LLANERCH VINEYARD *****
Hensol, Vale Of Glamorgan. 01443 222716 / www.llanerch-vineyard.co.uk

Since reopening at the beginning of 2011 as a bespoke hotel, restaurant and bar, owner Ryan Davies has strived to make Llanerch Vineyard a five-star location in the heart of the Vale Of Glamorgan countryside whilst also thoughtfully protecting the sensitive wildlife in the area.

Ryan has dived headfirst into this huge responsibility with aplomb, creating a stunning escape and delivering an exceptionally high standard of service. Llanerch is Wales’ oldest working vineyard and a lot of their own produce is on sale and available in their bar and restaurant.

Llanerch’s restaurant is very Spanish in its decor: deep reds, stone walls, warm wood furniture and a refined selection of artwork on the walls. The à la carte menu is tastefully presented; four to five starters and mains, all seasonal, all locally sourced. To start, Welsh goat’s cheese, spiced candied beetroot, pine nut chilli pesto and truffle honey, a ragu of wild mushrooms, toasted brioche and poached duck egg. This was followed by free-range woodland pork tenderloin, sautéed savoy cabbage, crispy pancetta shallots, cinnamon apple jelly and red wine reduction alongside a Welsh rump of lamb, roasted garlic, petit pois, Parmentier potatoes and salsa verde with a side order of seasonal veg. For dessert we shared an assiette of chocolate – chocolate and walnut brownie, dark chocolate and peanut butter truffle, and chocolate shards, pineapple and chilli salsa. Be warned; only try this if you are a serious chocoholic.

At two courses for £20 and three for £25, the quality and overall standard is impeccable and surprisingly reasonable. The chefs and owners know exactly what they are doing and they have created a fabulous retreat, whether for dining, staying a weekend, or getting out of the city for an afternoon tea. You have to try this if you haven’t done so already. ANTONIA LEVAY