So I am going back a long way to 8th June 2023 and a splendid meal with a colleague (“Guido”) and also with a great wine loving customer/friend (who also loves watches). We went to Maru London – I had never been before. We had three Champagnes in turn:

Ozanne Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Michel Fallon NV

J M Seleque ‘Soliste Chardonnay’ Pierry Premier Cru Les Tartieres Porgeons Millesime

2009 Egly-Ouriet Grand Cru Brut Millesime

Whilst I do not have notes on any of them I remember loving them all. With Champagne I always think the first one you have, in a line up, has an in built advantage – let’s face it – who doesn’t like the first sip/glass/bottle of Champagne. The way in which Champagne’s role in the wine world has changed from “aperitif” to bona fide “wine wine” (better phrase needed) has been one of the big developments over my time (now 25years) in wine.

The lack of notes makes this more of a photo blog and just a record of a splendid evening (and therefore a little indulgent – apologies). The food was simply terrify. Refined, characterful, thoughtful. Also plentiful as the below suggests. A recommend spot!

Mussel – Japanese Red Snapper Langoustine

8 days dry aged Tuna Temaki

15 days Dry aged hay smoked Ikejime Trout

4 days Ice Bath Aged Diver Caught scallop

5 days Ice Bath Aged Cuttlefish Ociestra Caviar “Antonius”

Oyster

Lobster

Somen Noodle Truffle

Scottish Brown Crab

Abalone Courgette Flower

Big Eye red bream

8 days Aged Hamachi “Shio Koji”

Salmon Egg

Dover Sole Burford Brown Egg Yolk

12 days dry aged Soy Marinated Akami

Grilled Live Langoustine

8 days dry aged O Toro

Maguro 3

Basil

Strawberry