We were booked into Tom Ilic's for our romantic candle-lit supper when Mary spotted Ryanair were doing a deal: Flights to Dublin for ten quid including taxes. So it a last minute body swerve to Dublin for the weekend and 40 quid. Even better we had some Natwest loyalty points left over from our recently cancelled NW Mastercard - enough to get us two free nights in a hotel. Result!
It was a seven o'clock flight - too late for Mary to eat when we got to Dublin so we dined early, airside at Gordon Ramsay's Plane Food restaurant. By the time we got to the hotel it was time for a nightcap of Guinness and bed.
BTW I have to put in a good word for T5. They may have cocked up the initial opening but we have been through there four times now and it a has been smooth sailing evey time. Non existant queues for boarding card check, short queues for the scanners and spacious facilities airside.
Saturday was a typical Mary style four-part day The morning was spent in Malahide down on the coast wandering round Mary's old haunts and a pub lunch with a pint of Guinness at Gibney's. Back into central Dublin for a matinée peformance of October by Fiona Looney at the Olympia Theatre - very entertaining. Supper was at the nearby Mermaid Cafe - excellent as always. Part four was into Temple Bar and The Auld Dubliner for some live music and a couple more pints of Guinness.
All in all a fine weekend.
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Charteris Wine Society: a Tour of New Zealand
The views expressed here are those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of M&M Enterprises.
Translation: Mary disassociates herself from these random notes of dubious accuracy. Any remaining errors are the my responsibility.
Another enjoyable evening of wine tasting at the Charteris Wine Society. This time a varietal canter round New Zealand including an introduction to the wine growing regions.
After which we went for supper at Vinoteca just the other side of Smithfield Market for a very fine supper of an aubergine based starter and pappardelle with wild mushrooms which was the best thing I have eaten in ages.
Translation: Mary disassociates herself from these random notes of dubious accuracy. Any remaining errors are the my responsibility.
Another enjoyable evening of wine tasting at the Charteris Wine Society. This time a varietal canter round New Zealand including an introduction to the wine growing regions.
- Cloudy Bay Pelorus Sparkling NV (£12.76) - apple notes and very tart; a bit too brut for me.
- Villa Maria Single Vineyard Taylors Pass Pinot Gris 2006 (£11.06) - to me it smelled of midori but the flavour appealed to my sweeter palette. More enjoyable than a number of disappointing Italian efforts but too sweet for Mary.
- Delta Vineyard Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2007 (£8.59) - the aroma was a nasal assault of the most overwhelming gooseberry; on the palette - clean and crisp. The tartness was right up Mary's street but too sharp for me.
- Pegasus Bay Chardonnay 2005 (£13.27) - I got warm bread and putty on the nose. A fairly heavily oaked old world style
- Wild Earth Central Otago Pinot Noir 2006 (£15.31) - sharp maraschino on the nose and unripe cheery on the toungue with a hint of strawberry.
- Saint Clair Pioneer Block 14 Doctors Creek Pinot Noir 2007 (£15.06) - warm wood smoke on the nose and soft red fruit in the mouth. My preference of the two PN.
- Ata Rangi Celebre 2006 (£17.45) - So called Bordeaux blend but a bit of a misnomer with all that Syrah (50% Marlot, 30% Syrah, 20% Cab Sauv) - soft leafy forest nose and gentle tannins
- Villa Maria Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot (£13.61) - to quote someone there "a glass staining monster". Not so impressed myself, I got the faintest hint of mustiness on the nose and palette.
After which we went for supper at Vinoteca just the other side of Smithfield Market for a very fine supper of an aubergine based starter and pappardelle with wild mushrooms which was the best thing I have eaten in ages.
Monday, February 16, 2009
Where There's a Will
Catching up on belated posts I feel like the White Queen in Through the Looking Glass "Now, here, you see, it takes all the running you can do, to keep in the same place. If you want to get somewhere else, you must run at least twice as fast as that!"
Not last weekend but the one before we went to see Where There's a Will a farce by Georges Feydeau at The Rose Theatre in Kingston with Chris and Sue. It may be set in 1895 but some gender sterotypes have obviously not changed that much and it seemed remarkedly contemporary. Good play, well acted. That is as about as in depth as this review gets.
Supper afterwards at Carluccio's and a train home. Nice to get some culture and catch up on C&S's news.
Not last weekend but the one before we went to see Where There's a Will a farce by Georges Feydeau at The Rose Theatre in Kingston with Chris and Sue. It may be set in 1895 but some gender sterotypes have obviously not changed that much and it seemed remarkedly contemporary. Good play, well acted. That is as about as in depth as this review gets.
Supper afterwards at Carluccio's and a train home. Nice to get some culture and catch up on C&S's news.
