Summer Celebrations

 

As the summer gets underway, and despite the doom and gloom of the economy, we have lots to celebrate, both nationally and locally. 

Many of our local villages and towns are gearing themselves up for a host of celebrations to mark the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, with the added bonus that we get an extra-long bank holiday from Thursday 2nd to Sunday 5^th June.  

It looks like we are in for a fun-packed weekend. 

Chard Town Council has been working together with local schools, to organise a torch-lit parade, Thursday, June 2, along with a lantern-making workshop in the Guildhall, Fore Street that morning.  

The torch-lit parade will culminate with the lighting of the Beacon on Crowshute Link at 9.45pm. 

On Friday June 3 there is a special Civic Parade and Service of Thanksgiving take place at St. Mary’s Church. In the evening there will be a show, “Queen of the Commonwealth”, taking place at 7pm at the Guildhall. 

On Saturday June 4, Freedom Leisure will have activities taking place, in addition to a show at the Beacon, headlined with Bristol based band Goodnight Lois. 

On Sunday, June 5 Holyrood Street will be transformed to a street party with entertainment for families, a brass band and food outlets. 

Over in Crewkerne there will be a ‘Jubilee in the Park’ celebration at Henhayes Recreation Ground on Friday 3^rd June, 2-5pm. 

Meanwhile, just down the road in Ilminster there will be ‘The Party on the Rec’ from 20am – 5pm, organised by the Rotary Club of Ilminster, with live music, food, ice cream, a bar, games, and a dog show, all for free! 

Keep your eyes peeled for events in your own community. 

This is not all that we are good at though. Recently asked to be one of the judges for the Town Crier competition held in Ilminster, and ably organised once again by Town Crier Andrew Fox and his wife Julie, I was reminded of the many wonderful quirky traditions for which we should be famously proud. With Town Criers descending on the town from cross the country it was fun to see traffic stopped in its tracks to view this wonderful spectacle as entrants were put through their paces; and creating a right old racket! What was particularly heartening was to see that the younger generation are getting in on the act and that local lass, Sophy, from Chard, was the clear winner in the junior competition. 

Here's a bit of history for you.  

Historically town criers, or Bellmen, were the original newsmen and were particularly important when most of the population was illiterate.  

The first town criers were the Spartan Runners in the early Greek Empire. With the advent of the Roman Conquest the role became a position of the court, formalised after the Norman Conquest in 1066. 

Town criers were protected by law; “Don’t shoot the messenger” was a very real command as anything done to a town crier was deemed to be done to the King and a treasonable offence. People of standing in the community were chosen as they had to be able to write and read official proclamations. Often, they were a husband-and-wife team with the wife ringing the large hand bell whilst her husband shouted out the proclamation, usually at the door of the local inn, before nailing it to the doorpost. The tradition has resulted in the expression “posting a notice” and the naming of newspapers as “The Post”. 

Announcements are always preceded by the traditional “Oyez! Oyez! Oyez!” (which is “listen” in French) and conclude with “God save the Queen”. 

Another truly British tradition that livens up many a town and village throughout the summer months is that of Morris dancing, a form of English folk dance usually accompanied by music. It is based on rhythmic stepping and the execution of choreographed figures by a group of dancers, usually wearing bell pads on their shins. Implements such as sticks, swords and handkerchiefs may also be wielded by the dancers. 

The earliest known and surviving English written mention of Morris dance is dated to 1448 and records the payment of seven shillings to Morris dancers by the Goldsmiths’ Company in London.  

While the earliest records invariably mention “Morys” in a court setting, and a little later in the Lord Mayors’ Processions in London, it had adopted the nature of a folk dance performed in the parishes by the mid-17th century. 

Along with cheese rolling, cream teas, Guy Fawkes’s Night, a good old Sunday roast and our ability to queue, these are things that never fail to bring a smile to my face and makes me truly proud to be British.  

This summer there is plenty to keep us occupied without breaking the bank. 

THE MAGIC OF MONTENEGRO

Photo by Voicu Horațiu on Unsplash

My recent trip to the Balkan states of Croatia, Bosnia-Hercegovina and Montenegro had been planned long before the situation in the Ukraine began to dominate our media. I had been apprehensive that a combination of Covid travel restrictions, and fears of an escalation of the war, would mean the trip would be cancelled, but thankfully not.

