President's Notes May/June 2013

A word from Barry...

PRESIDENT'S NOTES - May/June

"At the last 2 meetings we have tasted some great food supplemented superbly by very interesting and challenging wines presented by the Winemaster.

Firstly, at The Office Cafe, the entree of oxtail braised in its own juice, served with Falanghina, from an ancient Italian white wine group. The main of Beef Wellington surrounded by a fine millefeulle pastry was very rich and well matched (although some members said "only just") with a beautifully balanced Tempranillo from the Rioja area of Spain, and a Chateau Clerc Milon from Pauillac. The dessert of Poached Pear was matched with a Moscato d'Asti ( a frizzante not spumante), giving off refreshing dry fruit flavors. A good night enjoyed by attendees.

Secondly, the Wellington visit to The Museum Art Hotel. Well worth the visit just to see the art collection ! The dining took place in the Tamborini Room with food from the famed French Hippopotamus Restaurant (see Cuisine July 2013, Best Specialist Restaurant).

It was beautifully cooked French Cuisine backed up with gracious service. After the arrival wine of Spanish (of course) Cava, a dry yet juicy French Chardonnay from Southern Burgundy was matched with the salmon entree. Two very challenging reds ( to identify/guess) were matched with the superbly cooked and plated braised beef cheek, a Mont Redon 09 Chateaunneuf-du-Pape Rouge from the Rhone Valley and a Tyrrells Vat 9 09 Hunter Shiraz. Both wines very perplexing to determine, but both very enjoyable. A Fromm Late Harvest Gewurtztraminer full of fruit and sweetness complemented the mini apply tart Tatin.

               

Thank you Foodmaster Don and Winemaster Stewart for giving us 2 great food and wine experiences.

Members are appreciating having place settings at our meetings

Our AGM will be held at Seasons in August, and a new Committee elected. The Club has had good positive growth in membership so we can expect a mixture of experience and enthusiasm to form the new committee.

Happy wining and dining."

Barry