The Kestrel Inn has been reopened for 4 years now and as many of you may know Richard and Fiona spent nearly ten years in France with their family, prior to moving to Wales. They were immersed in a rich culture of food and wine, in the once British Aquitaine region near Bordeaux.
They are keen to share more tastes and flavours from their time there so the menu will be taking a leap, to predominantly French cuisine and a Gallic wine list. In line with this change they are launching ‘Le Tour de France’, an invitation only series of dinners and wine tastings, touring a different region’s food and wine specialities each month. In order to partake, invitations are open to all who are registered with the K-club and numbers will be limited to about 25, on a first come first booked basis. www.thekestrelinn.com/k-club
The first stop will be The Loire, famed for its beautiful Chateaux, sparkling cremant, shellfish and crisp white wines. Cabernet franc reds from Chinon are sipped with pork dishes and rillettes. Not to forget the unctuous sweet gems from the Coteau du Layon, Bonnezeau and Vouvray which pair beautifully with the’ king of puddings, Tarte Tatin.
The first leg will be on Thursday 7th March with a wine and cheese tasting involving: Cremant de Loire, Muscadet Sevre et Maine-sur lie, Sancerre, Chinon red and a Layon, alongside cheeses from Cœur de Berry, St Maure de Touraine, Selles sur cher and Crottin de Chavignol. The kitchen will also be making a traditional ‘Le Mans’ rillette for the occasion, with some crusty baguettes from The Angel bakery.
Meanwhile the restaurant will be open as usual on a Friday and Saturday evening until the summer, except for private parties, so it only remains to say ‘a bientot’ or see you soon.
Richard Binns
