The Pig: A Wine Journey Worth Taking

If you love wine and cozy retreats, The Pig in the Cotswolds is your next stop! Each sip tells a story, and I can't wait for you to experience it.

A New Gem in British Hospitality

When it comes to wine and food experiences, few places can rival The Pig in the Cotswolds. This latest outpost of the beloved hotel chain, founded by Susan and Robin Hutson, has quickly become a sanctuary for travelers seeking both comfort and sophistication. My first visit started with a delightful pour of a lively fizz from the South Downs, setting the stage for an unforgettable culinary journey.

A Legacy of Excellence

The Hutsons have redefined British hospitality with an emphasis on sustainability and local sourcing. Their success story began with the sale of Hotel du Vin in 2004, but it’s The Pig that truly captures their essence. Each hotel embodies a rustic charm blended with modern sophistication, making it impossible to leave without feeling like part of the family. Their commitment to creating welcoming spaces resonates through every corner, from cozy lounges to beautifully landscaped gardens.

Discovering the Wine List

As I perused the wine list at The Village Pub, I was struck by its thoughtful curation. Luke Harbor and Ed Osborne have crafted a selection that surprises even seasoned wine drinkers. Take Jean-Claude Boisset’s 2020 Chambolle-Musigny for instance—an elegant choice that dances on the palate at just £20.50 for 175ml via Coravin. And then there’s Fog Monster 2018—a Napa Syrah boasting Northern Rhône characteristics—paired perfectly with Gentleman’s Relish on toast. Talk about making memories!

The Culinary Adventure Begins

Dining at The Pig is no ordinary meal; it’s an experience that begins with hyper-local ingredients sourced within a 25-mile radius. My lunch kicked off with pigs in blankets that were simply divine—smoky sausages wrapped in crispy bacon served with a tart cranberry dip. Paired with Lobster Shed Pink fizz, each bite felt like a celebration.

• Next up was melting slices of Mangalitsa pork loin with sourdough bread.
• Gavin Carver’s Paradox White Pinot Noir offered a playful rhubarb-and-custard note that left me craving more.
• The white Priorat wine was another standout, its herbaceous qualities complementing lightly charred scallops beautifully.

Sweet Endings

Dessert brought vibrant strawberry and basil ice creams alongside raspberry with mint—a refreshing end to a splendid meal. But what truly stole the show was Jean-Luc Mouillard’s Sweet Straw Wine; its complex notes of tobacco and stewed fruits lingered long after my last sip.

Embracing Life’s Simple Pleasures

At The Pig in the Cotswolds, every detail—from the thoughtfully curated wine list to the locally sourced dishes—invites you to slow down and savor life’s simple pleasures. Whether you’re exploring landscaped gardens or enjoying a glass of English Bacchus (£66), this hotel offers not just accommodation but an immersive experience.

Best For:

• Landscaped gardens
• Specialist English wines
• Local sourcing across all areas

For anyone looking to embrace exceptional hospitality interwoven with exquisite wines and delicious food, I highly recommend planning your next getaway at The Pig.

Photo by D A V I D S O N L U N A on Unsplash