You can be sure of a warm welcome in the bar at Ardanaiseig, with our knowledgeable staff ready to serve up a selection of aged whiskys, fine wines, artisan beers, fun mocktails and tasty teas. If you’re looking for recommendations, our food and beverage manager Jamie knows his stuff.
One of the first things he does when working a bar shift is to check the Tasting and A La Carte Menu so he can decide what wine to recommend. For those looking to sit back and relax after a long day exploring our grounds, in advance of a sumptuous dinner in the restaurant, here are some of his tasty tips for food pairings and evening enjoyment.
Pre-dinner drinks
Why not start the night with a refreshing glass of Taittinger Champagne, one of only a few Champagne houses to remain owned and actively managed by the family named on the label. When drinking Taittinger you will experience tastes of peach and honey with hints of vanilla.
Pre-dinner drink (non-alcoholic)
We offer fun mocktails. One of my personal favourites is the “Fruit Pastel”. This is a combination of lime, orange, blackcurrant and lemonade with a garnish of lemon. The “Fruit Pastel” is a great summer drink bursting with flavour.
Tasting Menu Wine
Our tasting menu changes regularly, however if we were for example serving “Fillet of John Dory” as a starter and “Best End of Lamb” as a main, these courses are a perfect combination for a guest who enjoys a nice bottle of wine with their dinner.
As lamb is a light meat I would recommend Sancerre Rouge, which is light and fruity with nice blackberry flavours, similar to rosé wine but with more depth. I would also recommend the Vina Mar Pinot Noir, which is again very light but less fruity with slight peppery notes and a small hint of smoke. As both red wines I have recommended are very light they will also work well with the “Fillet of John Dory”.
Digestifs
When you have finished your dinner and are wondering what to have next, why not return to the bar and enjoy some of our well picked Digestifs. My whisky recommendation would be Old Pulteney, a light single malt that is smooth with sweet flavours and perfect for after dinner. Its subtle salty notes cut through the sweetness and are reminiscent of a seaside holiday.
If whisky isn’t to your liking why not enjoy one of the finest Cognacs around, Rémy Martin XO. The nose is fruity with hints of honey, dates and orange peels.
After dinner drinks (non-alcoholic)
I would recommend our delicious “Apple Loves Mint” Suki tea. This particular tea bursts with flavour with strong aromas of mint and the sweet taste of apple. This is definitely one of the Suki Teas you don’t want to miss out on. Enjoy our tea and coffee with our Head Chef’s selection of sweets, chocolates and more. This will definitely finish the night off well.
Written by Rosalea Collinge