With the festive season upon us, it’s the perfect time to embrace the warmth, comfort, and community spirit that makes Christmas so special. In a recent Good Grief vlog, Reuben, Laurence and Francis joined forces with Chef Drew to create a truly memorable Christmas dinner.
Set against the picturesque backdrop of Moor Farm, and joined by some of the team from Charnwood, A.J Wells, and Vlaze, the scene was set for a celebration that highlights the Island’s abundance of top-quality ingredients and passionate producers.
Read on for some ‘feastive’ inspiration!
A feast centred around local flavour
Drawing on wonderful produce with Isle of Wight provenance from – Briddlesford Farm, Harvey Browns, Wight Knuckle Brewery, and Wight Whisky – they curated a menu that had something for everyone.
From the show-stopping Beef Wellington to colourful seasonal vegetables and a creamy three-cheese cauliflower bake (Reuban loves cheese), this holiday feast proved that great ingredients and a dash of creativity can transform your table into something truly special.
Cooking with confidence
The Charnwood Haven, a beautiful wood-fired range cooker, provided gentle, reliable heat for preparing the co-main event. There’s something deeply satisfying about cooking with a wood-fired stove that brings a cosy glow and warmth to the kitchen – especially when it’s packed full of succulent, locally sourced meat and veg.
For those who love an extra festive flourish, a turkey cooked in a Big Green Egg on a Vlaze module added a hint of culinary theatre. With dairy delights including creamy butter, milk, and award-winning cheeses from Briddlesford Farm (the halloumi in particular is a favourite), each bite told a story of the Island’s rich farming tradition.
Raising a glass (or can) to the season
Of course, no celebration is complete without something to toast with. Wight Knuckle Brewery and Wight Whisky stepped in with their seasonal sips, offering the perfect drinks to complement hearty dishes. A splash of Wight Whisky even found its way onto the Christmas pudding – why settle for tradition when you can give it a gentle Island twist?
A beautiful table, inside and out
Presentation matters as much as flavour, and the crew made excellent use of Vlaze surfaces for prepping and serving. Vlaze’s stunning enamel finishes brought a sleek, practical edge to the cooking space, while Lottie Rose Studio’s pottery and festive tableware provided a heartfelt, handmade touch. A perfect place to gather and share stories raise glasses and tuck into some delicious festive fare.
Join in the Isle of Wight spirit
This Christmas, consider sourcing a few ingredients from your own local farms, dairies, or breweries. Experiment with different cooking methods – maybe try slow-roasting your veg or infusing your gravy with a local tipple. Dress your table with ceramics crafted by artisans in your region, or invest in a durable surface that brings both function and flair to your kitchen.
These small touches transform a meal from a simple dinner into a celebration of community and creativity. Christmas is about bringing people together, and what better way than through the flavours and stories unique to where you live?
A festive invitation
If you’re feeling inspired, tune into the Good Grief vlog (below) for more insights and good cheer. You’ll find new ideas, genuine laughter, and the proud support of local businesses. Who knows – you might just discover a new festive tradition to carry forward for years to come.
Warm wishes from all of us this Christmas. May your table be full, your home be cosy, and your festive season filled with the joy of good company and great food!
Thanks to:
Briddlesford Farm – https://www.briddlesford.co.uk
Harvey Browns – https://www.harveybrowns.co.uk
Lottie Rose Studio – https://www.instagram.com/lottierosestudio/
Wight Knuckle Brewery – https://www.wightknucklebrewery.com
Wight Whisky – https://wightwhisky.com
Nosy Agency – https://nosy.agency/
Moor Farm Cottages – https://www.moorfarmcottages.co.uk
A.J Wells – https://www.ajwells.com/
VLAZE Surfaces – https://vlaze.co