'The EU Fab 6 – PDO and PGI Wines and Deli Meats from Europe' Campaign Launches in London

Tartare of Mortadella Bologna PGI with fondue of stracchino and pistachio crumble; risotto with Salamini Italiani alla Cacciatora PDO and Parmesan; and Wellington of Cotechino Modena PGI; these are just a few of the creations presented by chef Andrea Longoni of the Mayfair-based Frescobaldi restaurant earlier this week, delighting the 80 guests attending the launch dinner for the European project 'The EU Fab 6'.

Attendees included journalists, food industry professionals, and members of the Guild of Food Writers, who were captivated by the quality and originality of the gastronomic offerings, immersing themselves in a unique experience dedicated to the flavors of Europe's PDO and PGI products.

The evening wasn't just a celebration of Europe's finest deli meats but also of its exceptional wines. Sommelier Peter Ferguson, winner of the prestigious Best Sommelier of the Year Award in 2022, paired each dish with wines such as French Cadillac Côtes de Bordeaux AOC wines, Italian Montepulciano d'Abruzzo DOC wines, and Spanish Garnacha wines from Campo de Borja, Cariñena, Calatayud and Terra Alta PDO - showcasing how these European wines complement the complexity of the deli meats while enhancing the overall dining experience.

Said: "Gianluigi Ligasacchi, Director of the Italian Consortia for Mortadella Bologna PGI (project leader), Cacciatore Italiano PDO (partner), and Zampone and Cotechino Modena PGI (partner) said, "This was a prestigious occasion for mutual exchange and enrichment, and we are confident that this is just the beginning of a fruitful project to promote the quality and tradition of our products to the UK and Swiss markets."

The event officially launched the activities of The EU Fab 6 project, which also included wine roadshows in London and Cardiff this week. These events are designed to create networking and collaboration opportunities between consortium producers and local operators, enabling direct dialogue between key players in the European agri-food chain and the UK market.

The EU Fab 6 project, co-financed by the European Union, aims to promote PDO and PGI excellence in two key markets: the UK and Switzerland. Both are characterized by increasingly sophisticated consumers and a growing demand for certified quality agri-food products.

Over the next three years, numerous activities will be organized, including educational events, tastings in wine shops and specialty stores, and an innovative sound marketing campaign, allowing consumers to discover the unique features of deli meats and wines from the participating consortia:

The Consorzio Italiano Tutela Mortadella Bologna (Italy) – project leader

The Consorzio Cacciatore Italiano (Italy)

The Consorzio Zampone e Cotechino Modena PGI (Italy)

ODG des Premières Côtes de Bordeaux et Cadillac (France)

The Asociación para la Promoción del vino de Garnacha – Garnacha Origen (Spain)

The Consorzio Tutela Vini d'Abruzzo (Italy)

These products represent the best of Europe's agri-food heritage, expressions of unique territories and centuries-old traditions that guarantee quality and authenticity through the PDO and PGI labels.

Exploring the Vineyards: Choosing British and Irish Wines Part 1

In recent years, the United Kingdom and Ireland have emerged as surprising contenders in the world of viticulture. 

While traditionally overshadowed by their continental counterparts, British and Irish wines have garnered international acclaim for their quality and distinct character. If you’re looking to explore these homegrown treasures, here’s a guide to help you choose the best of British and Irish wines.

A Blossoming Industry

Climate change, advancements in winemaking technology, and a growing appreciation for local produce have contributed to the burgeoning wine industry in the UK and Ireland. The cooler climates lend themselves particularly well to sparkling wines, often drawing comparisons to those from Champagne.

Key Regions to Know

England:

Sussex: This region is renowned for its sparkling wines. The chalky soil, similar to that of the Champagne region in France, provides the perfect foundation for producing high-quality wines.

Kent: Often referred to as the "Garden of England", Kent is celebrated for both its sparkling and still wines. The area's favourable microclimate and fertile soil make it ideal for viticulture.

Cornwall: Known for its picturesque vineyards, Cornwall is gaining recognition for its sparkling wines. The maritime climate contributes to the unique flavour profiles of the wines.

Wales:

Monmouthshire: This region boasts a number of award-winning vineyards. Welsh wines are often noted for their crispness and complexity, making them a delightful choice for any wine enthusiast.

Ireland:

County Cork: In the south of Ireland, County Cork is home to some of the country’s pioneering vineyards. The mild climate and longer growing season enable the production of distinctive wines with unique Irish character.

Choosing the Right Wine

When selecting British and Irish wines, consider the following tips:

Understand the Varieties:

Sparkling Wines: The UK, especially England, is renowned for its sparkling wines, often made using the traditional method. Look for names like Nyetimber, Chapel Down, and Camel Valley.

Still Wines: For still whites, Bacchus is a popular choice, often compared to Sauvignon Blanc with its fresh and aromatic profile. For reds, Pinot Noir thrives in the cooler climates, producing light and elegant wines.

Check for Awards:

Many British and Irish wines have won prestigious awards. Labels displaying accolades from competitions like the Decanter World Wine Awards or the International Wine Challenge are often a mark of quality.

Visit Local Vineyards:

If possible, visit local vineyards to taste the wines and learn about their production. Many vineyards offer tours and tastings, providing an immersive experience and a deeper appreciation for the wines.

Read Reviews:

Wine critics and enthusiasts often review new releases from British and Irish vineyards. Websites and publications such as Jancis Robinson, Decanter, and WineGB provide insights and recommendations.

Pairing with Food:

Consider what foods you’ll be pairing with the wine. British and Irish wines, with their often crisp and fresh profiles, pair wonderfully with local cuisine, such as seafood, poultry, and artisanal cheeses.