Sunday, February 15, 2009
Galashan twins win 10m British diving title
Identical twins Helen and Carol Galashan took their first big step towards the London Olympics in their new sport of synchronised diving by winning the 10-metre title at the British Diving Championships in Sheffield.
The 21-year-olds, both students at Leeds Metropolitan University who have only been diving for 2½ years, defeated Olympic duo Stacie Powell and Tonia Couch after becoming the first synchro pair in the world to perform an arm-stand back double somersault with 1½ twists - considered one of the most difficult dives in the world.
They took the gold medal with a final score of 299.76 points, ahead of Powell and Couch who took second place with a total of 285.90.
Full story at www.telegraph.co.uk
See also "Galashan twins in synch for London 2012"
The 21-year-olds, both students at Leeds Metropolitan University who have only been diving for 2½ years, defeated Olympic duo Stacie Powell and Tonia Couch after becoming the first synchro pair in the world to perform an arm-stand back double somersault with 1½ twists - considered one of the most difficult dives in the world.
They took the gold medal with a final score of 299.76 points, ahead of Powell and Couch who took second place with a total of 285.90.
Full story at www.telegraph.co.uk
See also "Galashan twins in synch for London 2012"
Friday, February 13, 2009
Woke up it was a Chelsea morning
and the first thing that I heard. Was a song outside my window, and the traffic wrote the words...*
Today is the last day of my three month contract just north of Slough. My commute consists of a five mile cycle to Paddington and a two mile cycle at the other end. A frequent comment I get is "Isn't it dangerous cycling in London?". To which my answer is "Not if you cycle sensibly. And choose your route," My route takes me along the Thames path, over Battersea bridge, through some quiet residential streets in Chelsea and then through Hyde Park.
Cycling up Launceston Place I was thinking what "des res" the houses were so I looked them up on www.ourproperty.co.uk. It would appears that the last house in the street to change hands was in 2007 and went for a 'mere' 4.41 million. So not suitable for a first time buyer then!
* Joni Mitchell, Chelsea Morning
Today is the last day of my three month contract just north of Slough. My commute consists of a five mile cycle to Paddington and a two mile cycle at the other end. A frequent comment I get is "Isn't it dangerous cycling in London?". To which my answer is "Not if you cycle sensibly. And choose your route," My route takes me along the Thames path, over Battersea bridge, through some quiet residential streets in Chelsea and then through Hyde Park.
Cycling up Launceston Place I was thinking what "des res" the houses were so I looked them up on www.ourproperty.co.uk. It would appears that the last house in the street to change hands was in 2007 and went for a 'mere' 4.41 million. So not suitable for a first time buyer then!
* Joni Mitchell, Chelsea Morning
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Wine Tasting Dinner from the Lombardy Region
Enoteca Turi - Highly recommended. If you live in the Putney area (or beyond) it is worth the trip. Mid-week Giuseppe and Pamela organise wine dinners working their way round the regions of Italy. This is our fifth.
As always, Giuseppe does his research and gives an introduction to the history and geography of the region both of which influence the cuisine of the area. The chef prepares local dishes matched with the local wines. Educational and enjoyable at the same time :-)
Stuzzichini
Tastes and flavours
Bellavista 2007 Franciacorta DOC
*
Trota alla certosina
Fillet of trout with mushrooms, red wine and polenta
Riesling Oltrepo Pavese DOC 2006 Conte Vistarino
*
Pizzocheri della Valtellina
Buckwheat pasta with cabbage, potato and toma cheese
Parsilone VDT 2005 Tenuta Maggiore
*
Ossobuco con risotto alla Milanese
Valgella Ca’ Morei Valtellina Superiore DOCG 2004 Fay
Valtellina Superiore Cinque Stelle DOCG 2003 Nino Negri
*
Formaggi della Lombardia
Selection of the region’s cheeses: Taleggio, Gorgonzola and Provolone
Carmenero VDT 2001 Ca’ del Bosco
*
Torta paradiso
Amaretto di Saronna
*
Coffee
The Franciacorta was a sparkling to match a comparably priced champagne (GBP 22) but without the image it might not get the attention it deserves.
The reisling was not at all Germanic in style (nor Alsation) but more gentle New World I enjoyed it.
The Buckwheat pasta was the standout dish for me, rustic and very, very tasty.
With the Ossobuco I preferred the Fay to the Nino Negri, both alone and with the food. As the former is GBP 15.50 and the latter GBP 36.00 I could drink two for the same money, enjoy it more and still have change.
