Hidden Curiosities Gin: Another Award Winner

It's over three years since I've talked about Hidden Curiosities, the Surrey Hills (just south of London) distillers' excellent gins. Jenny Meguro, of Cravat Club and gin-making fame, has created another delicious small batch gin; Batch no. 7.

I drink the best gins as I do malt whisky: just with a dash of water. I know tastes vary (luckily) but I don't like to drown a beautifully crafted spirit in tonic water or whatever (although a good cocktail does make a  welcome change it can be made with indifferent gin - a controversial comment no doubt). I also do this is memory of my wonderful father-in-law who, after decades in the Royal Navy, drank his gin only with water.

Hidden Curiosities Batch no.7 starts on first sip with a host of botanicals (there are twenty) in which, for me, pepper, lavender and dry florals dominate. The juniper jumps into the picture with a hint of mandarin, grapefruit and more.

Delicious - what more can I say? From Hidden Curiosities Batch No.7 £36 a bottle.

My previous post about Hidden Curiosities

And see Cravat Club who make superb cravats, face masks, pocket squares, ties and scarves from English printed silks

Lake District Farmers: High Quality Cumbrian Farm Products Delivered

Occasionally I feature products not strictly within the style remit here on the blog. When I do they are from brands that are important to me in one way or another. Those of you who've followed the blog from the beginning will know my love for the English Lake District - the area of lakes and mountains that is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. That status certainly doesn't mean that the area is a museum run entirely for visitors. People live and work there and indeed the fells and valleys were shaped by farming over centuries. 

Farming in what is often bleak and remote landscapes isn't easy, yet The Lakes have acquired an increasingly strong reputation for high quality food. It has a number of leading restaurants - some with Michelin stars - and farmers produce the highest quality products that are shipped throughout the country to discerning consumers and restaurants.

I was recently contacted by Lake District Farmers (link below) who work with around fifty Lakeland farmers to supply the highest quality products while supporting those farmers who have to work hard to preserve a traditional way of life. Through their website they sell the best beef, lamb, pork and chicken products and you can select products for a box for home delivery.

LDF kindly put together a mixed box for me - beef, lamb and Lakeland pork products. I happen to know the farmers that provides their pork (pictured above at their gate) and they make the best Cumberland sausage you will ever taste. I'm still working my way through the box and all the meat products have been superb - tender and tasty. 

Beef and pork from Lake District Farmers

The lamb is from the local Herdwick sheep whose way of life, spending much of their time on the high fells eating wild grasses and herbs, gives the meat an unforgettable flavour. The beef comes from Galloway cattle and Phil Scott, Brand Managers at LDF, told me something about this fascinating breed whose way of life has such a beneficial affect on the harsh but fragile Cumbrian landscape: 

"To produce the finest steaks that exhibit a true representation of the Lakeland terroir, you need a breed of cattle that flourishes in that environment. This is why Lake District Farmers use Galloway cattle.

Galloway cattle our one of our oldest native breeds. Originating in the 1700’s from the ancient region of Galloway in the South West corner of Scotland, farmers were looking for a breed that could withstand the dramatic Galloway environment. Bred for their stocky legs, excellent temperament and ability to withstand the harsh weather, the Galloway breed was cemented into British farming history.

Due to their natural instinct to roam and forage for their food, these cattle excel on fell farms. This is why farmers in the Lake District have always advocated this breed and quickly adopted it as a Lake District farming mainstay from its inception. As the Galloway region is just a stone’s throw way from the Cumbrian hills, the cattle’s transition over the board was a swift one.

The Belted Galloway, a breed in its own right, with their trademark white belts around their middle, have become as synonymous with the Lakeland fells as their mysterious counterpart, the Herdwick sheep. You will often see both species wandering the open fells sourcing out the best available grazing patches.

The landscape in the Lake District is mountainous, dotted with rich forests and pastures. Though it may seem a rugged and forbearing landscape, it is also a fragile one. Tests have shown that the introduction of Galloway cattle can actually enhance the ecology and sustainability of the natural Lakeland landscape. Their selective feeding, which removes the excess roughage, allows native wildlife an improved access to natural herbage.

In short there are many factors that are beneficial when working with such a unique breed. However, one of the main reasons Lake District Farmers champion the Galloway breed is because of their flavour. The wide variety of grasses, mosses and herbs the animals are feeding on gives the Galloway a standout, rich and earthy flavour profile. In short; if you are looking to create a beef dish that portrays the very best of the British produce, look no further than the Galloway.

Lake District Farmers work on a cooperative basis with their farmers. This means that the farmers are paid a fair price for the exceptionally hard work they put into maintain such a rural icon. By placing your order with Lake District Farmers, you are actively safe guarding this rare and unique breeds future. Something we here at Lake District Farmers are incredible proud of".

To find out  more about Lake District Famers and to order their meats for home delivery, go to their website here.  There you can read about their farmers and chefs, try recipes and select from a range of Christmas boxes.

Bottom left Galloway cattle. Bottom right Herdwick sheep

I was sent a sample box of products to try - all views are mine.

