EAST CORK WELCOMES BEALTAINE WITH MAY SUNDAY FESTIVAL 2024. Seed & Plant Swap included in a unique weekend in the woods

 EAST CORK WELCOMES BEALTAINE WITH MAY SUNDAY FESTIVAL 2024

 Celtic goddess Noelle Ní Riagáin in the woods.

 

Seed & Plant Swap included in a unique weekend in the woods celebrating 

creativity, nature and fun for all ages

 

To mark the arrival of Bealtaine, the first days of summer as celebrated by our Celtic ancestors, the village of Killeagh in East Cork is hosting a very special May Sunday Festival this year.   

 

Running from 3^rd to 6^th of May, the May Sunday Festival comprises a unique schedule of creative and fun events, workshops and activities for all ages, inspired by our Celtic roots.  Embracing nature, creativity and local history, free and subsidised events include Dawn Chorus Walks in the Woods, Here comes the Sun! Morning Yoga, Cré Clay workshops, Dogsercise adventure trails for dogs, Imagination Station, children’s art workshops, wreathmaking, music and dancing, photo exhibits and lots more fun for all the family!

A delicious Vermentino by Domaine Bassac, a family estate of several generations standing

Domaine Bassac Le Vermentino de Grand Mur Parcelles Cotes de Thongue (IGT) 2021, 14% ABV

Mary Pawle Wines 

Domaine Bassac is a family estate of several generations standing

The colour of our organic Vermentino is quite a light straw, shimmering bright in the glass. Light fruity and herbal notes in the aromatics. Rich fruit flavours follow, citrus mostly with hints of tropical, and also the expected (but certainly not over the top) acidity that ensures balance. Best drunk when young, this dry and fruity wine should pair well with pasta, vegetarian dishes, poultry, lean fish, and also as an aperitif. 

Vermentino is generally associated with the Mediterranean, grown mostly in Italy (all over the country but most notably in Sardinia, check out Atzei, and Tuscany) and France (in Provence and the Languedoc-Roussillon) along with some excellent examples from Corsica where Le Bois Du Cerf  is well worth looking out for.

Our wine here, part of which has been barrel fermented, comes from the Côtes de Thongue in Languedoc-Roussillon. The vineyard is situated at Puisalicon, a small medieval village in the heart of the Languedoc not too far from Beziers, a town that rugby fans will be familiar with. Domaine Bassac is a family estate of several generations standing and much of its wine is exported. Pioneers in organic farming, current operators François Delhon (family member) and Jean-Philippe Léca have been doing it organically since 1987. 

“A truly remarkable glass of white”. Occhipinti SP68 Bianco Terre Siciliane.

Occhipinti SP68 Bianco Terre Siciliane (IGT) 2022 11.0% ABV

RRP €29.95. Stockists: 64 Wine Dublin, Bradley’s of Cork, Greenman Dublin, Le Caveau

“A truly remarkable glass of white”

 

The colour is a deeper shade of gold than you might expect. This organic wine has spent 155 days maceration on the skins. The aromas are also quite complex, white flowers, moderate tropical fruit (think lychee, mango) and a mild spice. 

Strongly aromatic, yet this blend of two little-known Sicilian varieties, 60% Zibibbo (a regional name for Muscat of Alexandria) and Albanella, is surprisingly light on its feet as it dances across the palate, unveiling layer after layer of flavour as you sip, and meditate, to a very satisfactory finish indeed. 

It is packed with vivacious character, a drink to remember. As Le Caveau say: “A truly remarkable glass of white”. Full of juice, joy and vitality, this stellar wine is one to savour. Very Highly Recommended.

Arianna Occhipinti, the winemaker, learned the ropes as a 16-year-old from her uncle Giusto Occhipinti who is well-known for his use of Spanish amphorae at COS, a winery he founded in the area with two friends in 1980. 

