A word from Belle Colombe’s Sommelier

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We are determined that Belle Colombe is well stocked with the finer things of life. No slumming it with hard tack and weevils on this vessel, please.

Which brings me to our last victualling port of call in France, St Vaast La Hougue, situated on the north-east coast of the Cherbourg peninsula. This is a port renowned for its oyster beds, and of course, the famous Maison Gosselin. Founded in 1889, and still owned by fourth generation Gosselin’s, to describe it as a mere grocers would be a grave insult. An emporium, more like, stocked with every conceivable Norman and French delicacy and fine French wines.

A tardis, which draws the unsuspecting in, past the artfully displayed fresh produce, lingering amongst the pate de foie gras, confit de canard and soup de homard and then onwards into the Cave a Vin.

Where you are met by the affable and ever cheerful M Gosselin, a gentleman who clearly believes in eating his own cooking. And a demon salesman. Chablis, Gigondas and perhaps some Chateau Poujeaux 2018, Monsieur, which is drinking particularly well at the moment? (It is indeed).

Discipline melts, the Gosselin van is loaded to the gunnels and a line is formed to take on and stow stores. Belle Colombe settles a little further – and contentedly – in the water.