Red Barn at Box Stallion

PROFILED BY DE GROOTS MEDIA
Box Stallion is named for a horse stud but these days it’s a vineyard and winery. The old stables have been handsomely modernised to house a cellar door and a casual dining area that’s a cross between a cafe and bistro. Call in for a wine tasting, stay for lunch, or just have a snack and a glass of something delicious (or coffee for the designated driver). The space is large and opens onto vineyards and great views. There are mementos of its former equine glory by way of decoration, as well as changing art exhibitions and a fun area of various children’s artistic impressions of the place.

The menu is smallish, but big enough. The platters are good value and a great way to have a light meal if you’re touring the Peninsula. There’s a tapas platter (you guessed it, Spanish flavours) or a grazing platter that might include terrine, local cheeses, dips, olives and so on. When it comes to main courses, the salt and pepper calamari has the right amount of seasoning and comes on wok-cooked vegetables with dipping sauce. There are also salad-y dishes with cured Atlantic salmon or smoked chicken, pizzas, and usually a vegetarian dish or two. Each menu item is listed with a suggested Box Stallion wine; add one of the dessert wines to finish, and a delicious Mornington Peninsula chocolate. On Sundays, there is often live music, and it’s a good idea to book ahead.

Rita Erlich