Woodland House: another of Melbourne’s culinary treasures!

This week I dined at a lovely venue with its high ceilings and stunning large chandeliers. From the moment we arrived we were struck by the opulence of this discreet haven located in Prahran. This mansion house previously belonged to the legendary Jacques Reymond. After his 27 extraordinary years he passed the restaurant on to his chefs Thomas Woods and Hayden McFarland.

The theme of the special gastronomique degustation was designed by Faye Bower with selected Champagnes from Grand Millesime Wine house which Darren Harris presented, for a joint dinner hosted by L’Order Mondial with La Chaine des Rotisseurs. From beginning to the end we enjoyed a variety of vintage and non-vintage Drappier champagnes.

We commenced the evening with an array of canapés which ranged from oversized gougères to quail consommé and pulled pork mini rolls.

The entrée had an intriguing squid ink emulsion which complemented the cured salmon with spanner crab and bergamot.

The confit rockling was a big hit with an almond and lobster emulsion which tasted like a rich bisque. The chefs showed wonderful creativity in using chickpea tendrils for the garnish. The dish was paired with my favourite champagne of the evening the 2005 Grande Sendrée.

Thereafter we enjoyed a gently cooked spatchcock with gorgeous Jerusalem artichokes.

To wrap up the evening there was a yummy ginger cake with Tete de moine and quince with yet more champers, this time a NV Champagne Drappier, Quattuor Blanc de IV Blancs. Which was followed by caramelised almonds and elderberry macaroons with coffee to round-off a marvelous night.