A Heritage Pairing: Atlas Swift Franschhoek Chardonnay & Malva Pudding
Celebrate the comforting flavours of South African cuisine with a pairing that balances rich tradition with refined elegance. Chef Nathalie Larson’s Malva Pudding—a beloved classic—finds its perfect complement in the vibrant and layered profile of the Atlas Swift Franschhoek Chardonnay (2023).
A South African Classic Reimagined
Malva pudding is the epitome of indulgent comfort. With its buttery, toffee-like base and spiced notes of cinnamon, this dessert absorbs a decadent soaking sauce of caramel, naartjie, and honey, creating a sticky, warm treat with a citrusy twist. Chef Nathalie Larson’s plant-based adaptation delivers all the richness of the traditional recipe, while subtle innovations—like caramelised naartjies—add layers of depth and flavour.
This iconic pudding becomes the perfect dessert for any festive table, offering a nostalgic nod to South Africa’s culinary heritage while embracing modern, plant-based techniques.
The Perfect Wine Pairing: Atlas Swift Franschhoek Chardonnay (2023)
The Franschhoek Chardonnay (2023) pairs beautifully with the warm, sweet richness of malva pudding. This wine offers a bouquet of ripe peach, apricot, and roasted cashew aromas, complemented by floral notes of magnolia and frangipani. Its vibrant citrus and flinty edge add balance, while the creamy texture and subtle oak finish echo the pudding’s buttery, toffee-like profile.
The wine’s refreshing acidity cuts through the dessert’s sweetness, elevating the naartjie’s caramelised citrus notes and enhancing every bite. Together, they create a harmonious pairing that celebrates the elegance of fine wine alongside the comfort of traditional South African cuisine.
Chef Nathalie’s Tips for Success
While the complete recipe can be downloaded, here are a few highlights from Chef Nathalie to ensure your malva pudding shines:
Caramelised Naartjies: Enhance the citrus notes by caramelising naartjies in their skins with honey and cinnamon. This adds a smoky, fragrant warmth to the dish.
The Sauce: The rich soaking sauce infuses the pudding with moisture and layers of caramel and citrus, creating a luscious texture.
Serving Suggestion: Serve warm, with extra sauce on the side and a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added decadence.
Indulge in a Perfect Balance
Pairing Chef Nathalie’s Malva Pudding with the Atlas Swift Franschhoek Chardonnay (2023) is a celebration of flavour, texture, and tradition. Whether for Heritage Day or a special evening at home, this pairing promises to impress, combining the warmth of South African comfort food with the sophistication of fine wine.
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Cheers to good food, great wine, and memorable moments!