Nyetimber: English Sparkling Wine - A Collaboration & Video

A highlight of a blogger's day is being invited to collaborate by a brand that's already a personal favourite, so when I was approached by English sparkling winemakers, Nyetimber, I was delighted to say the least. 

I discovered the attractions of English sparkling wine some years ago and treat myself at most celebrations throughout the year. 

At the launch of Nyetimber 1086 at The Ritz

In this video, shot on a visit to one of their vineyards during the harvest, I talk about their wines and, in particular, Nyetimber 1086, launched to celebrate 30 years of wine production in Sussex and Hampshire.

Nyetimber 1086 represents the best of what I enjoy about English sparkling wines. A delicious acidity is balanced by a fruitiness that makes this a very special celebratory drink. The 1086 is blended from a selection of over 90 wines by Head Winemaker Cherie Spriggs and husband, Brad Greatrix. It is produced entirely from 100% estate-grown fruit and parcel-by-parcel selection from the Nyetimber vineyards of West Sussex.

On my visit I learned that it's the chalk and greensand soils of southern England that are essential to the brand’s success. This is the same soil that supplies Champagne and when combined with England’s cool climate, allows award-winning flavours to develop in the grapes. Nyetimber's vineyards have been planted in locations that are protected from the coastal winds and only on fully south facing slopes to maximise the amount of sunlight the vines receive. The care with which they make their wines led to Nyetimber taking 4 gold awards at this year's International Wine Challenge.

For more see Nyetimber's website.

This is a paid collaboration with Nyetimber. 

Balblair 91 Malt Whisky

I love a nice malt whisky once in a while, so when I was offered bottle of Balblair 91 I leaped at the opportunity. I hadn't heard of this distillery, so was surprised to hear it's one of the oldest, established in 1790 in Ross-Shire. 

Blablair 91 malt whisky

Bottled in 2018 from bourbon casks where it had matured since being distilled in 1991, it has a caramel, chocolatey, almost ginger dryness to it. I'm no great expert and find it hard to describe flavours, but know what I like. You can find out more at Balblair's website. 

I was sent a bottle to try but this is otherwise unsponsored.

Edinburgh: Hotels and Dining

On my recent visit to Edinburgh I was housed, wined and dined in splendour and I wanted to thank those involved by mentioning them here. All are well worth a visit should you go to Scotland's capital and I'll be visiting them all again on my next trip.

I was staying at The Principal Hotel, George Street, Edinburgh (image below). 

The Principal Hotel, George Street, Edinburgh

At The Principal Hotel, George Street, Edinburgh

Splendid and Georgian, it has comfortable rooms and friendly staff. It's popular, so was busy at breakfast time when diners were queuing for tables, but the quality of the food and amenities is so good that I forgave them that. I was able to walk everywhere within the city from the hotel - convenience is always important for me. Well worth a visit; see The Principal Hotel, Edinburgh.

I ate at two places that I would particularly recommend.

Chop House, Market Street, Edinburgh

Chop House, Market Street served delicious steaks, but has fish and other dishes for those not into their meat. Underneath the arches, the decor is cool and the staff attentive. As with all Edinburgh eating, you may find that salt is overused (is this to Scottish tastes?), so ask them to go easy if you like to taste your meat un-enhanced by too much seasoning. A good selection of beers and wines makes this a good venue if you're in central Edinburgh. See Chop House for their three restaurants.

My final visit was to Kyloe for an evening meal.

Kyloe Restaurant & Grill in Rutland Street is another excellent chop and steak house. It was very popular on the evening I visited and I could see why. The welcome and staff were excellent and the food very good indeed in a hearty Scottish way. Kyloe is the old Scots name for beef cattle and this is the emphasis of the eating. Having had steak at lunch, I tried a fish dish which was well cooked and presented. See Kyloe Restaurant & Grill.

I was a guest of the businesses mentioned here. I was unpaid and all views are mine.

Sinah Warren Coastal Hotel: Fun in the Sun and an Offer to Readers from Warner Leisure Hotels (Collaboration)

Warner Leisure Hotels offer all-inclusive holidays at some 13 locations around the country, from fine country homes to holiday villages. The hallmark of their offering is that it's for adults only, ensuring a peaceful break. There's a wide range of activities on offer, from heated swimming pools, spas and gyms to sports like shooting and archery. And there's evening entertainments too. If this sounds all a bit too energetic, you're of course perfectly free to chill out for your stay and do nothing but enjoy the food and hospitality.

Arriving at Sinah Warren Coastal Hotel on Hayling Island

I recently stayed with Mrs Grey Fox at Sinah Warren Coastal Hotel on Hayling Island. Just to the east of Portsmouth, the island is a haven for wildlife. The hotel looks onto Langstone Harbour and just behind are beaches overlooking the Solent, with the Isle of Wight beyond. It's a glorious setting and, soon after arriving and settling into our room, we walked around the coastline on a bright, warm, blustery afternoon. White horses over The Solent showed a stiff breeze which was enjoyed by acrobatic kite surfers on the beach. Windsurfers and small boats sped around in clouds of brilliant white spray and overhead birds of all kinds swooped and dived. 