Arianna has been learning well before and since launching her own winery in 2006. She has a big interest in reviving forgotten Sicilian grapes and is indeed credited by the recently published VINO with bringing Frappato back to life “almost single-handedly” and has become a “rock star in the world of natural wine.”

All the vineyards are worked using biodynamic principals and the work in the cellar is measured…not pushing the wine in any way…letting it find its own space…..natural yeasts, no temperature control, no fining or filtration and minimal SO2 at bottling.

The SP68 is the name of the main road that passes near to Arianna’s home town of Vittoria….it lies in the far south of Sicily just to the west of Ragusa. She also produces a red SP68 and you may read a recent review of it here. 

 

Her vines are grown organically, under the clear Iblean sky, with no chemical intervention. The farming system is Guyot and spurred cordon and the average age of the plants is 15 years. Harvest time is late September into early October.

Vines (via Occhipinti)

In the winery, fermentation is with indigenous yeast and it spends 155 days of maceration on the skins, then 6 months in concrete tanks, plus 1 month in bottle, and there is no filtration.

#organicitaly

Little Island's Carrigrennan Walk.

Little Island's Carrigrennan Walk

09.04.2024 

Fota Folly

Egret

MV Matthew, still tied up

Going straight! After a tough upbringing

Black-tailed godwit (with help from Google Picture Search)

Taste of the Week. The Grumpy Bakers Sandwiches

Taste of the Week

Massive Sandwiches by The Grumpy Bakers

Spotted the Grumpy Bakers shop/café as I crossed Washington Street by Finns Corner yesterday at lunchtime and popped in to take a look. Immediately the display of sandwiches caught my eye and I bought a couple. It is possible to eat them there (they have a few tables), they can heat them for you if you are taking them out for consumption nearby, or box and bag them if, like us, you are heading home.

The first one I spotted in the selection was their Mediterranean, a generous mix of chicken, basil mayo, sundried tomato pesto, and greens served in a sea salt focaccia. Back at base, CL claimed that though it was shared and we both enjoyed it.

My main bite though was the other purchase. The Salami, Brie, Mustard Mayo, Chilli Honey and Rocket combination was a beauty packed between two large country sourdough slices and our Taste of the Week. Spicy salami, delicious cheese and peppery rocket ensured this one took off with a whole payload of texture and flavour.

A second call is on the cards as their other sandwiches also looked inviting and of course, they have more than sandwiches to explore on the packed counter. And then there's all that top-quality bread!

Wicklow Wolf Locavore BA Farmhouse Ale with Brettanomyces. Beer of the Week. A Symphony of Sour Complexity. Beer of the Week.

Beer of the Week

Wicklow Wolf Locavore BA Farmhouse Ale with Brettanomyces, 7.2% ABV, 330 ml bottle, Bradleys

Wicklow Wolf Locavore BA Farmhouse Ale: A Symphony of Sour Complexity

Crack open a bottle of Wicklow Wolf's Locavore BA Farmhouse Ale, and you're greeted by a stunning golden hue, hazy yet still revealing a persistent stream of lively bubbles rising to a fluffy white head. The aroma is an enticing melange of grassy hops and wild yeast, complemented by a subtle yet intriguing funk with a whisper of sourness that promises a delightful adventure on the palate.

And that adventure sure arrives! The first sip explodes with a symphony of flavours. Refreshing tartness mingles with hints of barnyard funk, while subtle notes from the 16 months spent ageing in Chardonnay barrels peek through. Each sip reveals hidden layers of complexity, showcasing the brewer's patience and dedication to crafting an exceptional beer. The mouthfeel is crisp and dry, leaving a clean finish that invites another sip.

This 21st instalment in the Locavore series is a testament to Wicklow Wolf's commitment to local ingredients and innovative brewing techniques. The wild yeasts from their hop farm weave their magic in a truly unique and unforgettable sour farmhouse ale. Patience truly pays off, and this Spring 2024 release is a beer you can savour well into the summer (if the Irish weather cooperates, that is!).