As always, Giuseppe does his research and gives an introduction to the history and geography of the region both of which influence the cuisine of the area. The chef prepares local dishes matched with the local wines. Educational and enjoyable at the same time :-)
Stuzzichini
Tastes and flavours
Bellavista 2007 Franciacorta DOC
*
Trota alla certosina
Fillet of trout with mushrooms, red wine and polenta
Riesling Oltrepo Pavese DOC 2006 Conte Vistarino
*
Pizzocheri della Valtellina
Buckwheat pasta with cabbage, potato and toma cheese
Parsilone VDT 2005 Tenuta Maggiore
*
Ossobuco con risotto alla Milanese
Valgella Ca’ Morei Valtellina Superiore DOCG 2004 Fay
Valtellina Superiore Cinque Stelle DOCG 2003 Nino Negri
*
Formaggi della Lombardia
Selection of the region’s cheeses: Taleggio, Gorgonzola and Provolone
Carmenero VDT 2001 Ca’ del Bosco
*
Torta paradiso
Amaretto di Saronna
*
Coffee
The Franciacorta was a sparkling to match a comparably priced champagne (GBP 22) but without the image it might not get the attention it deserves.
The reisling was not at all Germanic in style (nor Alsation) but more gentle New World I enjoyed it.
The Buckwheat pasta was the standout dish for me, rustic and very, very tasty.
With the Ossobuco I preferred the Fay to the Nino Negri, both alone and with the food. As the former is GBP 15.50 and the latter GBP 36.00 I could drink two for the same money, enjoy it more and still have change.
Saturday, January 24, 2009
Wine tasting in South Africa
It will come as no surprise to our friends to learn that we visited a number of wineries for tastings. As always, very enjoyable to taste new wines and see new parts of the country.
Wine tasting at Morgenster
Lunch at La Petite Ferme
Wine tasting at Morgenster
- www.morgenster.co.za - with olive oil tasting
- www.biltonwines.com - with chocolate tasting
- www.kanonkop.co.za - including a "lifestyle wine", what a peice of marketingese - which translates as "entry level quaffing wine"
- www.lapetiteferme.co.za - the best place to dine - book now!
- www.creationwines.com - gorgeous setting, we liked their SB's
- www.newtonjohnson.com - lunched there, Mary loved the Pinot
- www.zoetendalwines.co.za - the Mile is their flagship wine
- www.theberrio.co.za - lovely wines, had their cheese platter
- www.blackoystercatcher.co.za - newly opened tasting room and restaurant
- www.strandveld.co.za - southernmost winery in Africa
- www.iona.co.za - we had to go there because my Mum read about it and bought a bottle or two in Waitrose
Lunch at La Petite Ferme
Saturday, January 17, 2009
Fynbos Walk 2 - Fernkloof
The Western Cape appears well endowed with nature reserves one of which is right on our doorstep: http://www.fernkloof.com/. Following on from the success of our previous guided walk (Fynbos Walk 1 - Klem and the Three Sisters) we enquired of the local Tourist Information for a Hermanus-based guide to do the same here. Which is how we came to spend two hours will Billy learning a lot about local flora and fauna.
Billy
If you are interest in a guided tour contact Billy at
billy.hermanus@gmail.com, cell phone +27 (0) 769 673 606.
Tortoises have right of way
Mary at the crossroads
View down to the coast
We subsequently went back and walked most of the other paths ourselves and saw a fine variey of fynbos in bloom.
Billy
If you are interest in a guided tour contact Billy at
billy.hermanus@gmail.com, cell phone +27 (0) 769 673 606.
Tortoises have right of way
Mary at the crossroads
View down to the coast
We subsequently went back and walked most of the other paths ourselves and saw a fine variey of fynbos in bloom.
Monday, January 12, 2009
Seven Day Forecast
If anyone wondered why we bought an apartment in South Africa look at these weather forecasts:
London a week of rain every day; Hermanus a week of sunshine every day.
London a week of rain every day; Hermanus a week of sunshine every day.
Sunday, January 11, 2009
Eating the zoo
The first time we went to SA we saw "trio of venison" on the menu. Although we like game we gave it a miss thinking it was deer cooked for three different ways. Only afterwards did we discover it meant three different beasts. This trip I have dined on eland pie, kudu steak, ostrich burger and the best ever springbok steak not to mention carpaccio of warthog.
Carpaccio of Warthog
The food and wine is ludicrously good value. On our previous trip we saw a wine we knew and liked on a menu at 55 ZAR. A fair price for a glass (GBP 3.60) we thought until we realised it was for a bottle!
Between Christmas and New Year we went to the best hotel in town - the 5-star Marine Hotel and went for the tasting menu. Absolutely fantastic. Mary reckons the Springbok was the tastiest meat she has ever eaten. And all at a fraction of what is would cost in London.
