Rocca Delle Tre Contrade Hosts Gourmet Getaway With Merlin Labron-Johnson

25 Dec 2018
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2 min read
Originally built in the 1850s as a grand country retreat and winery for an aristocratic family, Rocca Delle Tre Contrade is a Sicilian holiday home offering mesmerising views across the Mediterranean horizon. Rising proudly between Mount Etna and the sparkling waters of the Ionian Sea, over the years it has acquired a well-earned reputation for its exquisite cuisine, warm hospitality and its refined accommodation.

The magnificence of Mother Nature is rivalled only by the amenities on offer, which include delightfully refurbished interiors, 12 luxuriously finished en-suite bedrooms, a spectacular 25-metre, south-facing heated infinity pool, a clay tennis court, and a rejuvenating spa area.

In spring 2019, the property will be hosting a week-long full-immersion culinary experience designed for epicurean adventurers led by acclaimed Michelin-starred chef Merlin Labron-Johnson and Master of Wine Isabelle Legeron. Taking place from 30th March to 6th April 2019, join the award-winning duo for a delectable journey filled with everything from demonstrations and fishing trips to vineyard visits and tastings.

The dish on Merlin Labron-Johnson
Age is just a number – Merlin Labron-Johnson achieved his first Michelin star at the tender age of 24. After several years working in some of Europe’s top restaurants, including In de Wul and The Albert Premier Hotel, Merlin returned to the UK in 2015 to open Portland. Within nine short months, the restaurant had been awarded a Michelin Star. In 2016, aged just 26, he launched Portland’s sister restaurant, Clipstone before departing from both in October 2018.

He is also known for his impressive charitable work, most notably with Help Refugees and Mayfair private members’ club the Conduit.

During the week, guests will be able to cook “hands-on” alongside Merlin and his team, participate in a series of cookery demonstrations and partake in some truly memorable gourmet meals. He’ll also be on-hand to answer burning foodie questions and offer plenty of advice to aspiring gourmands.

The dish on Isabelle Legeron
For two days of the week, join expert guide Isabelle Legeron in a discovery of the wines of Mount Etna, one of Europe’s most fascinating and prestigious viticultural regions. As France’s only female Master of Wine, and one of only 354 Masters of Wine worldwide, Isabelle famously founded RAW WINE, the UK’s largest artisan wine fair, which has since expanded to include annual events in Berlin and New York. She is one of the world’s leading proponents of organic farming practices and natural wine production.

This exceptional opportunity will offer wine buffs to hone their knowledge and swill glasses in the company of one of the world’s very best sommeliers.

About the week
This is a unique and exclusive gourmet experience with a maximum 16 participants. Hone your skills in the kitchen each day, observing cookery demonstrations and cooking yourself under the guidance of Merlin Labron-Johnson and his team.

Outside the kitchen, you will be invited to discover some of the area’s multifarious gastronomic traditions, with visits to markets, a fishing trip, a vineyard tour with wine-tasting on Mount Etna and a street food experience in Catania’s old town centre.

Guests will also have time to enjoy the infinite, luxurious charms of Rocca delle Tre Contrade, relaxing in the gardens, strolling through the lemon orchards, swimming in the pool, recuperating energies in the spa or even playing a set or two of tennis.

The details
30th March to 6th April 2019. Please click here to find out more and make a booking.