Despite a plethora of exciting sporting events such as the Wimbledon Men’s Final, Cricket World Cup Final and Formula 1 GP, Commanders, partners and guests turned out for the Annual Summer Lunch at a favourite venue, the King Street Townhouse. The balcony was put to good use as we gathered to admire the cityscape and enjoy a pre prandial glass of refreshing Rosé Saumur.

We assembled in the Restaurant for lunch and after the customary welcome from Maitre we enjoyed Smoked Salmon Carpaccio with white crab and celeriac remoulade, pickled fennel and radish served with the elegant Château Bel Air Perponcher Réserve 2018 A.O.C Bordeaux Blanc. The salmon was was lightly smoked and in a generous portion. The Entre Deux Mers was a mix of 85% Savignon Blanc and 15% Semillon which was the perfect match for the starter.

This was followed by Chicken Supreme with truffle mash, rosemary jus, asparagus and chantaney carrots. This was a lovely summery dish and called for a lighter style of red. The Château Forcas-Borie 2012 Listrac A.O.C. was a lesser known wine, made by the maker of Ducru-Beaucaillou and the quality shone through. The nose was very good and and there was no tannin. There was a lot of black cherry and blackcurrant fruit and an earthiness which went well with the truffle.

The cheese selection was served at room temperature and in fine condition, which many venues seem to struggle with! This was served with “Madame” Château de Pitry, 2012 A.O.C.. Castillon Côtes de Bordeaux. Th is was a ‘grippy’ wine with a predominance of black fruit . The acidity was quite high which made this wine a perfect partner for cheese and the spicy chutney .

By this stage we were really appreciating the skill of the kitchen and indeed excellent service from the front of house staff ! The dessert was a mercifully light Blackberry Cheesecake with a ginger nut biscuit base. On reflection, however, this was not the best match for the Sauternes as it was not very sweet. For the first time, two different bottles of Sauternes were placed on each table of 10 people. For instance, one table had Château Giraud 2008 and Château de Malle 2010. This innovation was well received !

As ever, we concluded with coffee and petit fours and and reflected on a most enjoyable lunch and wonderful company.