Droitwich spa hotel appoints taster in residence after nationwide search
The 106-bedroom Chateau Impney hotel has appointed a local government officer as its official taster in residence. The property undertook a two-month, nationwide search to find what is believed to be the UK's first ever taster in residence.
Lisa Gallacher (pictured), beat seven other finalists to claim the role in a series of head-to-head taste battles at the hotel in Droitich, Worcestershire. Candidates had to taste and analyse a number of dishes, then correctly identify as many ingredients as possible.
Gallacher's new role will involve working with the head chef and his team on a monthly basis, to test and provide feedback on dishes that may appear on the hotel's range of menus. The hotel serves in excess of 55,000 meals across its restaurant, bars, function business annually.
Gallacher, who won by a single point, said: "It was a tough competition, but the dishes really played to my strengths, so I was able to identify a lot of the ingredients in the short time provided. Being the UK's first taster in residence is a fantastic opportunity, and I hope to embrace it as much as possible."
She will start her position in August.
The hotel received 70 applications from across the world, from a range of people including a police officer and a beer sommelier.
New lease of life for Chateau Impney as hotel undergoes £1m revamp >>
