It’s been a while since I have actually had time to update my blog, but I am going to keep these updates more regular, as I love sharing my passion for all things wine, food, travel, and life in general!!
Life at Lingo Vino for the last 12 months has been all about filling the diary with events, sips and trips! Hosting events (both private and public), travelling to vineyards, mostly on the island of Mallorca, tasting new wines, and teaching wine courses to Yacht Crew!!
My 2024 highlight was becoming a Wine Educator for CruSmart Academy and working alongside Liam Steevenson MW and the team at Global Wine Solutions. Together we have created the world’s first wine course specifically designed for Yacht Crew worldwide. We launched the Level 1 last year and in October 2024 I flew to La Ciotat to teach.
La Ciotat, France
What a quaint and picturesque little commune in the Provence-Alpes Côte d’Azur region, in the South of France. When I found out I was heading to La Ciotat, I was beyond excited. Not only would I be getting the opportunity to teach the fascinating subject of wine, but I would also get the chance to visit a part of France I have never been to. Bonus too, I got to practise my French! After a wine or two, it improved!!
A blonde, a plane and two trains!
How did I get there? The first time I flew direct from Manchester to Marseille, and then I got a bus direct from the airport to the Marseille- Saint Charles Station; 7 Euros. Once I arrived at Marseille-Saint Charles, I had 15 minutes to find the platform for the train to Gare La Ciotat Ceyreste, I just asked the policeman in my rusty French and ran to the platform! With lovely views during the journey and feeling quite proud of myself for being on the right train, I finally arrived at my destination around 20 minutes later. I called a taxi firm and actually arrived at my Airbnb within 10 minutes.
The Airbnb situation was really freaking me out. Believe it or not, I had never used Airbnb before this trip. Wow, it was incredible, the little apartment I had was fabulous! Ideal for my stay. I was that impressed, I used the same apartment again a few weeks ago when I returned to teach at Monaco Marine in March. An amazing host, perfect location and great facilities in the apartment itself.
My journey last time was slightly different as I flew direct to Paris CDG and got a TGV through France for 3 hours, followed by another train from Toulon to La Ciotat. Again, Spectacular views for the whole journey! I managed to get some work done during the journey too, whilst eating a few pains au chocolat.
Wine Education for Yachties
CruSmart Wine Level 1
The whole reason I was there!! Doing a job I love, teaching great students, incredible wines to taste, plus being in the south of France, literally my life goals right there!! The course went so well, students were really keen to learn and improve their wine service and skills. The Level 1 course lasts for just one day, the exam is to be taken online following the in-person course. Level 1 covers some essential topics to give students a general understanding of key grapes, winemaking techniques and wine styles, understanding wine labels, vintages, and food and wine pairing tips!
There is a wine tasting which brings the course to an end and is also a chance for students to utilise what they have learnt during the day.
Top 3 Wine Spots in la Ciotat
All work and no play? Not entirely!
There are some lovely little wine bars and restaurants in the old port area. I live off Bandol rosé when I am there, I just love the intensity and complex flavours from these rosé wines.
At the top of my street too, there is an amazing wine bar/ wine shop and tapas bistro called 14 Degrés. It’s a magical place for any wine lover. A French/Mediterranean vibe with a great wine list, lots of organic wines, and also Champagnes, beers and spirits. I had the best olives ever in this wine bar.
I also had a pinch-me moment in a restaurant located on the seafront called Café du Rivage. What was in my glass? Bandol rosé of course! Making the most as Bandol is so difficult to find in the U.K. On my plate gambas flambées with some pommes frites! Sunshine, sea views, delicious food and wine, time just stood still. It was special!
Finally, a shout-out to the best pizza in town at La Mamma… They even did a pizza with no cheese for me! Yes, I am one of those people. And in my glass, a Bandol rosé again.
Life Goals!
I love travelling and being able to work at the same time, it is a win-win situation for me. Teaching is a very rewarding job, and knowing my students will use their newly acquired wine skills throughout their yachting or hospitality careers, makes me feel like I am making a difference. They all passed their exam too, so well-done guys! Proud teacher moment.
That’s it for now, time to crack open a nice bottle of wine! And as they say in France ‘à bientôt!
Keep up to date with my wine sips and trips, follow @lingovino on all social platforms!