Our room was comfortable, with proper milk for morning tea rather than little plastic containers of UHT - always a sign that thought has gone into the hospitality. Food is very good and plentiful and the evening entertainment, normally something I'd be wary of, was excellent with very high quality musicians.

The heated pool looks across Langstone Harbour

Nicely landscaped gardens by the sea

Selfie in the gym

Evening entertainments

We were unable to book any treatments in the spa as the hotel was busy the weekend we were there and we hadn't planned ahead adequately, but we enjoyed the well-equipped gym, jacuzzi and checked out the archery and small-bore rifle range. There is certainly plenty to do. The staff are friendly and helpful. As ever with all-inclusive hotels, it's easy to feel slightly lost, so a bit of homework and a chat at reception on arrival helps orientate and clarify.

Warner's hotels are all-inclusive and very reasonably priced. If you need to take family or parents away for a few days to a hotel with a wide variety of activities without breaking the bank, one of the Warner Leisure Hotels would fit the bill perfectly. The clientele is more mature and there were many family groups (without young children of course) making for a friendly atmosphere, but you can be as sociable or not as you prefer.

Souvenirs, kite surfing on the beach, Portchester Castle

Sinah Warren is a large hotel, with some 280 rooms and chalets at different price points. It's well-placed for local sights, from the historical naval dockyard at Portsmouth with HMS Victory and the Mary Rose, to Chichester and the Hampshire downs and coastline. We spent time at Portchester Castle, a fascinating Roman/Norman castle and explored the coastline of Hayling Island - you won't run out of things to do, either at or away from the hotel.

For more information go to Warner Leisure Hotels who are kindly offering blog readers a £20 per person discount per break using the offer code GREYFOXWLH (valid until 31st December 2018). 

Note: This is a collaboration with Warner Leisure Hotels whose guests we were at Sinah Warren. I'm grateful to brands for such collaborations which help me to cover the costs of curating this blog. I retain editorial integrity and the views expressed here are mine alone.

Hidden Curiosities Gin: From the Founder of Cravat Club

Jenny Meguro is owner of the successful Cravat Club. Featured several times on this blog, she provides British-made silk cravats, ties and pocket squares to men of discernment. However, not content with this, Jenny has now developed a gin, working closely with a small local distillery in the Surrey Hills. 

Jenny Meguro proudly shows off her Hidden Curiosities gin

In the name of research Jenny tried 100 gins (over the course of a year, she's quick to point out) in order to develop her distinctive and delicious product. She's used 20 botanicals to produce an aromatic gin that I found delicious with a drop of water, but it's also goes well with a high quality tonic water, perhaps (as Jenny recommends) with pink peppercorns and green cardamom to enhance the subtle flavours. This is a truly outstanding gin.

Hidden Curiosities gin is already stocked in several bars and is making a name for itself early in its career. To buy and to find stockists, both shops and bars, go to Hidden Curiosities website.

For more information here on the blog on Cravat Club, click here.

I was sent a sample of gin to try. All views are my own.

Glenfiddich Excellence 26 Year Old Whisky; a review

I've recently had the pleasure of tasting and enjoying a selection of whiskies from Glenfiddich. I wanted to write about one of these in particular: a rare 26 year old malt which was quite unlike anything I'd tried before in terms of quality and flavour.

I've been a casual imbiber of malt whisky for many years, occasionally enjoying the complexity, variety and subtly of whisky's flavours from many distilleries, not all Scottish. Despite this, I've only written about whisky infrequently on this blog. However, the senses that enable a man to appreciate a finely made pair of shoes, a well-fitting suit or a beautifully designed car are the same as those that allow him to enjoy a fine wine, beer or whisky.

Malt whisky speaks to me of mist-covered hills, dew-soaked heather, lichen-daubed rocks and low tide on seaweed-strewn beaches: precisely the parts of our beautiful country that I love. It bears the stamp of the terrain and wood from which it springs. Glenfiddich 26 Year Old is matured in American white oak barrels. These are imported from the USA and, having held bourbon, they impart, over more than a quarter of a century, a complex oaky, tannin, vanilla flavour to the whisky tempered by Scottish Highland air and water.

I'm used to malts at the lower end of the price scale. These are usually delicious enough, but they didn't prepare me for the complexity of the pleasures I experienced with this malt. A pale golden colour, on first pouring this 26 year old releases a summery waft of grass, toffee and apple. To taste, it's smooth, almost chewy, on the tongue. A peppery, toffee, oaky, seaweed flavour is balanced by a floral fragrance given a bit of edge by a lemon/citrus aroma. These flavours just keep on developing, giving a finish that is quite sublime in its subtlety and complexity.

This is a malt that should be cherished and kept for those special occasions when you want an exceptional tasting experience, packed with memories and revived experiences. Highly recommended. See the Glenfiddich website for more information.

I was not paid for this blog post. I was provided with a sample of the whisky. The views expressed are entirely mine.