Wine Tasting Dinners by Contrast Tours, Dinners Designed to Showcase French Wines with Perfect Food Pairings

CONTRAST TOURS DINNERS

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George Harvin Parizade

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Table Clubroom Flowers

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Jeu de Mains Parizade

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Table Main Room Parizade

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Serpent Magique

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Noailles Bdx Sept 21

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Chateau Lehoul Rose Effect

Contrast Tours organises Dinners in the U.S., inspired by what we experience during the wine tours in France. Theses Dinners have two different formats:

WINE DINNERS: These are dinners conceived in partnership with a restaurant and its chef, in which a wine selection is paired with dishes elaborated for a perfect pairing and gastronomic experience.

WINE TASTING DINNERS: This is a format that I created to provide an educative and enjoyable experience, akin to what we do in France during Wine Tours: dishes from the restaurant's menu, are paired with typically several wines, enabling comparison and discussions about the qualities and nature of the wines, as well as how and why they provide a better experience with a given dish and beyond.

NOVEMBER 21, KUMA, NEW BERN, SUSHI WINE DINNER

9 GUESTS ONLY, 8 SEATS LEFT

White wine atmosphere

Folks, as you know, when I do a dinner in New Bern, it is typically at Kuma, which honors me with special friendly conditions.

If you are from New Bern, you already know Kuma, one of the very best restaurants in town. I will have hosted wine tastings geared toward the holidays, at Savi's wine that afternoon, and therefore in the same spirit, on Saturday November 21, you will get to experience Kuma with special wine pairings. If you are not from New Bern, well, this is your opportunity to delight in these dishes with wines that may be a bit better than usual.

Of course, this will be all about white wines, and not any white wine, just some of the very best suited to pair with sushis and whatever else will be served, including this time Kuma made Mochi with Coffee jelly. Just let yourself carried by the flow, and I think you will be enchanted.

Just one caveat: this is a special treat, that Kuma very kindly, allows me to offer, and so seating is very limited, only up to 12 guests plus this French wine missionary.

All the wines in this dinner but one, are U.S. exclusivities, which means that I am the only importer in the U.S. for these producers who are flagships in their appelations.

KUMA, New Bern

Saturday November 21, 19:00

$122 per person, including tax and gratuity (about $93 before tax and tip).

Please make your reservation with me: email me with the "Contact Us" button at bottom of page, or text 984-312-5315, and send your payment after reading how on this page.

MENU:

ADAME BEANS & SHRIMP SHUMAI

DOMAINE CATHALA, A BLANC 2022, Saint Chinian
Grenache Blanc 50%, Roussane 30%, Marsanne 20%. U.S. Exclusivity

CHATEAU VIGNOL ENTRE DEUX MERS (Bordeaux), 2023
Sauvignon Blanc 60%, Sauvignon Gris 15%, Sémillon 15%, Muscadelle 10%

We'll mingle with some adame beans and the Cathala Blanc, a Languedoc wine with a dominance of Grenache blanc made more aromatic with Roussanne and Marsanne, and a surprising level of citrus for such a meridional wine in its origin and composition. This wine is quite out of the ordinary and may vey well grow quickly on you.

And we'll have both the Cathala Blanc and the Entre Deux Mers, as both wines have a different way to pair pleasantly with the Shrimp Shumai. The entre Deux Mers being a more usual companion for seafood. This vintage is more Semillon than Sauvignon, so less citrus and more stone fruit, a richer wine.

SNAPPER NIGIRIS

DOMAINE DE RAVANÈS IBIS BLANC 2023, Pays de l'Hérault, Orgamic
40% Grenache Blanc, 35% Colombard 25% Petit Manseng. U.S. Exclusivity

DOMAINE RICHEAUME COLUMELLE BLANC 2023, Biodyvin Biodynamic
67% Sauvignon Blanc, 33% Vermentino. U.S. Exclusivity

The Ibis Blanc is a completely out of norms white from Languedoc, mind you a lot of wines are out of norms in that regions. Marc bénin from the Domaine de Ravanès has made a habit to produce improbable wines on his improbable plots that are not where one would expect his Michelin star tables wines to be produced. The Ibis Blanc is fresh and citrussy with delicate fruity accent. Totally surprising, wonderful and a very good value.

The Columelle Blanc is Domaine Richeaume's premium white cuvée. This will taste a bit like an elevated super fine Loire Valley type of white, with a Provençal accent. All in lightness but with presence, savors of pear, apple. This is a wine that requires 5 -10 minutes to open and develop a remarkable finesse, elegance and presence, then reveals the sophistication of such an unusual blend.

MOCHI WITH COFFEE JELLY (Kuma made):

MAS DE CYNANQUE MÉANDRES, 2017, VDF de Saint Chinian, Organic
40% Albarino, 40% Petit Menseng, 20% Grenache Gris. U.S. Exclusivity

This is a very rare wine, from far into Languedoc. Several years ago I bought everything that was left of it, and now I am down to a case or so left. Its age gives it a slight grappa taste, that accompanies very well a fruit dessert, a tiramisu. I have never tried it with something as unusual as Mochi with Coffee Jelly, but given how this wine interacts with a tiramisu, I expect a nice end to the dinner.

So there you go, I look forward to this gentle dinner with you.

Domaine Richeaume Columelle Blanc

OCTOBER 10, PARIZADE, DURHAM, AN OCTOBER WINE DINNER

UP T0 7 SEATS AVAILABLE, SOLD OUT.

PLEASE CONTACT ME TO BE PUT ON WAIT LIST.

Our Table at Parizade

There is very limited seating for this well set dinner, so you know what you have to do …

People often come from out of town for my dinners at Parizade, there is a convenient hotel just across the street, the Hilton Garden Inn.

PARIZADE, Durham

Saturday October 10, 2026, 6:30pm

Only up to 7 guests, plus this French, Civilization Special Forces Envoy to the Frontline.

$106 per person, including tax and gratuity.

