FIVE SENSES OF ENTERTAINING
The secret to hosting a truly memorable gathering lies in the ability to take your guests on a multi-sensory journey. From the moment they step through your door, every element should captivate their senses and work together to set the perfect mood and immerse them in the experience. From the textured weave of a pure linen napkin and gentle flicker of candlelight to the subtle scent of an abundant flower arrangement and the delight of a tenderly crafted glass of wine – sight, sound, touch, feel and taste each play a role in creating a night to remember.
https://thamnuswines.co.za/Olfactory allure
The sense of smell can be one of the most powerful triggers for memory and emotion. Strategically placed scented candles, fresh herbs and flowers create a welcoming atmosphere. If you’re hosting a meal, leave the kitchen door open while you’re doing final preparations before serving – there is nothing as tantalising as the promise of good food to come.
Touchy feely
From the moment your guests arrive, the tactile elements of your space can set the tone. Soft, plush textiles like velvet pillows or sheer curtains catching the breeze can create a sense of warmth and comfort. The soft crush of loved table linen alongside carefully chosen serving pieces, such as heavy ceramic plates or gleaming silverware, provide satisfying heft and texture.
Tasting notes
No entertaining experience is complete without thoughtful attention to the palate. While it goes without saying that the food you serve is crucial, the wine you pour will truly elevate the meal. Thamnus Wines, which originate in a remote corner of the Overberg region in South Africa, will set your celebration apart. These wines have a true sense of place – every grape benefits from the exceptional wine-growing conditions found only here, 20 kilometres from the magnificent Walker Bay and overlooking the Hemel and Aarde Valley. Thamnus Wines takes its name from the rare fynbos mountain rose, Orothamnus Zeyheri, that grows on the farm and in very few other places in the Western Cape.
The Thamnus vineyards, set 285 metres above sea level on north-facing slopes, benefit from extended sunlight and cool nights, resulting in expressive Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines. Thamnus Chardonnay marries old world citrus and oaked elements with a new world ocean-infused edge, while the Pinot Noir is as impressive thanks to a harmonious dance of ripe berries and dusty tannin flavours. Both are rooted in deeply authentic techniques resulting in unrivalled wines both to drink now and appreciate later. By incorporating these distinctive, rare, and beautifully crafted wines into your entertaining repertoire, you can elevate the dining experience and delight your guests’ palates.
Visual feast
Beautifully curated table settings and décor elements can create a visually cohesive and aesthetically pleasing environment. Choose a single colour then add interest with pops of contrasting shades. Soft, flickering candlelight lends an air of intimacy, while strategically placed lamps can provide gentle, flattering illumination. Dimmers allow you to adjust the lighting levels throughout the evening, ensuring the space remains well-lit for conversation and dining, yet cosy and intimate as the night progresses.
Auditory backdrop
The soundtrack of your event can significantly influence the mood and energy. Carefully selected background music can set the tone, whether it’s a lively, upbeat playlist for a casual gathering or a more serene, classical selection for a formal dinner. You might even consider incorporating subtle sound effects, such as the gentle tinkle of a water feature.
