Spectator Out Loud: Henry Jeffreys, Marcus Walker, Angus Colwell, Nicolas Farrell and Rory Sutherland
Mar 23, 2025
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In this engaging discourse, Henry Jeffreys discusses how Trump's tariffs could change the wine game for British drinkers. Marcus Walker reflects on the lessons modern Britain can glean from Charles I as we commemorate his 400th accession anniversary. Nicolas Farrell shares a compelling story about refusing a prestigious literary award, revealing deep insights about identity and self-worth. Additionally, Rory Sutherland proposes a creative tax system that connects VAT to happiness, advocating for reduced rates on pubs and comfort foods.
Trump's proposed tariffs may lower wine prices for British consumers, potentially allowing access to high-quality French wines again.
The 400th anniversary of Charles I's reign serves as a reminder of the importance of political stability and compromise in modern governance.
Deep dives
The Impact of Trump's Tariffs on British Wine Drinkers
Donald Trump's proposed tariffs on EU wine and spirits could reshape the market for British drinkers, potentially allowing them to access quality French wines that have become unaffordable due to skyrocketing prices. Historically, the wine landscape shifted as American wealth puffed up prices for esteemed vintages, leading to a situation where fine wines became commodities rather than consumables. Should the tariffs materialize, British consumers might once again savor wines like Château Palmer without breaking the bank, while European growers could face challenges as they adapt to fluctuating demand. This trade conflict could benefit alternative wine-producing regions, such as South America and Australia, ensuring a diversification in the types of wines available in the British market.
Lessons from the English Civil War and Modern Political Stability
As the 400th anniversary of Charles I's accession approaches, reflections on the English Civil War highlight its lingering relevance in today's political climate. The struggle between the Crown and Parliament shaped modern notions of democracy and governance, pressing the importance of political norms that maintain stability and legal authority. With rising tensions in contemporary politics, there is a notable risk of history repeating itself, as seen in recent instances of political violence and public disenfranchisement. Re-examining the lessons from this pivotal period serves as both a warning and an opportunity to reinforce the value of compromise and gradual change over extreme measures.
The Resurgence of Beef Dripping: A Culinary Trend
Recent discussions have emerged about the health benefits of animal fats versus processed seed oils, spurred by figures advocating for a return to traditional cooking methods, particularly beef dripping. This backlash against seed oils is rooted in the belief that natural fats are better suited for our bodies, though an element of political polarization is beginning to surface around the issue. Notably, fish and chips prepared in beef dripping are making a comeback in select establishments, showcasing superior taste and texture that some chefs advocate for. Amidst dietary debates, the culinary renaissance around beef dripping emphasizes the importance of flavor and traditional recipes over strictly health-driven narratives.
On this week’s Spectator Out Loud: Henry Jeffreys looks at the potential impact of Trump’s tariffs on British drinkers (1:31); on the 400th anniversary of Charles I’s accession to the throne, Marcus Walker explains what modern Britain could learn from the cavalier monarch (7:10); Angus Colwell provides his notes on beef dripping (13:55); Nicolas Farrell reveals he refused to accept the local equivalent of an Oscar (16:40); and, Rory Sutherland makes the case for linking VAT to happiness… with 0% going to pubs, Indian restaurants and cheddar cheese (24:08).
Produced and presented by Patrick Gibbons.
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