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Tastour is hosting a very special event: A Walking Tour of London, featuring the legendary Scotsman, Robert Burns (1759-1796) on the 21^st Janurary. It occured to me that as many of our members are ex-pats,  you may not understand this national tradition.

In case you didn’t know, Scottish people all over the world regularly hold a “Burns Night” (basically a second national day), celebrated on January 25th (Burns' birthday), where symbolic festivities and traditional Scottish dishes are enjoyed in remembrance of the famous bard.

Burns, known as the ‘Bard of Ayrshire’, the ‘Beloved Son of Scotland’, and the ‘Greatest Scot of all time’, is known for his beautiful and inspiring poetry that often took an unwavering critical aim at prevalent political and social issues of his time. Perhaps his most well-known work is Auld Lang Syne, which is sung every New Year's Eve in Scotland, and indeed around the world, and is 1 of the top 3 most popular songs in the English language, according to the Guinness Book of World Records.

In fact, one needs to simply look around to notice that Burns’ influence is truly global:

-       American music legend, Bob Dylan, cited Burns’ 1794 song “A Red, Red Rose” as his greatest creative inspiration.

-       In 2009, Burns became the first person ever to appear on a commemorative bottle of Coca-Cola.

-       This poet’s work has been translated into more than 30 languages.

The haggis is prepared and carried in to the guests, while tunes are played on bagpipes. Once the haggis is rested on a gigantic platter on a table, the host of the party reads aloud “Address to a Haggis,” which Burns wrote about the uniquely delectable dish. Some add a wee dram of whisky to it too!

Why haggis? Well, the poem came at a time when there was great tension between Scotland and England with heavy political struggle at the forefront. This struggle appears to have been the catalyst that spurred Burns to express his proud Scottish nationalism in the form of an address to the tasty, traditionally Scottish food item. Also, haggis is so uniquely Scottish that you'd be hard-pressed to find anything comparable to the real thing anywhere else on the planet!

As for 'What's in haggis?', Well...we're not telling until you try it!

Come experience a unique ‘taste’ of Scotland! Join us for a very special sendoff to the legendary bard, Robert Burns!

Kelly

Saturday 21st Janurary,

Walk 1:45pm

Haggis and Whisky at 5pm (optional)

BUY YOUR TICKET HERE

(5 tickets left - prepayment required to attend)

We're also hosting a Wine miniTASTING on the 13th Jan and 7th Feb.  Hope you can make it!

Our Next Introducation to Wine: How to Taste Wine Without Wasting Time is on the 17th Feb.

Hello Tastourians,

I hope you had a wonderful Christmas with family and friends.

Another year has passed; so many memories savored!  I for one, put on another stone (14 lbs/ 6.3 kilos) to ensure I don't forget the good times we shared in 2011! 

Dinner at Mint Leaf Restaurant near Bank

Connecting people is a great passion of mine and the highlight of 2011 was hearing about two members going on holiday together. Others shared meals outside the group.  And a few found Love. Whatever the objective, they all came along to learn, try new food and drink and enjoy good conversation. This is what makes this group so special.

Guy Fawkes Chocolate Tasting

I usually don't make a New Year's resolution - does anyone actually stick with theirs? I have a few goals that I would like to accomplish for 2012 - yes, lose weight is on the list.  I'd really like to write a book this year... so every time you see me, ask me, 'how it's going?' 

Would you mind updating your profile questions? 

I know I am a total wine geek, but I really enjoy reading your answers and it would mean a lot to me if you would take the time to update your answers. 

Hopefully your profile questions will give me some inspiration on what to write about.  In addition to the material from the events we've hosted. (see photos below)

It's simple and will only take a few minutes. Just write the first thing that comes to mind.

The 2012 Profile Questions:

The questions are

1. If you could travel anywhere in the world for free, where would it be?

2. What do you usually drink when you are out? Are you an occasional sipper or indulger?

3. What type of food do you like? Is there a food that you've always wanted to try, but haven't?  What food would you NOT eat, for love or money.