TASTING MENU
Norwegian Salmon Tartare Coronet Caper Creme Fraiche, Cucumber Joup
- Villiera Tradition Brut NV
Tian of Prawn, Basil and Tomato Prawn Mousseline, Avocado Cream and Horseradish
- Southern Right Sauvignon Blanc 2008
Ballottine of Guinea Fowl and Foie Gras a la Grecque Vegetables, Pear Chutney and Brioche
- Paul Cluver Chardonnay 2007
Chicken and Shitake Mushroom Consomme Coriander Dumplings, ,Choy, Spring Onion
- Monis Medium Cream Sherry
Oven Roasted Loin of Springbok Pomme Fondant, Caramelised Onions and Cherry Venison Jus
- Beaumont Pinotage 2006
Passion Fruit Sorbet Rooibos Spoom, Lemon Jelly
Assiette of Pavilion Desserts
- Klein Constantia Vin de Constance 2004
ZAR 550 (GBP 36.67) for food and wine per person!
Carpaccio of Warthog
The food and wine is ludicrously good value. On our previous trip we saw a wine we knew and liked on a menu at 55 ZAR. A fair price for a glass (GBP 3.60) we thought until we realised it was for a bottle!
Between Christmas and New Year we went to the best hotel in town - the 5-star Marine Hotel and went for the tasting menu. Absolutely fantastic. Mary reckons the Springbok was the tastiest meat she has ever eaten. And all at a fraction of what is would cost in London.
TASTING MENU
Norwegian Salmon Tartare Coronet Caper Creme Fraiche, Cucumber Joup
- Villiera Tradition Brut NV
Tian of Prawn, Basil and Tomato Prawn Mousseline, Avocado Cream and Horseradish
- Southern Right Sauvignon Blanc 2008
Ballottine of Guinea Fowl and Foie Gras a la Grecque Vegetables, Pear Chutney and Brioche
- Paul Cluver Chardonnay 2007
Chicken and Shitake Mushroom Consomme Coriander Dumplings, ,Choy, Spring Onion
- Monis Medium Cream Sherry
Oven Roasted Loin of Springbok Pomme Fondant, Caramelised Onions and Cherry Venison Jus
- Beaumont Pinotage 2006
Passion Fruit Sorbet Rooibos Spoom, Lemon Jelly
Assiette of Pavilion Desserts
- Klein Constantia Vin de Constance 2004
ZAR 550 (GBP 36.67) for food and wine per person!
Sunday, January 04, 2009
Fynbos Walk 1 - Klem and the Three Sisters
Just back from three weeks in South Africa and catching up on some retro-blogging. The main thing we did was get to know the locality: lots of walks along the beaches and in the local nature reserves plus trying some new restaurants and wineries. Dirty job but someone has to do it.
As part of the Kleinmond Fynbos Festival they advertised a walk in the Kogelberg Nature Reserve. So we turned up and were the only takers. We did a five hour walk up 634 m (2080 ft) to the Three Sisters ably guided by Klem Dunstan.
Klem and Mary
Flowers in the Fynbos
The flora was particularly amazing plus we had the added bonus of this lizard chap.
Lizard in the Fynbos
View of Sandown Beach
If you are interested in a local guide Klem's contact details are: klem@cybersmart.co.za, +27 (0) 832 980 654.
As part of the Kleinmond Fynbos Festival they advertised a walk in the Kogelberg Nature Reserve. So we turned up and were the only takers. We did a five hour walk up 634 m (2080 ft) to the Three Sisters ably guided by Klem Dunstan.
Klem and Mary
Flowers in the Fynbos
The flora was particularly amazing plus we had the added bonus of this lizard chap.
Lizard in the Fynbos
View of Sandown Beach
If you are interested in a local guide Klem's contact details are: klem@cybersmart.co.za, +27 (0) 832 980 654.
Thursday, December 04, 2008
A weekend in Valencia
Some while back my Dad saw an item about the opera house in Valencia design by Santiago Calatrava. The end result was that we three siblings and Dad (and BIL Pete) went to Valencia for the weekend to visit the aforementioned building in the City of Arts and Sciences.
Valencia - opera house
The building, and the whole complex, was quite stunning. A building to rival the most dramatic in the world. It surpassed expectations; indeed the whole complex was quite extraordinary.
Valencia - Dolphinarium
The whole of Saturday was basically spent at the complex. Admiring the buildings, a film at the IMAX and a dolphin show.
Valencia - Irish pub
In between times we walked, talked, ate and drank. Saturday night we had a superb meal at Sagardi (brilliant restaurant, shame about the website).
Valencia - Sagardi restaurant
More pictures on Flickr: http://www.flickr.com/photos/8179454@N02/sets/72157610589966699/
Valencia - opera house
The building, and the whole complex, was quite stunning. A building to rival the most dramatic in the world. It surpassed expectations; indeed the whole complex was quite extraordinary.
