Cape Barren Wine Dinner at La Vie Penang [Video]

August 29, 2019

Cape Barren wines are produced from vineyards particularly hand selected for their exceptional quality and consistency. Their reds are produced from the world renowned McLaren Vale region, from vines older than 45 years. These seriously old vines produce wines of supreme concentration and complexity not seen in younger vines. On their wine label is the magnificent Cape Barren Geese which arrive in flocks in their vineyards at the end of each summer.

The event was held on 22 August 2019 at the La Vie restaurant by special limited invitation only. Mr Robert John Dundon, the owner of Cape Barren winery was present to provide a comprehensive introduction to their wines. Cape Barren wines are distributed by Dionysus Asia who is one of the leading wine suppliers in Malaysia.

La Vie restaurant needs no introduction and is on my list as one of the best restaurants in Georgetown, Penang. They are renowned for consistently producing exceptional food and great hospitality. For this event, we had a 5-course dinner complimented by Cape Barren wines. Amongst the highlights were the seared foie gras with portobello mushroom soup which was superbly paired with the Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc (CMC). The 3 varieties have integrated beautifully to provide a smooth and fleshy mouthfeel, displaying blackberry and mint, enhanced by nuances of plum, herbal notes and well-integrated oak. Also the braised wagyu beef cheek paired with the reserve old vine Shiraz. The Shiraz was a full-bodied wine where intense black and blue fruits dominate, enhanced by swirls of mocha, vanilla and spice seamlessly melding into a sophisticated and velvety texture. The French oak and fine-grained tannins enhance a persistent finish. Even though these wines were produced in regions typically renowned for their powerful wines, these wines beg to differ with its Bordeaux-style characteristics and elegance.

Overall it was a very eye-opening and awe-inspiring dining experience. Loved their CMC that we bought a few bottle too to bring to special occasions.

Watch the full version of the introduction to Cape Barren wines here.