Somerset Brandy Lunch with the Temperleys | Friday 13 March | 12.30 for 1pm | Spectator Boardroom

Somerset Cider Brandy, produced by the Temperley family at Pass Vale Farm, Martock, is one of our drinks editor’s all-time favourite tipples and he’s utterly delighted that, after months of cajoling, Mary and Matilda Temperley will join us for lunch to introduce some of the family’s sublime ciders along with the Kingston Black Aperitif, the Somerset Pomona (perfect with cheese) and then, with coffee, the fabled 5, 10 and 20 Year-Old Somerset Cider Brandies themselves. These are the very bottles that brought the boardroom to instant silence during Philippa Davis’s recent lunch, so jaw-droppingly fine are they. Indeed, two guests promptly went online and bought some on the spot. Make no mistake, these are world class and Julian Temperley is a genuine genius.

Hosted by Spectator drinks editor Jonathan Ray, our events are relaxed and informal (there is nothing so stuffy as a dress code) giving guests the chance to enjoy fine drinks and conversation with fellow Spectator readers. Some come in couples, but many come on their own and firm friendships have been forged here over the Cru Classé claret. Do join us!