just complement, they tell a story.
A Culinary Experience Rooted in Elegance
Set against the luxurious backdrop of the Cape Grace Hotel, Heirloom Restaurant offers more than a fine meal—it delivers an immersive sensory experience. From the gleam of refined dinnerware to the thoughtful balance of texture and flavour, each element is meticulously curated to showcase the artistry of the Cape’s winemakers and chefs.
Course by Course: A Journey Through Taste
🍾 Blanc de Blanc Cap Classique 2018
The evening begins with quiet effervescence—a Cap Classique that brings delicate sparkle and a clean mineral backbone. It’s paired with tuna on toasted brioche, layered with roasted black garlic aioli, apple jelly, and crisp apple sticks, providing a refreshing and vibrant start.
🍷 Waterford Elgin Sauvignon Blanc 2024
Hints of guava, granadilla, and gooseberry linger on the tongue. This expressive wine is matched with rainbow trout, plated with pepper salsa, avocado purée, and a citrus-garlic crumble—a refined, zesty course that perfectly resets the palate.
🥂 Waterford Estate Chardonnay 2015
This lightly toasted, full-bodied Chardonnay carries comforting woody undertones and is paired beautifully with pork belly glazed in white wine orange beurre blanc. A harmony of freshness and depth that’s both indulgent and elegantly restrained.
🍷 Kevin Arnold Shiraz 2016
The first red of the night arrives as a sensory revelation. This earthy, spiced Shiraz pairs with an ambitious beef dish—beef tongue, fillet, salted candied tomatoes, cauliflower purée, and potato fondant with Jem jus. A bold pairing that captures the depth and soul of the wine.
🍸 Heatherleigh NV Dessert Wine
To end on a high note, this dessert wine appears like molten gold in its shallow glass. With its natural sweetness and fresh finish, it’s a perfect partner to poached pear, chocolate sorbet, and pistachio mousse—a dish that feels like dessert’s final word.
An Experience Not to Be Missed
More than a dinner, the Waterford and Heirloom pairing is a celebration of South African terroir, culinary imagination, and oenological precision. Guided by Alvezo Abrahams and supported by a team of warm, knowledgeable staff, guests are treated to a night of flavour, discovery, and excellence.
Whether you’re a dedicated wine enthusiast, a curious foodie, or someone simply in search of a remarkable night out, this pairing experience is one for the bucket list.