Valencia - Dolphinarium
The whole of Saturday was basically spent at the complex. Admiring the buildings, a film at the IMAX and a dolphin show.
Valencia - Irish pub
In between times we walked, talked, ate and drank. Saturday night we had a superb meal at Sagardi (brilliant restaurant, shame about the website).
Valencia - Sagardi restaurant
More pictures on Flickr: http://www.flickr.com/photos/8179454@N02/sets/72157610589966699/
Thursday, November 27, 2008
Valpolicella and Amarone Wine Tasting Dinner
Another enjoyable evening at Enoteca Turi in Putney. Guiseppi and Pam put on another of their regional wine dinners, this time from the Veneto.
My scrappy notes reveal that, for the Risotto course, I preferred the Ripasso to the Classico - no surprise there. However with the food my allegiances switched to the Classico. The Tedeschi amarone was so port like it was too powerful for the duck and would have made a better cheese accompaniment.
The prosecco was nicely Brut and the better for it than many other proseccos. I was surprised that they served a light red with the scallops - I think a white would have gone better; also it made the tasting a little heavy on the reds and a white there would have balanced it more.
As always Guiseppi gave a short talk on the region, its food and wines and a good time was had by all.
Cicchetti
Venetian canapes
Prosecco di Valdobbiadene Doe Col Vetoraz
Cappesante alia veneziana con pasta, radicchio e fagioli
Seared scallop on fresh pasta, with bean sauce, radicchio and crispy pancetta
Bardolino DOC2006 Giovanna Tantini
Risotto al Valpolicella e salsiccia
Risotto with Valpolicella wine and luganega sausage
Valpolicella Ripasso Seccal DOC 2005 Nicolis
Valpolicella CIassico Superiore DOC 2001 Marion
Petto d'anatra con peverada e verza, gamba ripiena con peara e sedanorapa
Duck breast with peverada and Savoy cabbage, and stuffed leg with pear and celeriac
Amarone della Valpolicella DOC 2001 Allegrini
Amarone della Valpolicella "Monte Olmi" DOC2004 Tedeschi
Torta di cioccolato
Venetian chocolate cake
Recioto della Valpolicella Le Torade 2004 Ca' La Bionda
Coffee
My scrappy notes reveal that, for the Risotto course, I preferred the Ripasso to the Classico - no surprise there. However with the food my allegiances switched to the Classico. The Tedeschi amarone was so port like it was too powerful for the duck and would have made a better cheese accompaniment.
The prosecco was nicely Brut and the better for it than many other proseccos. I was surprised that they served a light red with the scallops - I think a white would have gone better; also it made the tasting a little heavy on the reds and a white there would have balanced it more.
As always Guiseppi gave a short talk on the region, its food and wines and a good time was had by all.
Cicchetti
Venetian canapes
Prosecco di Valdobbiadene Doe Col Vetoraz
Cappesante alia veneziana con pasta, radicchio e fagioli
Seared scallop on fresh pasta, with bean sauce, radicchio and crispy pancetta
Bardolino DOC2006 Giovanna Tantini
Risotto al Valpolicella e salsiccia
Risotto with Valpolicella wine and luganega sausage
Valpolicella Ripasso Seccal DOC 2005 Nicolis
Valpolicella CIassico Superiore DOC 2001 Marion
Petto d'anatra con peverada e verza, gamba ripiena con peara e sedanorapa
Duck breast with peverada and Savoy cabbage, and stuffed leg with pear and celeriac
Amarone della Valpolicella DOC 2001 Allegrini
Amarone della Valpolicella "Monte Olmi" DOC2004 Tedeschi
Torta di cioccolato
Venetian chocolate cake
Recioto della Valpolicella Le Torade 2004 Ca' La Bionda
Coffee
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Olive Harvest in Puglia
Not just any old olives but our own olives off our own trees. A quick Sunday afternoon harvest using equipment kindly lent to us by our neighbour Mino Maggi. In a couple of hours we managed to harvest about 35 kilo which should give us around 3 litres of extra virgin olive oil.
The olives looking ripe
Spreading the net
Net, crate and rake
Raking the olives off the branch
The final haul
We dropped the crates round at Mino's and he will add them in to his crop for pressing. We'll collect our little contribution's output next visit.
The olives looking ripe
Spreading the net
Net, crate and rake
Raking the olives off the branch
The final haul
We dropped the crates round at Mino's and he will add them in to his crop for pressing. We'll collect our little contribution's output next visit.
