We found a moment to quiz Matt Abé, award-winning Chef de Cuisine at Restaurant Gordon Ramsay, about the inspiration behind the unique menu he created for a recent Ch. Margaux dinner. He also told us about the importance wine plays at the restaurant and his close working partnership with Head Sommelier James Lloyd
What is the biggest consideration when creating a menu to pair with Bordeaux wines?
Matt Abé: The wines served on the evening have a very particular style and nuances that have varied characteristics but always finish delicately. This was the challenge to find the balance and to make sure the food didn’t overpower the wines.
You created a new menu for this Ch. Margaux dinner – how did you approach this? Drinking several of the wines, perhaps...?
MA: I wish this involved drinking lots of Ch. Margaux, but the ideas were drawn from my past experiences and working closely with Head Sommelier James Lloyd – using the flavour profiles he created for me on each of the wines. Using these to give me points of highlight or contrast in each of the dishes to make a harmonious dining experience.
What is special about the specific menu you created for the event?
MA: This menu was focused on seasonality and the wines' flavour profile fitted in with the season well. I found this an exciting experience that allowed me to work with some new ideas and ingredients, like the Chinese water deer.
Which wines do you most enjoy out of work?
MA: Originally being from Australia, I love a lot of new world wines, particularly oaky Chardonnays and big bold Shiraz.
Where is your favourite place(s) to eat and why?
MA: I love a meal anywhere shared with good company. It could be Michelin-starred or simply at home.
What is your desert island drink?
MA: An American oaky Chardonnay with a little age.
Gordon Ramsay states that you have a great palate – would you say this extends to wine too?
MA: Without a doubt! However compared to James, for instance, I have a different reference bank and draw flavour-memory more from foods and smells, as I have a great sense of smell.
Do you get much of a chance to taste wine at the restaurant?
MA: Absolutely! James and I work closely with the food and wine pairings and we are constantly sharing our knowledge and ideas with each other.
How closely do you work with the Sommelier team when creating menus?
MA: I value James's opinion highly, with his great palate and flavour understanding. It's an integral relationship for me.
What are your ideal wine and dish pairings?
MA: Barbecue côte de boeuf, green salad dressed with a simple vinaigrette, some new potatoes cooked on the barbecue with wild garlic oil served with an aged Australian Shiraz from the Barossa.
How do you work with Gordon Ramsay on the menus and dishes?
MA: Having worked with Gordon for 13 years, all of our dishes and menus organically have his influence, but it's always great to bounce ideas off him for special events such as this. Wherever he is in the world, we speak or text and this is always reflected in the final menu.
What is the most rewarding part of your role?
MA: The most rewarding part of my role is developing my team around me, both front and back of house. This enables us all to create an ultimate experience for all our guests, which brings us a great sense of pride and satisfaction.
