Celebrate British Tomato Fortnight with a glass of English or Welsh wine
The Perfect British Pairing: local tomatoes, local wine.
Nothing says British summer quite like a ripe tomato and a chilled glass of English or Welsh wine. British Tomato Fortnight is underway and we’re celebrating two home‑grown cool-climate legends: local tomatoes and local wine.
To explore this perfect British pairing, we spoke to Richard Brown, WineGB Trade Ambassador and Head of hospitality for Little and Large Pub Company (London and South) to share his favourite tomato‑and‑wine matches, showing just how beautifully our wines complement the best of British produce.
Showcase the british summer
To celebrate British Tomato Fortnight, I wanted to suggest a dish that truly showcases one of the highlights of the British summer season. It’s on our menu at The Talbot in Brockley london.
At this time of year, Isle of Wight heritage tomatoes are at their absolute best. Naturally sweet, vibrant and full of character, they need very little interference. Our dish pairs them simply with whipped ricotta, green olive and a chilled gazpacho dressing, designed to celebrate freshness, balance and the quality of the produce itself.
One of my favourite pairings is Balfour Chardonnay, whose bright acidity and mineral freshness beautifully complement the sweetness of the tomatoes and the creamy texture of the ricotta. For those looking to make the experience even more celebratory, Nyetimber Blanc de Blancs offers fine bubbles and refreshing citrus notes that work perfectly with the savoury depth of the olive and gazpacho.
It is a pairing that feels unmistakably British in the very best way. Seasonal produce at its peak, thoughtful cooking and exceptional English wine coming together to celebrate the flavours of summer.
Simple ingredients, carefully sourced and treated with respect, often create the most memorable dishes.
