Ready, set, game!

To kick off our Autumn Series of Food & Wine Events, we invited a handful of guests to an exclusive preview hosted by Chris Knights – Young’s Executive Chef, and Stuart Mills – Young’s Divisional Executive Chef. The interactive masterclass took place at The Castle in Tooting, celebrating all the seasonal delights on offer at this time of year, in particular our fabulous game, steak and wine.

First on the evening’s agenda, was patridge plucking. Medstead Meats, who are specialists in their field, ensure all our kitchens serve the highest quality venison, pigeon and partridges available. Guests were given the opportunity to get to grips with our locally sourced game, prepping the partridges under the guidance of our expert chefs, before later taking the birds home to roast.

Next up, attendees were invited to take a butchers as Chris led a butchery masterclass, showcasing two succulent cuts of beef, kindly supplied by our friends at Solent Butchers. They discussed the provenance and sustainability of our steaks; highlighting the difference cuts, textures and tastes.

And in an evening of firsts, many tried their very first oyster. Farmed close to the Colchester shore, our oysters have a beautifully fresh oceanic salty taste. Stuart talked guests through the shucking process, before serving them with sweet pickled shallots, a squeeze of lemon and for those brave enough, a generous dash of Tabasco.

Finally, having worked up an appetite with a quick fruit and veg quiz, guests sat down for a well-earned dinner. The Autumnal inspired tables were laid beautifully, adorned with fir cones, rustic hessian and feathers. They feasted on heritage breeds, matched perfectly with robust reds from our wine menu. Karen – Berkmann Wine Cellars’ wonderful Sales Director, was also on hand to introduce each of the stunning wines.

A huge thank you to our chefs and Berkmann Wine Cellars for sharing their expertise and for treating our taste buds to such culinary delights. And to all guests for joining us, until next time!

Get your head in the game this Autumn, join one of our inspirational game, steak and wine masterclasses, honouring all the incredible ingredients the season has to offer.

Share your experience with us via @YoungsPubs and #TakeAButchers.