Reservation: email me with the "Contact Us" button at bottom of page, or text me at 984-312-5315, and send your payment after reading how on this page.

MENU:

MINGLE with CORINNE DEPYRE POP-IT 2023
10% Syrah, 90% Mourvèdre, No added Sulfite, Unfiltered. U.S. Exclusivity

A very flavorful and a bit yeasty natural rosé sparkling wine with a strong presence of peach and grapefruit savors. Quite refreshing.

ITALIAN BURRATA strawberry, basil, aged balsamic, olive oil, crostini

CHATEAU ROMANIN, ALPILLES ROSÉ 2023, IGP Alpilles, Biodyvin Biodynamic
65% Grenache, 23% Mourvèdre, 12% Cabernet Sauvignon. U.S. Exclusivity

DOMAINE RICHEAUME ROSÉ 2024, IGP Méditerranée, Biodyvin Biodynamic
60% Syrah, 40% Grenache. U.S. Exclusivity

Two superbwonderful rosés, the Romanian Alpilles is exhibiting some fresh but above all jammy savors of raspberry, peach, the Richeaume is fresher and more candy like, both have an exceptional minerality.

PORK CHOP creamy corn and polenta, pecorino romano, bacon jam, and sautéed mushrooms

CHATEAU COULONGE JULIETTE 2022, Bordeaux Supérieur Organic
80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot, aged in oak. U.S. Exclusivity

KCHATEAU COULONGE JULIETTE 2015, Bordeaux Supérieur Organic
80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot, aged in oak. U.S. Exclusivity

Nicolas Roux at Chateau Coulonge has four children, Juliette is their first born, and only girl. This wine is named after her and gets the best Cabernet juices Nicolas produces. Chateau Coulonge wines are made with little added sulfite which explains in part why they are so expressive. You will find in Juliette a true expression of Cabernet Sauvignon, with savors of blackberry, plum, hints of blueberry. A definitely blue savors wine with some red fruits trying to emerge. This is a fantastic wine and an incredible value.

REINE DE SABA classic french chocolate almond cake with chocolate ganache, strawberry, freeze dried raspberry and peanut brittle

CORINNE DEPEYRE, AMITIÉ 2015, Organic
100% Grenache Rouge Late Harvest. U.S. Exclusivity

This is an extremely rare wine, in fact it is the only one I have ever encountered of this type, and everybody I know says the same. It is also an extremely good one, that provides a delicious expression of Grenache noir, not unlike a Banyuls, but in dryer and fresher. Rather intense cherry flavors on a terrified background. Completely made for chocolate.

I look forward to your company for this epicurean reunion.

Domaine Richeaume Rosé

SEPTEMBER 12, 2026, PARIZADE, DURHAM, END OF SUMMER WINE TASTING DINNER

UP T0 7 SEATS AVAILABLE, SOLD OUT.

PLEASE CONTACT ME TO BE PUT ON WAIT LIST. THERE WILL BE ANOTHER DINNER IN OCTOBER.

The View from our Table at Parizade

Given that we have all fall and winter for reds and dishes to go with them, I am going light, or let's say "lighter,"for this last dinner of the summer, a perfect occasion to enjoy two rosés and 3 whites. Jason's Branzino (that's Jason Lawless, Parizade's awesome chef) is a truly unique and tasty preparation that you need to try with the proper wines to go with it.

We'll first mingle with some bubbly before experiencing 3 Chateau Romanin wines, definitely the producer for the evening.

All the wines in this dinner are U.S. exclusivities, which means that I am the only importer in the U.S. for these trail blazer producers who dominate their appellations.

BTW, people often come from out of town for my dinners at Parizade, there is a convenient hotel just across the street, the Hilton Garden Inn.

PARIZADE, Durham

Saturday September 12, 2026, 6:30pm

Only up to 7 guests, plus this French, Civilization Special Forces Envoy to the Frontline.

$116 per person, including tax and gratuity (about $95 before tax and tip).

This dinner may be made suitable to GF and Vegetarian aspirations, see substitutions and notes.

Reservation: email me with the "Contact Us" button at bottom of page, or use whatsApp, or text me at 984-312-5315, and send your payment after reading how on this page.

MENU:

ITALIAN BURRATA strawberry, basil, aged balsamic, olive oil, crostini (may be made GF)

CHATEAU ROMANIN, ALPILLES ROSÉ 2023, Biodyvin Biodynamic
65% Grenache, 23% Mourvèdre, 12% Cabernet Sauvignon. U.S. Exclusivity

CHATEAU ROMANIN BAUX DE PROVENCE AOP ROSÉ 2022, Biodyvin Biodynamic
73 % Grenache, 16% Mourvèdre, 11 % Syrah. U.S. Exclusivity

Two superbwonderful rosés, both exhibiting some fresh and jammy savors of raspberry, peach, both with the high minerality that characterizes Chateau Romanin.

ROASTED BRANZINO broccolini, lemon vinaigrette, sun-dried tomatoes, capers, olives

SUBSTITUTIONS: Marinara, Arancini alla Vodka, Golden Quinoa

CHATEAU ROMANIN BAUX DE PROVENCE AOP BLANC 2022, Biodyvin Biodynamic
46% Vermentino, 26% Roussanne, 17% Grenache Blanc, 11% Clairette. U.S. Exclusivity

CHATEAU LÉHOUL GRAVES BLANC FUTS 2020, Bordeaux Graves
60% Sauvignon Blanc, 40% Sémillon, aged in oak. U.S. Exclusivity

This luscious dish has only one problem: it requires special wines that can handle it, these two offer two different takes on this task. The Chateau Romanin has strong evocations of Riesling somehow, and enough power to control the rather potent very mediterranean sauce.

The Chateau Léhoul is the ideal response on the Sauvignon Blanc/Sémillon side of the wine world, its barrel aging confers it the tannins to impose its presence, although in an elegant if firm fashion, with savors of stone fruits, citrus, and a touch of exotic fruits.

