Wine Tasting Dinners by Contrast Tours, Dinners Designed to Show Case 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.

DECEMBER 27, 2024, DURHAM, PARIZADE, CAVIAR & TRUFFLE WINE DINNER

Truffle Harvest Reserved

Folks, let's end this year on a superb high note. The name says it all, this dinner is absolutely exceptional. It will allow Chef Jason Lawless' talent to express itself fully. So do not hesitate, book your seat right away as dinners like this one are few and far apart, notably in our latitudes.

And full disclosure: I did capture this photograph on the right a couple of months ago, but I did not bring back any truffle …

PARIZADE, Durham

Friday December 27, 2024, 6:30pm

$225 per person, excluding tax and gratuity.

Reservation: Call Parizade 919-286-9712, or email me.

MENU:

CAVIAR TRIO FROM CALVISIUS CAVIAR
Tuna tartar, cream fraiche, chives
Uni toast, soft egg
Oyster, sabayon, vermouth

YANICK OLIVIER GRAND CRU CHAMPAGNE
Blanc de Blancs de la Côte des Blancs
100% Chardonnay

This is a rare champagne, made by an Oenologist from his own plot. This producer is from a family with a long ancestry in Champagne. He works as an oenologist with some of the biggest names in Champagne, applying here to his own production, the best and fanciest techniques.

This is a very round Blanc de Blanc, with an unusual weight and a touch of oxidative notes for character. You will instantly recognized this wine as a premier Champagne.

SEARED DIVER SCALLOP, roasted sun chokes, chestnuts, truffle fondue, shaved black truffles.

CHATEAU LÉHOUL GRAVES BLANC FUT 2020
60% Sauvignon Blanc, 40% Sémillon, aged in oak

A quite aromatic white, exuding savors of stone fruit, mirabelle, yellow peach, citrus, with a well integrated sensation of oak from the barrel aging, that confers to this wine enough tanins for standing up to strong savors from food. deliciously addictive.

WHITE TRUFFLE RISOTTO forest mushroom, Parmesan Reggiano, shaved white truffles

PATRICK GALANT, CHATEAUNEUF DU PAPE BLANC 2021
45% Grenache Blanc, 25% Clairette, 20% Roussanne, 10% Bourboulenc

An earthy white, releasing savors of guarrigue, with a lot of balance and soft power that will accompany this dish with a Provençale aristocratic attitude.

GRILLED FILET MIGNON truffle braised beef short rib, parsnip purée, crispy potato chips, Black truffle jus, shaved black truffles

MAS DE CYNANQUE, AMPHYÈDRE 2018, Saint Chinian, Organic
100% Mourvèdre, Aged in Amphores

A beautiful expression of the mysterious Mourvèdre, which here thanks to the work of clay aging, allies elegance to a slightly rustic edge, or if you will, an aerial earthiness. A unique wine with a lot of depth and character, that allows Mourvèdre to show all its potential in a stunning center stage performance.

CHOCOLATE DOME ENTREMET Amarena cherries, espresso whipped cream

CORINE DEPEYRE, AMITIÉ 2015, Organic
100% Grenache Rouge Late Harvest

This amazingly unique wine evokes Banyuls, but in a substantially drier and fresher variation, loaded with Kirshed cherries savors. A wine made for chocolate pairing, that will transport you to an heaven-like destination.

I look forward to your company for this one of a kind affair.

Grand Dinner in the Club Room

DECEMBER 21, 2024, DURHAM, PARIZADE WINE TASTING DINNER

All Whites From Occitanie

ONLY 11 SEATS AVAILABLE, 8 SEATS LEFT

Parizade Wine Tasting Dinner

Dear Companions of easy life, I don't want to let the year end without seeing you at least one more time, and given the season with all the opportunities offered to over indulge, I thought a leaner type of dinner around seafood and whites was in order. This gives me an opportunity to present some of the newest whites in my selection, the ones from Occitanie which break boundaries and are truly fascinating. So come celebrate the season, in style, and taste.

This may be the shortest day of the year, but certainly not the least exciting.

PARIZADE, Durham

Saturday December 21st, 2024, 6:30pm

$108 per person, including tax and gratuity.

Vegetarian and Gluten Free Option available, see below.

Very busy night at Parizade, so only 11 seats available plus this French Wine Missionary on the Russian Front Line.

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:

GF: Gluten Free

ROASTED BEETS pear chutney, gorgonzola, toasted almonds, GF

VEGETARIAN SUBSTITUTION: GOLDEN QUINOA edamame, green chickpea, kale, roasted mushrooms, toasted almonds, GF

DOMAINE CATHALA, A BLANC 2022, Saint Chinian
Grenache Blanc 50%, Roussanne 30%, Marsanne 20%

DOMAINE DE RAVANÈS LE RENARD BLANC 2022, IGP Pays d'Hérault Coteaux de Murviel, Organic
85% Grenache Gris, 15% Petit Manseng

These two Occitanie whites are relatively heavy in Grenache Blanc as is often the case. The first one gets its subtle aromatic from the Rhône varietals associated with the Grenache, which on another end, dispenses delicious slightly oxidative notes. The Renard Blanc is a flagship wine for Domaine de Ravanès, a trail blazer in Occitanie, and this wine is totally off norms with a gentle aromatic, also pigmented by oxidative notes that are irresistibly seductive.

GRILLED BRANZINO stuffed with tomatoes, capers, olives served with stewed peppers & onions, GF.

CHATEAU LA FLEUR DES PINS 2022, Bordeaux Graves Blanc
80% Sémillon, 20% Sauvignon. Aged in Oak

MAS FOULAQUIER, LA CHOUETTE BLANCHE 2020, Vin de France (Occitanie), Biodynamic Demeter
20% Grenache Blanc, 20% Grenache Gris, 20% Bourboulenc, 20% Rolle, 20% Clairette, Aged in Amphoras, Indi Yeast, No Added Sulfite.

