Harrods hosts the launch of a much-needed cheese and wine guide

Within the beautiful wine tasting room in the famous Harrods, aromas of glorious cheese wafted through as we were warmly welcomed by and introduced to the two women behind The London Cheese & Wine Guide. Sophie Austen-Smith and Lucy Gregory both started off working in a cheese shop, and soon fell in love with the world of cheese and wanted to share it with the world. So they wrote the brilliant The London Cheese & Wine Guide.

Any fan of cheese and wine, but who is not a genius on the subject, must grab a copy. The language is insightful, not pretentious, but at the same time not a guide for dummies. It has the perfect balance in tack! With wonderful information on cheese markets, a wine and cheese chart, and even a taster challenge, this is no review book; it’s so much more. From the novice to the expert, everyone will enjoy this book and find hours of real reading and activities to try. A quote from the website explains:

“Comprehensive reviews and mouth-watering photographs will help you find the perfect venue from a selection of the finest shops, merchants, market stalls, restaurants and bars.”

The launch evening kicked off with a wonderful presentation of the first wine and cheese combo, which was insightfully and beautifully explained, with everyone in the room hooked. We tasted six different varieties of wine, each so different from the next but all absolutely mind-blowing. From deep reds with a slight fizz paired with a creamy silk blue cheese, to a whiskey soaked, dark chocolate covered cheese (yes, what a combination! And yes, delicious!) with a sweet wine, a delightful and pleasurable experience. The unanimous winner: Beaufort & Chablis Domaine Pinson Grand Cru Les Clos 2008. Very Yummy!

The night’s ambiance was warm, enjoyable and very relaxing. To some, the thought of going into such a prestigious and high-quality store for wine and cheese tasting would be a challenge to their confidence; but as soon as you walk in, you are made to feel at ease. With someone always coming up to you to talk, always making sure your glass is full and in no way being condescending, this is a perfect night out. Class, sophistication and above all, relaxing.

A great success for both Harrods and The London Cheese and Wine Guide, a wonderful night, and a wonderful future lays ahead.

Verdict: •••••

Holly Ashe

Photos: Marco Carboni

For more information visit The London Cheese & Wine Guide website here.