Our 2021 Annual Bush Lunch was an honoured devotion to good food, wine and life, an opportunity to experience fine dining whilst preserving the camaraderie and pleasures of the table.

The event was hosted at Motswari Private Game Reserve. This family-owned luxury Big Five Safari Lodge located within the Timbavati, part of the Greater Kruger Park, is a new host venue for the Bailliage. Motswari has been in existence for over four decades. Its friendly staff members are intrinsic to its success.

In Tswana, one of the indigenous languages, Motswari means “to conserve and protect”. Sharing in values, it allowed us the opportunity to demonstrate our commitment to Chaîne values thus forming the basis of collaboration between the Chaîne, Motswari and the Greater Kruger Hotel School from the nearby local area of Hoedspruit.

An opulent African adventure, extraordinary scenery, authentic atmosphere, artworks by owner, Marion Geiger-Orengo and warm Motswari hospitality awaited members and friends of the Chaîne. Nine young aspiring chefs aged 19-22 showcased their skills. They took us on a culinary journey with a sumptuous five course menu under mentorship of Chef Anita Roux.

Drinks and canapés on arrival were served in a beautiful area overlooking the dry river bed before we moved to the formal lounge converted into a dining area with a table seating our 35 guests.

Renowned for majestic creatures such as elephant breeding herds who on cue graced us with their presence halfway through the lunch offering incredible viewing opportunities as they basked in their natural habitat.

The event was presided over by Motswari General Manager Grant Anderson and his team. Our Bailli, Istell Carlin, gave a warm welcome to visiting guests from the Bailliages of Cape Town and Pretoria.

Istell highlighted the collaboration between the Chaîne, Motswari and the Greater Kruger Hotel School. Ordre Mondial des Gourmets Dégustateurs (OMGD) members Dr Peet Visser and Paul Carlin gave a comprehensive overview of what to expect from the wines paired with each course.

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Chicken liver parfait
clemengold*, malva (mallow) melba

Sweetbread
cauliflower, shiitake, truffle
2020 Paul Cluver Sauvignon Blanc

Venison tataki
onion ponzu, zucchini ribbons, garlic crisps
2017 Haute Cabrière Reserve Pinot Noir

Asparagus sorbet
Grappa

Duck confit
blood orange,| toasted brioche
baby fennel, broccoli
2015 Glenelly Hill Syrah

Biltong
roasted sweet-mustard pear, spicy nuts
apricot, Gorgonzola
2018 Hoopenburg Cabernet Sauvignon

Chocolate meringue terrine
miso white chocolate
NV Villiera Tradition Brut
(MCC - Méthode Cap Classique)

The formalities of thanks, certificates and photos were completed. Table décor, menu and other sponsorship by members assisted with the logistical challenges of a remote bush location. The food was filled with exciting flavours and textures. Some dishes presentation was a work of art. Hospitality and service were excellent. Everyone appreciated the good selection of wines.

The memorable event closed on a high note with a display of African song and dance by the Motswari staff which was much appreciated by everyone. We had such fun.

We now look forward to being part of Motswari’s 50th anniversary celebration in 2022.

Vive la Chaîne!

Istell Carlin
Bailli

* Ed. ClemenGold is a wonderfully sweet and aromatic soft citrus fruit. Sun ripened and handpicked by selected growers around the world.