As the hot afternoon sun moved further west towards the famous Blyde River Canyon - the third largest and undeniably most spectacular canyon in the world - Chaîne members and friends arrived at the grandiose Khaya Ndlovu Manor House situated in the Rietspruit Big 4 Game Reserve. The property is just a stone’s throw away from Hoedspruit, gateway to the Greater Kruger area - the wildlife haven of Limpopo Province.

Khaya Ndlovu is a well-protected 5,500-hectare sanctuary where owner Trevor Jordan was instrumental in bringing big game to the borders of Hoedspruit. Unique to the guests on a Khaya Ndlovu game drive is the possibility of spotting orphaned rhino babies. Victims of rhino poaching, they are released into the Reserve from the Rhino Revolution rehabilitation facility which offers a safe haven for resident black and white rhino, all of which have been dehorned for their safety.

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Potato nest filled with avocado mousse
pepper-dews, micro greens, Balsamic reduction
Journey's End ‘Lone Creek’ Sauvignon Blanc 2021

Grilled aubergine
rich Napolitana sauce, gratinated Parmesan cheese
Journey's End ‘GFV’ Sauvignon Blanc 2021

Homemade butternut and goat’s cheese ravioli
burnt sage butter topped with crispy basil
Journey's End ‘Haystack’ Chardonnay 2021

Lemongrass and coconut sorbet

Crispy pork belly medallion
parsnip purée, creamy truffle mashed potatoes
bacon dust, maple syrup rainbow carrots, cider sauce
Journey's End ‘The Night Watchman’ 2019

Chocolate mousse bar
caramel popcorn, salted caramel, popcorn ice-cream
white chocolate roots, dried beetroot crisps
L'Ormarins Sparkling Brut Rosé NV
Méthode cap classique

The outdoor setting overlooking a waterhole with visiting game was picturesque. Course after course was carefully prepared and plated under the professional watch of Executive Chef Vandeline Pienaar. Her experience in working at many great wine estates in the Cape was showcased. The wine pairing was superb and presented before each course by the OMGD members.

Camaraderie of the table continued as the setting sun slowly moved us into darkness. The silence of the African bush with an occasional nightjar call provided bush “music”. The magnificent Milky Way reminded us of how privileged we are.

The splendid evening ended with words of gratitude to General Manager Roxanne Cragg and the Khaya Ndlovo team for outstanding service, also to Belinda Fivas who greatly assisted with the event’s organisation. Certificates of Appreciation were awarded to all involved in yet another amazing Chaîne des Rôtisseurs African Bush experience.

Vive la Chaîne!

Istell Carlin
Bailli