4. If you were on a desert island, what food or drink would you have?

5. What is one thing you couldn't live without?

How to update your profile question:

1. visit www.meetup.com/tastour

2. In the top menu, next to home, drag your mouse over the members tab.  Click on MY PROFILE

Many thanks for a fantastic year and a big welcome to all the new members.  I look forward to welcoming you in 2012

Cheers,

Kelly

My 2011 Highlights:

I did learn one thing this year.  It's not easy to carry 4 beers! The girls at the Bavarian Beer House make it look so easy!

Our Scary Sherry Halloween party

A party at an English Vineyard - The food and wine matching dinner was amaz

The best festival of the Year - The Rum Festival - Miss this in  2012 and your crazy

Good things don't last forever.  Our 3 year partnership sadly ended this year as the best Brazilian in London closed (due to poor location) 

The war of the Bordeaux - the biggest loser of the fine wine tasting

This is the A team, and I couldn't have managed the social drinks without them.  Here we are just about to take a high speed boat into the ocean after our Brewery Tour.

Yes, all these glasses (plus 1000 more) are stored in my flat.

The annual Ice Cream and Liqueur tasting is worth the washing up :)

Yes, it was as fun as it looks - Henley Royal Regatta

Can't decide which was better...  Royal Ascot

England's finest rosé in a lovely rose garden

I think I'll stop there with the photos, as there may not be anyone still reading.

If there is... raise your glass!

Here's to 2011... bring on 2012!

We have some amazing NEW events:

1. The floating classroom, a canal trip from little venice to Camden is going to be the most talked about event of the year.

2. Georgian Wine & Food Tastings

3. Mint Leaf Restaurant: Lamb and WHITE wine tasting

Stay tuned...

Hello Tastourians,

Massive adrendile rush!!!  I've just confirmed the dates of two of our major social events of the year (2012 that is).

Tastour is not just about the food and drink.  It's about new experiences and discoveries with other people who share the same passion for enjoying the finer things in life.

Both of these events blew my mind away and I can't say which is better.We had several people who attended both events, and they loved them both!

They are both fairly expensive and within the week of each other, which is why I'm sending out the mail now (maybe a good Christmas present)

A glorious day out at one of the highlight events of the British Summer. Kelly has now taken me to two traditional sporting events - Ascot and Henley. Both were thoroughly researched, well thought out and planned, with a few lessons in the history, etiquette and traditions thrown in. Thank you for two great days Kelly. - Liza

23rd June Royal Ascot  £150

RSVP HERE

* The most popular and prestigious horse racing event of the year
* A piece of British Heritage – the ultimate British experience.
* A great day out and a good excuse to get dressed up
* An experience you will never forget
* All bout the people and hat watching
* A chance to see the Queen and rub shoulders with her friends!
 In other words, it’s THE social gathering of the year!

FEEDBACK: "It was the most British day I've had since moving here a year ago. I saw the queen and won a little cash and got totally swept up in the people watching. ” Lisa

30th JuneRoyal Henley Regatta £90

RSVP HERE

This Tastour takes you to Henley-on-Thames, one of England’s most charming villages famous for it's 150 year old rowing tradition, fine food/drink & people-watching.

Join us to celebrate on of the most important dates in society’s social calendar.  On this exclusive event, you’ll learn the history of this traditional British Experience as you sample the unique atmosphere of Henley Royal Regatta.

We'll also be learning the difference between Demi-Sec and Brut Champagne.

FEEDBACK: 'Fantastic experience! and Kelly is an amazing organiser and host! would love to do it again next year!'- Ksenia

Notes on the Cost of the events:

If you've been to one of my events before, you know I always over deliver.  Both events will include the 'posh' tickets, food and drink and transport. The price is set so that if you organised it yourself, it would cost the same, it's great value for money and from the feedback from previous years,  I know you will have one of the best days of your life...

To reduce the cost

1. Pay early

2. Join the membership program.  It's a great way to keep in touch with the people you've met as you can attend the social drinks for free (meaning that you can easily get your money back from the membership)

General notes

Although these are fairly expensive events, we do host many events around the £10-30 mark so please don't think that all of our events are so dear.

