How did you first find Sherry, or how did Sherry first find you?
My father wouldn’t start a meal without a glass of Amontillado and Christmas wasn’t a Christmas without a glass of cream Sherry. I would often pour my self a small glass of Sherry from his decanter, hoping he wouldn’t notice it. I won’t tell you how old I was then....
How did Sherry inspire you when pairing it with food for the Copa Jerez?
I picked the menu for the Copa Jerez from our a la carte menu and I proved to the judges how versatile Sherries are. We didn’t create a menu for the competition, in my opinion, it wasn’t necessary, we could highlight the wonderful matches with our fabulous food.
Chocolate Bread and Butter Pudding
What are the greatest food & Sherry pairings you’ve discovered?
I have paired Sherry with pretty much most of the dishes during my long career in the wine business, but recently I had a go at making my own Pork Scratchings and I paired them with a glass of Dry Sack, perfect!
What is the most surprising Sherry match you’ve come across?
Next Sunday have a glass of Oloroso with your roast beef.
What makes Sherry special for a Somm?
Sherry remains an affordable drink and its originality is still unchallenged.
How would you convince somebody new to the drink, to try Sherry?
Because of the varying degrees of oxidative character in Sherry, I tend to start with the sweeter Sherries first whenever I am with someone new to the drink. I love to watch their incredulous reaction.
Why would you recommend that Sommeliers and Chefs participate in the Copa Jerez?
It’s a great competition with the very best Chefs and Sommeliers participating, don’t miss it!