With its exceptional quality and delightful complexity, the Wicklow Wolf Locavore Barrel Aged Farmhouse Ale is Very Highly Recommended for any adventurous craft beer enthusiast. This Locavore series is all about local and the quality of the individual beers has generally been very high over the years. This, our Beer of the Week, is no exception.

Geek Bits

Style: Barrel Aged Farmhouse Ale

IBUs: 35

Hops: Mosaic, Centennial

Malts: Pilsner, Wheat Malt, Munich Malt

Farmgate Cafe: A Cork Institution Where Market-Fresh Reigns Supreme

Farmgate Café. Pure Cork. Market-Fresh Guaranteed!

A Cork Institution Where Market-Fresh Reigns Supreme

We Irish may hold a special place in our hearts for lamb stew and potatoes, but sometimes, you crave something a little different. Thankfully, the Farmgate Cafe, nestled above the bustling English Market, offers a haven for those seeking alternative delicious and innovative dishes made with the freshest local ingredients. Still, when I saw the stew and potatoes arrive on a nearby table, I was beginning to have regrets.  

A Legacy of Quality

For decades, the Farmgate has been a cornerstone of the Cork culinary scene. I vividly remember a visit with American bloggers nearly 13 years ago, where founder Kay Harte showcased the magic of Irish cuisine. Her enthusiasm for "balls of flour" – those glorious Golden Wonder potatoes delivered from her longstanding East Cork supplier – was infectious, and the dish that arrived at a nearby table during my recent visit confirmed their enduring appeal.

While the menu was slightly reduced due to the post-holiday Tuesday lull, the quality remained exceptional. My companion opted for the Garryhinch Mushroom Vol au Vent with Walnut and Lemon Pangrattato, a delightful twist on a classic, and the verdict was a resounding "top notch."

I succumbed to the Toasted Sandwich with Loin of Bacon, Scarmorza Cheese, and Onion Marmalade. It was a medley of flavours, the smoky cheese and succulent bacon beautifully complemented by the sweetness of the marmalade. This winning combination, amplified by the equally impressive soup on the side, earned a well-deserved five stars.

Sweet Endings and Market Charm

After much deliberation, the classic Bakewell tart emerged victorious from the dessert debate. Its generous central layer of smooth and delicious plus its topping of perfectly sliced almonds, the ensemble in warm custard, provided a sweet and satisfying conclusion to the meal.

The Farmgate's post-Covid customer queueing system flowed seamlessly. Despite being close to capacity, the atmosphere was calm and convivial. The well-trained servers navigated the space with practised ease, projecting a sense of relaxed efficiency amidst the lively hum of conversation and the inherent buzz of the market itself.

More Than Just a Cafe

The Farmgate Cafe transcends the typical lunchtime haunt. It's a testament to the enduring power of fresh, seasonal ingredients and the importance of supporting local producers. It's a place where generations of Corkonians have gathered to enjoy good food and company, all within the vibrant tapestry of the English Market.

Cork may boast about its good things, and rightfully so, and the Farmgate Cafe stands out as a true gem, a market treasure offering an experience that goes far beyond "balls of flour" (though those are pretty darn good too)!

Cool station in La Boqueria St Josep, Barcelona.

We are not alone though. Quite a few well-loved cafés are located within large markets around Europe, similar to the Farmgate (but maybe without those balls of flour)! Here are a few.

La Boqueria, Barcelona, Spain: This world-famous market has several cafes lining its sides, offering everything from fresh tapas and pintxos to seafood paella and refreshing sangria.

Campo de' Fiori Market, Rome, Italy: This bustling market has several cafes and restaurants where you can grab a table and enjoy fresh pasta dishes, cured meats, and local cheeses all sourced from the market stalls.