This Bordeaux is a known entity. Its tanins acquired from the barrel aging will do wonders to absorb the strong flavors from the dish. And its stone fruit savors will shine in this pairing. The Chouette Blanche is a more daring pairing. Its scuppernong savors and the bit of gentle, "grow on you" bitterness it deploys, will be a very interesting alternative pairing to the more obvious Bordeaux one.

BANANA RUM NAPOLEON Crispy housemade phyllo layers stacked with banana-rum pastry cream, fresh bananas, finished with Chantilly cream, raspberry & caramel sauces, GF

GF SUBSTITUTION: VANILLA BEAN CRÈME BRÛLÉE chilled vanilla bean custard with a caramelized sugar crust

PATRICK GALANT, DIMANCHE D'OCTOBRE 2012
100% Viognier, Late Harvest

This is an extremely rare wine, not only due to its age, but also because this winery has currently stopped producing this wine, which was unique due to its relative dryness, and the depth it procures. An amazing wine to enjoy while there are still some in stock.

I look forward to your company for this Christmas Cheer tasteful affair.

Le Renard Blanc on the Table at a Starred restaurant dinner during the Occitanie Wine Tour in October 2024.

NOVEMBER 14, 2024, DURHAM, PARIZADE WINE DINNER

France for the Holidays

Parizade Wine Dinner

My Pre-Thanksgiving Wine Dinner Is almost here. As every year, we will be enjoying succulent food conceived by Chef Jason Lawless, to accompany the 5 wines that I have selected to inspire you for the holidays.

PARIZADE, Durham

Thursday November 14, 2024, 6:30pm

$95 per person, excluding tax and gratuity.

Vegetarian and Gluten Free Option available.

Reservation

MENU:

CRAB CROQUETTE champagne sabayon, paddlefish caviar, chives

YANICK OLIVIER GRAND CRU CHAMPAGNE
Blanc de Blancs de la Côte des Blancs
100% Chardonnay

This is a rare champagne, made by an Oenologist from his own plot. This producer is from a family with a long ancestry in Champagne, and he works as an oenologist with some of the biggest names in Champagne, applying here to his own production, the best and fanciest techniques.

This is a very round Blanc de Blanc, with an unusual weight and a touch of oxidative notes for character. You will instantly recognize it as an elite Champagne.

SEARED RARE TUNA fines herbs, frisée, grated bottarga, sauce gribiche.

CHATEAU ROMANIN, ROSÉ 2022, AOP BAUX DE PROVENCE, Biodynamic Demeter
73% Grenache, 16% Mourvèdre, 11 % Syrah

I am from the south of France, technically a Provençal, and I do spend a fair amount of time there every year. I keep tasting rosés everywhere, but I seldom ever encounter any that can rival with Chateau Romanin. The rosés there are just beautifully expressive and elegant.

The 2022 vintage renews with peach savors, and has an unmistakable presence which will charm you.

SAFFROM RAVIOLI mussels, clams, green peas, carrot-saffron jus

CHATEAU COULONGE, MARCEAU 2020, Bordeaux white, Organic
100% Muscadelle, No Added Sulfites, non filtered

This is an ultra rare wine among rare wines. To the best of my knowledge as well as all the specialists I have asked, a 100% Muscadelle without added sulfite has never been done before. It is not even clear if a 100% Muscadelle has ever been done at all. In fact even this fabulous wine maker has only been able to produce this wine in 2020, and not again since.

So enjoy while it is still available, this prodigious wine, that delivers all the charm of Muscadelle and its floral bouquet with an increased finesse thanks to the bottle age. An exquisite treasure.

CHICKEN ROULADE mustard greens, sweet potato purée, cranberry and orange reduction

DOMAINE ROSE DIEU, SAINTE CÉCILE LES VIGNES , VIEILLES VIGNES 2018
50% Grenache, 25% Syrah, 25% Mourvèdre

With this kind of age, this high pedigree Southern Rhône wine, develops savors often associated with Northern Rhône. The wine is still elegantly juicy, with elegant cherry savors punctuated by very present fresh pepper notes to spice the bouquet. An unusual mix sure to seduce the Thanksgiving table.

GRILLED FILET MIGNON crispy risotto cake, mushroom duxelles, black truffle sauce

CHATEAU CLOS DES ABBESSES, SAINT EMILION GRAND CRU 2016
80% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc

This exceptional Saint Emilion goes beyond what a Grand Cru from this appellation usually delivers. There is an unusual concentration and depth in this wine that delivers tastes of chocolate, coffee, cherry in an enchanting fashion that will marry with this dish to perfection.

I look forward to your company for this celebration dinner.

Chateau Clos des Abbesses

AUGUST 29, 2024, TABLE, ASHEVILLE, ELITE WINE TASTING DINNER

UP T0 27 SEATS AVAILABLE, 17 SEATS LEFT

Table Asheville

I am thrilled to do another dinner at Table Asheville, one of the best restaurants in town. Table offers a true Farm to Table uncompromised cuisine, and together we came up with this exceptional menu. In order for you to appreciate what is behind Table's cuisine, I include notes about the ingredients and the process.

This dinner will allow me to present the 2025 Wine Tours, and will feature wines from these 3 journeys (Provence, Bordeaux, Occitanie). These dinners I do all over the State, were born on the tail end of the pandemic, and were inspired by the meals we enjoy in the wine tours in France, as these tours are as gastronomic as they are oenologic. Now that a following exists for the dinners here, it is fitting that they help market the wine tours.

Read through and you will see that I wanted to be certain to impress! The wines are from the top of my portfolio, and as far as dinners go, it will be a rare experience.

TABLE Asheville

Thursday August 29, 2024, 6:30pm

Up to 27 guests, plus this French Wine Minister.

$152 per person, including tax and gratuity.

Vegetarian Gluten Free Option available.

