On his deathbed, John Maynard Keynes, English economist, uttered these last words, “My only regret in life is that I did not drink more Champagne.” Such regret can easily be avoided.
The James Beard Foundation’s Chefs and Champagne returns to Wölffer Estate Vineyard in Sagaponack, NY on Saturday, June 23, 2011. This star-studded event brings together top toques to showcase their haute cuisine in a truly grand tasting. Culinary luminaries include Matteo Bergamini of SD26; JBF Award Winner Daniel Boulud of Daniel; Marc Forgione of Marc Forgione; George Mendes of Aldea; JBF Award Winner Marcus Samuelsson of The Blue Parrot and Red Rooster; and many more. Chefs from Long Island, New Jersey, Washington, D.C. and the British West Indies will also be present.
Wash it all down with Nicolas Feuillatte, the only Champagne sponsor of this year’s gala and the #1 best-selling Champagne in France and #3 in the world.
Emeril Lagasse will be honored at the event, which raises money for the Beard Foundation’s scholarship fund. Accordingly, the 2011 recipient of the Christian Wölffer Scholarship for wine and food studies will be announced that evening.
Tickets for the event may be purchased online and are as follows:
• 4:30–10:30 P.M.: VIP Experience* – JBF members and General Public $375; VIP tables of 10: $3,500
• 5:30–8:00 P.M.: General Admission – JBF Members $200, General Public $275
*The VIP Experience includes an exclusive, one-hour access to all tastings; advanced silent auction bidding; reserved seating; VIP after-party access; and a gift bag.
Can’t get to the event? Make a donation to the James Beard Foundation and stop by your local retailer to pick up the Nicolas Feuillatte Brut, reading available at Astor, Garnet, Heights Chateau and Sherry-Lehmann among others). Or, treat yourself to its prestige cuvée, Palmes d’Or, in its signature cut-crystal bottle.
Either way, you’ll have no regrets.