Lisbon Mercado da Ribeira, Lisbon, Portugal: This recently renovated market offers a variety of trendy cafes and restaurants, many focussed on fresh seafood and Portuguese specialities like Pastel de Nata custard tarts.

Borough Market, London, England: This historic market is home to a few cafes serving delicious meals made with fresh, seasonal ingredients. Visitors can enjoy everything from a classic full English breakfast to lighter options like salads and sandwiches

Grand Bazaar, Istanbul, Turkey: The Grand Bazaar has numerous small eateries serving  Turkish staples like gözleme (stuffed flatbreads), kebab wraps, and refreshing glasses of Turkish tea.

These are just a few examples, and many other cafes are located within markets all over Europe. They offer a unique way to experience the sights, sounds, and flavours of a local market while enjoying a delicious meal; in that regard, Cork is as good as any.

Barcelona.

Looking for a wine to pair with your Ardsallagh or St Tola? This Sancerre is perfect.

Looking for a wine to pair with your Ardsallagh or St Tola? This Sancerre is perfect. 

Chateau de Chenonceau on the Cher River

Jean-Max Roger Cuvée “Genèse” Sancerre (AC) 2022, 12.5% ABV

€20.50 (16.40 in sale) Dunnes Stores

In years gone by, I used to get a fair bit of Jean-Max Roger wine from Karwig’s in Carrigaline and so was happy enough to see this in Dunnes. It was at a good price in their French Wine sale, down from the regular €20.50 to €16.40.

The Roger family are well-known for their Loire wines. This one comes from the village of Bué and is situated close to the Cher River, a tributary of the mighty Loire. The Loire wines of Sauvignon Blanc are designated Sancerre and this example is precise and refreshing, less pungent than its New Zealand counterpart (none the worse for that).

Check out  our Top Wines 2024 list (with stockists and short reviews) here 

Looking for better value? All under 20 euro. Click here

Limpid in the glass, the light gold colour invites you to come and explore its fruity and flinty aromas, its citrus led fruits (apple, pear also) in an elegant and vibrant medium-bodied wine, right through to a dry, long and flavourful finish. This particular wine has been made “by several generations of our family. It is the genesis of our estate.”

The Loire Valley is well known for its superb goats cheeses and this Sauvignon will do well with the likes of Chavignol (which you can find in Ireland) and Couronne Lochoise. The latter may not be available here but, in any case, I’d be making the ash versions of Ardsallagh and St Tola my first choices. Aside from the cheeses, fish is regularly mentioned as a pairing: grilled fish, sushi and sashimi, and it is a sensational pairing for seafood. Serve at 10 to 13 °C.

 

Beer of the Week: Silent Orbit from Outer Place. Hopped heavily and easily drunk brown ale.

Beer of the Week 

Outer Place Silent Orbit American Brown Ale, 6.2% ABV, 440 ml can Bradleys

"a distinctive and easily drunk brown ale"

Brown is the expected colour but there is quite a bit of red in there too, all under an off-white head. Malt aromas of medium intensity reach the nose. On the palate, not alone do you find malt characters like caramel and chocolate but also some sweet fruit (orange and apricot) from the hops with a touch of pine. 

A hint of sweetness is evident amongst all that, yet there is an excellent balance between malts and hops so this delicious beer is never out of kilter.

Quite a distinctive and easily drunk brown ale from Outer Space who admit to loving their hops: “It’s no secret!  You can expect plenty of hoppy offerings in various styles coming in the future”.

Silent Orbit

The history of this style dates back to U.S. homebrewers inspired by English-style brown ales and porters. US Craft brewers then took it up; while inspired by the English, the Americans weren’t content to be just imitators and took the style in different directions.

One of the Brit beers that came under the US focus was the Samuel Smith Nut Brown Ale. This “was a huge influence on a generation of American craft brewers.. in 1983,” according to Jeff Alworth in the Beer Bible.

