The long meandering drive that leads you through the breathtaking Da Capo vineyards to the majestic Idiom Tasting Center and Restaurant, gives quite the first impression.
You are then welcomed by monumental and euphoric FAITH – a beautiful towering sculpture, by father and son artists; Anton & Lionel Smit. He stands proud, chest arced, shoulders down, head and arms back. Overwhelmed by the panoramic views behind him, overlooking the Helderberg basin. Thankful for the Italian Heritage that is intertwined in every aspect of this beautiful farm. Gratified by the rolling vineyards composed of 17 varitals of grapes from all over the world, which shall soon be bottled and sipped, swirled and enjoyed both locally and internationally by amateurs of the vine and masters of wine alike. He has faith. And so do you as you look up at him and at all that surrounds.
Idiom’s restaurant offers a fusion of the Bottega’s Italian heritage and modern South African flavours and textures. The wine also plays a pivotal role in the conception of the dishes. So often the food takes the lead in the dance that plays between cuisine and wine, but not in this kitchen led by Callum Anderson “Each Idiom wine has its own unique character and flavour profile and we actively try and express those characters in the culinary offering, often using the colour spectrum as a guide,” Roberto Bottega tells us. “Our current team in the kitchen has a good understanding of this concept.” My favourite dish of the day was the cured salmon trout starter paired with Idiom Viognier. Not only because of exquisite and instagram worthy art of plating but because of the impeccable flavour combinations that reflect and complement the voluptuous aromatic, barrel-matured wine.
I also particularly enjoyed the complex and beautifully textured Idiom Semillon and the fruit forward and herbaceous Sangiovese.
This was my first visit and it did indeed make a lasting impression. I shall be back to indulge my senses in some more of what this Italian/ Cape fusion farm has to offer.
