LOCATIONLocated in Darlington.
PROFILED BY DE GROOTS MEDIALeave the city behind and head for the Perth hills, taking in fresh air and beautiful lush green bushland as you make the ascent. Only 25 minutes from the city, Darlington is a particularly beautiful part of the hills and boasts quite a few attractions that are worth visiting. One such place is Darlington Estate Winery. If you’re a lover of fine food, wine and beautiful scenery, you’ll be impressed by this quaint little spot. Fitting in with its unique bush surroundings, the cellar door and restaurant boast natural materials to create a truly authentic country dining experience. Making the most of their premium quality wines made on site, each dish on the Darlington Estate menu has been carefully created to match their wines.
Chef Paul Smith shows particular attention to detail when it comes time to plate up his creations, ensuring your eyes are not feeling neglected while your tastebuds jump for joy. The Darlington taste plate is always a great way to start a meal, yet something made me throw caution to the wind and go with the yabbies with creme fraiche and chive potato with julienne vegetables, cognac and tarragon. It must have been that drizzle of crayfish oil that won me over. The mains menu is short and sweet – just the way I like it – and basically features a dish based on each type of meat. There’s seared Tasmanian salmon, dukkah-crusted lamb, stuffed duck breast, swordfish steak, stuffed pork fillet and my favourite, fillet of beef with mushroom cream and red wine jus. Basically, there’s something for everyone at Darlington Estate Winery, so leave the big smoke and prepare to have your lungs cleansed and your palate rejuvenated with fresh air and beautiful food and wines.
Karen Bilsby