PEAR FRANGIPANE tart crust, pear macerated in white wine, almond flour (Not GF)

SUBSTITUTIONS: Crème Brulée

MAS DE CYNANQUE MÉANDRES 2017, VDF de Saint Chinian, Organic
40% Albarino, 40% Petit Menseng, 20% Grenache Gris. U.S. Exclusivity

This is a very rare wine, from far into Languedoc. I bought everything that was left of it. Its age gives it a slight grappa taste, that accompanies very well a fruit dessert such as this one.

I look forward to your company for this tony summer dinner.

Chateau Romanin in the fall

AUGUST 29, KUMA, NEW BERN, SUSHI WINE DINNER

9 GUESTS ONLY, 8 SEATS LEFT

Folks, as you know, when I do a dinner in New Bern, it is typically at Kuma, which honors me with special friendly conditions.

If you are from New Bern, you already know Kuma, one of the very best restaurants in town. I will have hosted wine tastings at Savi's wine that afternoon, and therefore on Saturday August 29, you will get to experience Kuma's Nigiris with special wine pairings. If you are not from New Bern, well, this is your opportunity to delight in these dishes with wines that are probably a little bit better than usual.

Of course, given that it is Nigiris (sushis), this will be all about white wines, and not any white wine, just some of the very best suited to pair with sushis, as well this time as with a Kuma made Japanese Ice Cream. Just let yourself carried by the flow, and I think you will be enchanted.

Just one caveat: this is a special treat, that Kuma very kindly, allows me to offer, and so seating is very limited, only 9 guests plus this French wine missionary.

All the wines in this dinner are U.S. exclusivities, which means that I am the only importer in the U.S. for these producers who are flagships in their appelations.

KUMA, New Bern

Saturday August 29, 2026, 19:00

Nigiris, dessert, 3 wines

$126 per person, including tax and gratuity (about $102 before tax and tip).

Please make your reservation with me: email me with the "Contact Us" button at bottom of page, or text 984-312-5315, and send your payment after reading how on this page.

MENU:

TUNA, SALMON and SNAPPER NIGIRIS, 3 each per person

AZUKI BEANS JAPANESE ICE CREAM (Kuma made):

DOMAINE RICHEAUME COLUMELLE BLANC 2023, Biodyvin Biodynamic
67% Sauvignon Blanc, 33% Vermentino. U.S. Exclusivity

CHATEAU CASTIGNO TRAIT DE LUNE #1, 2022, Saint Chinian Blanc, Organic
100% Carignan Blanc. U.S. Exclusivity

CHATEAU CASTIGNO BLANC, 2019, Saint Chinian Blanc, Organic
65% Roussanne, 35% Grenache Blanc. Exclusivity

The Columelle Blanc is Domaine Richeaume's premium white cuvée. This will taste a bit like an elevated super fine Loire Valley type of white, with a Provençal accent. All in lightness but with presence, savors of pear, apple.

The Trait de Lune is one of my all times favorite white, allying lemon and on good days scuppernong savors with a tad of lovely bitterness. A wine like no others, and in fact even this producer has yet to reproduce this wine at this level of finesse. A super rare wine, most people, including sommeliers have never tasted a 100% Carignan Blanc, and I only have 42 bottles left, just enough maybe, for this dinner and your subsequent orders.

The Chateau Castigno Blanc is a delight from aged Grenache blanc, enhanced with Roussanne. Think of a rather light and aromatic grappa, maybe not all that far from a very good sake. It will be a test with Nigiris, and some should be reserved to go with the ice cream.

So there you go, simple menu, set with absolute wine excellence.

I look forward to your company for this special dinner in New Bern.

The men behind Chateau Léhoul, two hard working Bordelais.

AUGUST 1ST, 2026, PARIZADE, DURHAM, BOARDROOM WINE TASTING DINNER

UP T0 15 SEATS AVAILABLE 6 SEATS LEFT

Toast in Parizade's Boardroom.

Baring any last minute booking, we should be able to enjoy this premium dinner in Parizade's Board Room. This is the best spot for an intimate wine dinner, classy and cosy. I have limited the amount of seats in order to guarantee a comfortable setting, and keep the event personal. So don't miss it, only at this time of the year can I get this room which is otherwise sought after by countless high Dollar events.

Most of my wines are in U.S. Exclusivity, the result of the fact that I sell enough of their wines for certain of my producers, and because I tend to pick the elite of their wines, by opposition to the cheapest ones, which most other importers tend to favor. In this dinner, all the wines are in U.S. Exclusivity. 🍾

We will enjoy the two best rosés in my portfolio, you can't find better Provence rosés at the price of these ones, as well as an exceptional verticale of Chateau Rochecolombe Côtes du Rhône Villages Saint Andéol (a wine often better than a good part of Chateauneuf du Pape (that's right, it is in writing), and for about 1/3 of the price of a CdP.

BTW, people often come from out of town for my dinners at Parizade, there is a convenient hotel just across the street, the Hilton Garden Inn.

PARIZADE, Durham

Saturday August 1, 2026, 6:30pm

Only up to 15 guests, plus this French, Civilization Special Forces Envoy to the Frontline.

$115 per person, including tax and gratuity.

Reservation: email me with the "Contact Us" button at bottom of page, or use whatsApp, or text me at 984-312-5315, and send your payment after reading how on this page.

MENU:

SALADE NIÇOISE lettuce, tomatoes, sautéed green beans, hard boiled egg, seared fresh tuna, olives

DOMAINE RICHEAUME ROSÉ 2024, Provence. Biodynamic Biodyvin
60% Syrah, 40% Grenache. U.S. Exclusivity

CHATEAU ROMANIN BAUX DE PROVENCE AOP ROSÉ 2023, Biodynamic
53 % Grenache, 15% Mourvèdre, 14% Coumoise, 9 % Syrah, 9% Cabernet Sauvignon. U.S. Exclusivity

Two superb rosés ready to delect your palate. They both exhibits flavors of raspberry, peach. The Richeaume being younger is slightly more fresh tasting, the Romanin is a tad jammy. Both have high minerality, and the Chateau Romanin even more so.

