3 March 2012

NOSE TO TAIL AT THE TASTING SHED

Possibly the most originally conceived dinner I have been to in a while, and definitely the best wine and food matching for yonks. Sara Simpson, chef at The Tasting Shed near Kumeu worked wonders with a superb Nose to Tail menu that accompanied fine Peregrine wines. There’s nothing quite like a playful approach in a world where far too many chefs and wine makers take themselves so seriously. Nose to Tail, as you can see from the illustrated placemat meant a progression of courses founded on Fergus Henderson’s quirky book, but this was much cleverer.

First up EAR; a tasty course with corn (as in ear- geddit?) matched to Peregrine’s creamy sauvignon blanc. Delicious food, delicious wine and as Greg Hay said “It’s nothing like Marlborough sav - that’s why we do it!”

Then HEAD; a deconstructed and crisp light crumbed pig’s head, served alongside a meaty scallop with Peregrine Pinot Gris 2010. Delicious food and a wine of finesse that stands out in the varietal Greg called the “rice of the wine world.”

Next NECK; a lamb neck (absolutely the best meat on the whole beast) tucked into a generous ravioli to match a delicate, unctuous spicy dry gewürztraminer.

BELLY: tuna belly cooked sous-vide and garnished with vanilla gel and nuggets of golden hazelnuts to match chardonnay 2010 that was “melted butter in a bottle”.

LOIN; venison medallions baked in ash and served with cherries and anchovies that were deep fried in a batter. Naturally pinot noir to accompany, elegant, weighty and a trophy winner.

Finally TAIL and so witty. It was the dessert course and a fruity cock-tail of a citrusy jelly topped with little tastes of the lovely flavours in the Charcoal Riesling that was a perfect sweet ending to the dinner.

Fabulous food, wonderful wines, friendly professional hosting that made this an evening to remember. I would love to have been a fly on the wall when the chef and the owners sat down to brainstorm this very smart dinner and wine matching. Don’t miss this fabulous restaurant. We can’t wait to return.

609 SH16 Kumeu T 09 412 6454