The Joy of Wine

A brand new Food and Wine course - The Joy of Wine

Every wine has a story…

The Joy of Wine is more than the delights of aroma and taste. The Joy of Wine lies in its rich cultural heritage. The history and traditions of its region. The passion and craft of the winemaker. The pleasure in pairing local wines with local dishes. The joy of wine is bringing people together for a journey through time and place. 

Our Joy of Wine course will bring you stories of success and of greed, of devastation and recovery, of discovery and hope. 

This is why wine is uniquely fascinating. This is why we love wine and want to share the joy in a linked programme of three evenings to appeal to anyone who enjoys good food, fine wine and who is curious to explore the world of wine. 

Each evening features six carefully chosen wines that tell the story of a famous wine region. Accompanying the wines is a menu of three small plates, reflecting the regional cuisine. The dishes are freshly prepared on the evening by our private chef, “Dotty in the Kitchen.”  

Week One - The story of Bordeaux told in six wines

• How an upstart wine region became the world leader
• The special relationship with England
• Why the wine world owes everything (well almost) to Bordeaux
• From triumph to disaster in less than twenty years
• What and why you should buy from Bordeaux today

The menu - Flavours of Bordeaux

• Duck Pâte Toasts with Fig Jam
• Pissaladiere Tart
• Roquefort with Pear and Walnut

Week Two - The story of Rioja told in six wines

• The birth of Rioja in the cradle of a nation
• Disaster, two revolutions and the rise of an industry
• The Rioja recipe for success  
• But can you have too much of a good thing?
• Rioja today, rediscovery and another Rioja 

The Menu - Flavours of Rioja

• Manchego and Ham Croquettes
• Pan con Tomate with boquerones
• Padron Peppers and Grilled Chorizo 

Week Three - The story of South America told in six wines

• The conquest of a new world 
• A fresh start for old vines on the other side of the world
• The struggle to tame a hostile environment
• The conquest of the old world
• The search for a signature identity 

The menu - Flavours of South America

• Steak skewers with chimichurri
• Black Bean Empanada
• Fried Potatoes with Mojo Sauce

Joy us and experience the Joy of Wine!