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We are firm believers that a proper cup of tea is the solution to a lot of things, not to mention a big slice of cake, so we will be getting stuck in to both during this year’s Afternoon Tea Week, which runs from 8-14 August.
The perfect excuse to put your feet up with a well-earned brew and some tasty accompaniments, Afternoon Tea Week celebrates the great British tradition of afternoon tea, with lots of special offers and events across the nation to be found at https://afternoontea.co.uk/
If you’re in the mood for recreating an appetising afternoon tea of your own then read on for our top Lyme Bay Winery tips and suggestions for drinks to go with your eats, with some surprising combinations in store. We’re all for pimping the traditional cup of tea!
Cocktail starters
We think any civilised gathering for food and chat is best kicked off with a cheeky cocktail to get everyone in the mood.
Gin has long been a popular choice for cocktails, and our award-winning Lyme Bay Gins come in a range of botanical flavours that turn even the simplest G&T into a taste sensation.
It will come as no surprise that we focus on flavour and quality in our gins – which include Pink Grapefruit Gin, Orange & Thyme Gin, and Elderflower & Cucumber Gin – building a layered citrus character rather than seeking bold overwhelming notes.
For a classic cocktail with a twist, we suggest using our beautifully fresh and invigorating Lyme Bay Dry Gin to make a classic Negroni – which the Italians insist you need to drink three of before you really get going.
To make one mix 25ml Lyme Bay Dry Gin, 25ml sweet vermouth and 25ml Campari with a twist of orange zest, a chunky ice cube if you like, and simply get sipping.
Sparkling wine and canapes
Afternoon tea is the perfect occasion to open something refreshingly fizzy, so if you fancy some bubbles with your teatime treats then why not pop the cork on our sparkling Classic Cuvée? A blend of the noble Champagne grape varieties with a crisp and full mouthfeel, a bottle of this pairs perfectly with canapés and cheesy nibbles.
Another refreshing palate-pleaser, our fresh and fruity Brut Reserve NV with lemon and green apple notes and vibrant and creamy mousse finish is a perfect drink for some refined afternoon dining and pairs beautifully with a seafood platter or a chunky fresh crab sandwich. It also comes in a half bottle, perfect for picnics.
Sandwiches and Cider
And talking of sandwiches, our Jack Ratt Vintage Dry Cider goes brilliantly with the rich fillings of sumptuous afternoon tea sandwiches, as well as with cheese boards, ploughman’s and pulled pork rolls.
If you’re putting on a spread for a tea party with quite a few guests, Jack Ratt Vintage Dry Cider also comes in a 1-litre glass flagon that makes an eye-catching statement on any party table, as well as being perfectly portable for a populous picnic.
Fruit Wines for afters
Think of a fruit and there will almost certainly be a fruit wine made from it – which means think of a cake and there will be a fruit wine to match or complement it.
With plenty of options to choose from, we recommend our Apricot, Blackcurrant, Cherry, Peach, Raspberry, or Strawberry Fruit Wines as juicy choices for those with a sweet tooth. They are a perfect accompaniment to fruity cakes and puddings or served alongside soft cheeses, as well as making fabulous spritzers, mixed 50/50 with soda water or your preferred fizzy mixer.
The bubbly all-rounder
If you simply can’t decide, our classy Sparkling Rosé NV made from 100% Pinot Noir grapes boasts a bright, fruit-driven palate of wild strawberries, pepper and redcurrant with a richness of honey and hints of brioche and almond, that makes it a brilliant match for all kinds of dishes from fish and meat, to vegetarian choices, as well as fruit and desserts.
Buy direct or order for delivery
Whatever you choose, you can buy all of these drinks at our Cellar Door in Shute, near Axminster in Devon, and we’d love to see you if you are passing.
If you’re not nearby you can always get in touch with our friendly team via email at [email protected] or by calling us on 01297 551355 if you’d like to order by phone.
Order before 2 pm for despatch the next working day – with free delivery for all orders over £45 and a 5% discount on all orders over £150 – and don’t forget to follow us on the Lyme Bay Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook accounts for all our latest updates, offers and giveaways.
