Gourmet

A modest front, a superb cellar

Nestled in the heart of Covent Garden, Bedford Street Wines looks too inviting not to go in. Although it is very small, the space is cleverly used and the atmosphere effortlessly relaxed.  High stools, wine barrels doubling as tables, and a communal table that anchors the room, together with shelves stacked with wines from all over the world make for the unfussy décor of the bar. It’s the kind of place you could drop by after work, settle in before a theatre show, or visit just to find a bottle that’ll impress at your next dinner party.

Bedford Street Wines is run by Rob Hampton and Matt Lovell, the duo behind The Oystermen restaurant, and their passion for good wine and good food is evident in every corner.

Their wine selection is extensive, thoughtfully curated with a clear affection for small producers, family-run vineyards, and craft beers. It’s as much about buying a bottle as it is about discovering something new with the help of people who know and care about what they’re pouring.

When we arrived, the sheer range was slightly overwhelming. Thankfully,…

My kind of place to while the evening away

If you’re looking for a place with the ambience of a drawing room and the sophistication of a gentleman’s club to sip on a cocktail and while away the evening, look no further than Scarfes Bar. Evoking a convivial and sophisticated yet intimate atmosphere, and located a short distance from London’s Covent Garden, Scarfes Bar […]

A tribute to a woman of strength and spirit

Renowned Champagne house Louis Roederer releases its 2022 vintage “Hommage à Camille” wines: Camille Charmont 2022 (red) and Camille Volibarts 2022 (white).  The woman behind the brand, Camille Olry-Roederer, was nothing short of extraordinary. She took the helm of Champagne Louis Roederer on the sudden death of her second husband in 1932. Her energy, ingenuity […]

Possibly, the most special bottle of rum in the world.

A unique decanter of Dictador Generations En Lalique has become one of the most expensive bottles of rum ever sold. Auctioned by Sotheby’s online, it achieved the exceptional price of £30,000. This is the highest value ever for rum during a Sotheby’s auction. The lot, named “Dictador Generations En Lalique” included the proof bottle handmade […]

A woman on a quest

Blessed with a cool climate and a fertile limestone and chalk soil similar to the Champagne region of France, Sussex has become the top sparkling wine-producing county in the UK. Award-winning East and West Sussex vineyards, many family-owned, are picking up international awards for their skilful blending of Chardonnay, Pinot Meunier and Pinot Noir grapes. […]

Tamara Roberts, CEO of Ridgeview Estate winery in East Sussex discusses with Gina Baksa winemaking, lockdowns and how to remain ahead of the curve in today’s challenging market. “Often you’re so focused on moving forward that you forget to look back, reflect and see what you have achieved,” says Tamara Roberts, CEO of Ridgeview Estate, […]

by Papa Sono-Abebrese

The last year has certainly shaken us all out of our comfort zone. Small businesses have struggled, many almost to a point of ruin, forced quarantine has put family dynamics under scrutiny, and the constant tier changes and uncertainty of when this will all end definitely tested our sanity. At the risk of tempting fate, […]

Standing proud on the rugged Northern Irish coast, we find The Old Bushmills Distillery, home to the oldest single malt Irish whiskey. Surprisingly for some, this ancient distillery was the first one to name a woman Master Blender, Helen Mullholland. Helen is the current custodian of traditions that have been passed down from generation to […]

When Luxury Meets Chemistry

I think it is safe to say that London has one of the widest offers of drinking establishments in the world. Whatever type of watering hole is your favourite, from a local pub to the most exclusive champagne bar, you’ll certainly find it in the British capital. When I thought I could not find anything […]

The Light at The End of The Tunnel

Alcohol has always been one of Britons’ favourite ways to unwind, relax and share with friends after a long day of work or over the weekend to celebrate football team wins, drown sorrows and so much more.  Alcohol consumption is embedded in our culture as much as tea is. Although the NHS recommend us not […]

by Lavinia Dickson-Robinson

Before I give you a review of this wonderful restaurant in the heart of Mayfair, it is only fair that I share with you some of its rich history, what will help explain why this is one of London’s most beloved hotel restaurants. The Stafford is rich in historic intrigue from the 17th century to […]

by Lavinia Dickson-Robinson

We have all heard of Alice Through the looking Glass and Johnny Cash’s song Ring of Fire, so, what if I told you that you can have delivered through your letterbox a Pacific Ring of Fire wrapped in a chocolate dream. firetree chocolate will whisk you away on an exotic journey around the Solomon Islands, […]

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