22 Sep 2023
This week, I returned to Smallford Farm Shop, eager to catch up with Lucy Summerhill, the in-house wine expert, and I was in for quite a surprise. The place was buzzing with excitement, and Lucy had some thrilling news to share.
If you appreciate the delicate flavours and culinary possibilities that come with fresh, line-caught fish, then you’re in for a treat. Fish Bones, a brand-new fishmonger, is set to make waves at Smallford Farm Shop, St Albans, starting today (Friday September 22), from 10am to 4pm.
This is an exciting addition to the local culinary scene that’s bound to delight seafood lovers.
At Fish Bones, they take pride in sourcing only the best line-caught fish from the bountiful waters of the south coast of England. This commitment to sustainable fishing practices ensures not only the freshest catch but also supports the preservation of our marine ecosystems.
What can you expect to find? Think Dover sole, whole lemon sole, wild seabass, whole plaice, swordfish, octopus, sardines, mackerel, scallops, squid, tuna and a tantalising array of shellfish and oysters. Whether you’re planning a sophisticated dinner party or a cozy night in, Steve the fishmonger at Fish Bones will have your seafood cravings covered.
Customers are welcome to make special requests for any fish that may not be part of the core range, and they can also place advance orders.
Steve has made it convenient for our customers by providing his telephone number on a board inside the shop. You can reach out to him via call or text for any specific requests.
Starting from the end of October, they have an exciting offer for their valued customers: Steve will personally deliver your fish for free if you reside within a five-mile radius.
When asked about his personal favourite fish, Steve enthusiastically mentioned halibut. He appreciates “Halibut for its mild flavour, meaty texture, leanness, high quality, and richness in Omega-3 fatty acids.”
To celebrate their grand opening, Fish Bones is offering a fantastic deal that’s too good to resist. On Friday September 22, enjoy a generous 25% off your seafood purchase. It’s the perfect opportunity to stock up on your favourite seafood or try something new with a discount that’s as delightful as their fresh offerings.
Pairing the Perfect White Wines with Your Catch
Now, to complete your Fishbones seafood dining experience, let’s talk wine pairings. We’ve selected two exceptional white wines that will complement your Fish Bones treasures flawlessly.
First up, Zensa Fiano Organico, Italy (£14.95 a bottle).
Zensa, pronounced ‘senza’, by Italian definition means ‘without’ and this wine is made without pesticides and fertilisers.
It’s an organic white wine made in the Salento wine-growing area of Southern Puglia. Fiano is a grape variety which is commonly found in Campania, southern Italy and Sicily although recently it can now be found outside of Italy in countries such as Australia and Argentina.
The idea of this wine maker is to produce wines from indigenous grapes that express the typicity of the particular region where they are grown. The winery sticks to the motto ‘green in the growing, and friendly in the production’, also choosing to use no products of animal origin at any stage in their process – meaning their wines are entirely vegan-friendly.
The wine is straw yellow in colour and displays delicate aromas of lemon-lime, peach, almonds and honeysuckle. The palate is crisp and refreshing, with an elegant, mouth-watering balance of fruit and acidity.
This works beautifully with a variety of fish dishes. Lucy recommends “gambas with chilli and garlic” and I’m enjoying it with Dover sole, whilst Mrs M pairs it with Steve’s wild seabass.
Next up is the Poderi dal Nespoli Trebbiano Biologico, Rubicone IGT Italy (£12.50 a bottle).
Poderi dal Nespoli is found in the southern part of Emilia-Romagna, where the Tuscan Apennines connect to the Adriatic Coast. A family-run estate now in its fourth generation, the Ravaioli family set up the winery in 1929, and today they run the estate with the same passion and love for the land.
A fresh and zesty wine, with clear yellow colour. Citrus notes of lemon and citron with warm hints of tropical fruits. Similar flavours can be recognised while tasting the wine presenting a well-balanced acidity and a freshness typical of Trebbiano coming from this specific organic terroir. Whilst this pairs exceptionally well with mixed salads, hand-made pasta with salmon sauce, I’m suggesting you try it with an octopus salad, or your choice of pan-fried fish served with rice.
Lucy, who curates their wine choice, is excited to introduce ‘Les Grand Bouillions Picpoul de Pinet’ their range. She describes it as “the perfect all-rounder for pairing with our impressive range of fresh fish”.
So, head along for the grand opening of Fish Bones today (Friday) at Smallford Farm Shop in St Albans. With their commitment to quality and sustainability, you’re sure to find seafood that’s not only delicious but also responsibly sourced.
And don’t forget to grab a bottle of from their wine shop to complete your seafood feast. Cheers to fresh catches and delightful wine pairings!
If you’re enjoying my recommendations, then please follow me on Instagram by searching for @dmc_uncorked.
And if you are a wine retailer or an events company who would like me to feature your range of wines, then please contact me via mccabetwe@gmail.com
