The annual giant pumpkin challenge has commenced. I’ve invested in a propagator this year in an effort to stem the flow of victories my mother has been enjoying of late, thought on a recent secrete inspection of her 2012 contenders with their rather bedraggled leaves my spirits are high for victory. It’s interesting to note the difference a little warmth can actually make, these cool nights have certainly slowed production with Spring's newest entries still looking scarce.

Talking of that, asparagus from the Vale of Evesham is one of the best and I was left in no doubt of this while picking through a recent delivery destined for that fine combination with sherry hollandaise, buttered new potatoes, soft poached free range egg and fresh cracked pepper. This was made even more delightful by a glass of The White Horn Macabeo, a deliciously crisp and fruity white grape from Requena outside Valencia, Spain.

As a catering company we are getting more and more involved with Spanish produce, pata negra, oils, almonds, bacalao, but it’s their wines, which are really creating a stir and for me, especially, it’s their white wines. Made from indigenous grape varietals such as, Macabeo, Albarino and Godello these wines are so lively, full of green and tropical fruit all delineated with fine acidity that makes for delicious drinking. Also, stop buying Prosecco and start buying Cava – It’s just better!