We took advantage of lockdown restrictions easing and headed to Wells Next to Sea, Norfolk for a long weekend.

I love my birthday (not the turning older bit – really dislike that part)! I love it because, quite frankly, it is the time to celebrate ME.   Growing up, our household consisted of five children, our parents, and our grandparents (Ma and Pa).  It was a full house, and I enjoyed the quiet moments and the times when it was about me – my birthday.  What can I say I am a Gemini!!

Finally, I got to head out with my besties – no partners and children allowed and had a fabulous time with my ladies.   We wined, we dined, we danced till 0200 in our living room, and we did the American sleepover thing and gave ourselves a fabulous facial (courtesy of www.soleabeauty.co.uk).  Note to the ladies:  SPACEMASK!! Invest – they are divine!!

I must confess that every year I have turned older, I have hated it.  It has filled me with angst. Except for this year.  This is the first year that I feel good about it.  Maybe that is because we have been away from so many people, we love during 2020.  Maybe it has taken me five years to accept my age.  Maybe it is being grateful for the love and support in my life.  Perhaps, it is all those things.

The festivities started on the train journey to Norfolk with a shared bottle of Marks and Spencer Prosecco.    You cannot go wrong with an M&S prosecco – it is refreshing, tasty, and reliable. 

A weekend away with the girls was just what the doctor ordered. We dined on fresh seafood, beautiful wine (keep reading- I highlight a champagne soon).  It was filled with love, laughter, sisterhood and restored the soul. 

It is only with your best mates you can be candid, truthful, and downright silly at times!  Watch out Lenny Kravitz – we LOVE you!

In typical La Beckett style I have manged to extend my birthday fun for a full week!  Now that’s what I am talking about!!

Of course, I found time to take notes and highlight a real wine and food pairing treat - Champagne and Oysters!

Pol Roger 2012 paired with fresh oysters.

I love this champagne. The first sip always feels special. You know you are tasting a lovely wonderfully produced wine.

On the nose there are hints of floral, toast, almondy, buttery, tiny hint of honey, hint of green apple, possibly lemon as well. On the palate it is smooth and fresh, creamy texture with a hint of apples and pears.

Oysters and champagne generally pair well together. The oysters we had were local.  Before champagne, it tasted juicy with a meaty texture, salty, plump, and fresh.  After the champagne, the flavour became sweeter less salty, the meaty texture remained and if anything, it became plumper (if that makes any sense).

I have a rediscovered love for oysters and my love for champagne remains!  A successful wine and food pairing and highly recommended!

Till next time.