Following his illness in 2023 we have very much missed Pierre Hourlier's entertaining wine tastings at the SCR. Although he no longer travels to present tastings, the firm is happy to host us from 1.30 pm on Sunday 19th October at their premises at Melbourne Hall Visitor Centre, Church Square, Melbourne, DE73 8EN. They will also provide a light buffet at a cost of £10 during the tasting. (The tasting itself is as usual free.)
Can I press for firm bookings asap please - we have obtained the cheapest quotes we can for minibus or small coach, but they won't confirm booking without size, which without firm bookings I can't yet give! The options are 16 or 22 seat minibus or 32 seat coach (30 is the maximum size of the party for Hourlier's). Best price per had would be a nearly full 32 seater, but only if enough go. In more detail the drill for the day will be
Leave Keele 12 noon
1.10/15 Arrive at Melbourne drop off by Church and go to Hourlier's for 1.30 start
We taste 8 wines, probably 4 white and 4 red, with a light buffet (not a full lunch) served while we taste at £10 per head, consisting of a selection of cheeses, bread and other French products which they import themselves such as various pates etc. No need they say for vegetarian numbers as they find vegetarians
just take what suits them as there is enough variety about on the tables.
This will take about one hour 30 minutes or maybe a little more depending on our numbers, with Pierre suggesting that after 3 pm we visit Melbourne for about an hour. He can recommend the lake in particular, which is below their premises.
That time will give them time for orders to be prepared and everybody can pay and collect them before leaving,, which should be about 4.30.
Then we should be at Keele for about 5.45 at the latest.
The price of transport will depend entirely on the size of the vehicle and the number travelling, but I will advise that asap to those who book.
Do please let me know if you are firmly booking -
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Also check out other Food & Drink events in Melborne.
