Fresh Flavours & Perfect Pairings

June is one of the most exciting months in the food calendar. Markets and greengrocers are bursting with colour, from vibrant greens to rainbows of fruits, and the shift towards lighter, fresher cooking makes it the perfect time to explore new wine pairings.

With ingredients like broad beans, new potatoes, fragrant herbs like mint, basil and tarragon, and the arrival of berries and cherries, a whole new world of opportunity opens up in the kitchen and on the dinner table. Early summer vegetables shine when kept simple, lightly steamed broad beans, buttered new potatoes and herb-led salads call for wines that are crisp, refreshing and full of life. Perfect for putting together simple salads, alfresco lunches or indulgent desserts, there’s a bottle to match every plate. We always recommend sourcing your produce as fresh and local as possible, like some of our Kemptown favourites Seed n Sprout and The Sussex Peasant.

Sancerre Blanc Domaine Jean-Paul Balland 2025

A benchmark expression of Loire Valley Sauvignon Blanc, this Sancerre comes from limestone-rich soils that give the wine its signature mineral edge. On the nose, expect lifted aromas of gooseberry, lime zest and freshly cut grass, with a subtle hint of elderflower. The palate is precise and zesty, balancing citrus fruit with a saline, flinty backbone that adds real structure and length. There’s a purity here that makes each sip feel clean and refreshing, with a long, mouth-watering finish.

Perfect with:
Broad bean salads, asparagus, new potatoes with butter and herbs, goat’s cheese, or anything green and vibrant.

Cherry Season Arrives

As June progresses, cherries begin to take centre stage. Eaten fresh, folded into desserts or baked into pies, their sweet-tart character opens up some fun and slightly unexpected pairing opportunities.

La Bacca Nerello Mascalese 2024

The label tells you evrything you need to know. Made from Nerello Mascalese, Sicily's finest red variety thought to be a relative of Sangiovese. Grown in volcanic soils, it carries a subtle earthy minerality alongside bright red fruit. Aromas of sour cherry, cranberry and wild herbs lead into a palate that is light-bodied but expressive, with fine tannins and a gentle spice note. The acidity keeps everything lifted, making it incredibly versatile at the table.

Perfect with:
Charcuterie boards, grilled vegetables, roast chicken, or dishes that incorporate cherries or balsamic glazes.

Bellamie Cherry Liqueur 70cl

This beautifully crafted cherry liqueur captures the richness of ripe, dark cherries at their peak. Made through a slow maceration of ripe cherries and their stones. The renowned Montmorency sour cherry brings a bright, tangy depth to its rich, fruit-forward character. It is a modern take on the traditional French guignolet cherry liqueur. Lush and velvety on the palate, it delivers layers of sweet black cherry, a touch of almond-like kernel character, and a gentle warmth on the finish enhanced by a touch of cognac. There’s a lovely balance between sweetness and depth, preventing it from becoming cloying and making it surprisingly versatile.

Perfect with:
Cherry pie, Black Forest-style desserts, dark chocolate, or simply poured over fresh cherries or ice cream for a decadent finish.

Wimbledon Ready 🍓

With The Championships, Wimbledon kicking off on 29th June, it’s time to start planning those classic summer moments, strawberries, cream, and something delicious in your glass.

Bee Tree Vineyard Pinot Meunier Rosé 2019

An elegant English rosé that showcases just how refined Pinot Meunier can be. Bee Tree Vineyard in Wivelsfield Green, East Sussex was established in 2015 and is now owned by Dermot and Ana Sugrue, who have fitted out their new winery on-site. A warm site, surrounded by woodland with clay and greensand soils, especially suited to Pinots Noir and Meunier. Delicate aromas of wild strawberry, redcurrant and rose petal lead into a palate that is both fresh and gently textured. There’s a subtle creaminess from time spent ageing, balanced by bright acidity that keeps it lively and precise. The finish is long, clean and quietly sophisticated.

Perfect with:
Strawberries and cream, summer fruit pavlovas, light pastries, or enjoyed on its own in the sunshine.

Alasia Brachetto d’Acqui DOCG 2024

A wonderfully aromatic, lightly sparkling red from Piedmont. Produced by the progressive Piedmont co-operative Araldica Vini Piemontesi, based in Castel Boglione in the heart of Barbera d’Asti territory, Araldica works with more than 230 grower members, many of whom have been part of the co-operative since the 1950s. Made in a gently sweet (frizzante) style, bursting with notes of ripe strawberry, raspberry and rose petals, it’s soft, fragrant and immediately inviting. The low alcohol and gentle fizz keep it refreshing rather than heavy, while the sweetness is balanced by fresh acidity, making it incredibly easy to drink.

Perfect with:
Chocolate desserts, berry tarts, chocolate-dipped strawberries, or as a guaranteed crowd-pleaser during your Wimbledon viewing party.

Eating with the Seasons

June is all about simplicity and sunshine, letting great ingredients do all the heavy-lifting and pairing them with wines that enhance rather than overpower. Crisp whites, light reds, refreshing rosés and a touch of sweetness all have their place at the table this month.

Whether you’re enjoying a garden lunch, hosting friends, or settling in for a bit of tennis, there’s no shortage of inspiration.

Pop into the shop and let us help you build the perfect seasonal spread.