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:

HEIDI'S BREAD cultured butter
(This is Japanese milk bread from Mother Bakery in Asheville).

DOMAINE DU CASSARD, CRÉMANT BRUT DE BORDEAUX, in Apéritif
100% Sémillon

An uncommon sparkling wine, which is served with a characteristically French abandon, at nothing else but the French National Assembly. That's right, this is the French equivalent of the House of Congress.

This wine is made like a Champagne, although it is 100% Sémillon, and therefore is expectedly quite different in taste. It is crisp and rather dry, with a deep body, citrus and pear notes on a yeasty structure with very fine and plentiful bubbles. Very pleasant, refreshing and substantial.

ANNE'S CARROTS labneh, pistachio, herbs
(Summer carrots from Anne Gaines at Gaining Ground Farm, blanched and then warmed in the oven. The labneh is made with Summer Savory, an herb which Table also gets from Anne).

DOMAINE RICHEAUME TRADITION BLANC 2020, Biodynamic
25% Vermentino, 25% Grenache Blanc, 25% Sauvignon Blanc, 25% Viognier

CHATEAU ROMANIN, ALPILLES ROSÉ 2021, Biodynamic Demeter
65% Grenache, 23% Mourvèdre, 12% Cabernet Sauvignon

Two outstanding whites, from Provence. The Domaine Richeaume Tradition White 2020 is now a fairly evolved wine that has kept its remarkable character dominated by a very refined expression of Grenache Blanc,which demonstrates how southern France whites can easily compete with more well known northern France ones. It is golden and delivers delicious notes of stone fruits, notably mirabelle.

The Romanin Alpilles Rosé 2021 is an unusual rosé that is able to withstand the test of time, and now delivers an evolved version, fortified with tertiary notes, of an elegant and quite expressive rosé, with savors of jammed peach and raspberry.

GOAT RAGOUT parisian gnocchi
Apple Brandy Farm, raises just a few goats a year. Table got two whole goats that were butchered in-house and cooked in a wine sauce, resulting in this exceptional tasty dish.

VEGETARIAN SUBSTITUTION: Vegetarian Entrée, lentils, coconut, market vegetables

MAS DE CYNANQUE, AMPHYÈDRE 2018, Saint Chinian, Organic
100% Mourvèdre, aged in amphoras.

SCAMANDRE 2011, Costières de Nîmes, Organic
50% Syrah, 20% Carignan, 15% Grenache, 15% Mourvèdre

CHATEAU LE CHATELET, SAINT EMILION GRAND CRU CLASSÉ, 2018
80% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc. U.S. Exclusivity

There are 3 outstanding wines paired with this dish:

The Mas de Cynanque Amphyèdre is a very rare 100% Mourvèdre aged in amphoras, that give it an aerial nature not usually associated with Mourvèdre, and seems to promote an uncommon minerality as well. This is a wine that pairs beautifully with braised red meats, making it a must with this dish.

Scamandre produces very powerful reds in the Rhône coastal region known as Camargue. This is how such an old vintage can remain as fresh as this one. It is often paired with a toro gardianne, a sort of Boeuf bourguignon of Camargue made with toro meat, and it should do wonders as well with this dish, that will give it a chance to shine to its complexity and savors refined by age.

The St Emilion Grand Cru Classé, is a wine that reflects its pedigree. A rather modern Saint Emilion, with a rich, somewhat meaty concentration, very polished tannins, with savors of chocolate, coffee, black currant as well as cherry. All to react and add complexity while savoring this exquisite dish.

GOAT CHEESECAKE PARFAIT macerated seasonal fruits
Gluten Free crust with a filling made from a mild goat chevre, whipped with some vanilla bean and lemon zest.

CPATRICK GALANT DIMANCHE D'OCTOBRE 2012, Viognier Vendane tardive
100% Viognier

This is a beyond rare wine, which does is not in production any longer, at least for now. It is very dry, with savors of quince, pear. An exquisite finish for this dinner.

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

Chateau Romanin

AUGUST 22, 2024, ELEGANT SUMMER WINE TASTING DINNER

UP T0 23 SEATS AVAILABLE, 18 SEATS LEFT

East End Bistrot's porch of delight

I am thrilled to do a first Wine Tasting Dinner in Raleigh, and at East End Bistrot at that! This is one of Giorgios Bakatsias most impressive restaurants, and this dinner will take place in the best part of the restaurant: its exquisite porch under the breeze of the fans.

Look at the menu, and you will understand that this is not an ordinary restaurant. Chef William d'Auvray produces an ambitious cuisine, sparing nothing to deliver the best, all in a refined yet relaxed atmosphere managed by my friend Scott Hardiman, a premier sommelier.

EAST END BISTRO, Raleigh

Thursday August 22, 2024, 6:30pm

Up to 23 guests, plus this French Wine Special Agent.

$145 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.

Cancelation Policy

MENU:

CHILLED VICHYSSOISE Crème fraîche glace, Calvisius Oscietra Imperial caviar.

DOMAINE DU CASSARD, CRÉMANT BRUT DE BORDEAUX, in Apéritif
100% Sémillon

An uncommon sparkling wine, which is served with a characteristically French abandon, at nothing else but the French National Assembly. That's right, this is the French equivalent of the House of Congress.

This wine is made like a Champagne, although it is 100% Sémillon, and therefore is expectedly quite different in taste. It is crisp and rather dry, with a deep body, citrus and pear notes on a yeasty structure with very fine and plentiful bubbles. Very pleasant, refreshing and substantial.