From previous experience I know that travelling to war-torn areas of the world can reap many benefits; the absence of hordes of tourists, greater value for money, and the fact that the native population are so grateful to have visitors they welcome you with open arms.

With its unspoiled sandy beaches, historic architecture and awe-inspiring scenery, Montenegro is a much sought-after travel destination.

Where others may focus their travels on specific aspects of a country, its history, nature, wildlife etc., my focus is always on food and wine.

This was an organised tour (the subject of another article) and during our first week as much as visits to UNESCO World Heritage Sites were worthwhile, changing hotels every night made is more difficult to get to grips with an area. Thankfully during our second we week we were able to stay put in one place, in Bečići, just outside the popular holiday town of Budva (which must be a nightmare in the summer months), giving me the opportunity to explore the Montenegrin vineyard region in some depth.

Whilst in many countries it can be advantageous to take part in an organised tour, this was not all necessary in Montenegro, where the crime rate is very low, and outside of peak holiday times getting out and about is hassle-free.

I would advise against booking one of the many organised ‘wine tours’ available. Starting at around €50 per person they do not offer good value for money. The road network, and signage, is good, car hire is inexpensive at €22 per day, including insurance, and driving is stress free. Many of the vineyards are one-man bands and whilst there are advantages to having a guide, especially as many vineyard owners do not speak English, they are always welcoming, and most are willing to provide tastings free of charge. Do be aware that some wineries are open by reservation only.

Many Montenegrin vineyards are located in the southern and coastal regions of the country, around beautiful Lake Skadar, also renowned for its trout, carp and eel, all of which I was able to sample at bargain basement prices.

Montenegro’s mild climate ensures excellent conditions for wine production, with wines made from a wide range of grape varieties including native varieties such as Krstač and Vranac, as well as Cabernet Sauvignon, Sangiovese and Chardonnay, amongst others.

Also, not to be missed is the hillside village of Njeguši on the slopes of Mount Lovćen, with a population of just 35, and where they produce superb Proscuitto (pršut), good enough to rival that produced in Parma, Italy. The particular flavour and aroma of pršut is the result of the mixture of sea and mountain air and the beech wood burned during the lengthy drying process, which can take up to two years to complete. Also worth looking out for, is the fresh local cheese and intensely perfumed honey. Production of these local delicacies is largely a cottage industry, where tastings and sales are conducted from the kitchen of someone’s home.

When shopping locally or eating out, except in larger hotels and restaurants in the main tourist areas, it is worth noting that this is largely a cash economy where credit cards are not usually accepted.

Widely considered Montenegro’s national drink, a good deal of the distilled spirit known as rakija is also produced. Said to be a restorative, instantly destroying bacteria, it gives relief to stomach and muscle pain, annihilating viruses and disinfects wounds. I am left wondering that whilst many of my fellow travellers seemed to be stricken with one ailment or another, it must be the quantity I imbibed that kept me in good health. It is considered obligatory when welcoming someone to your home to offer them a glass of this. Rakija, very similar to the Grappa popular in Italy, can be made out of almost any fruit and has an alcohol content ranging from 40% to 80%, or higher. Most households make their own, with that made from grapes (Loza) being the most popular.

Of the many vineyards along this route here are a few worth trying, and whose wines I enjoyed. The average price for their most recent vintages was in the region of €10 a bottle. For the smaller producers wine sales are on site only, and very few are available to buy in the UK at the moment, but then you would be missing out on a delightful travel experience!

 

Cemovsko Field

This is the largest vineyard on one site in Europe, stretching an impressive 2310 ha., owned by the Montenegrin company 13.Jul Plantaže and established in 1963. For me, small has always been beautiful. Very consumer focused, at this commercial operation they offer a variety of tastings and tours (€12 - €22). They seem to supply many of the hotels and restaurants with the mini 187ml. bottles of house wine on offer, where I would compare the quality with the standard offering of our local pubs; drinkable but unremarkable.

At the premium end of their offerings there are however several award-winning wines available at around £24 a bottle.

Plantaže Wines, Put Radomira Ivanovića, br.2, Podgorica, Montenegro. +38220658028

www.plantaze.com

 

Mola Family Vineyards

Situated in the Podgorica wine region this sizeable family-owned estate is situated in the picturesque village of Rogami. Just minutes away from the ruins of the Roman village Duklja, the mountainous setting makes for prime wine growing conditions, with the sun- drenched surroundings cultivating excellent grape crops. The Mola family produce a variety of wines including a merlot, a cabernet sauvignon, and a white and red blend.