BEEF FILET beurre Maître D', haricots verts

SUBSTITUTIONS:

GRILLED PORK CHOP creamy corn & polenta, pecorino romano, bacon jam

or

GRILLED SALMON sweet carrot puree, asparagus, spring peas, tarragon butter

CHATEAU ROCHECOLOMBE, CÔTES DU RHÔNE VILLAGES SAINT ANDÉOL 2019, Organic
50% Syrah, 50% Grenache. Aged in oak barrel. U.S. Exclusivity

CHATEAU ROCHECOLOMBE, CÔTES DU RHÔNE VILLAGES SAINT ANDÉOL 2022, Organic
50% Syrah, 50% Grenache. Aged in oak barrel. U.S. Exclusivity

Here is a small verticale of this wonderful wine that you may use with abandon in lieu of way more expensive crus, for it tastes as if it were one. You will find a substantial body, well tamed tannins, supporting ripe red fruits and prune, that elusive savor that jams everything up to delight with a nice grilled piece of meat.

APRICOTAND BLUEBERRY FRANGIPANE tart crust, apricot macerated in white wine, blueberries, almond flour

CHATEAU CASTIGNO BLANC 2019, Saint Chinian BlancOrganic
65% Roussanne, 35% Grenache Blanc. Exclusivity

This is a very rare wine, from far into Languedoc. I bought everything that was left of it. Its age gives it a slight grappa taste, that accompanies very well a fruit dessert such as this one.

I look forward to your company for this tony summer dinner.

saint andeol appelation, chateau rochecolombe, montjault

The special terroir somewhat similar to Chateauneuf du Pape, where the Chateau Rochecolombe Saint Andéol is produced.

JULY 16, PÉTANQUE WINE DINNER, RENDEZ-VOUS ASHEVILLE

12 GUESTS ONLY 4 SEATS LEFT

Karim Vionnet after a hard day's work.

At this time of they year those who can are in Asheville, where thanks to Michel, the owner of Rendez-Vous, pétanque has become a city wide pastime, as Rendez-Vous offers numerous pétanque courts.

It is therefore my privilege, to offer this dinner which will be preceded by some pétanque, whether you want to watch with some apéritif, or play. You may of course just come for the dinner.

RENDEZ-VOUS, Asheville

Thursday July 16, 2026

17:00 for Pétanque, 19:15 for Dinner in the patio

$124 per person, including tax and gratuity.

Please make your reservation with me: email me with the "Contact Us" button at bottom of page, or text 984-312-5315, and send your payment after reading how on this page.

MENU:

SALA DE BETTERAVES AU CHÈVRE mixed greens, roasted beets, apples, walnuts, goat cheese, dijon vinaigrette

KARIM VIONNET, VIN DE KAV 2021, CHIROUBLES
100% Gamay, Vin Nature, Carbonic Maceration

Fantastic Beaujolais, still very fresh and very expressive, good controlled acidity rounded by time, raspberry intertwined with red plum, all in an elegant evolved version given the bottle age.

NOTE: Karim is rather accomplished pétanque player. One day he will come to Asheville, and Michel will have to assemble a formidable team! 😂

TRUITE AUX AMANDES local Sunburst Farm trout encrusted with almonds, citrus beurre blanc with capers, rice, haricots verts

SUBSTITUTIONS:

PORTOBELLO TATIN portobello cap, caramelized onions, brie, puff pastry, balsamic reduction, with petite salade

or

POULET CORDON BLEU BOUCHON breaded chicken breast, prosciutto, gruyère, beurre blanc, seasonal veggies, pommes frites

DENIS VERVIER, MACON FUISSÉ 2024, Burgundy white
100% Chardonnay

Classique white burgundy with savors of apricot and minerality.

DOMAINE RICHEAUME, TRADITION BLANC 2024, Provence, Biodynamic Biodyvin
70% Grenache Blanc, 15% Vermentino, 15% Viognier. U.S. Exclusivity

Very unusual white, with savors of pear, apple, almond. A delight.

PROFITEROLLES choux pastry rolls filled with crème pâtissière, with whipped cream and chocolate ganache drizzle

SUBSTITUTION:

CRÈME BRULÉE original recipe from the 1691 cookbook "Le Nouveau Cuisinier Royal et Bourgeois"

CORINNE DEPEYRE, AMITIÉ 2015, Provence, Organic
100% Grenache Noir Late Harvest. U.S. Exclusivity

Packed with cherry flavors, like a banyuls, only drier and fresher, a good way to sooth the end of the meal.

I look forward to celebrate Democracy and Futbol with you.

Pétanque in Languedoc

JUNE 28, FIREFLY, NEW BERN, CHAMPAGNE BRUNCH

yanick olivier, grand cru, Blanc de blanc, champagne, digitale

Yanick Olivier, Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs de la Côte des Blancs, Champagne, exceptional.

Let's have a big toast along with a hearty brunch as I return to this land of wonder. And of course, nothing else will do but one of the very best Champagne.

FIREFLY, New Bern

Sunday June 28, 2026, 10:45

$85 per person, including tax and gratuity.

Please make your reservation with me: email me with the "Contact Us" button at bottom of page, or text 984-312-5315, and send your payment after reading how on this page.

MENU:

FLORENTINE SCRAMBLE Spinach, tomatoes, mushrooms and mozzarella mixed in with scrambled eggs

OR

PACIFIC NORTHWEST CRÊPE Smoked salmon, white cheddar, red onions, dill cream cheese

OR

CAJUN GRITS: Smoked Sausage, grilled peppers, onions & cheddar cheese over creamy Cajun grits

YANICK OLIVIER, GRAND CRU, BLANC DE BLANCS de la CÔTE DES BLANCS CHAMPAGNE
100% Chardonnay. U.S. Exclusivity

We'll have a bottle for 2 of this awesome champagne to get us through this gathering, which is based of camaraderie and the pleasure to be together. This is the best I have ever had, and undoubtedly one of the best champagnes. This is not astonishing, as it is made by an oenologist from Champagne who enjoys premium family plots. The conjunction of his savoir faire and patrimony, yields this champagne of rare quality, tasting rich yet light, with a light lemony attaque giving way to a fruity structure, with notes of yeast and biscuits. This champagne has almost the richness of a blanc de noirs, but enjoys the aerial nature of a blanc de blancs, a bit of the best of both words.

