We are fortunate to be spoiled for choice when it comes to delicious wine, but sometimes the selection can be overwhelming when you want to plan a special food and wine occasion.
This festive season, we suggest you stick to the La Motte Festive Four! From the La Motte Reserve Selection, they are the most versatile food partners and will take you from traditional roasts to modern menus.
We asked foodie extraordinaire, Elmarie Berry, to come up with a few recipes that are not too far removed from what we expect from a festive meal, but also with enough creativity and flair to keep it interesting and trendy.
Here are her recipes and notes:
La Motte Reserve Cap Classique - Spice Bundt Cake with Swiss Meringue
This Spice Bundt Cake is pure comfort dressed in celebration - softly spiced, tender, and crowned with clouds of silky Swiss meringue. The flavours of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove bring warmth and nostalgia, while the light meringue adds a touch of sophistication and texture.
It’s a beautiful match for La Motte Reserve MCC Brut - the fine bubbles and crisp citrus notes of the wine cut through the richness of the cake, while its subtle brioche character complements the spice beautifully.
Together, they create that perfect balance of indulgence and freshness - a pairing made for slow afternoons, festive tables, and moments that deserve to be celebrated.
La Motte Reserve Chardonnay - Brie Tear & Share Bread with Roasted Grapes & Rosemary
There’s something truly comforting about gathering around a table and pulling apart a warm, golden loaf filled with oozing Brie, sweet roasted grapes, and rich, caramelised onions. This is a showstopper of a tear-and-share bread — indulgent, rustic, and wonderfully balanced.
The creamy, buttery notes of La Motte Chardonnay pair perfectly with the savoury-sweet layers of this dish — from the nutty butter to the syrupy port reduction. The wine’s gentle oak complements the caramelised onions and grapes, while its crisp acidity cuts through the richness of the Brie. It’s the perfect pairing for a relaxed evening with friends, especially when served warm straight from the oven.
La Motte Reserve Syrah - Blood Orange & Mint Roasted Leg of Lamb
There’s something timeless about slow-roasted lamb — that moment when the kitchen fills with rich, caramelised aromas, and the meat falls apart at the touch of a fork. This version is brightened with the citrusy perfume of blood oranges, balanced with earthy rosemary and fresh mint. It’s generous, full of depth, and made to share — the kind of dish that feels both rustic and refined.
The rich spice and dark fruit notes of La Motte Syrah pair beautifully with the lamb’s savoury sweetness. The wine’s peppery undertone lifts the citrus and herbs, creating a pairing that’s both elegant and comforting.
La Motte Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon - Duck with Cherries
You won’t find an easier or more flavourful duck than this one. Preparation takes just a few minutes — then the oven does all the work while you set the table or open the wine. The duck roasts slowly until the meat is tender and the skin is golden and crisp, while a glossy cherry glaze adds a sweet, tangy layer that elevates the dish beautifully.
The deep fruit flavours and subtle oak notes of La Motte Cabernet Sauvignon complement the sweet-and-tart cherry sauce and rich duck meat perfectly. It’s a dish that feels elegant, yet effortlessly cosy — ideal for a Sunday lunch or festive table.
Get La Motte Cabernet Sauvignon
Elmarie used the following vintages:
2022 La Motte Reserve Syrah
NV La Motte Reserve Cap Classique
2024 La Motte Reserve Chardonnay - to be released in December. Current vintage available 2023.
2023 La Motte Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon - to be released in December. Current vintage available 2023.