American-style brown ales have evident low to medium hop flavour and aroma and medium to high hop bitterness. Silent Orbit has been hopped heavily with a combo of Idaho 7 (used in both whirlpool and the dry hop), Ekuanot and Galaxy hops. Our Beer of the Week and Very Highly Recommended.

Not many Brown Ales are being produced by Irish brewers and some have been once-offs. Two that you should be able to find easily are Bambrick’s by Ballykilcavan and McNuttys by Lough Gill.

Bambricks has an ABV of 5.8%. It is a rich and malty American-style Brown Ale, with notes of dark chocolate and burnt toffee. The Lough Gill brown ale (5.5%) is brewed with real macadamia nuts, along with top quality malts and hops for a rich nutty flavour and a luxurious dark brown colour and is a favourite of mine.

If you’d like to try an American-made brown ale for comparison purposes, you may be able to get your hands on Brooklyn Brown. The New York brewery describes this as a go-to for those who like a little soulful spin to their beer. “Old-school roasted malts and new-school American hops keep it hearty but not heavy, and always party-ready. There’s a reason it’s a cult-classic.” According to the Beer Bible, this “favors roast over nut….It’s surprisingly hoppy as well.”

Silent Orbit Geek Bits

Style: American Brown Ale
ABV: 6.2%
IBU: 40
Hops: Idaho7, Ekuanot & Galaxy

Blarney Castle Gardens. Pics taken 04.03.2024

Blarney Castle Gardens

Pics taken 04.03.2024

Western Skunk Cabbage (and below)

Taste of the Week. Mahers Coffee Blend Six. A Coffee Legacy Still Rocking!

Taste of the Week. 

Mahers Coffee Blend Six.

A Coffee Legacy Still Rocking!

Looking for an excellent and reliable everyday coffee? Then look no further than Mahers at 25 Oliver Plunkett (Cork) and get yourself a bag of their Blend Six. If you wanted Blend Six back in the day, you'd have been heading to Maher's Delicatessen on Marlboro Street. Their number there was six and that was where the blend's name came from!

This isn't just any ordinary coffee; it's a Cork legacy, still a favourite amongst loyal customers who fondly remember getting it back in the day at the original store. Frank Mackey of Maher's confirms: "It still remains one of our most popular coffees in our shop and online store. Some of our longtime customers still reference buying it in Marlboro Street."

Pic via Kranich17 Pixabay.

Mahers import coffee beans from all over the world and Blend Six is made with a masterful blend of beans from Indonesia, Kenya, and Colombia, and delivers a smooth yet robust punch (think powerful, not overpowering) with delightful hints of fruit and a touch of tannin for a perfectly balanced finish. It's the ideal companion for a mid-morning pick-me-up or an afternoon energy boost – no matter the time of day, it'll enhance your coffee experience.

Maher's has been selling quality coffee for decades, and their expertise is truly evident in  Blend Six. The friendly staff at Oliver Plunkett Street are coffee wizards, ready to grind your beans to your specifications (espresso, filter, cafetière, Turkish, stovetop/Aeropress – you name it!). So head down to Maher's and grab a bag (or two!) of Blend Six – your taste buds will thank you. And, a bonus, you'll enjoy the chat and the smiles.

Foradori Tasting at Ballymaloe. Superb organic wines from native Italian grapes

Foradori Tasting at Ballymaloe

Superb organic wines from native Italian grapes.

Holiday weekend or not, you can always bank on Ballymaloe for an excellent tasting. That is exactly what we experienced in a packed upstairs at the Grainstore when Theo Zierock came to East Cork bearing no less than seven amazing organic Foradori wines from the family’s Trentino-Alto Ridge vineyard.

The magnificent Dolomites look down on their vineyard. “We make wines that speak of the mountains and the valleys. We don’t make wine like they make in Bordeaux.” Not that he was doing down the wines of Bordeaux or indeed those of any other region. He was simply saying that each area, each terroir, has a wine story of its own to tell.