Sensational flatbreads at Old Road Wine Co. – a food and wine revelation

Old Road Wine Co. is the latest addition to the Franschhoek gastronomical scene, and this atmospheric winery and restaurant are taking the pairing of food and wine far beyond the familiar and mundane with creative new flavour combinations.

A central feature of Old Road Wine Co’s exciting menu is its artisanal flatbreads. Chef Reimond van der Walt has conceptualised six enticing gourmet topping combinations that are deliciously satisfying for lunch, dinner or a snack to share. These fantastic flatbreads are prepared with the most exceptional quality fresh ingredients, have no tomato base and are cooked to perfection in the restaurant’s wood-fired oven. Each flatbread has been matched with a wine suggestion from the winery’s extensive range, in a combination that amplifies the flavours of both the dish and wine.

The air-dried pork loin, rocket and red wine reduction with shaved parmesan flatbread – the umami notes of the meat and reduction make it a perfect partner for the Elite Anemos Chenin Blanc. This layered, unconventional Chenin also has a vibrant minerality that ties wonderfully with the salty parmesan.

 

The glazed chicken or pork, toasted sesame seeds, fresh coriander and miso pesto with its fragrant and sweet earthiness is recommended with the Pardonnez-Moi Cinsaut, a quirky red wine with a similarly aromatic ripe fruit character and seamless, soft tannins.

Another classic combination with a twist is the basil pesto, sundried tomatoes, olives and toasted pumpkin seeds flatbread, suggested with the Juliette Sauvignon Blanc. This sensual white wine from Elgin grapes with its lively acidity sings with sundried tomatoes, while the tropical fruit core balances the savoury notes in the dish.

The smoked provolone, fennel-spiced sausage, olive oil and spring onion flatbread is a must with the French Corner Red Rhone Blend with its juicy dark berry fruit and savoury richness. The spicy oak notes in the wine echo the herb and nutty cheese flavours beautifully.

 

The roasted pear, ricotta, toasted walnut and blue cheese flatbread is another mouthwatering vegetarian option and pairs excellently with the French Corner White Rhone Blend. The luscious stone and tropical fruit in this wine are sensational with the heady pear and cheese combination.

The interesting pairing of the beef heart pastrami, red pepper pesto, and marinated buffalo mozzarella with The Anvil Shiraz is also an inspired choice. This sturdy, spicy red wine accentuates the savoury richness and creamy notes of the flatbread superbly.

Gluten-free bases for the flatbreads are available at an extra charge, as well as vegan options on request. Apart from the flatbreads, the menu also features a variety of sumptuous snacks, signature main dishes and delectable sweet treats. Book your table now to discover a revelation of fresh flavour fusions, designed with wine in mind.

The restaurant at Old Road Wine Co. is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 11:00-21:00 for lunch and dinner.