Paul Ferman, smartly dressed in a beret (well not just a beret), provided local colour to his French countryside inspired meal.

Canape. The first was a classy pork terrine followed by a rustic vegetable soup served in cups. The soup was rich, full of flavour and very filling.

Aperitif wine. We enjoyed the Hugel Gewurztraminer 2012 wine with the usual sherry for those of that ilk.

Main course. The main was a French style braised chicken and vegetable dish. The chicken was on the bone and had great flavour imparted by the on-bone approach and the myriad of vegetables.

The wines.

$1·        Chateau de Pizay Morgon (Beaujolais) 2013

$1·        Glaetzer-Dixon Avance Pinot Noir 2012 (Coal River Valley)

$1·        Christmont La Zona Barbera 2010

$1·        Epilison Barossa Shiraz 2006

The first bracket was interesting in that the Pinot was made in the Beaujolais style. The Morgon (a Cru class) was scented, savoury and so silky smooth. Someone used the term tannins like satin. Much enjoyed and the pick of the day for many. The Pinot had a very similar profile and a damned good lighter weight Tasmanian example.

The cheese wines were a very different act. The La Zona Barbera was dark and brooding but as expected from the variety soft with light tannins. Enjoyable in that style but definitely not be confused with the Piedmont original. The Epilison was again deep coloured in the Barossa style.  Some extra tannic grip may have helped to offset the soft rich fruit. Probably at peak.

Cheese and coffee. James Hill in his acting Cheesemaster role presented Taleggio from Lombardy a cow’s milk cheese. Whilst mild and creamy it was a first class fromage.

Ferrier Spencer was on-site at lunch and introduced his Kenya AA coffee which greatly disappointed him. It was strong with a touch of bitterness. He promises to return with the coffee next week and have a closer look at quantities used in the plunger.