Bars & Pubs

In business over 20 years, Albertine nevertheless keeps up with market trends, recently installing shiny pine shelving to show off bottles to take away at lower prices. Still, it’s worth taking a seat, for the atmosphere is cosy, with melting candles and dark wooden furniture. Fleur de Garrigues 2004 Les Auzines from Corbières and Giovanni Blason’s 2004 cabernet franc from Friuli offer the kind of contrasting flavours in which Albertine’s well-thought-out list specialises: on the one hand spice and rich blackcurrant fruit from the south of France; on the other tight, light, controlled red fruits and acidity. Food is regulation wine bar fare: smoked mackerel pâté was agreeably sharp and creamy; french onion tart featured good, crumbly pastry; and chunky pork and leek sausages came with a steaming mound of mash.

Time Out Eating & Drinking Guide 2009