We'll end with:

FIREFLY BEIGNETS

I look forward to your company for this New Bern Brunch.

Firefly Café's Patio in New Bern.

JUNE 26, KUMA, NEW BERN, SUSHI WINE DINNER

6 GUESTS ONLY 5 SEATS LEFT

Parizade, languedoc and Provence Beauties wine dinner

Muscadelle Vines at Chateau Coulonge

Friends, I have been back from France for just a few days, and it has been a bit rushed to organise my "After France Tour to Eastern NC." But I am thrilled and grateful to announce this Sushi Wine dinner at Kuma, the excellent Japanese restaurant in New Bern. This is still rather unusual, but given the accent on white wines that characterized my selection, this ain't the last one.

If you are from New Bern, you already know Kuma, one of the very best restaurants in town. Friday June 26, you get to experience it with special wine pairings. And if you are not from New Bern, well, this is your opportunity to delight in these dishes with wines that are probably a little bit better than usual.

Just one caveat: this is a special treat, that Kuma very kindly, allows me to offer, and so seating is very limited, only 6 guests plus this French Ambassador and my real better half. That's right, she really exists, and will be with us, quite exceptionally.

KUMA, New Bern

Friday June 26, 2026, 19:00

2 courses, all "sushi," 2 wines

$105 per person, including tax and gratuity.

Please make your reservation with me: email me with the "Contact Us" button at bottom of page, or text 984-312-5315, and send your payment after reading how on this page.

MENU:

2 TUNA, and 4 SNAPPER NIGIRIS

RAINBOW ROLL: Crab, avocado, and cucumber topped with variety of fish (1 serving for 2)

DENIS VERVIER, POUILLY FUISSÉ CLIMATE LAMURE, 2019
100% Chardonnay

CHATEAU LESTOURS CLOCHERS, VACQUEYRAS BLANC 2023
60% Grenache Blanc, 20%, Roussane, 10%, Marsanne, 10% Viognier U.S. Exclusivity

With 6+ years of bottle, the Pouilly is an evolved one, from one of the best "climates," (think "Terroir") in Pouilly, and should be a real treat with this menu.

The Vacqueyras Blanc is made by none other than my brother, whom participants of the Provence Tour systematically adore, because he is the real deal when it comes to wine culture, making. This wine is also often one of the very favorites from a few professionals in NC for whom I have a deep respect.

So there you go, simple wine menu, but one set in excellence.

I look forward to your company for this rather special dinner in lovely New Bern.

chateau lehoul, jean-philippe le guillou, nicolas dorronsoro

The men behind Chateau Léhoul, two hard working Bordelais.

MAY 3rd, FIREFLY, NEW BERN, CHAMPAGNE BRUNCH

10 GUESTS ONLY 6 SEATS LEFT

Yanick Olivier, Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs de la Côte des Blancs, Champagne, exceptional.

Let's have a big toast along with a hearty brunch before I leave for France until the end of June. And for this, nothing else will do but one of the very best Champagne.

FIREFLY, New Bern

Sunday May 3rd, 2026, 10:45

$92 per person, including tax and gratuity.

Please make your reservation with me: email me with the "Contact Us" button at bottom of page, or text 984-312-5315, and send your payment after reading how on this page.

MENU:

LUMBER JACK SCRAMBLE Smoked Sausage, Bacon, Onions, Potatoes, Cheddar mixed in with Scrambled Eggs

OR

PACIFIC NORTHWEST CRÊPE Smoked salmon, white cheddar, red onions, dill cream cheese

YANICK OLIVIER, GRAND CRU, BLANC DE BLANCS de la CÔTE DES BLANCS CHAMPAGNE
100% Chardonnay. U.S. Exclusivity

We'll first mingle with this awesome champagne, the best I have ever had, and undoubtedly one of the best champagnes. This is not astonishing, as it is made by an oenologist from Champagne who enjoys premium family plots. Dao the conjunction of his savoir faire and patrimony, yields this champagne of rare quality, tasting rich yet light, with a light lemony attaque giving way to a fruity structure, with notes of yeast and biscuits. This champagne has almost the richness of a blanc de noirs, but enjoys the aerial nature of a blanc de blancs, a bit of the best of both words.

And let's end with:

NOLA FOSTER CRÊPE bananas, caramel buttered rum sauce, cinnamon, mascarpone

CHATEAU VIGNOL BLANC DOUX 2019, Bordeaux Moelleux
Sémillon 60%, Sauvignon Blanc 40%. U.S. Exclusivity

I have only a few cases left of this rather unique wine, a bit reminiscent of Sauternes, but cut by a slight grappa dimension as well, which makes it perfect to accompany fruity desserts.

I look forward to your company for this rather New Bern Brunch.

Firefly Café's Patio in New Bern.

MAY 2nd, KUMA, NEW BERN, SUSHI and RAMEN WINE DINNER

7 GUESTS ONLY, SOLD OUT. Please contact me to be on the wait list.

Muscadelle Vines at Chateau Coulonge

Friends, I am mighty thrilled to end my dinner series before I leave for the spring Wine Tour in France, by a Sushi and Ramen dinner at Kuma, the excellent Japanese restaurant in New Bern. This is a first for me to do a sushi/ramen wine dinner, but it is also a first for such a thing to happen at Kuma.

If you are from New Bern, you already know Kuma, one of the very best restaurants in town, so on May 3rd, you get to experience it with special wine pairings. And if you are not from New Bern, well, this is your opportunity to delight in these dishes with wines that are probably a little bit better than usual.