CHARRED LAMB Japanese eggplant, roasted heirloom carrot, mint, anchovy, crisp garlic

MAS DE CYNANQUE, ACUTUM 2019, SIANT CHINIAN, Organic
60% Syrah, 20% Mourvèdre, 20% Grenache

MAS DE CYNANQUE, CARISSIMO 2019, SIANT CHINIAN, Organic
Carignan Vieilles Vignes, 119 years old (1900)

DOMAINE RICHEAUME, COLUMELLE 2015, IGP Méditerranée, Organic
Syrah 46%, Merlot 37%, Cabernet Sauvignon 17%

The Acutum, is probably Saint Chinian's most popular wine, one that you are likely to find on most serious restaurants list around there. It is quite jammy, with smooth tannins and aromas of prune and cherry in alcohol, a little bit like the cherries in Ferrero's chocolates. Superb pairing with lamb.

From the same producer there will also be the Carissimo, a 100% old wines Carignan, a lovely unique wine due to the exceptionally old vines, offering a very delicate and profound expression of Carignan, also a great pairing with lamb with its plum and blueberry, violette, overtones.

Columelle is Domaine Richeaume's Superior cuvée, the result of a tight selection and subsequent sharp barrel aging. The 2015 vintage is one that has marked history, and is becoming rather rare. Enjoy this very round, fresh and velvety wine, with substantial extraction and density tamed by time, super smooth tannins, and the distinctive black currant, plum, bilberry aromas that seem inherent to the domaine, and are particularly evocative in this cuvée.

GUAVA-VANILLA BEAN CHEESECAKE roasted pineapple

CHATEAU LÉHOUL GRAVES SUPÉRIEURES, "MOELLEUX," 2020
90% Sémillon, 10% Sauvignon Blanc

A Graves Supérieures is also known as a "Moelleux," which means "soft." It is a semi Sauternes, if I may write. This means a wine that is not "dry" anymore, and displays most of the characteristics of a Sauternes, but in a drier format, a wine neither dry nor fully sweet in a Sauternes sense if you will. I will explain at the dinner how such a wine is produced. It has an abundance of fruity savors with a dominance in this vintage of pineapple savors. This is a totally underrated wine that has applications well beyond desserts, and that you may get addicted to.

I look forward to sharing this exquisite summer dinner with you.

Old Vines Carignan at Mas de Cynanque, Occitanie

August 3rd, 2024, PARIZADE, DURHAM, BOARDROOM SUMMER WINE TASTING DINNER

UP T0 17 SEATS AVAILABLE SOLD OUT, SORRY.

Toast in Parizade's Boardroom.

I was able to secure the Parizade's Boardroom, for this dinner. This is the best spot for an intimate wine dinner, classy and cosy, with just enough room to accommodate a dynamic amount of guests, and not too many to keep it personal. So don't miss it, only at this time of the year can I get the room which is otherwise sought after for countless high Dollar events.

And sorry for the short notice, I have only been back for 2 weeks, and am juggling with a lot. This will be a menu with wines for almost everyday, and a menu with a summer start and according unusual red wines in my dinners.

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

PARIZADE, Durham

Saturday August 3rd, 2024, 6:30pm

Only up to 17 guests, plus this French Wine Ambassador.

$106 per person, including tax and gratuity.

Vegetarian Option available.

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 prosciutto, cherry tomatoes, basil pesto, aged balsamic.

DOMAINE LESCURE, À L'AVENIR 2020, Fronton
100% Négrette

MAS DE CYNANQUE, FLEUR DE CYNANQUE 2021, Organic
70% Old Vines Carignan, 20% Grenache, 10% Syrah, No added Sulfites

Two reds on the lighter side, let's say medium body, and who like to be served slightly cool. They are both very able with vegetal dishes, the Fronton is the the wine of reference for that, or at least should be. It resists to the strongest savors, including pesto.

Fleur de Cynanque is a very pleasant wine from Occitanie where we'll be soon, with very expressive blue fruit savors, and a relative lightness that marries well with vegetable dishes in general.

PORK CHOP sauteed corn, fava beans, grits, bacon jam with additional Asparagus, Fava Beans, Green Peas side

Vegetarian Substitution: RICOTTA GNOCCHI sun-dried tomatoes, green peas, pine nuts, creamy pesto

CORINNE DEPEYRE, TERRE DE CABASSOLE 2020, Côtes du Rhône, Organic
100% Grenache

CHATEAU ROCHECOLOMBE, CÔTES DU RHÔNE VILLAGES 2021, Organic
50% Syrah, 50% Grenache

LA ROUVIOLE SELECTION 2019, Minervois, Organic
60% Syrah, 20% Grenache, 20% Carignan

Three reds, 2 from Provence, and 1 from Occitanie, that will compete for your love, all are crowds favorites, and cover a good part of the spectrum.

BANANA RUM NAPOLEON Crispy housemade phyllo layers stacked with banana-rum pastry cream, fresh bananas, finished with Chantilly cream, raspberry & caramel sauces

CHATEAU VIGNOL BLANC DOUX 2019
Sémillon 60%, Sauvignon Blanc 40%

This is a rather simple, but pleasant Bordeaux white to finish a meal. A wine like a "Moelleux" of sorts, or a light Sauternes if you will. It is rather dry, but with quite a concentration of aromas (apricot, raisins in marc and more) and will agreement very well a dessert like this Banana Rum Napoleon.

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

Parizade Borad Room, Wine Dinner Set Up

July 25, 2024, RENDEZ VOUS, ASHEVILLE, PROVENCE AND OCCITANIE WINE TASTING DINNER WITH PÉTANQUE

UP T0 20 SEATS AVAILABLE 8 SEATS LEFT.

Pétanque in Occitanie

We played a lot of Pétanque during the May 2024 Provence Wine Tour, and we are going to play a fair amount as well during the upcoming Occitanie Wine Tour in September/October.

So in tribute to the good times passed and coming, I am proposing this Wine Tasting Dinner with Pétanque, at Rendez Vous in Asheville, which offers the best pétanque courts in the State, and has boules for you. This will be an opportunity for lovely camaraderie, as well as tasting a few wines that can make it on everyday tables.

RENDEZ VOUS Asheville

Thursday July 25, 2024, 5:00pm for pétanque and apéritif, 7:00pm for Dinner.

