Established in 2002 by Jean-Claude and Carolyn Martin, Creation Wines on the Hemel-en-Aarde Ridge near Hermanus has always lived up to its evocative name. “The name, Creation, is not only a tribute to the riches Mother Nature has bestowed upon our beautiful farm, it is also a reference to our soils which had never been planted to vines before, and last but not least, it is a promise of constant innovation,” explains Carolyn.

Thanks to this trendsetting spirit Creation has played a pioneering role in the development of wine and food pairing in the Cape Winelands. In combining winemaking showmanship with culinary artistry, gorgeous flavours with irresistible textures, the team enjoys an enviable reputation for innovative and ever-evolving wine and food pairings and has won the KLINK Wine Tourism Award for Best Food and Wine Pairing at the Cellar Door twice.

An exciting recent development has been the launch of a brand-new menu aimed at taking wine pairing to new heights. It features among others the evolvement of their award-winning Canapé Pairing into an irresistible Tapas Pairing.

Carolyn elaborates: “The tapas are slightly more substantial in size than the one-bite canapés and should satisfy most appetites as a complete lunch. The increased complexity of each dish allows us to demonstrate more depth in the pairings, creating a truly unique and multi-faceted pairing experience.”

Ranging from a feast of pickled calamari, pawpaw, cucumber, pineapple, celery and radish served with the Creation Sauvignon Blanc to the delectable pork dumpling and umami broth served with the Creation Syrah, the new Tapas Pairing comprises eight different combinations, offering interesting variety.

Another thrilling newcomer to the Creation menu is the Three Course Pairing which changes weekly. “This is where our chefs will let their creativity run wild, incorporating fresh local ingredients and unexpected combinations into a three course meal, each course enjoyed with a different wine,” says Carolyn.

Adding an innovative twist to their cheese and antipasti platters are two delicious new offerings: the Cheese Pairing and the Charcuterie Pairing. At the same time established favourites such as the 10AM Brunch Pairing, the Gourmet Secret Pairing, the Paradoxical Chocolate Pairing, the Non-alcoholic Tapas and Tea Pairing and the Surprise Pairing for Kids will remain on the menu.

More good news is that Creation caters for specific dietary requirements. So, if you are a vegetarian, lactose or gluten intolerant or follow a Low Carb Hi Protein eating plan, simply let them know when booking. The Creation Tasting Room is open 7 days a week, with pairings available between 11h00 and 16h00.

Reservations: (028) 212 1107, [email protected] or www.creationwines.com.