Hemel-en-Aarde (heaven and earth) is an appropriate name for the bounteous valley that runs inland from Hermanus, and Creation – nestled right in its centre – is a similarly suitable moniker for the wine farm and a restaurant that focuses on local produce and creative pairings.

The food

‘What grows together, goes together’ reads the menu, and indeed, 80% of the dishes on the menu are composed of ingredients from the Overberg region, from fabulous suppliers like Camphill Village Bakery, Glen Oakes farm and Richard Bosman charcuterie. Diners can opt for a wine-paired menu of canapés – which are small in size, but big in flavour – or order one of main course dishes and get the full wine tasting on the house.

On offer are a tasty roast duck breast and confit leg with buchu, syrah, grenache syrup and shallot jus; juicy braised pork belly with five spice; and pork wontons with potato mash and prune-and-Darjeeling purée. The highlight, however, is a glorious loin of springbok. The rare, blushing meat is butter-soft and dripping with flavour. It works beautifully with its accompaniments of umami-rich sautéed valley mushrooms, fondant potato and cranberry jus.

Try the wine and chocolate pairing for dessert, or one of the blackboard offerings, such as poached pears or an oozing chocolate fondant.

Food in Creation Wines’ garden

The wines

The wines are limited to the Creation estate only, which is not great hardship given their award-winning quality. Thanks to a stable climate, the winery has had success with a wide range of varietals, and currently produces sauvignon blanc, sémillon, viognier, chardonnay, pinot noir, merlot, syrah, grenache and a Bordeaux-style blend – so there’s also something for every taste.

The service

The restaurant can get quite busy and buzzing, but waiters take it all in their stride, going out of their way to make sure everyone is comfortable. All staff have exceptional wine knowledge.

The ambience

The minimalist dining room is the perfect frame for beautiful views out of over the valley and farm, and a fireplace keeps things cosy in the winter. There’s a dedicated playroom for kids, complete with toys, and a young adults menu. In summer, call ahead to book the picnic menu or a vineyard safari, which includes a light lunch.

In the tasting room at Creation Wines

The verdict

Creation delivers great flavours and value for money. It’s an excellent option for refuelling on a wine-tasting field trip.

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