Wine Lifestyle - Lunch at Café El Centro

Jason Clarke, Wine Contributor

Wine is not just about consumption, but a lifestyle. In my very first article, I referred to what the Romans and the Greeks considered to be quintessential for good living; wine, food and art. This is what truly embodies a wine lifestyle. A genuine enjoyment, appreciation and application of wine and food in particular, and with a landscape like ours, it becomes art in motion.

I thought of sharing my own lunch lifestyle this week. I do enjoy a nice glass of vino over lunch. I think it adds to the whole enjoyment of my one hour of solitude while I eat. This particular lunch stop is at Café El Centro. A quaint café style with a view of the road which makes me feel like I am in Paris at a sidewalk cafe, the gentle roar of the water fountain and the jazz that is usually played really sets the stage for a great lunch.

I had the privilege over time of trying a few great things. As we near summer, my diet and consumption changes completely. As most of you may know, I am generally a red wine drinker and specifically a lover of malbecs. But with the heat being so vicious, I find myself moving away to crisp, cold white wines, particularly in the daytime.

I thoroughly enjoyed a beautiful Greek garbanzo salad. The freshness is just refreshing -lettuce, olives, tomatoes, sweet peppers, red onions, feta cheese, and not to mention garbanzo beans (or what we tend to refer to as chickpeas), make for a perfect combination and may be enjoyed with a Flip Flop Pinot Grigio. I may have touched on the flip flop line of wines before, but this pinot they served was just simply delicious with the salad, especially since it was cold. There is a perfect blend of flavours tickling your palate, giving you a true sense of satisfaction. I think this is an excellent summer wine that will work incredibly well with light salads and crab cakes, particularly for those watching their calorie count.

What I absolutely enjoy the most is the lamb burger. When I am having a serious craving, I can think of nowhere else that does such a delicious lamb burger without breaking the bank. Some may consider wine over lunch as an expensive treat, but here, you might be surprised. It's actually quite affordable, and with a menu of so many varying options, you are guaranteed to find something worth indulging in, like the ackee and shrimp.

As the summer heat begins to intensify, think about having a Pinot Grigio, Savignon Blanc, or Chenin Blanc as a great day-time option, whether over lunch, or if you are lounging on the beach or by a pool.

On your next lunch outing, take the challenge and order yourself a glass of wine and truly indulge and enjoy a wine lifestyle.

I am not an expert, merely a wine enthusiast, and business development consultant, sharing my thoughts and experiences. Feel free to share your own experiences at wineenthusiastja@gmail.com.