Locale Restaurant @De Bortoli Vineyard, Yarra Valley

 

The Restaurant Locale is beautifully located at the “De Bortoli” Vineyard in the Yarra Valley. About 1 1/2 hours drive from the Melbourne CBD.

Before having Lunch (Reservation is a must!) at the Restaurant  you need to go the Cellar Door for a Wine (free)  and Cheese (16$) tasting. Their Chardonnay (Yarra Valley Estate Grown Chardonnay 2014)  is outstanding. The Cheese selection was good and presented perfectly (correct temperature for the soft and hard cheese selection to taste). Almost the best way to taste wine is with perfectly tempered cheese! Check out their Wines HERE!

 

The “De Bortoli” Vineyard is a main feature of the Yarra Valley. Their beginnings started in the Riverina region (Bilbul) of southern New South Wales. The Riverina produces the acclaimed Noble One, world class fortified and premium varietal wines. The other New South Wales Vineyard is in the Hunter Valley where the unique character and longevity of its Semillion and Shiraz wines shines through.

In Victoria the Yarra Valley is recognised for its cool climate wines made from classic varieties like Chardonnay, Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon. In the north east of Victoria is the King Valley Vineyard which established itself with a reputation for great European style of wines.

The atmosphere and level of service in the Restaurant is excellent. The food was prepared almost to  perfection. We had the 30 year old Proscuito di Parma which was outstanding.

 

 

 

Freshly shucked Tasmanian Oysters with Blood Orange Granita was a great refreshing start to the  meal. For main you cannot go pass the Pork belly which has been poached in Olive oil which came with crispy skin!

All Pastas are made on the premises and served with seasonal sauces and toppings. The Duck breast was as well a great dish, but slightly overcooked.

 

 

The Dessert Menu featured some classics like caramelised lemon tart and Bombe Alaska which were prepared and presented beautifully.

 

 

The Wine list features some great vintages from the “De Bortoli” Vineyards in Yarra, King and Hunter Valley. Overall a great place which is a must visit when in the Yarra Valley region.

 

Bon Voyage and Bon Appetite – Chef & Guide Dog User Martin