Mola Family Vineyards, Podgorica, Montenegro. +38267867691

 

Radevic Estate

This small, family run vineyard lies just outside of Podgorica city is also in the village of Rogami. The Radevik family pride themselves on their ability to grow and produce original, quality wines using sustainable, organic farming techniques. The wines produced here include a blend of Vranac, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah. There is a comfortable guest house situated on the grounds of the estate, and watch out for their super-strength Rakiji.

Radevic Estate, Rogami-Piperi bb, Podgorica, Montenegro. +382-69-276-055

www.radevicestate.com

 

Vinarija Bogojević

This family-run vineyard boasts generations of wine-making experience. Their rustic, homely estate and flourishing vineyard produces a celebrated Bogdan wine, a dense, dark red with hints of vanilla, blueberry, and cassis. As well as wine, Vinarija Bogojević also produces grappa in both a traditional and herbal variety. With beautiful views over Skadar Lake, this vineyard provides its visitors with experiences to remember.

Vinarija Bogojević, Podgorica, Montenegro. +38267533001

www.bogojevic.me

 

Castel Savina

Castel Savina is situated in the historic region of Herceg-Novi, an area of historical significance in Montenegro featuring a beautiful monastery founded by the Duke of Saint Sava. With breath-taking views over the Bay of Kotor, Castel Savina’s luscious greenery and impressive surroundings provide an ideal backdrop for wine tasting. Producing a range which includes a Merlot, a Cabernet Sauvignon, a Grenache rosé and a Chardonnay, there is something for everyone here. The winemakers employ techniques perfected over years in the industry to produce excellent, first-rate products every time. Castel Savina is a family run venue, the only winery in the bay of Kotor and on the Montenegrin coast in general.

Tours by reservation only.

Castel Savina, Branka Ćopića 7d, Herceg Novi, Montenegro  +382 69 042022

www.castelsavina.me

 

Milović Winery

This substantial vineyard and olive plantation produces around 20,000 bottles of wine a year, and is nestled just outside of Ulcinj, the Southernmost town in Montenegro. A thriving seaside region famous for its unspoiled beaches, the area provides ideal conditions for growing grapes. Generating a number of Barrique-stored red wines, the traditional Vranacs here are rich and dark ruby coloured, combining a mixture of forest fruit, cranberry and vanilla flavours. Guests can also stay in the Milović Winery’s apartment complex, with its own tennis court and swimming pool overlooking the gorgeous Montenegrin wine country. Be sure to enjoy a glass in their rustic, cosy wine cellar.

Milović Winery, Briska Gora, Ulcinj, Montenegro. +38267350526

 

Winery Mašanović

Winery Mašanović is situated in the small town of Virpazar on Lake Skadar, the largest lake in the Balkan peninsula, and a vast national park that in 2011 was nominated as a UNESCO world heritage site. The beauty of the surroundings make this vineyard a stunning place to explore, and the mild climate and natural fertility of the soil make for robust and tasty wines with unique flavours. Established in 1969, this vineyard and winery grows six type of grapes and specialises in the traditional Montenegrin Vranec wine, a dark red variety with flavours of dark chocolate, fruit and burnt oak. Also produced here are a range of brandies, as well as cherry and walnut liqueurs made from organic fruits grown on the property.

This family-owned winery has the longest tradition in winemaking and wine growing in Montenegro and is known for its dry red wines which take on a deep dark red hue, with purple tones. Here I was able to sample many of their barrique aged wines.

KRIN barrique is their top level dry red wine, made from Vranac. On the palate the wine tastes like burnt oak (they use French barriques), with raspberry and cranberry fruit flavours.

DIONIS barrique – made by blending 3 grape varieties, Vranac, Marselan and Petit Verdot.

BUĆA barrique – made from a blend of 5 grape varieties, Vranac, Marselan, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Sangiovese. This is produced in limited quantities of just 500 bottles, and is characterised by dark chocolate and cinnamon aromas which follow through on the palate.

TRE SORELLE barrique (semi-sweet) - the late harvesting of selected berries increases naturally the concentration of sugar in for this blend of Marselan, Sangiovese and Cabernet Sauvignon. Full bodied, round and complex with a rich fruity-creamy aftertaste and chocolate finish.