I put a lot of thought as to what is best for the attendees and the group dynamics, so whilst we could reduce the cost and get the train, not include food ect ect, it's all about helping you bond with the group and making sure you have a fantastic day. 

Each year the events improve and I learn how to make things better. Thanks so much to everyone who has provided excellent feedback.  Most importantly I'm so enthused by your energy and excitement for the events I put together. 

READ MEMBERS COMMENTS ABOUT THE GROUP HERE

I am so excited I will have a smile on my face all week!

Hope to see you soon!

Cheers,

Kelly

What is Sherry?  Sherry is a fortified wine, revived by the ‘tapas effect’.  The ‘tapas effect’ occurred during the budget airline boom of 2003 There was a reported increase of 30 million passengers in 3 years in which aspiring holiday travellers returned from Spain craving Tapas (meaning small plates, served with a drink, which was often Fino Sherry) .

Why is it scary? Because people haven't had the modern verison and they don't know how to serve it :)

Check back after the event.

Hello Tastourians!

Wow what an amazing few weeks, bubbles galore! 

Thanks so much for a super birthday celebration.  All Tastourians compared a non-vintage and a vintage champagne. And the Bon Vivant tasting of '99 Dom Perignon was particularly special!! Only around 5 people out of 30 said it wasn't worth the £120 price tag (although it was nice, I agreed with Craig when he said 'I'd rather have 5 bottles of Prosecco') 

(see bottom of mail for Dom and other champagne tips)

Things got a little crazy at the end of the night...

as Stephen said, 'I blame it on Dom'

Upcoming Events:

A Scary Sherry miniTASTING party 1st November arrive between 7:30-8:30 £10 is pre-paid in advance

Bon Fire Chocolate night  from the 15th floor of a luxury hotel (Bon Vivant Members Only) 5th November 5:00-9:00

BEER miniTASTING at the Bavarian Beer House 12th November  arrive between 7:30-8:30 £10, if pre-paid in advance

Vegetarian wine tasting dinner in Shepherd's Bush 17th November

Wine miniTASTING 25 November arrive between 7:30-8:30 £10, if pre-paid in advance

Festive walking Tour 3rd December 5:30

18 of us 'practised' opening the bottle, by twisting from the bottom of the bottle not the cork.

On the note of Prosecco, at Thursday's Champagne speedTASTING we tasted 15 different sparkling wines and Champagnes and it was unanimous - EVERYONE LIKED THE PROSECCO, where as all the other wines were about 50/50.

For me the highlight of the night... comparing vintage 2002 Veuve and Moet

The Moet had a much more pronounced fruit flavour and longer finish.

I preferred it... although around 10 people disagreed and 4 people didn't like either of them.

Lucky baseballs! They will now save £1000's in their lifetime as they won't need order vintage Champagne!

Dom Tips:

It's recommended that you wait 12 years before cracking open Dom Perignon, this is to allow the biscutty flavours to develop and rough edges to round out.

Serve it at a slightly warmer temperature than non-vintage or sparkling. (10-12 degrees instead of 6-10) The general rule is: the fuller the body, the warmer you serve the wine.

Moet et Chandon is the brand that created Dom Perignon.  Of the 300 champagne houses, Moet (pronounced mo-wett) is the largest Champagne maker,  it produces 55% of Champagnes total output - 26,000,000 per year.  Still Cava's Codorinu produces more!

Gossip:

And if all that excitement wasn't enough, in the last few events, I've spent more time in the Men's Loos than I have in my life!  It's not what your thinking... at two different events, I nursed 2 different head wounds... good thing I was sober..ish!  (btw- they were not Tastourians!)

It was an interesting year for tasting events and looking forward to the event were we put the 1 in front of the 3 and maybe even a 0 after it.

Check out the photo gallery here.

Thanks again and hope to see you at an event soon!

