MARLO MEETS: IDRIS ELBA
Marlo are delighted to welcome the genius that is Idris Elba as this week's guest on Marlo Meets. Idris has starred in countless top films and television series such as 'Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom', 'The Wire' and 'Luther', picking up a Golden Globe for his efforts in the latter. Whilst we know Idris best for his roles in television, he's also seen huge success in writing, producing, rapping (DJ Big Driis), singing, and now, producing his own wine label - Porte Noire.
Porte Noire boasts two highly acclaimed wines in its repertoire; a Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Champagne and a Provence Rose. The Champagne is a pure expression of perfectly mature chardonnay, grown in an exceptional vintage on the Sanger vineyards. The rose - a blend of Grenache and Cinsault, is from the 2019 vintage of Chateau Sainte Marguerite.
The Rose is available through Porte Noire, whilst the Champagne is now available to purchase on Marlo - you can find it here.
Idris speaks to Marlo about how Porte Noire started, what films he's been working on recently as well as revealing who he'd invite to his fantasy dinner party.
1. Tell us a bit about Porte Noire and how it all started?
Porte Noire is essentially a cabinet of drinks, all of which have a story to tell. The Champagne came to me when I visited the Sanger School of wine to meet the students there. During the visit they offered me a 2010 Grand Cru Blanc de Blanc which I thought was a lovely offer - I never anticipated it being a business idea until it was, and now, here we are. That was four years ago!
2. What inspired you to create your own wine?
Well, I like Champagne - it usually signifies a celebration moment. I thought it would be a good idea to try and make celebratory moments for the smaller things, as well as the big things in life. The students really inspired that for me!
3. If you were on Desert Island Discs, what would your luxury be?
Probably a laptop... with that I could do most things - I'm practical like that.
4. Which do you prefer playing, Villans or heroes?
Neither - I just like playing complex characters!
5. Who is your musical hero?
I have too many influences to single out one.
6. How has acting changed during the pandemic?
The film industry has had to take massive steps to ensure safety for all - but the art of acting still means you have to hit your marks and say your lines.
7. What projects are you working on at the moment? Is there anything we can look forward to when the cinemas finally open?
Suicide Squad is coming. Boom!
8. Who would you invite to your fantasy dinner party?
The Obamas. Jonnie Ives, Diana Ross, Spike Jonze, Shondra Rimes, Regina King, Israel Adesanya, President Paul Kigame... To name a few!
9. Finally, what can we expect from Porte Noire in the coming months - Are there any new wines on the horizon?
We hope to bring a new Blanc de Blanc to the cabinet, and hopefully a spirit too. I like the idea of a Porte Noire Rum!
Marlo are delighted to announce that we now feature in the 'Top 50 UK Wine Blogs' - Find the full list here.