High Tea at Riversdale Estate is a visual treat; from the pretty in pink floral décor to the vineyard views, the whole experience is a feast for the senses.
High Tea in The Orangery Conservatory on Riversdale Estate is a ladylike affair; all pretty in pink floral decor, decadent sweet treats and sweeping vineyard views.
Riversdale Estate is located in the Cambridge, just 20 minutes from Hobart and boasts a picturesque location overlooking the Coal River. Owners Wendy & Ian Roberts have created a winery with something for everyone. The estate features a cellar door, French Bistro, Orangerie, onsite cottage accommodation and the most enchanting Peter Rabbit playground to keep the kids entertained.
Afternoon Tea is taken in the The Orangerie Conservatory, a beautifully decorated room resplendent with floral motifs, blush and powder grey chairs and picture windows to take in the vineyard views. I challenge you to find a prettier room.
Seated at a beautifully clothed table by the window we’re shortly presented with an extravagant High Tea fit for a Queen. The level of detail at Riversdale Estate is incredible with bespoke silver stands made in Birmingham UK by the same suppliers as leading High Tea venue Claridges. Likewise, the porcelain cups have been crafted to Riversdale Estate’s specifications with signature ‘R’ logo. High Tea is served accompanied by a glass of Riversdale Estate Crux Sparking and at only $10 per glass, it would be churlish not to.
The traditional three-tiered high tea comes laden with treats that spill over to a separate plate for scones with jam and cream. The sandwich layer features finger sandwiches of traditional cucumber, curried egg & iceberg lettuce and sweet mustard, pickle and ham. The sandwiches, while simple were freshly made and delicious.
The savoury level featured corn fritters and Riversdale’s signature item the Lamb Cornish Pasty with Relish, made from lamb farmed on the estate. The Lamb Cornish was a standout item, packed with flavour and swathed in the flakiest pastry. Trust me, you’ll be begging the chef for more!
The fresh plain scones came on their own separate decorative plate with jam & clotted cream on yet another beautifully crafted stand. We enjoyed the petite size of the scones, freshly baked and with a satisfying crunch.
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The sweets layer featured another signature item, a delicate Choux Pastry Swan as well as Chocolate Mud Cake, House Trifle and Mini Meringue. All treats are made in house and the whole setting has been designed to provide a calm and serene experience to be enjoyed by guests.
A selection of Harney & Sons Fine Teas are available including Chamomile, Supreme Breakfast, Earl Grey Supreme, Irish Breakfast, Hot Cinnamon, Raspberry Herbal, Rose Scented, Citron and Paris. Inspired by the floral setting I chose Rose Scented Tea and it proved to be the perfect accompaniment and was served in a handsome vintage silver teapot.
With prior notice, Riversdale Estate can cater for dietary requirements such as vegetarian and gluten free. There are also special high tea events throughout the year such as Grandma’s Classic High Tea featuring some classic sweets, Mother’s Day and Peter Rabbit High Tea with themed items and free entry to the Peter Rabbit Garden and pots of hot chocolate for the children.
If you’re looking for a memorable spot to celebrate a special occasion, baby shower or simply while away the afternoon in style, Riversdale Estate provides a picture perfect setting in the Coal River Valley wine region to indulge in a decadent afternoon tea.
High Tea at Riversdale Estate Menu:
Finger Sandwiches:
- Cucumber
- Curried Egg & Iceberg Lettuce
- Sweet Mustard, Pickle & Ham
Savouries:
- Corn Fritter
- Lamb Cornish Pasty with Relish
Sweets:
- Choux Pastry Swan
- Chocolate Mud Cake
- House Trifle
- Mini Meringue
Scones:
- Fresh Plain Scones with Jam & Cream
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