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A Glass of Wine Rude Food A Bite of Caviar

A GLASS OF WINE - RUDE FOOD - A BITE OF CAVIAR

Back in the mid 1970's, I was visiting London and shopping in the Burlington Arcade, which is in the heart of Mayfair close by Piccadilly. This pedestrian Arcade opened in 1819 and has always been an upmarket retail location. While browsing I noticed a window-display that was augmented with a selection of books. This store was all about handmade luxury leather goods. I tried to purchase the book. The answer was 'No, not for sale.' I persisted. We compromised. I purchase a wallet (terribly expensive) and they then sold me the book.

Rude Food is, as the author explains 'an association between food and sex.' David Thorp is the photographer. His art is complimented by the writing of Pierre Le Poste and the design of Martin Reavley. I thank them for sharing these gems. David understands that the senses must each inspire the other. When the picture matches the creative vision, the photograph can be considered fine art.

There are close to fifty images in these two publications (the other being Vin Rude). Like any good chef, I need to be aware of the customer's sensitivities. Therefor with this thought in mind, I have selected just five images that I believe will sit comfortably on everyone's pallet


Dom Perignon
Dom Perignon
Mouth Filling
Mouth Filling

Dom Perignon Is widely believed to be the monk who invented champagne during his long career as the cellar-master at the Abbey of Hautvilliers. On first tasting his invention, he is reputed to have said "I am drinking stars", and promptly got into the habit. He died blind but happy after more than forty years in charge of the cellars.


The Elegant Wobbler
The Elegant Wobbler

Most people stop eating jellies after the age of six. A great mistake. No other desert can quite match the fleshy quiver of a firm and well formed jelly. Strategically place cherries or grapes are optional.


Nature's Little Snifter
Nature's Little Snifter
Rump Steak
Rump Steak

To hell with all of those balloon glasses. Here is an infinitely more efficient and agreeable way of taking you're after-dinner cognac. The navel has two major advantages over the more conventional form of receptacle. 1) It is unbreakable 2) It provides a constant, even warmth which brings out the bouquet of the cognac. Oh! and I think it might also be a lot of fun!

The grape was probably the first fruit ever cultivated by man. Noah is said to have planted a vineyard when he disembarked from the ark, and subsequently enjoyed one of history's first recorded binges. He passed out, stark naked, after sampling his wine. Unfortunately, history does not relate why he was stark naked in the first place, but he sounds like a man after our own heart.