I recently had the pleasure of attending a remarkable dinner and wine event hosted by Cat Amongst The Pigeon Wines at The Old Fitzroy Hotel Rooftop. The evening was filled with delectable cuisine, carefully paired wines, and a touch of mystery. As we embarked on a culinary journey, the enchantment of the night unfolded, accompanied by a thrilling card game known as ‘Who’s the Cat amongst the Pigeons.’ Join me as I recount the unforgettable experience of this extraordinary event.
Setting the Scene: The Old Fitzroy Hotel Rooftop provided a charming and intimate setting for the evening’s festivities. We were enveloped in an atmosphere of elegance and anticipation. The meticulously decorated venue enhanced the ambience, setting the stage for an unforgettable night.
The event began with an array of mouthwatering canapés. The Pomme Anna, a delicate and flavorful potato dish, was perfectly complemented by the effervescence of Cat Amongst The Pigeon Sparkling Shiraz. The combination of crisp textures and vibrant flavours invigorated our palates, setting the tone for our future culinary journey.
Tasting Notes: On the nose, it reveals vibrant aromas of ripe berries, cherries, and plums, intertwined with subtle hints of spice and dark chocolate. The effervescence dances on the palate, delivering a burst of luscious red fruit flavours, complemented by a touch of black pepper and a delicate earthiness. The wine’s fine bubbles create a luxurious texture, while the well-integrated tannins provide structure and balance. With its harmonious blend of fruitiness, spice, and effervescence, Cat Amongst The Pigeon Sparkling Shiraz leaves a lasting impression, making it a truly delightful and unique sparkling wine experience.
As we moved on to the entrées, our taste buds were tantalized by an exquisite selection of dishes. The Organic Bread Bar Baguette and salted butter provided a simple yet delightful start. The Salted Buttered Duck Liver Pate with Port Jelly Leeks added a touch of richness and indulgence, beautifully balanced with the freshness of the accompanying Fat Cat Eden Valley Riesling 2022.
Tasting Notes: On the nose, it exudes delicate floral aromas, intermingled with zesty citrus notes of lemon and lime. As it graces the palate, the wine reveals a wonderful balance of vibrant acidity and refreshing fruitiness. Flavours of crisp green apple, juicy white peach, and hints of tropical fruits emerge, creating a lively and invigorating sensation. The wine’s clean and precise finish and its characteristic mineral undertones add depth and complexity to the overall experience.
The Vinaigrette, Hazelnut, Freme Fraiche Beetroot & Roquefort Salad was a vibrant medley of flavours. Paired with the Fat Cat Eden Valley Chardonnay 2021, the combination of crisp acidity and creamy textures delighted our senses, leaving us craving more.
Tasting Notes: From the first swirl, enticing aromas of ripe tropical fruits, such as pineapple and mango, intertwine with subtle hints of vanilla and toasted oak. The wine graces the palate and reveals a harmonious balance of rich, creamy textures and vibrant acidity. Flavours of juicy peach, baked apple, and citrus zest delight the senses, accompanied by a delicate undertone of butterscotch and a touch of spice.
The main course showcased a Slow-Roasted Lamb Shoulder seasoned with Provencal Herbs and delectable sides. The succulent lamb, tender and infused with aromatic herbs, was a true highlight of the evening. Paired with the robust Fat Cat Grenache 2021 and the velvety Nine Lives Stone Well Barossa Shiraz 2020, the wines accentuated the rich flavours of the dish, creating a symphony of taste.
Tasting notes Grenache: On the nose, it reveals an enticing bouquet of red berries, including ripe strawberries and juicy raspberries, mingled with subtle floral notes and a hint of warm spice. As it dances on the palate, the wine exudes a generous fruitiness, with flavours of cherries and red plums taking centre stage. The velvety texture and supple tannins contribute to its smooth mouthfeel, while a touch of black pepper adds a delightful hint of complexity.
Tasting Notes Shiraz: From the first sip, it reveals an enticing medley of dark, ripe berries, including blackberries and mulberries, intertwined with notes of black pepper and hints of smoky oak. The wine’s full-bodied nature embraces the palate with velvety tannins and a rich, luxurious texture. Flavours of black cherry, plum, and dark chocolate unfold, accompanied by a touch of vanilla and a subtle earthy undertone. The wine’s seamless integration of fruit, spice, and oak is showcased in a long and satisfying finish.
To conclude the evening on a sweet note, we savoured a heavenly Creme Caramel, silky texture and delicate sweetness leaving us in awe. The dessert was perfectly complemented by the luscious flavours of the Fat Cat Reserve Tawny NV, a delightful pairing that brought the evening to a satisfying and harmonious conclusion.
Throughout the night, we engaged in a captivating card game called ‘Who’s the Cat amongst the Pigeons.’ As we mingled and enjoyed the delectable offerings, we attempted to identify the three “cats” among us who were discreetly trying to catch the “pigeons.” This added an element of excitement and intrigue, fostering a spirit of camaraderie and friendly competition.
The dinner and wine event hosted by Cat Amongst The Pigeon Wines at The Old Fitzroy Hotel Rooftop was truly an unforgettable experience. Every detail contributed to the evening, from the carefully crafted menu to the meticulously paired wines. The captivating card game only added to the excitement and camaraderie among guests, making it a night to remember.
