More restaurants are serving Michaelmas goose

Interest in the Michaelmas goose is returning and this year with the 25th anniversary of the British Goose Producers (BGP), more restaurants than ever are choosing to feature goose on the menu during the next fortnight.

Michaelmas Day was traditionally celebrated on 29 September and in the lead up to this year’s event, London’s five-star hotel, The Goring, held a tasting of five geese from different regions. The geese were provided by Michael Coleman, Dorset; Judy Goodman, Worcestershire; Anne Hughes, Essex; Nigel and Brenda Tucker Devon; and Norfolk Geese, Norfolk.

A panel of well known food writers tasted breast and leg and skin from each bird. Joint winners were Michael Coleman and Anne Hughes.

Mr Coleman, who has reared geese for more than 30 years, is producing more this year to cater for local pubs re-introducing the Michaelmas menu.