Brindabella Hills - WALLAROO

Somewhat disappointed with the food. Mushroom and lamb entrees were delicious but mains not so great. Beef cheeks were dry and had no flavour. The duck confit was bland. The apple tarte tatin wasn’t a true reflection of the dessert and would’ve been better served with icecream. This would’ve obviated the dryness. Friend enjoyed the lemon barramundi and generous cheese board for dessert.

We just spent a very pleasant afternoon at Brindabella Hills Winery. We did a wine tasting with paired chocolate. The service was fantastic as usual (thank you Harry and ? Chocolate man). Michael Anderson has done a fabulous job developing the site in recent years. The grounds are gorgeous and the views from the back of the restaurant down to the Murrumbidgee River with the surrounding mountains are spectacular. They had sold out of some of my previous favourite wines due to the disastrous few years Canberra district has had, but we loved the Marsaane and the Durif. The Durif is lighter in style than Rutherglen Durif’s, and will age well. We’re looking forward to going back for lunch soon.

My friend and I returned to the Vineyard Cafe today after a gap of over four years. So much had been developed for the better. The Wisteria has been retained but the stunning view down to the Murrumbidgee River is now part of an enclosed courtyard which makes dining even better with a natural backdrop. The set menu offered choices which proved quite delicious with accompanying sauces and flavours. It was a similiar story with main courses. We had the barramundi and the roast lamb both well presented with accompanying flavours. Wines from the vineyard complemented the meals. Great service and ambience.

We went on the weekend and were all very pleasantly surprised at the quality of the meals we consumed. We had the two courses $65) with paired wines $20) option which was very good value as each glass of wine was a full pour. The flavours infused in the duo squid and the sauce with the barramundi were delicious. Two of us finished with simple but tasty desserts and the cheese platter was enormous. The location is a bonus with beautiful views over the Murrumbidgee River. Finally, the staff were attentive and helpful despite it being a very busy lunch session. We will be back and just to note it is an excellent place to bring interstate visitors only 20 mins from Belconnen.

Thank you for everything yesterday afternoon. Our friends from Texas loved not the wines and chocolates but the warm hospitality. You guys have an amazing location and team. Our taste buds were on fire!