Wills Domain x RFW Wine Dinner

Last Wednesday night, Ripponlea Food & Wine hosted an exclusive wine series dinner, showcasing wines of Western Australia's Wills Domain winery. This was an intimate affair, limited to just 20 guests, who were treated to a four-course dining experience accompanied by Wills Domain wines. The evening was expertly hosted by the charming Georgia Mackey, ensuring an unforgettable experience for all in attendance.

The evening began with a warm welcome as guests enjoyed a glass of NV Wills Domain Cuvee d'Elevage Chardonnay Pinot Noir. This elegant sparkling wine set the tone for the night, offering a delightful balance of crispness that perfectly complemented the anticipation of the courses to come.

The first course featured an Ocean Trout Gougére, adorned with horseradish, dill, and pickled shallots. This delicate starter was paired with two chardonnays: the Eightfold Chardonnay 2023 and the Palladin Hill Chardonnay 2022. Both wines showcased the versatility of Wills Domain's winemaking.

Next came the entrée, a Bruléed Duck Liver Pate Tartlet, accompanied by an orange gel and a confit duck cigar. The richness of the pate and the bold flavours of the duck were complemented by the Eightfold Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 and the Eightfold Shiraz 2020. These robust reds perfectly balancing the dish's savoury notes.

The main course featured a Slow Braised Beef Short Rib, served with parsnip puree and pickled enoki. This hearty dish was accompanied by duck fat potatoes and a house salad, creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal. The Palladin Hill Matrix Blend 2021 and Palladin Hill Shiraz 2019 were chosen to accompany the main course, their bold and rich profiles enhancing the deep, savoury flavours of the beef and the richness of the sides.

The evening concluded with a luxurious Saint Angel Triple Cream Blue Cheese, served with carefully selected accompaniments. This decadent finish was paired with the 2017 Noble One Botrytis Semillon, a sweet and luscious wine that provided the perfect balance to the creamy and tangy notes of the blue cheese.

Find out more about Ripponlea Food & Wine here.