KUMA, New Bern

Saturday May 2nd, 2026, 19:00

2 courses, 4 wines

$108 per person, including tax and gratuity.

Please make your reservation with me: email me with the "Contact Us" button at bottom of page, or text 984-312-5315, and send your payment after reading how on this page.

MENU:

SNAPPER AND YELLOWTAIL NIGIRIS

CHATEAU COULONGE MARCEAU 2020, Bordeaux White, Organic
100% Muscadelle, No Added Sulfites, non filtered. U.S. Exclusivity

CHATEAU CASTIGNO, TRAIT DE LUNE #1, 2022, Organic
100% Carignan Blanc

Marceau is a wine absolutely unique in the world, so much so that even this producer has not been able to make another one until 2024. This is pure expression, without sulfite nor filtration of the muscadelle, and you may expect lovely white flowers overtone on a rather lemony structure. Lovely with any seafood, and subtle enough to pair with sushis.

The Chateau Castigno is not really unique in the world as a 100% Carignan Blanc, but let's say that it is rare enough, that most people in the world, including sommeliers, have never had any. And this one is made as a vin nature, without added sulfite, which makes it even more unique. It is the perfect wine for sushi, subtle and discrete enough to let the sushi talk, but with plenty of distinction, notably a delicious light bitterness, to provide a rare experience. Really a fantastic Languedoc white that wins utter respect for this region's out of the ordinary vintners.

Altogether, two master sushi pairing wines here.

CHASNU PORK RAMEN Marinated braised pork belly, mushroom, and boiled egg in a pork bone broth.

CHATEAU LÉHOUL PLÉNITUDE 2019, Grand Vin de Graves (Bordeaux)
Cabernet Sauvignon 50%, Merlot 50%. U.S. Exclusivity

COURS SAINT VINCENT CLOS DU PRIEUR 2020, Grès de Montpellier, Organic
90% Syrah, 10% Grenache, Old Vines. U.S. Exclusivity

The ramen calls for a Cabernet, and we are going to have a very superior one with the Léhoul Plénitude, one of the best red Graves under the sun, relentless with black currant savors, but also tobacco, leather and more.

The Cours Saint Vincent exemplifies reds from Languedoc if that is possible, it is big but round, with silky tannins and also black currant savors. This will be a perfect way to compare some otherwise rather distant wines, but with some common ground here, especially around this dish.

I look forward to your company for this first of a kind dinner in lovely New Bern.

The men behind Chateau Léhoul, two hard working Bordelais.

APRIL 23, PARIZADE, DURHAM, FULL HOUSE WINE DINNER

Languedoc and Provence Beauties

I have a soft spot for this dinner, one the two full house wine dinners I can do each year at Parizade. I like the spring, and what it lends itself to, here as a dinner.

At this time of the year, I am always reminded of that musical theme by Michel Legrand, "You must believe in Spring." So beautiful, it brings me to tears. Although its fame here, comes from Bill Evans's version, it was created for my favorite musical, "Les Demoiselles de Rochefort." starring a number of cinematographic legends, notably Gene Kelly, George Shakiris, but also and above all, Catherine Deneuve and her sister, Françoise Dorléac. It is the only film in which they may be seen together. Beauties forever.

In this dinner at Parizade we will celebrate beauties of another kind, beauties in a bottle, from Languedoc and Provence, where spring is irresistibly sensual.

PARIZADE, Durham

Thursday April 23, 2026, 6:30pm

5 courses, 5 wines

$105 per person, excluding tax and gratuity.

Reservation

MENU:

JUMBO LUMP CRAB strawberry purée, avocado, grapefruit, tarragon vinaigrette.

CORINNE DEPEYRE POP-IT 2022, Rosé naturally Sparkling Wine, Organic
10% Syrah, 90% Mourvèdre, No added Sulfite, Unfiltered. U.S. Exclusivity

A very uncommon sparkling, packed with flavors well rounded by a bit of aging, and surfing on bitterness when it is pretty and delightful.

DUCK PATÉ EN CROUTE pickled vegetables, micro green salad .

DOMAINE RICHEAUME, RICHEAUME BLANC 2020, Provence, Biodynamic
5% Vermentino, 25% Grenache Blanc, 25% Sauvignon Blanc, 25% Viognier. U.S. Exclusivity

A beautiful expression of Grenache blanc, which dominates this blend taste wise. golden with time, and rendering those evolved alcool savors typical of this varietal, flirting with a tad of lovely almondish bitterness, while dispensing caressing notes of mirabelle (yellow plum).

LOBSTER AGNOLOTTI saffron pasta dough, fava beans, sweet carrot purée, Parmesan cream

DOMAINE DU PARANDOU, SABLET BLANC 2023, HVE
50% Viognier, 30% Bourboulenc, 20% Roussanne U.S. Exclusivity

A very expressive white Rhône, fresh and light, yet somewhat robust, with a lemon attack giving way to white flowers. A perfect wine for lobster.

BRAISED LAMB SHANK smashed green peas, green garlic, brown butter jus

DOMAINE LA ROUVIOLE, LE REVENANT 2022, VDF, Organic
100% Carignan.. U.S. Exclusivity

Carignan is the variety coming back from the dead, now that it is re-discovered as a valuable grape if treated with appropriate deference. You will enjoy the freshness inherent to this varietal, with a declination of blue fruits aromas slightly jammed: a bit of cassis, lots of plum and blueberry.

GRILLED NY STRIP, creamy polenta, roasted mushrooms, chipolini onions, green peppercorn jus

MAS DE CYNANQUE, AMPHYÈDRE, Saint Chinian, Organic
100% Mourvèdre, Aged in Amphores. U.S. Exclusivity

Mas de Cynanque is one of my very top producers, it rivals the best in terms of all around excellence. It is one of those producers that does not make a bad wine.

