National Geographic to air Seasons at Terroir

Produced by Justin Bonello's Cooked in Africa Films, it offers a documentary style TV series about Terroir, the award-winning restaurant on the Stellenbosch wine route, which was first introduced to viewers in an episode of Bonello's Cooked 4, Out of the Frying Pan, which aired on BBC Lifestyle in late 2010.

Insider's view

Set against the beautiful backdrop of Kleine Zalze and Stellenbosch, Seasons at Terroir provides an insider's view of the day-to-day operations of a top-end restaurant. Each in-depth episode depicts the tensions, challenges, highs and lows, and occasional madness of working in a highly pressurised kitchen where skill and perfection are not only expected by the customer but also demanded by Chef Michael Broughton. In this environment, there is no second chance and you are only as good as your last plate. As the series unfolds, viewers gain an understanding of Broughton's relentless, hands-on approach in the kitchen as he pushes young chefs and trainees to greater heights while maintaining his reputation for inventive cuisine and excellent service.

The importance of wine pairing and nurturing relationships with the local wine community is a focal point of the series with Broughton demonstrating his passion for 'terroir-driven' food inspired by the estate's versatile wines.

The extensive range, which this year has grown to include the maiden Kleine Zalze Méthode Cap Classique Vintage Brut 2010, has a distinctive character-driven flavour influenced by the local terroir.

Non-wildlife programming

The decision to air Seasons at Terroir on the National Geographic Channel is part of Fox International Channels' strategy to bring local, non-wildlife programming to Africa and the globe. "We are pleased to offer this relevant story from the continent to our viewers," explains Thandi Davids, Africa director of National Geographic Channels International.

For more information, watch the trailer: