As cosy escapes from a blustery day go, hunkering down at Albury Organic Vineyard and Silent Pool Distillers for the first of their festive pairing experiences couldn't have been better planned.
The Surrey Hills producers, both found at Silent Pool near Guildford, have teamed up for Perfect Pairings for Christmas to showcase how flawlessly English sparkling wine and artisan gin pair with food during the festive season.
Photos: Matthew Williams
Our experience started at Albury Organic Vineyard, where estate manager Alex Valsecchi guided us through a selection of canapé pairings with fascinating insights into vineyards, wine, life and, also, Christmas trees.
And then it was on to the distillery via the mystical Silent Pool, which seemed frankly coastal as gusts of wind blasted their way across the Surrey Hills.
At the distillery, where they are celebrating their 10th anniversary, proceedings opened with an English 75 (their take on the French classic) before diving into a series of cocktails and canapés. 🍸
At Albury Organic Vineyard:
- Smoked salmon tart, lime mascarpone and Silent Pool glaze paired with Albury Estate Blanc de Blancs.
- Brie de Meaux with caramelised onions on toasted brioche paired with Albury Estate Classic Cuvée.
- Duck, juniper and orange terrine with Parma ham paired with Albury Estate Sparkling Rosé.
- Chocolate and salted caramel tart paired with Albury's brandy or vermouth.
At Silent Pool Distillers:
- Smoked salmon, hot smoked salmon, cornichons, red onions, beetroot and Silent Pool pickled mooli served with English 75.
- Cardamon spiced coronation chicken, mango salsa and wonton cup served with Tenth Anniversary Celebration Gin.
- Mushroom and parmesan arancini served with a Surrey Hills Negroni.
- Silent Pool Rose Expression and elderflower cheesecake with ginger biscuit.
Perfect Pairings for Christmas continues at Albury Organic Vineyard on Sundays until December 15. Tickets are £50 per person and include £5 off in both producers' shops. The perfect way to get into the festive spirit this Christmas. Buy tickets here.
Find more Surrey food and drink inspiration here
