Bookings Now Open: Esporão Wine Supper Club at The Star Inn The City
As the new year gets underway, we’re excited to announce the next instalment of our popular Supper Club, and this time, we’re taking you on a culinary journey to the sun-kissed hills of Portugal! On January 21st at 7pm, The Star Inn the City will play host to the Esporão Supper Club, an exclusive evening of fine dining and exceptional wine, expertly guided by the charismatic Pedro Lopes Vieira, Sales Manager of the esteemed Portuguese wine producer, Esporão.
Pedro will take you on a tour of his homeland’s rich gastronomic heritage, pairing each course with a selection of Esporão’s finest wines. From the crisp whites of the Alentejo region to the rich, fortified ports of the Douro Valley, every sip and every bite will transport you to the rolling hills, sun-drenched landscapes, and warm hospitality of Portugal.
Join us for an unforgettable evening of food, wine, and conversation, as we bring a taste of Portugal to the heart of the city!
Meet Pedro Lopes Vieira: A True Ambassador for Portuguese Wine
Pedro Lopes Vieira, the Sales Manager of Esporão, is a man of many passions. Born and raised in Lisbon, Pedro’s connection to wine dates back to his childhood, where his family’s small organic vineyard and winery provided the perfect introduction to the world of wine. Before dedicating himself to the wine trade, Pedro pursued a successful career in professional soccer, playing for six years in Portugal and Toronto. During his time in Toronto, Pedro co-founded and managed FWP Trading, the first exclusive Portuguese wine agency in the province of Ontario.
After seven years in Toronto, Pedro returned to Portugal, where he joined Esporão in 2007. As Export Manager, he successfully grew the brand’s presence in several European and North American markets, including a six-year stint in New York City, where he played a pivotal role in establishing Esporão as a prominent player in the US market. With his extensive knowledge, infectious enthusiasm, and deep understanding of Portuguese wine, Pedro is uniquely positioned to share the Esporão story with us, and we are delighted to have him lead our Supper Club evening.
About Esporão
Esporão is a wine producer that stands for tradition, innovation, and a deep connection to the land. Founded in 1973, the company has built a reputation for crafting wines that reflect the unique characteristics of Portugal’s diverse regions. Esporão’s approach to winemaking is rooted in a profound respect for the environment and a commitment to sustainability. Their vineyards are farmed using organic and biodynamic methods, ensuring that every bottle of Esporão wine is not only delicious but also produced with the utmost care for the planet.
Six Courses of Gastronomic Delight
Our Esporão Supper Club menu is a carefully crafted journey through the flavours and wines of Portugal, with each dish showcasing a modern British take on classic Portuguese ingredients and techniques.
The evening begins with Jerusalem Artichoke ‘Jackets’, served with their own hummus and chicken crackling. This dish is paired with Bico Amarelo, a crisp and refreshing white wine from the Alentejo region. The citrus and floral notes of the wine beautifully complement the earthy sweetness of the artichokes, setting the tone for a truly unforgettable evening.
Next, we present a Hickory Smoked Bacon Tea, served with maple glazed bacon, wild mushrooms, and pearl onions. This dish is paired with Monte Yelho, a rich and full-bodied red wine from the Douro Valley. The wine’s dark fruit flavours and subtle oak notes perfectly balance the smokiness of the bacon, creating a truly indulgent experience.
The third course, a fish course, features Whole Roast North Sea Baby Turbot, served with brown shrimp and preserved lemon butter, marsh samphire, and crispy capers. This dish is paired with Reserva White, a complex and elegant white wine from the Alentejo region. The wine’s citrus and stone fruit essences perfectly complement the delicate flavours of the turbot, while its subtle oak notes enhance the richness of the preserved lemon butter.
The main event is Black Treacle Glazed Loin of Yorkshire Beef, served with oxtail and Maris Piper croquettes, charred alliums, and sauce Bordelaise. This plate is paired with Reserva Red, a full-bodied and complex red wine from the Alentejo region. The wine’s dark fruit flavours and firm tannins perfectly balance the richness of the beef, while its subtle spice notes enhance the tangs of the charred alliums.
As we move on to the cheese course, we are treated to Vintage Lincolnshire Poacher, served with Yorkshire brack, rhubarb, and Medjool date chutney. This dish is paired with Tawny Port, a rich and nutty fortified wine from the Douro Valley. The wine’s caramel and dried fruit flavours perfectly complement the sweetness of the cheese and the tanginess of the chutney.
Finally, we conclude the evening with Valrhona 64% Chocolate Cremeux, served with coffee mousse, orange, and candied walnut. This decadent dessert is paired with Quinta Do Murcas, a rich and decadent chocolate wine from the Douro Valley. The wine’s dark fruit flavours and subtle spice notes perfectly balance the richness of the chocolate, creating a truly indulgent finale to the evening.
Book Your Place Now
The Esporão Supper Club promises to be an unforgettable evening of fine dining, exceptional wines, and engaging conversation. To reserve your place at this exclusive event, please call us on 01904 619208. The six-course menu, including wine pairings, is priced at £85 per person.
We kindly ask that you notify us of any food allergies or dietary requirements at the time of booking. Our team will be happy to provide further information about the menu and accommodate your needs to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all our patrons.
As the festive season approaches, why not consider gifting this unique experience to a loved one? A reservation at the Esporão Supper Club makes for a truly thoughtful Christmas present. It’s the perfect way to extend the joy of the holidays into the New Year, offering the food and wine enthusiast in your life an evening of culinary delights and world-class wines!
