Festive Focus on Food and Drink

11th December

It has been a year of restrictions, and as a result, many of us are learning to enjoy catering at home, it has been a time of discovery, of trying new things, and most of all shopping from local suppliers. During lockdown local stores and businesses turned to delivery services and many of us were glad to get that delivery from the butcher, farm shop, favourite restaurant, greengrocer, fishmonger, vineyard and delicatessen. At times it felt like a bygone age. We learnt to treat ourselves amid the gloom.

But with Christmas just around the corner, there is much to be glad of and many fantastic products available from our amazing local suppliers. We have made a selection with food and drink in mind and something for everyone.

Cuculo Wine and Cheese Specialist

A trip to Cuculo is a Christmas Tradition for every Heathfield Family. From Italian Panettone and German Stollen to French Champagne and fine Belgian Chocolates; not forgetting a piece of Cinzia’s legendary truffled Brie. Cuculo has it all and for all budgets. Free local delivery, click and collect or shop instore.

Cuculo, 69 Heathfield High St, Heathfield, East Sussex TN21 8HU Call:01435862596

Off the Line Vineyard

Off theLine Vineyard make wines from grapes grown at their wonderful south-facing site in East Sussex. There are three different styles of still rosé each reflecting the individuality of the grape varieties grown. The beautiful labels are inspired by the hedgerows that border the vineyard which contain an abundance of dog roses and rose hips growing wild.  

Gift packs make excellent presents or just stock up to enjoy this festive season. You can order wines directly from them through their online shop or by e-mailing sales@offthelinevineyard.com or calling 01435 812661.

Melted Inside

Locally run artisan food and drink platform www.meltedinside.com has a wealth of lovely things for the foodies in your life. Prices range from £6 for artisan chocolates to around £100 for amazing hampers. By purchasing from Melted Inside you are helping artisan makers and small businesses while buying high quality, beautifully presented produce that recipients will love.

The Wheel Inn

After all that #shoplocal, relax and enjoy the warm, festive welcome which awaits you at The Wheel Inn in Burwash Weald, just a few minutes from Healthfield. Sam and the team are ready to look after you, with dining available both inside and outdoors. The menu includes tapas plates, woodfired pizza and a selection of pub classics accompanied by a tempting wine list. A great place to enjoy some pre-Christmas cheer. For bookings call: 01435882299 (Covid Tier 2 Rules apply)

Wellbrook Wines

One of the Winter offers from Wellbrook Wines

Mayfield based Wellbrook Wines are offering a delicious selection of lovely wines this Winter. Perfect fireside sipping guaranteed. Whether you are looking for a fabulous glass of fizz; a decadent and indulgent white; an elegant, delicate red; or a big, hearty red to go with casseroles and roast dinners – Wellbrook Wines have an amazing portfolio from around the world. To find out more and to place an order, visit www.wellbrookwines.co.uk, and enjoy big savings compared to typical retail prices. Wellbrook Wines only sell locally. Delivery is free on orders of 12 bottles or more if you live in the Heathfield area!

The Middle House

Who doesn’t like dining at The Middle House! This popular Mayfield restaurant is open over the festive season. The heavily beamed historic building features a wood panelled dining room and a contemporary restaurant space; with a menu that ensures you won’t be disappointed. Don’t forget to check eating out rules to avoid disappointment. Failing actually being there, you can order delicious frozen dishes from their kitchens for you to reheat at home. Simple! Call: 01435872146 for bookings and orders.

Stones Throw Gift Guide

Stones Throw gift guide is a FREE guide for local businesses to list their products with Christmas in mind. Food, wine and treats feature heavily with lots of local producers showcasing their products in this handy guide which brings together a plethora of gift ideas. Follow the link to do some virtual browsing and problem solve your present dilemmas in a flash.