Ep 2. Rumpole and the Blind Tasting

In the second episode of Season 4 of Rumpole of the Bailey, titled Rumpole and the Blind Tasting, the beloved barrister Horace Rumpole finds himself navigating the fascinating yet often murky waters of the wine world. Known for his fondness for the simpler pleasures of life—particularly a good glass of claret—Rumpole’s latest case revolves around the prestigious and exclusive realm of wine tasting, replete with its own set of eccentric characters and high stakes.

The episode opens with Rumpole, portrayed by the inimitable Leo McKern, receiving an unexpected invitation to a luxurious wine tasting event hosted by a prestigious vintner. While H over delights in the opportunity to indulge in fine wines, he quickly learns that the event is shrouded in controversy. The host, a flamboyant and somewhat pretentious wine connoisseur, has organized a blind tasting competition—a challenge that is as much about prestige as it is about skill in identifying various wines.

As the event unfolds, Rumpole finds himself embroiled in a case of alleged fraud that rocks the wine-tasting community to its core. A competitor, a fellow aficionado known for his arrogance and bravado, is accused of subterfuge during the blind tasting, leading to allegations that he tampered with the wines to secure his victory. This accusation brings together a cast of colorful characters, each with their own motives, rivalries, and secrets that invite Rumpole’s traditional wit and unyielding curiosity.

True to form, Rumpole employs his usual blend of cunning observation and sharp intellect to sift through the complexities of the case. As he delves deeper, he encounters a host of delightful personalities, including a swanky wine merchant, a moody artist who dabbles in vineyard ownership, and a savvy sommelier who’s not afraid to speak her mind. The interactions with various characters provide both comic relief and poignant insights into the world of competitive wine tasting, replete with pretensions and rivalries that mirror the courtroom drama Rumpole is all too familiar with.

Throughout the episode, Rumpole's trusted and ever-loyal wife, Hilda, colloquially referred to as "She Who Must Be Obeyed," also plays a vital role as she teases out the intricacies of the social strata that the wine world inhabits. Her keen sense of observation often balances Rumpole's more laid-back approach, providing him with valuable insights that aid his investigation. Their dynamic is emblematic of their long-standing marriage—full of wit, banter, and an underlying affection that shines through even in the comedic sparring.

As the plot unfolds, viewers are treated to Rumpole’s signature wit, wrapped in layers of legal jargon that are accessible yet entertaining. The episode weaves a tapestry of suspense and humor, featuring Rumpole’s interactions within the highly competitive environment of wine tasting, a setting that contrasts sharply with the seriousness of legality. As he works to untangle the web of deceit, the episode examines themes of class, pretension, and the lengths to which individuals will go for recognition and success, all while keeping a light-hearted tone.

Visually, the episode captures the lush ambiance of wine country, with elegant backdrops that enhance the storytelling. The lavish settings serve as a stark reminder of the disparity between Rumpole's down-to-earth approach and the ostentation often found in elite circles. The atmosphere is as intoxicating as the wines being sampled, drawing viewers into the world of sophisticated flavors while simultaneously critiquing the snobbery that can accompany them.

Rumpole's investigative journey takes a few unexpected turns, leading to delightful misunderstandings and moments of comic relief that are emblematic of the series. His unwavering commitment to justice, even when faced with the absurdities of the upper crust, makes this episode a delightful addition to the series. With plenty of twists to keep audiences guessing, Rumpole and the Blind Tasting is both a light-hearted romp through the elite world of wine and a reflection on the nature of competition and integrity.

In the end, Rumpole’s keen sense of right and wrong shines through, reminding viewers that beneath the polish of fine wine and etiquette lies the same human foibles—ambition, deceit, and the desire for recognition. Yet, amidst the layers of deception and social maneuvering, Rumpole stands firm, ready to uncork the truth while savoring the simple joys of life—whether in the courtroom or at a country inn with a glass of claret in hand.