Gault&Millau Austria selects the "Gourmet of the Year 2023”, the title was awarded to His Royal Highness, The Prince of Wales

Published on 12/05/2022 at 00:00

After Julia and Tobias Moretti, the “Gourmets of the Year 2022”, this years award probably goes to the most famous organic farmer in the world – HRH, The Prince of Wales. Through his early commitment and perseverance in all aspects of organic farming, Prince Charles has realized his vision of a healthier and more sustainable agricultural solution. “At first everyone thought I was crazy and insulted by various factions”, says HRH in a personal interview with Gault&Millau Austria editors Karl and Martina Hohenlohe. Despite the headwinds, Prince Charles continued to make a significant impact on the development of agriculture.

The Duchy Home Farm

At the beginning, the heir to the throne planted his first trees only at official events. Without any practical experience, he realized the importance of sustainable agriculture and eventually purchased the Highgrove Estate in 1981 driven by his passion for nature and its preservation. The formerly conventionally operated estate became one of the first ecologically managed farms in England in just four years.

„We need to realise that we ourselves are also part of nature and do not exist separately from it. I just felt uncomfortable that we risk jeopardising the future productivity of soils if we do not strive to keep them healthy.“– HRH Prince of Wales

Green areas, spelt fields and apple trees as far as the eye can see. In addition to agriculture, species-appropriate livestock farming is also a priority at Highgrove. The products are produced according to ecological principles and are distributed in cooperation with Waitrose, a well-stocked supermarket with a focus on regional products.

“How we produce food has a direct impact on the Earth’s ability to feed us, which has a direct impact on human health and economic prosperity”, says Prince Charles.

The sustainable use of resources and his commitment to the environment ultimately led to the decision to award His Royal Highness, Prince of Wales as “Gourmet ofthe Year 2023. ” “The news of Prince Charles accepting the award was the first sensation for us. It is a great honour for us to be invited to Highgrove to talk to him about organic farming and his access to food.” – Martina Hohenlohe, editor of Gault&Millau Austria.

Personal invitation to tea

Unlike usual, the award ceremony did not take place on a large scale. Martina and Karl Hohenlohe visited the heir to the throne at his family home in Highgrove. After a guided tour of the gardens, the certificate was awarded to the future monarch. The visit of the Gault&Millau Austria editors in Highgrove finally ended with a cup of tea and organic biscuits from his own production.

“What particularly impressed me was the seriousness and euphoria with which he promoted organic farming. He is a true pioneer in this field and has had a lasting impact on farmers, restaurateurs and consumers.” – Karl Hohenlohe, editor of Gault&Millau Austria.