Amphyèdre is a word blending amphora and Mourvèdre. This is a difficult wine to produce, and in recent years it failed a couple of times. The amphoras bring an aerial dimension to a varietal that may otherwise be a bit too earthy. This varietal is still a bit mysterious, and I invite you to come taste what it can deliver, notably paired with this unusual dish. This beautiful 2018 vintage is starting to have enough age to mesmerize your palate.

I look forward to your company for this celebration of south of France beauties.

Parizade in spring colors

MARCH 26, 2026, NAOS, CARY, FRENCH ROMANCE WINE DINNER

I am flattered to have been invited to be the host of the first French Wine Dinner at Naos, which is home to Kevin Drapper otherwise known for being the chef behind Bin 54's success. Kevin and I go quite a bit back, he is extremely talented, and this dinner, one very close to his heart, will demonstrate that.

So do not miss this French Romance that will swing like a Java, the food pairing are extraordinary.

NAOS, Cary

Thursday March 26, 2026, 6:30pm

6 courses, 6 wines

$135 per person, iexcluding tax and gratuity.

Reservation

MENU:

PAIN PERDU AUX CHAM{PIGNONS French toast, chêvre, mushrooms, herbs.

ARNOUX & FILS, CHATEAU LESTOURS CLOCHERS, LES PÉNITENTS BLANCS 2023
Vacqueyras Blanc, 60% Grenache Blanc, 20%, Roussane, 10%, Marsanne, 10% Viognier U.S. Exclusivity

This wine allies the elegance of Grenche Blanc and the aromas of Roussanne, Marsanne, Viognier to deliver a high class White Rhône wine. The fact that it is made bu=y my brother, no less, is a gage of supreme quality, and no, he does not get preferential treatment, he does not need it.

ARTISAN SALAD Pickled shallots, walnuts, herbs, vinaigrette.

CHATEAU CASTIGNO, TRAIT DE LUNE #1, 2022, Saint Chinian Blanc, Organic
100% Carignan Blanc. U.S. Exclusivity

This a very rare wine, most sommeliers have never tasted a Carignan Blanc, let alone in a 100% version. In fact I only have 7 cases left, so enjoy it, and get some while possible, for this wine was a one shot, this producer changes his wines every year.

This is a rather fresh wine, with a little lemon in the attack, then a slightly gritty body , rather mineral with a gentle wild strawberry finish. A wine delivering rather unique and pleasurable experience. You'll feel in unexplored territory.

SEARED SCOTTISH SALMON Beluga lentils, mirepoix, bacon dijon & Tarragon, beurre blanc

CHATEAU LÉHOUL GRAVES BLANC FÛT, 2020
60% Sauvignon Blanc, 40% Sémillon, aged in oak. U.S. Exclusivity

A super classic Bordeaux white, one of the very best, with a fair amount of tension and bottle time, thereby allowing for aromas, including the oak, to be perfectly integrated. This wine is at its peak now, and will remain there for 2-3 years, enjoy it while possible, only 4 cases left.

You will enjoy the complex mix of peach, apricot, mango, cedar, that allow this wine to play with any strong seafood, even with the tarragon in this dish.

ONGLET AU POIVRE Gratin dauphinois, haricots verts

MAS DE CYNANQUE, CARISSIMO 2019, Saint Chinian, Organic
Carignan Vieilles Vignes, 119 years old (1900). U.S. Exclusivity

Another super rare wine, for Old Carignan are typically not that old. Expect the best that Carignan can deliver, savors of plum, blueberry, a tad of violette, supposed by a very present somewhat large but gentle structure with domesticated tannins. Ideal with a steak like this one, a French classic cut, one of my favorites.

P'TIT BASQUE FLOWER, truffle honey

DOMAINE DE RAVANÈS, LE RENARD BLANC, IGP Hérault Organic
85% Grenache Gris, 15% Petit Manseng. U.S. Exclusivity

Marc Bénin from the Domaine de Ravanès, has beaten Chateau Pétrus in a blind tasting. This is no accident, as Marc is a walking wine encyclopedia with two PhDs in sciences pertinent to wine making. This is how he is able to produce superb wines on a property that would normally only yields mediocre ones. But nature's adversity can force one's mind to challenge conventions and find a way.

He has found it for sure with this wine, another unique one which tastes like no other, the blend itself is unique. You will experience bait of citrus in the attack, a strong body supported by the Grenache Gris, and its elegant structure, pigmented by accents of stone fruit and stone fruit pits coming from the Petit Manning. It is difficult to imagine a better wine to pair with this cheese, itself a very elegant preparation made from shavings of the cheese. An aerial construction altogether.

COMME UN CAFÉ AU CHOCOLAT, White chocolate foam

LA GRANDE ABBESSE 2016, SAINT EMILIION GRAND CRU
80% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc. U.S. Exclusivity

This Saint Emilion with its chocolate, coffee and cherry undertones, is a perfect pairing with pronounced but not hyper intense chocolate desserts. expect an allegory of savors around declinations of chocolate, from dark to milkier to white.

I look forward to your company for this sensual wine dinner.

Des Amants dans mon Café, French Romance in real.

MARCH 12, 2026, TABLE, ASHEVILLE, WINE TASTING DINNER

ONLY 11 GUESTS. 3 SEATS LEFT

Table Asheville

I am thrilled to do another dinner at Table Asheville, one of the very best, and most pleasant restaurants in town. Table offers a true Farm to Table cuisine, and together we came up with this well out of the expected menu, as a way to happily transition from Winter to Spring.

One of the things that I adore at Table, is that vegetables are on the forefront, something really uncommon in a restaurant world almost always dominated by proteins.

We will be in the front window, in a very urban setting with a view on what is going on Lexington.

The wines in this dinner are all from Languedoc, the real new frontier for French wines, and are from the upper part of my portfolio, although from appellations that may remain mysterious to most of you, until of course you do the Languedoc Tour with me. All but one, are U.S. exclusivities, and are at the very top of the game in their appellations/regions of origin. You will notice that a majority are "Vin de France," as generic an appellation as there is, because these wines are so cutting edge that they don't even fit in the otherwise rather loose Languedoc appellations.

