After a morning exploring the beautiful Margaret River region coastline, we had worked up an appetite. In the heart of the Wilyabrup Valley, Rústico at Hay Shed Hill vineyard was the perfect destination.

The setting was serene

surrounded by vines

and the 6 course degustation menu was irresistible.

If you’re not into food porn, look away now. We started with Esperance Scallops: West Australian scallops in the shell, chorizo, pear purée, candied jamón.

Fried Goats Cheese with orange blossom honey followed.

Salmon Bresaola: dill aioli, pickled ginger & cucumber was a fabulous third course.

After the Free Range Linley Valley Pork Belly with apple purée & sticky Pedro Ximinez,

I wandered around the garden, admiring the rustic artworks

while the boys discussed the fine art of cigar box guitar making.

I returned in time for the Margaret River Black Angus Petit Mignons: beef fillet wrapped in bacon, sweet potato, asparagus, green peppercorn jus.

We decided to forego the dessert tasting plate in favour of the European cheese board with muscatels, honeycomb & house breads.

Obviously, there was wine involved in this fantastic experience, I just can’t remember which one. Thank you, Dave, for a wonderful afternoon.