CUPITT’S WINERY ULLADULLA
- By Atal Hakikat
Photo:Destination NSW
On a recent stay in the coastal town of Mollymook, Cupitt’s kitchen was casually recommended to us for lunch. I consulted Google to do a little research and uncovered Cupitt is also highly respected as a wine producer but it didn’t stop there. Set on 200 acres the family run business includes the restaurant and winery but also a microbrewery and a fromagerie. It’s fair to say it has it all; in fact you can even stay in Cupitt’s cottage accommodation making it ideal for functions and weddings.
Ok, so now I have your attention let me share our Cupitt experience with you as it was truly the highlight of our trip down the south coast.
Set on rolling green pastures just behind Milton the Cupitt estate captures far-reaching views across the vineyard to Burill Lake and the Budawang Ranges. It’s stunning and the minute we step out of the Arteon we realise it’s everything we love about escaping Sydney. Fresh air fills our lungs and we find paddocks of farm animals amongst thriving veggie gardens. The absence of traffic and urban chaos is replaced with an expanse of countryside and it is bliss.
We head toward the restaurant where a friendly host greets us with a warm smile and swiftly escorts us to our table. The dining space is flanked by walls of glass so every table has its diners soaking up the stunning views across the escarpment. It’s a brilliant day, sunny with sudden gusts of wind and the restaurant is glowing and golden in the sunshine.
We are ravenous and our lovely waiter helps us decide on our mains. Head chef Russell Chinn has Michelin-star experience to his name and the kitchen’s farm to table philosophy drives the seasonal menu. To my surprise my husband beats me to order the barramundi and feeling like fish myself I opt for the snapper. Lovers of Chardonnay we take the recommendation on the 2017 “The Pointer” and it’s superb. Perfectly balanced stone fruits with just a hint of toastiness from the French oak barrels. I’m only two sips in but already know we will be passing through the cellar door before we leave to grab a bottle to take home.
Our mains arrive. Both beautifully presented and the fish is perfectly cooked. The snapper is served with fluffy cous cous all placed on a sweet butternut squash purée with a light paprika dressing.
The Barramundi in comparison is earthy with the deep flavours of roasted cauliflower and chorizo, lifted with a bright lemon dressing. We couldn’t resist ordering the duck fat potato chips and a side of bright glossy greens, straight from the kitchen garden.
We polish off the Chardy and head for the cellar door. The beautiful old building was originally a creamery and circa 1851 it’s full of rustic charm. The cellar door also stocks a range of cheeses made on the estate by Rosie Cupitt. Originally Rosie was the wine maker but when she turned her attention to making cheese in 2015 her sons Tom and Wally took the reins in that department.
What’s fantastic about Cupitt is that you can explore the property and full offering via a pre booked tour. The journey allows you explore the estate with the head wine maker as your guide. Groups visit the vineyard, barrel room, kitchen garden and micro brewery and the best bit is that you get to sample the wine, beer and cheese products along the way (see here for more information). They also have a wine club, live gigs and cocktail making master classes and this is exactly why we have to return as our simple lunch was just the beginning of our love affair with Cupitt.
FASHION INSPO
Cupitt is best described as refined country. Its definitely denim territory and if you prefer wearing heals for height we’d suggest some wedges or boots so you can have a good wander around the estate across the grass etc.
Boho vibes would also work really well in this setting and we love the juxtaposition of pretty dress with a chunky tough looking boot.
SHOP INSPO
Angela
Lucky for you guys this dress is now on sale and it’s available in most sizes. I actually purchased the small and the medium from The Iconic as I wasn’t sure if the small would be too short (I’m about 175cm in height). The medium was slightly better in length so I sent back the small with no worries. I love how quick and easy it is shopping on The Iconic where the dress is now on sale but I’ve found you even an bigger discount straight from the source- ONETEASPOON!
SHOP THE LOOK
DRESS by ONETEASPOON & also here
SUNGLASSES by Quay Australia
BOOTS by Tony Bianco
