
Suggestions from Alberto Almeida
Hampshire is world-famous for its chalk streams and for the trout they nurture. In fact 85% of all the chalk streams across the world are in the county.
We have a feature on Hampshire’s chalk stream trout for Christmas, along with some member recipes, so we turned to Alberto Almeida, head of wine at Lainston House, the most stunning country house hotel near Winchester, for some pairings for the dishes.
Alberto decided to keep it local for this delicate fish with two fabulous Hampshire wines.
For the smoked trout canapes, Alberto suggests a rosé – Dancer in Pink from Black Chalk Wines in Stockbridge, Hampshire 2023. “It’s a gorgeously dry rosé, with bright aromas of ripe strawberry and cherry blossom. The palate provides a beautiful abundance of red fruits and a rounded creaminess from full malolactic fermentation.”
For the poached chalk stream trout, he recommends a Classic Pinot Blanc from BSixtwelve, Single Vineyard at Itchen Abbas, Hampshire 2022. “This wine has a beautiful acidity and citrus notes to cut well with the natural fat of the trout, without robbing it of its gorgeous flavour.”
A little about Lainston House
Lainston House is a beautiful, Queen Anne country house hotel set in 63 acres in Winchester.
The Avenue restaurant, named after the stunning avenue of lime trees leading up to the house, has a tasting menu with a BBC MasterChef: The Professionals champion at the helm.
Meanwhile, The Wellhouse is one of the only UK restaurants where every dish is cooked by woodfire. Its historic, rustic-luxe atmosphere and deep, smoky flavours make for an unforgettable dining experience.
