The nine-step pouring ritual.

Stella Artois is launching in South Africa, and yesterday I was invited to a fancy three-course lunch at La Campagnola to celebrate its arrival. But first, a little about the beer. Now, I’m not the world’s greatest beer drinker, but I can force myself to hold down a few when there’s no wine, whiskey, vodka and/or tequila around.

So, I was pleasantly surprised at its delicious taste when I was offered a massive draught to sample on my arrival. Uh-oh, this could be a long lunch …

And it was. Mussels for starters, fillet for mains and crème brulée for dessert. And remarkably, I wasn’t too full, even after tipping back that draught. During dessert, some of the guests went up to the bar to take part in the nine-step pouring ritual (see pic below). It’s quite a feat if you can do it properly. Stella Artois takes it so seriously there’s a global competition experienced bartenders get to enter, the winner of which travels the world, showing off his (or her, you never know) beer-pouring skills.

Kuli Roberts attempted the ritual first, with pretty good results. She kept saying, “Now, let’s get a blonde to go next!” Oh God. Don’t make eye contact. I suddenly became extremely interested in my crème brulée, sinking lower into my chair. I’m particularly camera shy, and the camera lady was prolific with her equipment, shoving it in people’s faces. Luckily, my disappearing act was successful.

The afternoon was pure fun and entertainment. I can’t wait to go to La Campagnola again, and my drink of choice to fit in with the boys during the World Cup is definitely Stella Artois.