Bending-In is an old custom practiced in Brighton, Shoreham and Newhaven, last recorded in 1896. The local community would gather to celebrate the commencement of the mackerel fishing season in April/May/June. It was often called Bren-cheese and beer day, reflecting the celebratory feast before the ceremony commenced.
The fishermen would cast their nets and recite these words:
There they goes then God almighty
Send us a blessing, it is to be hoped.
Watch Barrel, watch. Mackerel for to catch
White may they be, like blossom on the tree
God send thousands, one, two, three.
Some by their heads, some by their tails
God send thousands and never fails
Source: sussextradition.org
In remembrance of this lovely tradition, we have a wonderful rose recommendation for your simply cooked mackerel.
From one folk tradition to another: Anders Rezabel and wife Mireya were Basque folk singers in their youth, before moving into the (more lucrative) family tradition of winemaking!Winery Txakoli Rezabel is located inZarautz just west of San Sebastian.
The husband and wife team produce this pale pink, delightful rose, made from local grape variety, Hondarrabi Beltza. It is bright, jam packed with red fruits, bracing acidity and a slight effervescence, it also has a lighter alcohol level of 11%. It's great that this region has stuck to its guns, producing a traditional, regional wine, unique in the winemaking world.
Enjoy icy cold paired up with grilled mackerel.
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