Hampshire celebrates its food and drink stars
Last week the county’s food and drink industry was celebrated at the annual Hampshire Life Awards held at The Elvetham Hotel in Hartley Wintney.
The glitzy event was compered by Valarie Singleton of Blue Peter fame who presented fifteen awards. From Best Newcomer to Food and Drink Hero it was evident that Hampshire is home to an impressive amount of culinary talent.
Chewton Glen’s Executive Head Chef, Luke Matthews scooped the prize of ‘Chef of the Year’. Luke Matthews commented: “I am delighted to have received this fabulous accolade, it is particularly significant for me because of my passion for using local ingredients and working with suppliers who are based so close to the hotel that they can come into my kitchen in the morning and deliver fresh high quality ingredients in person. It is a real joy to discover what is out there”.
Commenting on the awards, Editor of Hampshire Life, Elizabeth Kirby said: “Our judging panel deliberated hard over the entries, all of which were worthy nominees. Those nominated were all voted for by our readers and the recognition from these awards makes a fantastic and positive impact to local businesses. From the farmers and growers to the eateries that see the benefit of promoting locally produced food and drink the Hampshire Life Food & Drink Awards are a chance to reward all those who make an outstanding contribution to our wonderful county.”
Another Hampshire chef was celebrated for his contribution to the food community. Andy MacKenzie, formerly the Head Chef of Lainston House Hotel and now leading their Exclusive Chefs Academy was crowned Food and Drink Hero.
Congratulations to all the finalists and winners.
Newcomer of the Year Award
Winner: The Daisy Cake Company, Romsey
Tea/Coffee Shop of the Year
Winner: The Parlour Tearoom, Basingstoke
Best Bakery/Patisserie
Winner: Hoxton Bakehouse, Southampton
Best Farm Shop
Winner: Lisa's Larder, Lymington
Food Product of the Year
Winner: Stoney Cross Cheese, Lyburn Farm Salisbury
Best Local Supplier/Producer of the Year
Winner: New Forest Spring Water Ltd, Fordingbridge
Drinks Product of the Year
Winner: Twisted Nose Gin, Winchester Distillery
Best Hampshire Sunday Roast
Winner: Bugle Inn, Twyford
Best Hampshire Menu
Winner: The Elderflower, Lymington
Pub of the Year
Winner: The Yew Tree, Highclere
Restaurant of the Year
Sponsored by The Avenue at Lainston House
Chef of the Year
Winner: Luke Matthews, Chewton Glen, New Milton
Customer Service Award
Winner: Cambium Restaurant at Careys Manor Hotel, Brokenhurst
Butcher of the Year
Winner: Uptons Butchers of Bassett, Southampton
Food and Drink Hero
Winner: Andy Mackenzie