The stunning Dewsall Court in Herefordshire is renowned for putting the style into a supper club. Their latest food-fanatical event was an evening of adventure, discovery and a journey through the senses… Where The Wild Things Rave.
“If you go down to the woods today”…
As we drove through the serene countryside of Hereford, it was drenched in the beautiful architecture and history you would imagine of a cathedral city. On arrival at the stunning country house of Dewsall Court, we were greeted with a refreshing mint-infused Martini to whet our appetites before we began our descent into the beautiful gardens to get the celebrations underway.
Available on an exclusive use basis, Dewsall Court is a picturesque country estate set in the lush landscapes of the Herefordshire countryside. Ten elegantly decorated bedrooms offer the perfect space for guests to relax after a country wedding, family celebration or corporate event.
Refreshed by my mint Martini, we strolled through the picture postcard gardens, past the chapel used for many a Dewsall wedding, and onto the lakeside at the bottom of the estate. The late afternoon sun reflecting off the water provided the perfect backdrop for our appetisers; caraway and rye toast, Neal’s Yard goat curd, rhubarb and lovage followed by a sweet cicely oyster. The second botanical creation was a clear cosmopolitan, presented in an Alice In Wonderland ‘Drink Me’ style bottle in true Dewsall chic style.
After enjoying the last of the summer rays, the garden path led the way up towards the Wainhouse Barn, a recently renovated 175 capacity event space with an open side facing the gardens for a real ‘bringing the outside in’ feel. Dressed in stunning blooms, creeping foliage and quaint country touches, the Wainhouse Barn certainly made for an impressive entrance. Displaying every inch of Dewsall Courts eye for detail, the table settings featured a moss table runner adorned with miniature chemistry glassware, acorns and summer daisies. Outside, a cosy Hygge atmosphere complete with fur blankets lay around the impressive firepit to allow guests to wrap up once the sun had set and chatter the night away.
To keep us suitably entertained, Master in Mixology, Thom Williams, crafted cocktails with flair using the local, family-owned Chase Distillery spirits including Rhubarb Vodka, Elegant Gin and Lemon Marmalade Vodka.
“From far away across the world he smelt good things to eat”…
The evenings’ theme brought together the beauty of edible flowers and foraged herbs, with the medicinal benefits of consuming them. The menu was a feast for the senses. We tucked into delights including wild rabbit and rosemary croquettes and pigeon cooked over apple wood with mint, molasses and dandelion. The main course featured a mouth-watering combination of cod, clams and ham cooked with sherry and served alongside wild garlic puree, sea fennel and braised oxtail.
It’s true that good things come to those who wait. After a sumptuous six courses, we were presented with a beautiful cocktail glass adorned with a blackcurrant jelly fluff, elderflower and angelica cream, ginseng and ginger root crunch, complete with a dusting of gold glitter and popping candy. Dewsall’s desserts are famed for their chic presentation, creative combination of flavours and hand-crafted feel. This perfect finish to our dining experience certainly didn’t disappoint.
The cocktail pairing throughout the night kept minds inquisitive, using herbs such as fresh dill, micro basil and my personal favourite, thyme paired with honey and fig Prosecco. To keep our senses alive, we then enjoyed a shot of raw cacao courtesy of the Wild Chocolate Club.
“Let the wild rumpus begin…”
As we enjoyed the rosy glow of a truly satisfying supper, the floor-to-ceiling glass wall of the Wainhouse Barn was opened to create the perfect celebration space. Guests mingled on the oak benches laden with cosy cushions and blankets, whilst many of us threw some serious shapes on the dancefloor thanks to DJ George Oscar.
Where The Wild Things Rave was a truly unique dining experience and showcased beauty of Dewsall’s impressive estate. It’s clear to see why this country house is considered one of the very best exclusive use wedding and event venues in Herefordshire. I can’t wait to go back…
Planning a private event or celebration? Find out more about Dewsall Court here.
Wordsmithery by Emily | We Are Perception