Shortest Lunch – A suggested itinerary – by Denise McCann
From the virtual wineries to the actual wineries!
It’s “Interesting Wednesday” just after a long weekend and I know you are all looking forward to next weekend’s Shortest Lunch!
Here’s a list of wineries to visit who are all located on or just off the beaten path around Yarra Glen, Coldstream, Dixons Creek and Healesville.
BILLANOOK ESTATE – 280 Edward Road, Chirnside Park
Billanook Estate is a gateway to the Yarra Valley commanding spectacular views. Kick the day off with their 2011 Vintage Sparkling! If you love bubbles, you’ll love this. And there’s a host of other wines to try.
The popular cooking school Al Dente Cooking will be providing boneless chicken thighs wrapped with prosciutto and sage, cooked with Billanook Estate Chardonnay in a butter and garlic sauce. There’s also Nonna’s recipe of soft homemade ricotta Gnocchi pan seared and tossed with your choice of two sauces. For those who love dessert try the limoncello infused tiramisu and their barista coffee is arguably the best in the Valley.
STEELS CREEK ESTATE – 1 Sewell Road, Steels Creek
Steels Creek Estate is a hidden gem and is well known for its Colombard, which sells out every vintage. They also have a loyal following for barrel fermented Chardonnay, a velvety Shiraz and an elegant Cabernet Sauvignon.
There will be traditional beef and burgundy with baby onions, mushrooms, garlic mash and/or roasted vegetarian lasagne with truffled pecorino, rocket and almond salad as well as churros with cinnamon sugar and hot chocolate sauce.