summer brunching

A low tied Bronte marked the start of another summer weekend in Syd City. The water temperature was the best of the year, so far, and since most of the morning was cloudy, we didn't have to deal with heavy traffic in the water.

Just the right amount of prep for such a staggering brunch session; Lynne's devoted work was mind blowing, once again. Cooking seems to be some sort of liberating exercise for her, where sublimation reaches a full meaning.

Phenomenal Fenn came over to join us for this casual celebration of summer, which started with a sweet delicious experiment, constructed by Lynne's weekend creative forces. Oatmeal pancakes with blackberries, home made orange jam and fresh mango was a colossal winner!

Beautiful tomatoes with small mozzarella balls, under a nice local extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar dressing.

Fabulous "jamoncito ibérico de bellota" (acorn fed Iberic ham) also made it to the menu: sweaty, finely sliced and with the right amount of fat; it melted in the mouth, just the way I expect it to be.

Good bread was a requirement, given this outstanding combination of eatable goods.

After an introductory glass of cava we went straight to a pinot noir space, which even worked quite well with the diverse "pallette" of chocolate we got the day before in Woollahra, driving back from the beach. One from New Zeland, a 2008 Rippon "Emma's Block", and an Aussie 2009 "Farrside" by Farr. I was hoping to have an estate Pyramid Valley, but that will certainly happen next week.

Out of seven captivating varieties, Black Truffle, Stumptown Coffee, Maine Sea Salt, Brooklyn Blend, Serrano Pepper, La Red de Guaconejo, and Cocoa Nibs, this last one was Lynne's favourite. Mine was the first one; anything truffle I am usually crazy about.