Winery Mašanović, Virpazar, Montenegro. ++382069063460

www. masanovic.blogspot.com

 

 

The Sjekloća Estate

This winery produces just a few thousand bottles of wine a year, giving it an air of exclusivity. Vineyard owner Milenko K. Sjekloća was born in Crmnica, the heart of Montenegrin wine country, and has a reputation for unbeatable wine knowledge. His expertise has enabled him to create truly original and innovative flavours of wine at his estate. The traditional Vranac wine here is aged for 12 months before bottling, and the cellar boasts a large number of vintage bottles varying in type and taste.

For €50 visitors can tour the vineyards and cellar with the expert guidance of the owner, taste t3 vintage wines and obtain wines not available of the open market.

The Sjekloća Estate, Milenko Sjekloća,Limljani bb, Virpazar, Montenegro.

+382020712 231

www.sjeklocavino.com

 

Rupice Winery

With a rich history dating back to the early 20th century, the wines of Rupice Winery have been internationally renowned since they were first sampled at the Balkan Wine Fair in London, back in 1907. Located in Rupice Komanske just west of Podgorica, the owners here produce premium quality wine and brandy with the help of the area’s microclimate.

Respecting the traditional methods implemented by the winery’s first owners, Rupice cultivates its grapes in limited quantities to prevent overproduction, and practices biodynamic farming methods. Their Di Vine branded red wine has a rich fruity aroma, cherry taste and velvety texture.

Rupice Winery,b13 Moskovska, Podgorica, Montenegro +38268313068

www.rupice.me/montenegro

 

Vinarija Buk

This private vineyard and winery lies in the village of Bukovik, also in the famous Crmnica wine growing region, with a total grapevine count of over 6000. The Vinarija Buk wines include a traditional Vranac, an enticing Marselan, and a medium-bodied French wine grape variety first developed by crossing a Cabernet Sauvignon with a black Grenache.

Vinarija Buk, Bukovik, Montenegro. +38267528853.

www.bukwinery.blogspot.com

 

With building work being carried out at some pace across Montenegro, due to inward investment taking advantage of the favourable tax system here, I fear for the future of the unspoilt areas of this beautiful country. My advice, visit as soon as you can before the high-rise hotels fully take hold.

Statement from Linda Vijeh - X MARKS THE BOX

With local elections just four days away, the results for Somerset could not be more significant as voters go to the polls to determine who will represent them as the county moves forward towards becoming a unitary authority.  

With national politics, and the misdemeanours of our parliamentary representatives, dominating the news in recent weeks it is natural for there to be a tendency towards this to impact on local decisions. In my view, this is a mistake.   

Although a highly respected South Somerset Conservative councillor for almost 20 years, I have never been in favour of voting along party lines. What should matter to us all is the suitability of individual candidates to accurately and honestly represent us; someone with integrity that you know can be trusted, even if you may not always agree with their views.   

Sadly, at all levels of government this is often in short supply. I raise this now, because in February of this year at SSDC’s full council meeting I was publicly subjected to an unprovoked attack on my personal integrity by fellow councillors, including Cllr. Seib, Cllr. Dance, Cllr. Clarke and Cllr. Soughton, along with several others. One after the other, in a pre-planned and concerted verbal assault, they sought to defame me, suggesting that my decision to stand down was in some way connected with dishonest behaviour. Such was the serious nature of their comments that I had no option but to take legal action. The consequence of this was that they have all agreed to issue corrective statements at the next full council meeting on 19th May, conveniently after the election.   

What is key to the situation is that the comments about me were made in response to a vote of no confidence in the leader of SSDC (brought forward by Cllr. Martin Wale as a result of the investigation into alleged corruption and fraud within SSDC), but completely unrelated to the issue in hand; the non-disclosure of information relating to claims of corruption and fraud. During the meeting this was never properly addressed as is evident from the video recording of the proceedings.   

In deciding who to vote for this week, I would urge local residents to question and challenge the honesty and reliability of those seeking to represent them.   

Just this week a colleague of the councillors involved approached me to say how sorry they were about the comments that were made by members of their own party, describing the behaviour of those mentioned as despicable. I could not agree more. 

In my experience several of those currently in positions of authority have selective memories.