Only up to 10 guests, plus this French Wine Missionary / Pétanque Player accompanied by his wife and their boules.

$118 per person, including tax and gratuity.

Végétarian Option available.

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

MENU:

APERITIF: Pernod, the best of all Pastis, served during pétanque, which starts at 5:00 until dinner time: 7:00.

SALADE DE BETTERAVE AU CHÈVRE fresh greens, roasted beets, apples, goat cheese, walnuts, dijon mustard vinaigrette.

DOMAINE RICHEAUME TRADITION BLANC 2020, Biodynamic
25% Vermentino, 25% Grenache Blanc, 25% Sauvignon Blanc, 25% Viognier

MAS DE CYNANQUE, MÉANDRES 2017, Organic
40% Albarino, 40% Petit Menseng, 20% Grenache Gris

Two outstanding whites, Richeaume is from Provence, Cynanque is from Occitanie, both deliver beautiful and unusual expressions of Grenache Blanc et Gris, and demonstrate that southern French wines can easily compete with more well known northern France whites.

STEAK FRITES pan-seared teres major, house-made garlic butter, sautéed farm vegetables, pommes frites

Vegetarian Substitution: Truite aux Amandes

LA ROUVIOLE SELECTION 2019, Organic
60% Syrah, 20% Grenache, 20% Carignan

PATRICK GALANT, CAIRANNE VIEILLES VIGNES 2016
80% Grenache, 20% Syrah. 12 months in small oak casts

Two delicious reds, one a Minervois from Occitanie, the other a Rhône Cru from Provence. Both are very smooth and deliver a deliciously aromatic experience that will not be forgotten.

MOUSSE AU CHOCOLAT

CORINNE DEPEYRE AMITIÉ 2015
100% Grenache Noir Late Harvest

An absolutely unique wine, remarkably fresh and somewhat dry, pairing gorgeously with chocolate.

I look forward to your company for this relaxed dinner.

Domaine Richeaume on the Sainte Victoria background.

APRIL 25, 2024, G PRIME, WILMINGTON, BORDEAUX WINE DINNER

G Prime, one of the Private Rooms.

G Prime is the new, very chic, Giorgios Bakatsias wonder restaurant in Wilmington, and this is where I will host the last dinner before heading for the Spring Wine Tours in France.

If they are still available then, this may be where the last two spots for the Bordeaux Wine Tour will find their delighted holders: June 2024 Bordeaux Tour.

G PRIME, Wilmington

Thursday April 25, 2024, 6:00pm

Only up to 25 guests, plus this French Wine Preacher.

$150 per person, including tax and gratuity.

Reservation

MENU:

GOUGÈRES.

DOMAINE DU CASSARD, CRÉMANT DE BORDEAUX
100% Sémillon

An uncommon sparkling wine, which is served with a characteristically French abandon, at nothing else but the French National Assembly. That's right, this is the French equivalent of the House of Congress, and I will explain during dinner, how it helps the French representatives to pass laws.

This wine is made like a Champagne, although it is 100% Sémillon, and therefore expectedly quite different in taste. It is crisp and rather dry, with citrus and pear notes on a yeasty structure with very fine and plentiful bubbles. Very pleasant, refreshing and beyond perfect with shellfish, crudos, cheese.

OYSTERS ON HALF SHELL green apple, yuzu coconut shaved ice, pink pepper

CHATEAU COULONGE BORDEAUX SAUVIGNON BLANC, 2022, Organic
100% Sauvignon Blanc

CHATEAU LÉHOUL GRAVES SUPÉRIEURES, "MOELLEUX," 2020
90% Sémillon, 10% Sauvignon Blanc

A Graves Supérieures is also known as a "Moelleux," which means "soft." It is a semi Sauternes, if I may write. This means a wine that is not "dry" anymore, and displays most of the characteristics of a Sauternes, but in a drier format, a wine neither dry nor fully sweet in a Sauternes sense if you will. I will explain at the dinner how such a wine is produced. It has an abundance of fruity savors, in this vintage more on the exotic fruit side, and is one of the very best possible pairings with oysters, foie gras and blue cheese. Here we are experiencing the former, a truly enchanting pairing balancing saltiness with sweetness, thereby getting the best of the oysters and wine.

And in order to provide Contrast, as you know, something at the core of what I do, we also serve side by side with these oysters, an excellent Sauvignon Blanc, which is normally one of the standards for oyster pairings. This one is very crisp, with a sense of purity due a low added sulfite level.

FOIE GRAS AU TORCHON, pickled cherry, vanilla, hazelnut, toasted brioche

CHATEAU HAUT-BERGERON 2013, SAUTERNES
90% Sémillon, 10% Sauvignon Blanc

This Sauternes comes from a producer with a long ancestry in the Sauternes production, one that has not been rewarded by classification somehow, yet match and often outperforms most of the classified producers. It is the Sauternes that most of the colas buy when they are not producers themselves.

This 2013 vintage which is close to its end in terms of stock (do not hesitate to stock up) is just entering the aged part of its life. Although it has still more or less 90 years of life ahead, it is now developing more honey and jammy tastes, and therefore is ideal for pairing with Foie Gras,, with which it is totally sublime. A rare treat.

SOFT SHELL BLUE CRAB, saffron risotto, heirloom tomatoes, consomme

CHATEAU LA FLEUR DES PINS, GRAVES BLANC 2019
80% Sémillon, 20% Sauvignon. Aged in Oak

This is a Sémillon heavy Graves Blanc, with a bit of oak aging, which gives it enough tannins to stand its ground in front of flavorful dishes. With already 5 years in Bottle, It remains fresh but with rounded edges in terms of acidity, and the fruit aromas have goldener a bit. You will find notes of stone fruits, notably mirabelle, and citrus, which makes it so compatible with seafood.

