Schilo’s at Finca Cortesin, Casares

WHEN Roy and Jenny Feather bid for dinner with me at a Charity evening I never imagined that we were going to enjoy as wonderful a dinner as we experienced.

They chose Schilo’s as their preferred option, one of three fabulous restaurants that grace the amazing Finca Cortesin in Casares (Malaga).

Finca Cortesin is a luxurious Hotel with the most amazing Spa and pool, and is home to the Volvo World Match Play Championship. But we were here to eat, not get pampered or play golf, and I was very eager to put Schilo to the test having heard so many people rave about it.

On the way to the restaurant Jenny announced that we were sampling the tasting menu. I was a tad apprehensive, as sometime these disappoint, so Schilo had it to do to satisfy my gourmet appetite.

Upon arrival the Hotel is swarmed in luxury. We were greeted with enthusiasm and professionalism, a very warm welcome to start the evening. Scilo is a very slick restaurant indeed, and we were shown to a table right by the open plan kitchen.

Eight or nine chefs were busy at work cooking, cutting and stirring. Jenny observed how their extractors worked perfectly, as no foody smells wafted into the restaurant. The whole operation reeked of total and utter professionalism. The table itself was laid up with linen napkins, and beautiful glasses. My apprehension about the tasting menu was rapidly evaporating.

The tasting menu is 10 courses, and to start with we were presented with some jamon on a tree – a novel way of delivering, and top quality ham. I was busy perusing the wine list, however, an incredible selection. I chose an Albariño from Galicia, always a safe bet.

Next up came Sashimi of Hamachi ´Bloody Mary´ – a wicked combination. When the Albariño was poured it was chilled and perfect, but I was already eyeing a red – a Pintia from Toro, and one of my favourites. The somelier gave my selection an encouraging nod.

Next up an Egg Custard with Tofu and Caviar from Rio Frio – served in the shell, and the egg custard reduced in front of our eyes! A truly amazing combination. Then a Daikon Salad with Wild Ginger Dressing was presented, also brilliant, and this followed by a lobster cappuccino – totally awesome. This meal was becoming an incredible gourmet dining experience, and everyone at the table, David, visiting from London, Roy, Jenny and myself were becoming overwhelmed at the way our taste buds were being toyed with.

The Pintia had been breathing for a while, so we decided on a glass each to accompany the rest of the feast. This is an awesome wine, one I discovered some years ago. Deep cherry with a powerful fresh nose of expressive ripe fruit, cocoa bean and creamy oak. A complex wine with good acidity and fleshy. One of the best.

Now the kitchen delivered the Foie Gras Gyoza with Truffle. Another sensational choice which got a huge accolade from everyone, and this followed by Red Mullet with Pistachio – also a terrific combination. Then the BBQ Rack Lamb with Date Jus and Arabic Rice. Brilliant, and a great accompaniment to the Pintia, which must have had a whole in the bottle as I was obliged to order another one!

For pudding we enjoyed Rasperries from Granada with Violet, and a Chocolate Orange Tree – all exquisite.

In case you hadn’t noticed, I thoroughly enjoyed this Tasting Menu. The best I have ever come across, not just in terms of the innovation of the choices, but of the immaculate setting, presentation and impeccible service from all the staff. i can´t wait to return.

The Tasting Menu is €115 including VAT, so allow €160 to include a decent wine, which it deserves. Or why not push the boat out at stay for the weekend at the Hotel. Now we are talking!

The following day Roy and Jenny emailed me to say it was the best meal they had ever had, in Spain, or anywhere else for that matter, and I have to agree with them.

Schilo is very, very special indeed, as is its home, Finca Cortesin. It gives me enormous pleasure to award it the coveted five forks. 

Schilo
Finca Cortesin Hotel and Spa
Carretera de Caseres s/n E-29690
Casares

Tel: 952 937 800

Reserve on-line at www.fincacortesin.com or email reservas@hotelcortesin.com
Schilo open for dinner from Thursdays to Saturdays from 8pm till 11pm