It’s a wonder Bill Knott has time to even think about what he does in an average week. But whatever it is, it’s usually a lot of fun.
Can you even describe your average week?
There’s no such thing, I’m pleased to say! But a typical week might include lunch at a couple of new London restaurants, a wine tasting, a trip to France, Spain or Italy for a day or two. And a bit of scribbling.
What was the highlight of your last working week?
Lunch at Chez Bruce…just the average week for Bill Knott
The judges’ lunch at Chez Bruce after poring over the entries for the Louis Roederer Awards. Especially the Cristal ’97 from magnum.
And the lowlight of your last working week?
Only picking one winner at Goodwood. A lovely day out, though.
What is the best part of your job?
Eating at a great restaurant for the first time: Noble Rot was a recent example.
The favourite restaurant you have eaten in this year and why?
The Ledbury: food by Brett Graham, a chef at the top of his game. A third star beckons, I think.
Favourite bottle of wine you have had in the last month? Why and where did you drink it?
Lynch Bages ’08 over lunch at Boisdale, Belgravia: it was my stag party, joyously hedonistic with jolly good food (caviar, fruits de mer, fillet steak on the bone) and excellent company.
Favourite cocktail you have had this year? Why and where did you drink it?
A Negroni – maybe two – in the lovely bar at Chewton Glen before their 50th anniversary dinner. I was thirsty.
If you could pick three people for a classic dinner party from the trade who would they be?
John Hutton of FMV, David Gleave of Liberty, and Willie Lebus of Bibendum. Although I wouldn’t get a word in edgeways.
Best job you have had in your career…why did you leave (or you may be still in it)
Getting lobsters out of Jayne Mansfield’s arsehole…Oh, no, that was the worst (apologies to Derek and Clive). I’m definitely still doing it.
Best film or book that is based on drink?
The lovely Whisky Galore. And it’s all true…
Whisky Galore, the book and the film. Always makes me smile, and based on a true story.
Where are you going on your summer holidays and what are you drinking?
Puglia, so probably more Negronis during the day and a bottle of Negroamaro with dinner.
- If you would like to share your average week with The Buyer then email us at editorial@The-Buyer.net with your answers to the above questions.
