Wine Wisdom - The Falcon Inn, Poulton, Cirencester
THE FALCON INN London Road, Poulton, Cirencester, Gloucestershire Tel: 01285 850 844
Talking to co-owner Robin Couling
Although it's been a pub for more than 150 years, inside the Falcon has gone unashamedly modern. Robin Couling and Jeremy Lockley bought it in 2002 and have set about beefing up its reputation, winning a Best Newcomer award for Gloucestershire in the Good Food Guide 2004.
Though it is on the main road, passing trade doesn't form a significant part of the customer base: prices are fairly high so those dropping in for a budget sandwich and a packet of cheese and onion are likely to be disappointed. As it serves the village of Poulton, the team has resisted the urge to take the entire pub upmarket, and the bar remains a drinking area for locals.
Food style
Modern European: classic British, Mediterranean and French. There's no Asian or fusion food. The menu is seasonal and changes monthly. We use a lot of local suppliers; the pork and beef regularly attract compliments.
Signature dish
Probably the char-grilled ribeye steak with chive and black pepper butter, at £15.50.
Number of wines on the list
Fifty - roughly 20 whites, 20 reds and some fizz and dessert wines.
Wines by the glass
Four red and four white.
Most expensive wines on the list
White: Calera Chardonnay, California, £34.95.
Red: Domaine de la Roquette, Chateauneuf du Pape, £32.95. Fizz: Krug Grande Cuvée, £75.
Main merchants used
Oddbins, Christopher Piper Wines, Bibendum
Best areas for value for money
The South of France is always good and New Zealand Pinot Noir. But overall I reckon South Africa probably offers the best value for money.
Most popular wines
Firefinch Sauvignon Blanc from Springfield Estate in Robertson, South Africa, £13.95. Also Novello Nero, an Italianate blend from Chain of Ponds in Australia.
What trends do you see?
Well, we're certainly selling a lot of wine - people are drinking less and less beer. As for wine styles, I think people are more appreciative of wine by the glass, and also more sophisticated. They're moving away from the big juicy reds.
Do you run any events?
None yet, but we'll start them this year - themed tastings hinged on a country or region.
