SMOKESTAK partners with Wasted Wine Club to launch signature wine

Shoreditch’s SMOKESTAK has partnered with Wasted Wine Club to unveil its first signature wine, SMOKESTAK RED. Scheduled to launch on the 30^th April, the wine is poised to complement the restaurant’s menu, including its brisket bun with pickled red chilli. Patrons will have the opportunity to savour this exclusive product at the restaurant or purchase bottles through the Wasted Wine Club’s website for enjoyment at home. This partnership marks a first for Wasted Wine Club in co-creating a bespoke label with a dining establishment.

Crafted with minimal intervention, SMOKESTAK RED is a blend of Mourvèdre, Cinsault, Syrah, and a hint of Pinotage, derived from organic vineyards nestled in South Africa’s picturesque Swartland region. Esteemed winemaker Jurgen Gouws, known for his new-wave approach, has overseen the production, emphasizing the natural quality of the grapes. The wine undergoes whole bunch fermentation under semi-carbonic conditions and is aged in large old oak casks for ten months, resulting in a product that is rich with the flavors of juicy red and black fruits and smooth tannins.

The initiative was spearheaded by Emily Acha Derrington, head of wine at dcco., and Angelo van Dyk, founder of Wasted Wine Club. Founded in 2021, Wasted Wine Club emerged from van Dyk’s vision to creatively repurpose surplus wine from producers, which might otherwise go to waste. This venture not only provides a financial lifeline to small-scale winemakers but also promotes sustainability by minimizing food waste.

The collaboration is a testament to shared values between SMOKESTAK and Jurgen Gouws, focusing on natural, pesticide-free farming methods. “This is the first time Wasted Wine Club has collaborated with a restaurant to create their own wine, and we’re thrilled about SMOKESTAK RED,” Angelo van Dyk said. Emily Acha Derrington echoed this enthusiasm, highlighting the wine’s ability to pair beautifully with SMOKESTAK’s smoked meats and vibrant dishes.

To celebrate the launch, a special event featuring a South African style braai, complete with regional specialties like smoky boerewors and desserts, will be hosted by Angelo van Dyk and Jurgen Gouws at SMOKESTAK on Tuesday, 30^th April.

Food Desk

For bookings for the SMOKESTAK Red Launch, visit the webpage here. For more information on SMOKESTAK, visit the restaurant’s website here.