DRY AGED RIBEYE, truffle potato puree, romanesco, baby carrot, pearl onion, beech mushroom, green peppercorn demi glace

CHATEAU LE CHATELET, SAINT EMILION GRAND CRU CLASSÉ
80% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc. U.S. Exclusivity

The St Emilion Gd Cru Classé, is a wine that shines on its pedigree. A rather modern Saint Emilion, with a rich, somewhat meaty concentration, very polished tannins, and savors of black currant as well as cherry. Utterly satisfying and delicious.

TRIPLE CHOCOLATE MOUSSE CAKE chocolate sponge, white & milk chocolate mousse, blueberry coulis

LA GRANDE ABBESSE, SAINT EMION GRAND CRU, 2016
80% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc

This Saint Emilion is vastly different than the one above. This is a wine that would also be served with filet, pork, poultry, but is also very friendly to chocolate, notably thanks to its wealth in cherry aromas and savors of cacao, coffee. This beautiful chocolate dessert served here, will do wonders with this wine that will bring a sense of freshness, coolness, contrasting with the warmth (tastebuds-wise) of the dessert, and will resonate with the coffee notably, but also the cacao which may be found in the savors of the wine.

I look forward to your company for this Wilmington Elegant Flight to Bordeaux.

Chef Kevin Draper

APRIL 20, 2024, PARIZADE, DURHAM, OCCITANIE WINE TASTING DINNER

20 Seats at this Table. ULTRA SOLD OUT, SORRY.

A Restaurant in Occitanie

This will be my last dinner at Parizade until I return from the Spring Wine Tours, in July. All the wines for this dinner are from Occitanie, and this will be a perfect opportunity for you to gather some appreciation for this Deep South of France, which is still a bit mysterious, but whose wines are absolutely marvelous.

My selection in Languedoc, the part of Occitanie that we visit this coming fall during the first Occitanie Wine Tour, is absolutely second to none. These wines will surprise you.

PARIZADE Durham

Saturday April 20, 2024, 6:30pm

Only up to 19 guests, plus this French Wine Frontline Envoy.

$109 per person, including tax and gratuity ($95 for vegetarian option)

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:

SPICY RED PEPPER AND FETA Garlic, pine nuts.

MAS DE CYNANQUE, MÉANDRES, VIN DE FRANCE, 2017, Organic
40% Albarino, 40% Petit Menseng, 20% Grenache Gris

While wines from the South of France typically include some Grenache Blanc, only in Occitanie have I ever found some Grenache Gris as well, but no other wine than this one blends it with these improbable varietals. The mix is extremely interesting, and has triumphed of the years that have passed. This wine is till somewhat aromatic, very dry, and offers very distinctive flavors that are made to tame spicy foods. A delicately powerful lovely blend.

AUSTRALIAN LAMB CHOPS saffron couscous, braised chickpeas, dried apricots & plums, ratatouille

Vegetarian Option:

* Marinara Spaghetti, heirloom cherry tomatoes, crumbled feta, basil

* Ricotta Gnocchi, green peas, sundried tomatoes, pine nuts, basil pesto cream

MAS DE CYNANQUE, ACUTUM 2019, SIANT CHINIAN, Organic
60% Syrah, 20% Mourvèdre, 20% Grenache

MAS DE CYNANQUE, CARISSIMO 2017, SIANT CHINIAN, Organic
Carignan Vieilles Vignes, 117 years old (1900)

DOMAINE CATHALA, CUVÉE ABSOLUE 2017
Syrah 70%, Mourvèdre 30%

The Acutum, is probably Saint Chinian's most popular wine, one that you are likely to find on most serious restaurants list around there. It is quite jammy, with a definite jammy feeling, smooth tannins and aromas of prune and cheery in alcool, a little bit like the cherries in Ferrero's chocolates. Superb pairing with lamb.

From the same producer there will also be the Carissimo, a 100% old wines Carignan, a lovely unique wine due to the exceptionally old vines, offering a very delicate, especially with the bottle age, and profound expression of Carignan, also a greta pairing with lamb with his plum and blueberry, violette, overtones.

The Cuvée Absolue (absolute) is just that, an incredible wine from a lesser known Saint Chinian producer, but one that I especially like, because of the quality and violet rich reds that he produces. So indeed there are a lot of violets savors in this wine, as well as some cherry, cigar box, a touch of orange, and a litany of flavors that gives it a stunning complexity with soft power to pair beautifully with this dish.

STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE vanilla cake, chantilly cream, fresh strawberries

MAS DE CYNANQUE, MÉANDRES, VIN DE FRANCE, 2017, Organic
40% Albarino, 40% Petit Menseng, 20% Grenache Gris

MAS DE CYNANQUE, HESPÉRIDES, VIN DE FRANCE, 2015, Organic
Grenache Blanc et Gris Surmuris (Late harvest)

The Hespérides is a more concentrated, late harvest version of the Méandres (the same wine we have with the appetizer's it suits that and dessert, and is interesting to compare with this other wine here). A wine of profound character, rather dry for a late harvest wine, and packing jammed aromas of quince and stone fruit with a definite grappa overtone. A delicious curiosity made for fruit desserts.

I look forward to this evening exploration of Occitanie in your company.

Parizade in Occitanie

APRIL 17, 2024, CORNER KITCHEN, ASHEVILLE, BORDEAUX WINE DINNER

1 SEAT LEFT

Corner Kitchen

Corner Kitchen is a legendary restaurant in Asheville, whose popularity was only re-inforced when President Barack Obama, stopped to eat there.

Having seen the serious with which the meetings to arrive to this menu where conducted, I can tell you that I expect this dinner to be spectacular, the real deal short of going to Bordeaux, and I do have two spots available for the June 2024 Bordeaux Tour.

CORNER KITCHEN, Asheville

Wednesday April 17, 2024, 6:00pm

Only up to 35 guests, plus this French Wine Missionary.

$225 per person, including tax and gratuity.