Supporting Local Winemakers

Choosing British and Irish wines not only supports local economies but also promotes sustainable practices. Many vineyards in the UK and Ireland are committed to eco-friendly farming and production methods, ensuring that the wines are as sustainable as they are delicious.

British and Irish wines are a testament to the innovation and dedication of local winemakers. By exploring these wines, you’ll discover a world of flavours and experiences that are both close to home and globally respected. So, the next time you’re in the market for a bottle of wine, consider reaching for one made in the UK or Ireland. Cheers to local craftsmanship and the burgeoning world of British and Irish wines!

Hattingley Valley Wines will make a fine Easter meal accompaniment

Classic Reserve NV Anniversary Magnum (£95)

Best with…canapés, seafood dishes

Bubbles are always a good way to start of any celebration and the elegant and award-winning Classic Reserve NV Anniversary Magnum is sure to please everyone.

This English sparkling magnum has been specially crafted from the 2016 harvest in celebration of the brands' 10th anniversary. This is a limited-edition vintage that cries out to be tasted and is perfect for larger gatherings with friends and family.

With aromas of citrus, creamy nougat and freshly baked brioche, enjoy paired alongside seasonal, springtime appetizers and seafood dishes or simply raise a glass for Easter.

Blanc de Blancs 2015 (£49)

Best with…seafood

For Good Friday and the fish devotees among us, the Blanc de Blancs 2015 is a well suited wine made using only the very finest parcels of chardonnay. 

With a deliciously fruity and honeyed taste, pastry and brioche notes on the palate and citrus and green apple aromas, this bottle is an ideal accompaniment to a Good Friday supper spread of seafood. This light and crispy sparkling can also be enjoyed with lighter bites like salmon and cream cheese bagels or Hampshire hot smoked trout pâte piled high onto crispy bread and herb laced crackers.

Entice dessert wine (£25)

Best with… chocolate and cheese

Made using only 100% Bacchus grapes, expect a pale lemon-gold liquid with a delicious, honeyed character and a creamy mouthfeel that bursts with aromas of tropical fruits and blossom, and notes of lemon and elderflower on the palate.

Light yet luscious, this one-of-a-kind dessert wine is served best chilled and alongside boards filled with big blue and strong, creamy cheeses, or with your haul of chocolate eggs. 

All wines are available from www.hattingleyvalley.com by the bottle, case or in a beautiful presentation box for perfect Easter gifting.

Co-op offers exclusive Members deal on wine range

Co-op is offering a discount across its wine range exclusively for members until 25 July inclusive. And there’s up to 300 bottles to choose from.

Co-op Members buying three bottles of wine will save a very helpful and handy £5 when swiping their membership card at the checkout. The deal is valid on a selection wines priced over £6 in England, and over £7 in Wales, and bottles can be mixed and matched as part of the offer.

The deal is available on promotional lines too, so there’s even bigger savings for Co-op Members to be found.

Co-op wine Members deal.

For example, Co-op Irresistible Explorers Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc, which is currently on promotion to £9 in store until 25 July (RRP £10), can be picked up for the equivalent of £7.34^ a bottle as part of the “buy three save £5” deal.

Alternatively for a brilliant red that'll be perfect for season of BBQs, savvy members will be able to pick up three bottles of Trapiche Pure Malbec for the equivalent of just £5.84^ a bottle in store. The Argentinean Malbec is currently £7.50 for all customers until 25 July inclusive (RRP £8.50).

Sparkling wines are also included, and Corte Molino Prosecco will cost the equivalent of £6.34^ a bottle when purchasing as part of the exclusive membership deal. This Italian fizz has been reduced to £8 for all customers until 25 July inclusive (RRP £9).

And of course, all of Co-op’s premium own brand “Irresistible” wines are included in the offer too, including the retailer’s new Irresistible Courbe (RRP £10) from Switzerland. Recently added to the range, this light-bodied red is a great alternative for lovers of Pinot Noir and is best served slightly chilled. Great with cheese or red meat. Alternatively, for a great fizz, Co-op’s popular Irresistible Prosecco Rose (RRP £9) has notes of fresh strawberries, raspberries and cherries making it a great choice for those summery nights in.

Whilst the multi-buy offer isn’t available in Scotland stores, Scottish customers can enjoy exclusive discounts across a wide range of wines when swiping their Co-op Membership card. The discounts include:

La Vieille Ferme Rose 75cl – normally £9, down to £6.50 for members, and £7.50 for non-members (Scotland only)

Casillero del Diablo Sauvignon Blanc 75cl/Cabernet Sauvignon 75cl. Normally £7.75, down to £5.75 for members, and £6.75 for non-members (Scotland only)

Muriel Tempranillo Rioja 75cl – normally £7.75, down to £5.75 for members, and £6.75 for non-members (Scotland only)

Trapiche Pure Malbec 75cl – normally £8.50, down to £6.50 for members, and £7.50 for non-members (Scotland only)

The Ned Sauvignon Blanc 75cl – normally £10, down to £8 for members, and £9 for non-members (Scotland only)

Co-op Irresistible Explorers Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 75cl –– normally £10, down to £8 for members, and £9 for non-members (Scotland only)

Co-op Irresistible Casablanca Valley Pinot Noir 75cl – normally £8, down to £7 for members (Scotland only)

Co-op Irresistible Prosecco 75cl – normally £9, down to £8 for members (Scotland only)

To find out more information about how to become a member or details of the offer, customers can visit this site https://www.coop.co.uk/membership. Staff at your local branch can also help you.

T&C apply.