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Helene Darroze at The Connaught
Friday we went for one of those meals of which the Alitalia in-flight magazine rightly said to the effect of "you go for the experience and you do not look at the price". So it was with Pete and Amanda when we went to sample the delights of Helene Darroze at The Connaught.
The lady herself has twice been awarded two Michelin stars although I am not sure of this restaurant's current rating. Suffice it to say it was indeed an experience. The food was excellent but what struck us was that you could not move for flunkies. As soon as you wandered into the foyer someone would glide up to direct to you the loo even before you had a chance to look puzzled.
We went for the taster menu at GBP 95 per head but the wines bumped the total bill up to an obscene amount of money. The Condrieu was *absolutely* stunning; I wish I could afford to drink like that every day!
WINE:
Ruinart Brut NV
Condrieu, Mathilde & Yves Gangloff '06
Faugères "Le Sonje de l'Abbé", Abbaye Sylva Plana. 2004
Banyuls but which? My notes grow hazy
MENU:
LE CAVIAR D'AQUITAINE..
in a black jelly, Gillardeau oyster tartare, veloute of haricots mais from Beam poured over the top
LE FOIE GRAS DE CANARD DES LANDES.. cooked "au torchon" with mild spices, Sollies fig chutney
LES CHIPIRONS DE LlGNE..
cooked with chorizo and confit tomatoes, black and creamy "2006 vintage" Camaroli Acquarello rice, Reggiano parmesan foam
LA SAINT-JACQUES D'ECOSSE..
roasted with cepes and parmesan crust, pumpkin mousseline, Piedmont hazelnut infused chicken stock
LA GROUSE..
spit roasted and flambeed "au capucin", grilled duck foie gras, Brussels sprouts, "retnette" apples and "chasselas de Moissac" grapes simmered in a jus of yellow wine from Arbois
LA FIGUE DE SOLLlES.. compote with a 10 years old Maury caramel, Greek yoghurt sorbet, crispy fruit and nut bread
LE CHOCOLAT SA MARA DE REPUBLlQUE DOMINICAINE.. cream and sorbet, crystallised orange tulle with citrus fruit sorbet, "poached prune, Armagnac sauce
Friday 14th November 2008 Dinner
The lady herself has twice been awarded two Michelin stars although I am not sure of this restaurant's current rating. Suffice it to say it was indeed an experience. The food was excellent but what struck us was that you could not move for flunkies. As soon as you wandered into the foyer someone would glide up to direct to you the loo even before you had a chance to look puzzled.
We went for the taster menu at GBP 95 per head but the wines bumped the total bill up to an obscene amount of money. The Condrieu was *absolutely* stunning; I wish I could afford to drink like that every day!
WINE:
Ruinart Brut NV
Condrieu, Mathilde & Yves Gangloff '06
Faugères "Le Sonje de l'Abbé", Abbaye Sylva Plana. 2004
Banyuls but which? My notes grow hazy
MENU:
LE CAVIAR D'AQUITAINE..
in a black jelly, Gillardeau oyster tartare, veloute of haricots mais from Beam poured over the top
LE FOIE GRAS DE CANARD DES LANDES.. cooked "au torchon" with mild spices, Sollies fig chutney
LES CHIPIRONS DE LlGNE..
cooked with chorizo and confit tomatoes, black and creamy "2006 vintage" Camaroli Acquarello rice, Reggiano parmesan foam
LA SAINT-JACQUES D'ECOSSE..
roasted with cepes and parmesan crust, pumpkin mousseline, Piedmont hazelnut infused chicken stock
LA GROUSE..