Reservation

MENU:

AMUSE-BOUCHE.... Blue Crab Gougères, Espelette, Lemon Curd, Chervil.

DOMAINE DU CASSARD, CRÉMANT DE BORDEAUX
100% Sémillon

An uncommon sparkling wine, which is served with a characteristically French abandon, at nothing else but the French National Assembly. That's right, this is the French equivalent of the House of Congress, and I will explain during dinner, how it helps the French representatives to pass laws.

This wine is made like a Champagne, although it is 100% Sémillon, and therefore expectedly quite different in taste. It is crisp and rather dry, with citrus and pear notes on a yeasty structure with very fine and plentiful bubbles. Very pleasant, refreshing and beyond perfect with seafood finger food like here, shellfish, cheese.

FIRST COURSE.... White Asparagus Potage, Spring Peas, Lemon Olive Oil, Hazelnut, Nasturtium

CHATEAU COULONGE MARCEAU 2020, Organic
100% Muscadelle, No Added Sulfites, non filtered.

This is a very rare wine, probably unique in the world, and I am not writing this lightly. It is extremely rare because of the difficulty to grow Muscadelle, a delicious varietal, but one prone to diseases, in enough quantity, but also quality, so that this wine may at all be considered producing, especially in a no added sulfite fashion. In fact this producer has not been able to produce more of it since this vintage, so it is in extremely finite quantities, all in my warehouse.

The wine is somewhat floral with clear honeysuckle notes, very well integrated by now, with that sense of purity that comes from the absence of added sulfites. It is also unfiltered so that what is left of the lies in the bottle, participate to its conservation and positive aging.

SECOND COURSE.... Foie Gras Torchon, Brioche, Rhubarb Strawberry Jam, Pistachio, Micro Sorrel

CHATEAU FARLURET, SAUTERNES-BARSAC, 2016, Transition Organic
90% Sémillon, 10% Sauvignon Blanc

This is a beautifulSauternes from the Barsac part of the Appellation, crisp and aromatic, somewhat aerial, with a fresh more modern type of aromas exhibiting notes of exotic fruits on top of classic Sauternes savors.

THIRD COURSE... Chilean Sea Bass, Artichoke Soubise, Morel Mushroom, Parsley Puree, Watercress, Fennel

CHATEAU LÉHOUL GRAVES BLANC SEC 2022
80% Sauvignon Banc, 20% Sémillon

This wine is Chateau Léhoul's most popular wine, it sets the standards amongf the very best Graves Blanc not aged in oak, with its crispness and tension, as well as aromatic wealth with notes of citrus of course, but also white peach, lichee. A remarkable white wine especially at ease with white fish.

FOURTH COURSE.... Entrecôte à la Bordelaise, Dry-Aged Ribeye, Potato Fondant, Haricot Vert, Périgord Black Truffle, Bordelaise Sauce, Chives

CHATEAU LE CHATELET, SAINT EMILION GRAND CRU CLASSÉ
80% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc. U.S. Exclusivity

The St Emilion Gd Cru Classé, is a wine that shines on its pedigree. A rather modern Saint Emilion, with a rich, somewhat meaty concentration, very polished tannins, and savors of black currant as well as cherry. Utterly satisfying and delicious.

FIFTH COURSE.... Roquefort Crème Brûlée, Quince Compote, Walnut Foam, Fig Honey

CHATEAU LÉHOUL GRAVES SUPÉRIEURES, "MOELLEUX," 2020
90% Sémillon, 10% Sauvignon Blanc

A Graves Supérieures is also known as a "Moelleux," which means "soft." It is a semi Sauternes, if I may write. This means a wine that is not "dry" anymore, and displays most of the characteristics of a Sauternes, but in a drier format, a wine neither dry nor fully sweet in a Sauternes sense. I will explain at the dinner how such a wine is produced. It has an abundance of fruity savors, in this vintage more on the exotic fruit side, and is one of the very best possible pairings with oysters, foie gras and blue cheese. Here for dessert this allowed the chef to conceive this very unusual dessert, that sounds as delicious as it is creative. Watch out, this wine can easily become addictive!

I look forward to your company for this Unparalleled Asheville Evening Flight to Bordeaux.

Bordeaux's Beauty

APRIL 13, 2024, CHELSEA, NEW BERN, ELITE WINE TASTING DINNER

24 Seats available. SOLD OUT

Here is to You!

It is challenging for me to offer a dinner like this one in New Bern on a Saturday night, and I am therefore grateful that the Chelsea extended their hospitality to us. Let's make sure to reward them with a good attendance that will provide an unforgettable joyful experience.

This will be about two weeks before I leave for the Spring Tours, and as a result, New Bern which is very dear to me, thanks notably to Cammie of Savi's Wine, will then undoubtedly be on my mind for the 2 + months that I will be Wine Touring France with some of you.

All wines will be for sale at great pricing from Savi's Wine.

THE CHELSEA, New Bern

Saturday April 13, 2024, 7:00pm

Only up to 19 guests, plus this French Wine Urban Minister.

$116 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:

FRIED BACON WRAPPED SCALLOPS lemon garlic butter.

PATRICK GALANT, CHATEAUNEUF DU PAPE BLANC LA NONCIATURE, 2021
45% Grenache Blanc, 25% Clairette, 20% Roussanne, 10% Bourboulenc

This dinner is the occasion to share this rather rare wine that is seldom offered anywhere. It captures the quintessence of Provence in a very dry and pure fashion. The aromas are subtle, almost delicate while robust, all in finesse and depth, and let float on your palate the scents of garrigue inherent to Provence.

FILET 8 oz Angus tenderloin filet served with garlic smashed potatoes and sautéed house vegetables.

DOMAINE CATHALA, CUVÉE ABSOLUE 2017
Syrah 70%, Mourvèdre 30%

MAS DE CYNANQUE, CARISSIMO 2017, SIANT CHINIAN, Organic
Carignan Vieilles Vignes, 117 years old (1900)

My first wine tour of Occitanie is premiering this fall, and I am genuinely in awe about this new journey, as well as the wines from my selection in that beautiful region. The two wines with this course are from this selection, and may help you get an appreciation for the tour.

