Sir Brian May on runner beans, Freddie's gold leaf and the Red Special gin

In his first ever food interview, Queen guitarist Sir Brian May sits down with the Good Food Podcast. He talks about the meals, memories and beliefs that shape how he eats, and about Portobello Road Distillery x Brian May Red Special Gin, the spirit he's just created. The interview takes place at the Ginstitute at Portobello Road Distillery where Brian created the gin and where you can create your very own Gin. Brian remembers his dad's prized runner beans and seaside prawns on childhood holidays. He talks about building his famous Red Special guitar with his father, why he plays with a sixpence, and how calamansi oranges from his own greenhouse inspired the taste of the gin.

He also shares memories of Freddie Mercury: gold-leaf desserts at a favourite Knightsbridge Indian restaurant, fridges full of Cristal, and private dinners on the lake in Montreux. He's also candid about animal welfare. He explains why he calls himself a "failed vegan," talks about the childhood moment that changed how he sees animals, and describes his work with the Save Me wildlife rescue.

In this episode:

What Brian had for dinner last night, and why it takes him back to his dad's garden

How Red Special Gin was made, from calamansi oranges and sage to its custom

Brian May sixpence How he controlled his drinking on tour (it turns out he was "zebra striping" before it had a name)

Building a guitar from scratch because the family couldn't afford a Fender or Gibson

Queen's food traditions and memories of Freddie

Why "every animal matters," and how that shapes what he eats

His favourite dish (melanzane parmigiana) and the family's love of beans on toast

What good food means to him: "a basic ingredient of a good life"

The Portobello Road Distillery x Brian May Red Special Gin can be found here:

portobelloroaddistillery.com/products/portobel… (url.uk.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/xg_aC29DPcOROAJ…)

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