Cheers,

Kelly

PS

 

I wasn't very popular on the tube with our life sized balloons :)

Hello Tastourians!

You know I need an excuse for a party... It suddenly occurred to me that I started hosting social events mid October.  I had a few strange looks from people when I asked for 3 spanks and a pinch to grow an inch - apparently birthday spanking is only an American tradition... cultural nuances have been a laugh a minute, ever since moving here 7 years ago.

Come along and celebrate our 3rd Birthday.

I heard rumors of cupcakes and Dom Perignon

 

When: Friday, 21st October

What: Champagne miniTASTING

Time: Arrive between 7:30 -8:30 for a guided tasting

Cost: £15 (£10 if booked in 24hrs advance)

Where: The Bunghole, 57 High Holborn

Tube: Piccadillly/Central

RSVP

Past celebrations:

On our 1st meetup birthday, I received one of the best bottle of Champagne ever!

and a big thanks to Graham who had everyone sign a birthday card for me

(Picture of bottle of Champagne the size of your finger)

Well it's the thought that counts! And it was enough to wet the whistle!

Our second Birthday we had a private party with our regular members

and was the first mention of the Bon Vivant membership programme.

(Picture of sign: The best things in Life should be shared with others)

What's will this year's third birthday party picture look like?

I'll try to behave myself... if you do.

(picture: Getting better with age birthday cake)

This cake was amazing - we did a taste the difference - and boy could you!

The same could be said for our events, after 150 social events, Tastour is 'getting better with age!'

Like a child, it's miraculous to see it learn & grow.

Thanks for being a part of it!

Kelly

Although I wouldn't classify myself as a bottled water drinker (frankly, I can't tell the difference between tap and most bottle waters), the experience of Fiji bottled water is a cut above the rest.

 

 

 

 

Fiji's water is somehow creamier than other bottle waters. By “creamier”, I mean, the difference between normal bottled water and Fiji is like comparing a skim milk to a full fat milk. I'm also a fan of the geometric bottle design and the label, which is adorned by the beautiful Hibiscus flower.

 

In Philadelphia, where I dined and worked in some of the best restaurants in the world, Fiji water was served in its own special silver-plated square holder. One felt like royalty when ordering a bottle.

 

First up, I know what you're thinking... “Fiji water probably isn't even from Fiji!”

In accordance with the brand's name, Fiji water really does come from the Fijian islands. The “artesian aquifer”, as it's called, is located deep in the earth under Yaqara Valley of Viti Levu, the largest island in the republic of Fiji.

 

Wait, wait, wait... an artesian what?!

The aquifer that Fiji draws their water from is encased in hundreds of layers of mineral-rich stone and sediment. As rain has trickled down into the ground, it became enriched with the minerals of the area.

When enough water pressure was created under the ground, it became a mammoth deposit of delicious fresh water. This pressurized deposit of water is known as an artesian aquifer.

 

Dirt in my water? Gross. How is that good for me?

No, no, not dirt; minerals! They help keep your body healthy by replenishing your naturally-occurring resources (and some that your body gains from food and such).

 

On the soon-to-be-tasty water's journey into and out of the ground, it absorbed a mineral that happens to be incredibly beneficial to humans: silica. This helps keep your hair, nails and skin healthy, and is also responsible for the signature silky texture of Fiji's water.

 

Isn't rain water usually dirty, though?

Usually it is. However, the air in Fiji is incredibly clean due to air currents that don't carry the pollutants found in other parts of the world (some islands have this trait, as they are so far removed from heavily civilized areas).

 

In turn, the rain water is not acidic and is as pure as the air it falls through. The pure rain water is the only water that collects in the aquifer.

Beyond that point, the water never comes into contact with human hands. The purity is preserved right until you open the bottle.

 

We're ecstatic to be teamed up with Fiji water, and I'm looking forward to giving you all the exclusive experience of the silky-smooth Fiji palate satisfier.

