A Banquet for the Senses

It was a sensual delight from start to finish; beginning with a palate tickling aged Manzilla and ending with a glass of spicey honeyed Gewurztraminer Passito which was very special indeed. In between, accompanied by some fine Garsea recommended by our knowledgeable and charming waitress, we enjoyed such a "degustation" of flavours that we "oohed" and "aahed" all evening. Fortunately, our table was so intimate and private that we had no need to feel inhibited. Comfortable too: I even had the benefit of a few thoughtfully placed cushions.
What lovely combinations; the Tiger Prawns were a juicy triumph but the little cushion of pulses on which they sat elevated the humble lentil to a gastronomic delight. The Pan-Fried Wood Pigeon was cooked to bloody perfection but twinning it with the morcilla perched on crushed fresh peas was a stroke of genius. I could go on. I will. The Confit of Pork Belly; the Very Best of Both Worlds in one piece of meat; a perfectly crispy, crunchy skin on a deeply flavoured flesh so slow cooked that it separated into unctuous fatty shreds. The Cheese Stuffed Courgette Flowers drizzled with honey; yet another winning union of flavours and textures; slightly acidic creamy cheese enclosed in a feather light battered carapace with a dribble of sweetness ! Let us not forget the boards of fine charcuterie, the fine manchego and the nut encrusted membrillo. Or the pink lamb with the milky jus of garlic. Finally there was my small and perfectly formed cheesecake with macerated strawberried which was twinned with the Gewurtztraminer I mentioned earlier; it made me gasp with joy !
And then there was the company; what a pleasure as ever, to share all of this with our dear friends. A very fine evening indeed. 9.5/10