Oh yay! Pomodoro Ristorante! Been on my ‘to do list’ for a very long time, so I jumped at the opportunity when I was invited to join them for a wine dinner with Joostenberg wines. Sounded like the perfect combination for some of my favourite things – pasta and vino!
This was my first visit to this Italian establishment and I excitedly arrived way too early – as usual! Which was great because it gave me enough time to look around and experience the warm and comfortable ambience of Pomodoro. Beautiful stylish decor, but still warm and welcoming.
We started off with the welcome drink – Joostenberg “Die Agteros” Chenin Blanc! Elegant, subtle and creamy. My favorite of the evening! And a lovely story behind the name, because “die agteros kom ook in die kraal” – this was a vineyard that took years to ‘prove itself’, but has now grown to be one of the best around.
For starters we had fresh tuna tartare with micro herbs, what a tasty and delicious dish! I thoroughly enjoyed it paired with Joostenberg Fairhead (Roussanne 48%, Viognier 38%, Chenin 13%) – a beautiful exotic wine.
First main course: Scrumptious Pappardelle with Florentine rabbit ragu. The first time eating rabbit – now I am wondering if it actually was real rabbit – or is it maybe some Italian food term I don’t know! Ha! Well whatever – it was so good!
And deliciously accompanied by Joostenberg Family Blend. An easy-drinking SMV-blend that is quite affordable as well. I just love the fact that it also has a REAL old family photo on the label.
Second main course! Yes, ladies and gentlemen – this was one fantastic #PomodoroDinnerParty!!
Eland casserole with grilled polenta – delicious comfort food! This was paired with “Klippe Kou” Shiraz. “Klippe Kou” means, directly translated, “chewing rocks” – which in Afrikaans refer to going through a hard time. Also referring to the rocky topsoil of the vineyard.
And for dessert – I didn’t want this to end Pomodoro!! Coffee and Hazelnut panna cotta with dark chocolate coulis – decadence!! Served with the most divine Joostenberg Wine Chenin Blanc Noble Late Harvest!
What a fun night out – with a lot of firsts for me, my first visit to Pomodoro Ristorante and my first tasting of Joostenberg wines. Both every impressive experiences!
Thank you so much for hosting me, hope to be back real soon!
http://pomodororestaurant.co.za/