 

 

 

 

 

Source:            http://www.fijiwater.com/company/faq/

                       

 

It's been a long-running joke of mine that I like my coffee like my men: strong, rich and blond. I must admit that nowadays a mild, dark, and fruity brew can bring me just as much pleasure... it's amazing how your tastes change over the years!

When I read about the following PR stud, er... stunt, I had to share it with you.

“Man Cafe” is the first ever pop-up-cafe where it's not just great coffee on the menu!

At the Man Cafe customers can savor the delicious taste of their perfect brew and also choose their perfect man to serve it for them. So the question really is... ladies, how do you like your coffee?

The Carte Noire Women's panel will unveil its team of seductive servers in London on the 20^th and 21^st September.

If you have the perfect coffee/charmer combo, log onto www.facebook.com/cartenoireuk to find out when the Carte Noire Man Cafe is coming to a city near you (or check out Twitter #mancafe)!  If you do, in the link to the ‘auditions’ I was expecting to see a ‘butler in the buff style’ line up... and nada!   

I guess I’ll have to ‘pop in’ to this ‘pop up’ to satisfy my cravings!


London

Dates: 20th and 21st September 2011

Location: 40 Eastcastle Street, London W1W 8DT

Birmingham

Dates: 5th October 2011

Liverpool

Dates: 19th October 2011

Manchester

Dates: 26th October 2011

Bristol

Dates: 2nd November 2011

What is the International Wine Challenge and when you see that little sticker, how was the wine selected?

The International Wine Challenge is probably the world’s best know competition, infact the awards ceremony is know as 'The Oscars of the Wine Industry.'

In early April, more than 45,000 bottles from over 10,000 wineries arrived at the Barbican Centre in London.  After all the bottles had been logged, categorised and coded  by grape variety, style, country and region of origin, the first day of tasting begins.

More than 370 winemakers, merchants and writers from around the world took part in the judging process.  Up to 2000 wines were assessed daily. On an average day, a judge on one of the 24 busiest tasting tables might have sampled between 72 and 90 wines.

The goal of the competition is to find the best wine, which represents that style and region.  Judges compare wines from particular regions, for example Meursaults against Meursaults.

Wines, which scored less than 84 points, were sent back for re-tasting by the co-chairmen to ensure that a good wine had not been missed. The co-chairmen may have tasted up to 300 wines in just one day. The wines that were approved by the co-chairmen consequently passed into the second round. Some wines received a Commended, which means the wine is recommended as worthy of purchase, but there are more distinguished categories:

Gold 95 – 100    Silver 90 – 94   Bronze 85 – 89    Commended 80 - 84

There are 5 co-chairmen of the IWC competition: TIM ATKIN MW, CHARLES METCALFE, SAM HARROP MW, DEREK SMEDLEY MW and OZ CLARKE

In 2008, 5.9% of wines were found to be faulty.

What happens to the left-overs?

With four to six bottles of each wine sent in by merchants and producers for consideration in the competition, some bottles are inevitably left over, even after the numerous rounds of tastings and the opening of duplicates due to wine faults. Every year, the IWC donates hundreds of cases of wine to selected charities.

Each year, the winners are announced in May, and attend a Black Tie awards ceremony in September. The do is held at the Hilton Park Lane, which attracts over 700 industry professionals. Last year I was lucky enough to attend.  It was an

THE TASTOUR TIP: If attending the Taste of Gold, how to get the most from your night

Ask the producers questions such as… What’s the grape? What’s the climate like? Will you describe the special features of vineyard to me? And most importantly, think about each sip and savour it!

What about the Party?

Each year, the winners are announced in May, and attend a Black Tie awards ceremony in September. The do is held at the Hilton Park Lane, which attracts over 700 industry professionals.

It was an invigorating experience… the light show, the who’s who, and the wine were all unimaginable. 

Here’s a clip of the Wine Educator of the Year award – and guess who stole the show?  Little ol me.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bS8kDSPkDko&feature=related

The next awards in on the 6th September...

Wish me luck... we've been shortlisted, yet again!

*Information extracted from the offical website of the IWC.

Follow @winechallenge

http://www.internationalwinechallenge.com/