The Perfect Pairing

In celebration of Sofitel Wine Days, Sofitel London St James is launching a delectable collection of carefully selected French wines and beautifully crafted cheese canapés. Available from the 22 September to 31 October, this unique offering is guaranteed to satisfy both guests and London locals, no matter what the palate.

These delicious pairings will be available in the St James Bar and The Balcon, both located at the Sofitel London St James. Not only does this offer reflect one of Sofitel’s key values; wine and gastronomy, it also represents the blend of Sofitel’s French heritage through its renowned wineries and its English address through selected British cheeses.


Secret de Famille Côtes du Rhône Blanc Paul Jaboulet Ainé is the first of the three wines. Bright yellow in colour, it combines a blend of lively pear, spice, white flower and stone fruit aromas with a fine citrus taste complimenting its full, fruity character. For those who prefer their wine red, Secret de Famille Côtes du Rhône Rouge Paul Jaboulet Ainé is rich in black fruit and exotic spice aromas such as sandal wood and cinnamon. Well-rounded yet delicate it provides the perfect tipple for autumnal days. Paul Jaboulet-Aine, who has been synonymous with quality wine in Rhone since the early 19th century, produces both of these great tasting options. It is this legacy that ensures each wine offering is high in quality and sophisticated in flavour. The final wine, Gevrey-Chambertin Domaine Roux Pinot Noir, is produced by Domaine Roux Pere & Flis. The families’ winemaking heritage, which stretches back to 1855, explains why it is one of the largest independent domains in Burgundy today. This bottle of wine is fine and stylish with an appealing texture, well judged oak and well defined length.


Whether ordered by the bottle or by the glass each wine will be accompanied by complimentary cheese canapés. Small in size but big in flavour these cleverly created bites provide the perfect pairing. For lovers of goat cheese, Eve, developed in Somerset, is rich in ‘goaty’ and fruity flavours with a pleasing melt-in-the-mouth texture. Inspired by the Epoisses, it emulates his famous French cheese with a local twist: it is washed in Somerset Cider Brandy. For those who prefer a blue cheese, Perl Las offers a creamy, rich, not too crumbly texture option of flavour. Developed in Glyneithinog this delicate blue cheese is pale yellow, taking on golden hues as it matures, with blue green veins throughout, covered by a thin, light brown natural rind. The Cornish Wild Yarg completes the offering with a buttery and marginally brittle textured cheese, still moist and full in flavour. It is both sharp and very slightly bitter with hints of woodiness and nuts. Like with all great chedders, its flavours are pleasing and long lasting.

Commenting on the pairings, executive chef Vincent Menager, said: “Each wine has been carefully chosen to ensure that everyone is able to experience a range of flavours at a high quality. The selected British cheeses compliment the French wines and cater for every palate guaranteeing total satisfaction no matter which combination you try. Together the pairing reflects the ethos of the brand and the blend of French culture and English gastronomy.”

The Balcon is an all day dining destination; perfect for breakfast, lunch and dinner, it is also ideal for a morning tea and savouries, a tasty plate of charcuterie or an afternoon tea with a French touch. During Sofitel Wine Days visitors and guests will be able to view the impressive wine and cheese display at the restaurants Charcuterie bar, at the entrance of The Balcon.

The St James Bar offers an elegant meeting place for socialising or relaxing in surroundings inspired by Coco Chanel's 1920's Paris apartment. Vintage and signature cocktails are available together with exclusive Champagnes and wines. Dishes are available from the menu all day whether it be a main meal, a plate to share or just a bite to eat.

The limited edition offering is available from 22 September to 31 October. Prices start at £40 for a bottle of wine and £10 a glass.

To book please contact call +44 (0)20 7747 2238
or email
 [email protected]. Alternatively you can visit the website at www.sofitelstjames.com.