In recognition of the approach of winter in the southern hemisphere in the ensuing days Western Australian Bailliage held its casual and now annual ‘Jeans and Jumper event’ in Como, near the Swan River estuary in South Perth. The menu and selection of wines was German in flavour, construction and influence.

Sparkling wine from the nearby Swan Valley was served from the boutique Dorham Mann vineyard produced in the true French style, “méthode traditionnelle.”  We were graced with a presentation by Anthea Mann, daughter of winemaker Dorham Mann, addressing the history and family traditions associated with their family vineyard. The Mann family has a long German tradition and heritage of winemaking in the Barossa Valley, South Australia as well as in the Swan Valley, Western Australia. The vineyard is small and sells out its annual production each year well before the ensuing vintage is available.

We started with a 2016 Mann Brut Rosé served, which was paired with three heartwarming canapés: Orange Gazpacho, Salmon and Strawberry Mousse and Pork Paté. 

Chef Soren Koberstein, owner of Juniper and Bay, explained the menu he had prepared for our casual evening with a ‘Teutonic’ focus. The menu was inspired by their German origin and complemented by matching German style wines. It was explained how our main course of Roasted Duck was their house speciality and signature dish. Although normally only served during the winter in Germany it is available throughout the year by constant demand at Juniper and Bay.

The first entrée of Beef Brisket in Aspik an inpired treat. Presented in the style of a terrine it was truly a great introduction to the selected cuisine,