My husband and I were fortunate enough to be invited for a nights stay at ‘The Farm at Cape Kidnappers’ in the Hawkes Bay. For a Louis Roederer Champagne Dinner with host Brett Newell.

On arrival at the lodge we were greeted, and shown around the lodges facilities. Including the gym, library, restaurant and very impressive wine cellar. Afterwards we were shown to our spacious Lodge Suite where a bottle of Louis Roederer champagne was waiting for us to enjoy. The suite has spectacular views over the Pacific Ocean and the estate.

Lodge Facilities

After settling into our Lodge Suite; my husband took advantage of the gym whilst I went for walk. There are lots of walks at the property. I took the Lavender walk, which weaves through paddocks, lavender fields and out to the cliffs with amazing views. Later we both enjoyed a 50 minute massage.

Before dinner we had the nightly included pre-dinner cocktails with the other lodge guests. A few glasses of Brut Premier – Louis Roederer with canapés, oysters, salmon canapés, pork belly and pork canapés.

Dining at Cape Kidnappers

Dinner began with more Brut Premier with our first of 6 courses, duck liver parfait with toasted brioche & cognac soaked raisins. The host of the evening was Brett Newell of Eurovintage. During dinner Brett imparted his vast knowledge of the Louis Roederer champagnes. Head chef Tim Pickering joined us to talk about the food and local produce used along with the particular tasting notes for this very special meal. In between courses we were treated to a very special Cristal Champagne. The menu was impeccable (see the below image) and my personal favourite was the Quail breast.

Golf at Cape Kidnappers

The next morning after a wonderful breakfast, Lisa arranged a transfer to the golf club house to meet John and Zane, the golf pros. John loaned us a couple of putters to have a go on the Cape Kidnappers golf course and a golf cart to have a good look around the course – very impressive, even for a non-golfer!

Owners Cottage

The Cape Kidnappers Owners Cottage can be used for larger groups, families and also to hold weddings. Weddings there would be very memorable. The Owners Cottage has its own kitchen and guests can choose to dine there or in the lodge. It also boasts its own private Jacuzzi.

I would have loved to have spent more time. However reality called and we had to make our way back to Auckland.  Thank you to all the staff and especially to our host Lisa – she was very professional and friendly. All of the Cape Kidnappers staff made us feel very welcome and the service was nothing short of fantastic.

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