So be prepared to be surprised, and hopefully blown away, that is what these wines do to me.

TABLE Asheville

Thursday March 12, 2026, 6:30pm

Up to 11 guests, plus this Free Speaking, French Uncensured Wine Minister.

$134 per person, including tax and gratuity.

Vegetarian and GF substitutions available, if planned at booking.

Reservation: Please make your reservation with me: email me with the "Contact Us" button at bottom of page, or text 984-312-5315, and send your payment after reading how on this page.

Cancelation Policy

MENU:

EVAN'S CARROTS cress, hazelnuts.

MAS FOULAQUIER, CHOUETTE BLANCHE 2020, VDF, Organic
20% Grenache Blanc, 20% Grenache Gris, 20% Bourboulenc, 20% Rolle, 20% Clairette, Aged in Amphoras, Indi Yeast, No Added Sulfite, Demeter

The Chouette Blanche, especially the incredible 2020 vintage, is a rare wine, archetypical of the Languedoc by its centeredness on Grenache Blanc, and yet is unique given everything else that characterize this wine.

It is defined by its tension between a beautiful light bitterness and strong but delicate overtones of scuppernong. This is a wine for people thinking they have drunk it all, only to discover that they had never experienced, nor imagined a world like the one of this wine, one that gently resists to all food attacks, triumphs of them, and can marry most of them.

That's right, if I had to drink only one white, it would be this one.

LAMB AND BOAR SHEPHERD"S PIE with celeriac.

MAS DE CYNANQUE, AMPHYÈDRE 2018, Saint Chinian, Organic
100% Mourvèdre, Aged in Amphores. U.S. Exclusivity

Mas de Cynanque is one of my very top producers, it rivals the best in terms of all around excellence. It is one of those producers that does not make a bad wine.

Amphyèdre is a word blending amphora and Mourvèdre. This is a difficult wine to produce, and in recent years it failed a couple of times. The amphoras bring an aerial dimension to a varietal that may otherwise be a bit too earthy. This varietal is still a bit mysterious, and I invite you to come taste what it can deliver, notably paired with this unusual dish. This beautiful 2018 vintage is starting to have enough age to mesmerize your palate.

SMALL CHEESE COURSE Persimmon, pecan

MAS FOULAQUIER, GRAN' TONILIÈRE 2021, VDF, Organic
100% Old Carignan, Aged in Amphoras, Indi Yeast, No + Sulfite, Demeter. U.S. Exclusivity

This wine does not exist anymore, the plot has been sold, and the few cases I have is all that humans will be able to taste of this totally out of the ordinary wine. Because this is an Old Carignan, grown at about 400 meters of altitude, which is unusual, and also vinified in a Vin Nature fashion. So you will taste a different expression of Carignan, with a bit more acidity, and fresher red fruits savors, a wine like no other, and perfect for a cheese course.

BISCOTTIS, Almonds, pine nuts

DOMAINE DE RAVANÈS, L'ILLE 1998, VDF, Organic
100% Ugni Blanc Late Harvest. U.S. Exclusivity

Marc Bénin from the Domaine de Ravanès, has beaten Chateau Pétrus in a blind tasting. This is no accident, as Marc is a walking wine encyclopedia with two PhDs in sciences pertinent to wine making. This is how he is able to produce superb wines on a property that would normally only yields mediocre ones. But nature's adversity can force one's mind to challenge conventions and find a way. he has found it for sure with this wine, another unique one: who has ever heard of late harvest Ugni blanc, let alone one from 1998?

In the end, this wine is not light years away from a Vin Santo, and you sure will enjoy it with biscottis dipped in it, in the Tuscan fashion.

I look forward to your company for this Asheville rare wines dinner.

Gran'T 2021, a totally unique wine, old vines Carignan from altitude.

MARCH 8, 2026, FIREFLY CAFÉ, NEW BERN, WINE TASTING BRUNCH

ONLY 12 GUESTS.

Domaine du Cassard Crémant de Bordeaux Brut Blanc, my popular bubbly, in a league of its own

I am excited to offer this simple but cool brunch in New Bern. There will have been a Wine tasting Saturday at Savi's wine, and this will give us an opportunity to re-convene, and hopefully finalise interest for the Bordeaux Tour in June with Cammie.

This will be the last opportunity to settle on this, and otherwise, a chance to enjoy each other's company with a hearty brunch with a delicious bubbly from Bordeaux

FIREFLY CAFÉ, New Bern

Sunday March 7, 2026, 10:30 am

Up to 12 guests, plus this Free Speaking, French Uncensured Wine Minister, and probably cammie.

$68 per person, including tax and gratuity.

Reservation: Please make your reservation with me: email me with the "Contact Us" button at bottom of page, or text 984-312-5315, and send your payment after reading how on this page.

Cancelation Policy

MENU:

Your Choice of

HUEVOS LOCOS STACK Smoke chipotle black beans, corn tortillas, crispy pulled pork, 2 eggs, cilantro, avocado..

Or

PACIFIC NORTHWEST CRÊPE Smoked salmon, white cheddar, red onions, dill cream cheese

And let's end on:

NOLA FOSTER CRÊPE bananas, caramel buttered rum sauce, cinnamon, mascarpone

Or

APPLE PIE CRÊPE Sauteed apples with butter, cinnamon, brown sugar, whipped cream

You will enjoy this brunch with this sparkling from Bordeaux :

DOMAINE DU CASSARD CRÉMANT DE BORDEAUX, Blanc, Brut
100% Sémillon. U.S. Exclusivity

This is a very satisfying sparkling wine from Bordeaux, it is made like a Champagne, but is a bit different, unlike most Crémants which try to ressemble Champagne. This one is remarkably present, with a definite yeasty and abundant structure punctuated by notes of wild pear, almond, biscuit.

I look forward to your company for this morning cosy brunch in New Bern.

Firefly Café's Patio in New Bern.

chateau le chatelet, saint emilion grand cru classe

restaurant, occitanie, village, languedoc