A Taste of Scotland and a Slice of Heaven: The New 5-course Tasting Menu at Decanter is a Must
By Lily Houston
Located in the heart of Bruntsfield, Decanter Edinburgh brings understated elegance and a warm welcoming charm to the city’s vibrant dining scene. Since opening its doors in 2019, this stylish wine bar and bistro has quietly cultivated a loyal and local following, and for good reason. With its brand new “A Taste of Scotland” five-course menu, Decanter pairs expertly curated wines, handpicked by owner Jonny himself, with seasonal small plates, all served in a relaxed and intimate setting. With focus on quality, craft and comfort, Decanter has evolved into a go-to destination for those seeking a refined, yet unpretentious place to unwind and indulge.
Available Tuesdays to Fridays, the full tasting experience is priced at £50 per person, with an optional wine pairing menu for an additional £50 – a worthy treat for wine lovers and foodies alike.
A Highland Feast in Five Acts
Course 1: Blue Murder and Scottish Kale Soup
Paired with Domaine Klur, Le Katz Noisette 2022
A killer start to the tasting. A rich, creamy, cheese-laden soup balanced beautifully by the sweet acidity of the Katz wine - a pairing that elevated both elements into a truly delicious harmony.
Course 2: Hand-Dived Scottish Scallop
Paired with Fraga do Lecer, Fraga do corvo, Godello 2022
The hand-dived Scottish scallop, served with a silky roe purée, rich black pudding, and delicate Parmesan foam, was nothing short of exceptional.
Course 3: Haggis, Pomme Puree, Turnip Fondant and Whisky Sauce
Paired with Macanita Vinhos, Douro Tinto 2021
A refined take on haggis, neeps, and tatties, this mouthwatering blend of smooth textures and savoury depth was utterly indulgent. Paired with the first red of the evening, it delivered a true taste of luxury.
Course 4: Scottish Loin of Venison, Celeriac Puree, King Oyster Mushroom and Blackberry Jus
Paired with Domaine Alary, Carianne Rouge 2022
The Scottish venison was cooked to perfection – rich, tender, and full of flavour. Paired with smooth celeriac purée, hearty king oyster mushroom, and a punchy blackberry jus, it all came together beautifully with a glass of Domaine Alary Cairanne Rouge.
Course 5: Scottish Raspberry Pavlova, Raspberry Cream and Coulis
Paired with Guillane Gonnet, Muscat de Beaumes de Venise 2021
Crisp, light, and bursting with raspberry flavour, the pavlova paired perfectly with the muscat dessert wine for a sweet and refreshing finish. A berry sweet ending.
Optional Course 6: Cheese course and a paired drink
The final bite Somehow, we made room for a cheeseboard to share, featuring Blue Murder, Cheddar, and Minger, a perfectly savoury end to the meal. While the suggested whisky pairing promised to round things off in true Scottish style, we’ll admit our palates aren’t quite there yet... so we inevitably opted for a refreshing Hugo Spritz instead. No regrets.
The Bottom Line I had the most amazing evening with one of my besties, and a few standout moments made it truly special. The Katz Noisette 2022 was a highlight in itself, elegantly poured and perfectly paired, thanks to Jonny’s expert eye and genuine passion for wine. His sister Maria brought a warm, personal touch with her attentive and charming service. As for the food, the scallop and venison courses were unforgettable showstoppers. With its cosy, intimate vibe, Decanter is the kind of place that feels just right, whether you’re planning a date night or a laidback catch-up with your favourite people.