There was no alcohol in our house when I was growing up on the Wirral (that peninsular between Liverpool and North Wales bordered by the Rivers, Mersey (yep, I took the ferry more than once) and Dee. Neither was there any in the family home in Southport, where we moved when I was seven. My parents were Methodists – I’m not sure if they actually signed ‘The Pledge’, but they certainly abided by its conventions.
I took a different view!
This, inevitably, in my case at least, led to a regrettable amount of dishonesty and deceit – which, of course, still sits uncomfortably, the more so as my parents have long since passed on. However, I would argue that it is precisely this claustrophobic existence that led me to, occasionally, act in a rather irresponsible manner regarding alcohol.
NB I have arranged a super two-day trip to Jumilla, to visit two excellent bodegas for tours, tastings and lunch, with an overnight stay and dinner at the luxury Hotel Casa Boquera, which sits in its own vineyards! This Gourmet/Wine short break is 25th – 26th April and I only have 12 places available! To reserve and for more details please call me ASAP on 629 388 159; or e-mail colin@colinharknessonwine.com