spit roasted and flambeed "au capucin", grilled duck foie gras, Brussels sprouts, "retnette" apples and "chasselas de Moissac" grapes simmered in a jus of yellow wine from Arbois
LA FIGUE DE SOLLlES.. compote with a 10 years old Maury caramel, Greek yoghurt sorbet, crispy fruit and nut bread
LE CHOCOLAT SA MARA DE REPUBLlQUE DOMINICAINE.. cream and sorbet, crystallised orange tulle with citrus fruit sorbet, "poached prune, Armagnac sauce
Friday 14th November 2008 Dinner
Monday, November 17, 2008
Company Christmas Party '08
The taxman allows a company to spend up to GBP 150 per annum on work do's for the staff. Since Mary and I are the workforce we decided that the office Christmas party would be a "Right Bank Stars Dinner" organised by The Wine Society Dining Club. A fine evening with some fine wines:
The Wine Society Dining Club
THE 236th DINNER
Wednesday 12th November 2008 at 7.00pm
Guest Speaker Mr David Peppercorn
In the Chair Patrick Karney
The Painters' and Stainers' Hall, 9 Little Trinity Lane, London EC4V 2AD
MENU
Smoked Chicken & Woodland Mushroom Terrine
Red Onion & Mustard Seed Relish
Kalamati Olive Biscottini & Fresh Chervil Pluches
Selection of Warm Organic Rolls
Loin of Lamb with Pinenut Rosemary & Parmesan Crust
Fondant Potatoes
Primo Cabbage & Chatenay Carrots Cumberland Sauce
Selection of Cheeses
Individual Spiced Apple Charlottes
Florentine Biscuit with Butterscotch Ice Cream
Tea and Coffee
Selection of Indian Teas and Herbal Infusions
Richly Roasted Arabica Coffee
Chocloate Mints and Truffles
WINE
Boizel Champagne
Chablis Les Clos 1996 Drouhin
Chateau Canon 1985
La Fleur-Petrus 1995
Cheval Blanc 1993
Warre 1983
The Wine Society Dining Club
THE 236th DINNER
Wednesday 12th November 2008 at 7.00pm
Guest Speaker Mr David Peppercorn
In the Chair Patrick Karney
The Painters' and Stainers' Hall, 9 Little Trinity Lane, London EC4V 2AD
MENU
Smoked Chicken & Woodland Mushroom Terrine
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Saturday, November 08, 2008
Fifteenth Wedding Anniversary
Last weekend we went away to celebrate our fifteenth wedding anniversary (the actual day was Thu 30-Oct-08).
The first ten years we decided rather than buy each other presents we took it in turns to arrange mystery weekends away. For our tenth we went back to Egypt, our honeymoon destination. Since then we have made it a final trip to Italy to close down Trullo Azzurro.
Since fifteen years is more of a milestone Mary decided to reintroduce the mystery element. I was told to pack a bag, my passport and present myself at T2. It was only then that I knew our destination - standing at the Air Maroc check-in desk stating "Casablanca".
We *had* to have lunch in Rick's Cafe. The film may have been shot on a sound stage in Hollywood and this cafe was only opened recently but I don't care. I think is pretty cool to be able to say "I've dined in Rick's cafe in Casablanca". It is actually an old residence that has been tastefully renovated and converted into a restaurant.
Rick's Cafe outside
Rick's Cafe inside
Friday was mostly spent wandering around the city especially the souk and shopping areas.
Market pomegranates
Market olives
Saturday was mostly spent wandering around the streets admiring the art deco architecture of which there is plenty, a legacy of the country's time as a French protectorate which brought with it European influences.
Art deco Volubis Hotel
Art deco Guynemer Hotel
The first ten years we decided rather than buy each other presents we took it in turns to arrange mystery weekends away. For our tenth we went back to Egypt, our honeymoon destination. Since then we have made it a final trip to Italy to close down Trullo Azzurro.
Since fifteen years is more of a milestone Mary decided to reintroduce the mystery element. I was told to pack a bag, my passport and present myself at T2. It was only then that I knew our destination - standing at the Air Maroc check-in desk stating "Casablanca".
We *had* to have lunch in Rick's Cafe. The film may have been shot on a sound stage in Hollywood and this cafe was only opened recently but I don't care. I think is pretty cool to be able to say "I've dined in Rick's cafe in Casablanca". It is actually an old residence that has been tastefully renovated and converted into a restaurant.
Rick's Cafe outside
Rick's Cafe inside
Friday was mostly spent wandering around the city especially the souk and shopping areas.
Market pomegranates
Market olives
Saturday was mostly spent wandering around the streets admiring the art deco architecture of which there is plenty, a legacy of the country's time as a French protectorate which brought with it European influences.
Art deco Volubis Hotel
Art deco Guynemer Hotel
Sunday, November 02, 2008
A Weekend of Culture
Last weekend was a weekend of culture.
Friday night we went to See "Love's Labours Lost" at The Rose Theatre in Kingston. An excellent production directed by Peter Hall. The costumes and set were particularly a visual delight. What the papers said:
"An absolute feast for the ear...Peter Bowles's Don Armado is a delight...a Shakespeare production of the highest calibre." The Guardian
"A production full of the ripe pleasures of a classic comedy" The London Paper
"William Chubb is both hilariously pompous and unexpectedly touching as the pedantic schoolmaster Holofernes, and Greg Haiste's Costard is a genuinely funny clown...this comedy may be demanding but it pays rich rewards." Telegraph
"An elegantly staged piece, and as with most Hall productions, beautifully spoken." What's On Stage
"Shakespeare as Shakespeare intended it." The Guardian
Saturday we went to a Festival New Orleans at The O2, mainly to see John Mooney. We saw his set and then went to eat at Los Iguanas. We sat outside and were able to watch Buckwheat Zydeco followed by Dr John from the comfort of our table. Excellent :-)
We are really looking forward to next year's jazz fest. We are going over to New Orleans for The French Quarter Festival and the first weekend of the Jazz and Heritage Fesitval.
Laissez les bon temps roulez!
Friday night we went to See "Love's Labours Lost" at The Rose Theatre in Kingston. An excellent production directed by Peter Hall. The costumes and set were particularly a visual delight. What the papers said:
"An absolute feast for the ear...Peter Bowles's Don Armado is a delight...a Shakespeare production of the highest calibre." The Guardian
"A production full of the ripe pleasures of a classic comedy" The London Paper
"William Chubb is both hilariously pompous and unexpectedly touching as the pedantic schoolmaster Holofernes, and Greg Haiste's Costard is a genuinely funny clown...this comedy may be demanding but it pays rich rewards." Telegraph
"An elegantly staged piece, and as with most Hall productions, beautifully spoken." What's On Stage
"Shakespeare as Shakespeare intended it." The Guardian
Saturday we went to a Festival New Orleans at The O2, mainly to see John Mooney. We saw his set and then went to eat at Los Iguanas. We sat outside and were able to watch Buckwheat Zydeco followed by Dr John from the comfort of our table. Excellent :-)
We are really looking forward to next year's jazz fest. We are going over to New Orleans for The French Quarter Festival and the first weekend of the Jazz and Heritage Fesitval.
Laissez les bon temps roulez!
Sunday, October 26, 2008
Long time no blog
This is going to be to have to be a bit of a Portmanteau blog as it has been *shock, horror* over two weeks since I last put finger to keyboard...
Changing jobs: After four years and many contract extensions (I must have been doing something right) I finally left the client for whom I have been working since August '04. Odd feeling as it is the longest I have ever worked on any project, ever. Fortunately (in this current climate) I have picked up a new contract with one of the recipients of my former client's offerings - a veritable case of poacher turned gamekeeper.
My double crown fell off: A quick trip to Raj to have it temp-bonded back on revealed that the bone of the jaw underneath had healed so well that it had pushed up against the crown from below and eased it off the implants. So he got the technician to grind some porcelain off the underside of the bridge and popped it back on. It shows the wisdom of Raj using temporary cement - a deliberately designed point of failure to prevent stresses building up where they shouldn't.
Weekend in Scotland: Visiting the MIL as per usual. An opportunity to see Mary's sister and family as well as spend time with her Mum. This weekend Mary decided to kitchen cupboards needed a good clear out. Yellowing plastic containers out of the Ark and tins with a 'best before' date in the last century.
A week at home between contracts: Though not idle - I wish. General tidying and foutering and a visit to my Mum and Dad on Wednesday. Oh yes, and I painted the breakfast room and kitchen in my spare time.
Changing jobs: After four years and many contract extensions (I must have been doing something right) I finally left the client for whom I have been working since August '04. Odd feeling as it is the longest I have ever worked on any project, ever. Fortunately (in this current climate) I have picked up a new contract with one of the recipients of my former client's offerings - a veritable case of poacher turned gamekeeper.
My double crown fell off: A quick trip to Raj to have it temp-bonded back on revealed that the bone of the jaw underneath had healed so well that it had pushed up against the crown from below and eased it off the implants. So he got the technician to grind some porcelain off the underside of the bridge and popped it back on. It shows the wisdom of Raj using temporary cement - a deliberately designed point of failure to prevent stresses building up where they shouldn't.
Weekend in Scotland: Visiting the MIL as per usual. An opportunity to see Mary's sister and family as well as spend time with her Mum. This weekend Mary decided to kitchen cupboards needed a good clear out. Yellowing plastic containers out of the Ark and tins with a 'best before' date in the last century.
A week at home between contracts: Though not idle - I wish. General tidying and foutering and a visit to my Mum and Dad on Wednesday. Oh yes, and I painted the breakfast room and kitchen in my spare time.
Friday, October 10, 2008
London to Paris - Update
The final results are in. We have collected the last few dribbles of sponsorship money and just trickled over our target of GBP 1300 *each* set by The Stroke Association. I made 1,345 and Mary raised 1,445; a grand total of 2,790 pounds. Thank you to all our generous sponsors - family, friends and colleagues.
London to Paris - The Team
Bhavesh sent us certificates and the team photo taken right at York House, the start of the ride. The total is standing at 57,000 so if everybody sends in their last remaining contributions it looks like we will hit the 60k mark. Yippee - well done us!
London to Paris - My Certificate
London to Paris - The Team
Bhavesh sent us certificates and the team photo taken right at York House, the start of the ride. The total is standing at 57,000 so if everybody sends in their last remaining contributions it looks like we will hit the 60k mark. Yippee - well done us!
London to Paris - My Certificate
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