The Cuvée Absolue (absolute) is just that, an incredible wine from a lesser known Saint Chinian producer, but one that I especially like, because of the quality and violet rich reds that he produces. So indeed there are a lot of violets savors in this wine, as well as some cherry, cigar box, a touch of orange, and a litany of flavors that gives it a stunning complexity.

The Carissimo is a very rare wine from very rare vines, a treat from the Mas de Cynanque, possibly if not probably, the most accomplished producer in Saint Chinian. This 100% Carignan will show you the beauty of this still under rated varietal, which will enchant you with its light plum, cherry, blueberry savors supported by a perfectly balanced body with well rounded tannins.

CHOCOLATE GANACHE CHEESECAKE

LA GRANDE ABBESSE, SAINT EMILION GRAND CRU 2016
80% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc

This rather rich dessert will dance with this wine full of cacao and coffee savors, balanced by cherry ones and a natural coolness contrasting with the warmth of the chocolate. Delicious.

I look forward to your company for this lovely New Bern Affair.

The Caroux, the Mountain which defines Saint Chinian

MARCH 21, 2024, PARIZADE, DURHAM, WINE DINNER

Parizade, Wine Dinner

This is it folks, it is this time of the year, when my spring Wine Dinner at Parizade is approaching. This time the theme is "Bordeaux or Provence, The Spring in all its Essence"

Chef Jason Lawless and this French Wine Special Commando, have imagined a refreshing menu to celebrate the spring in all its glory.

PARIZADE, Durham

Thursday March 21, 2024, 6:30pm

$125 per person, excluding tax and gratuity.

Reservation: Please call (919) 286-9712

Wines will be available for purchase at great pricing.

Please note:

* Chef inspired Vegetarian and Gluten Free substitution available upon request at booking

MENU:

CRAB ARANCINI calvisius caviar, chive purée, crême fraiche

DOMAINE DU CASSARD, CRÉMANT DE BORDEAUX
100% Sémillon

An uncommon sparkling wine, which is served with a characteristically French abandon, at nothing else but the French National Assembly. That's right, this is the French equivalent of the House of Congress, and I will explain during dinner, how it helps the French representatives to pass laws.

This wine is made like a Champagne, although it is 100% Sémillon, and therefore expectedly quite different in taste. It is crisp and rather dry, with citrus and pear notes on a yeasty structure with very fine and plentiful bubbles. Very pleasant, refreshing and beyond perfect with seafood finger food like here, shellfish, cheese.

BLUE CHEESE AND SHORT RIB FLATBREAD roasted pears, toasted walnuts

CHATEAU LÉHOUL GRAVES SUPÉRIEURES (MOELLEUX), 2020
90% Sémillon, 10% Sauvignon

A Graves Supérieures is also known as a "Moelleux," which means "soft." It is a semi Sauternes, if I may write. This means a wine that is not "dry" anymore, and displays most of the characteristics of a Sauternes, but in a drier format, a wine neither dry nor fully sweet in a Sauternes sense if you will. I will explain at the dinner how such a wine is produced. It has an abundance of fruity savors, in this vintage more on the exotic fruit side, and is one of the very best possible pairings with oysters, foie gras and blue cheese. Here we chose the latter to show how such a wine may shine and be incorporated in unusual parts of a meal. Watch out, it can easily become addictive!

POACHED SWORDFISH braised artichokes, mussels, coriander, cherry tomato, saffron nage

PATRICK GALANT, CAIRANNE BLANC GALIFAY, 2021
Grenache Blanc 55% - Roussanne 35% - Viognier 10%

This Cairanne Blanc exemplifies the best that may come from a white Rhône wine. It is a bit fat, quite floral and less citrusy than a wine from the Loire or Bordeaux. Its undoubtedly seductive and distinctive white floral notes, are enhanced by an unusual wood character, a bit smoky with a light toast evoking cedar. This is a wine that holds its ground facing powerful savors, which makes it a beautiful pairing with the dish here, conceived for this occasion.

DUCK AND BACON BOLOGNESE sweet potato gnocchi, ricotta salata

CHATEAU CARBON D'ARTIGUES TRADITION, GRAVES ROUGE, 2018
80% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon

It turns out that 2018 was a fantastic vintage in Bordeaux, and this Graves illustrates it beautifully. It is deliciously juicy and plush with cherry aromas that by now come singing to enchant the palate. A very smooth and full delivery with classique graphite shavings notes in the finish, a superb Bordeaux, warmer than usual.

GRILLED LAMB CHOP AND CRISPY BRAISED LEG green peas, fava beans, grilled green onions, brown butter thyme jus

PATRICK GALANT, CHATEAUNEUF DU PAPE LA NONCIATURE, 2017
60% Grenache, 30% Syrah, 10% Mourvèdre. Parker 91-94

A wine delivering what should be expected from this appellation: concentration, smoothness, ampleness. Here augmented with aromas of violette, cherry, lavender, garrigue, cigar box, gentle licorice. A very complex and enchanting wine, ideal to celebrate the spring with some lamb.

CHOCOLATE DOME ENTREMET Amarena cherries, espresso whipped cream

CORINNE DEPEYRE AMITIÉ 2015, Organic
100% Late Harvest Grenache Rouge

This wine is amazingly unique, it evokes Banyuls, but in a substantially drier and fresher variation, loaded with cherry savors, a wine made for a rich chocolate pairing as in this dessert.

I look forward to your company for this always exceptional rendez vous.

Patrick Galant in Chateauneuf du Pape

MARCH 7, 2024, TABLE, ASHEVILLE, ELITE WINE TASTING DINNER

17 Seats available. SOLD OUT, Please contact me to be on the Waitlist.

I am mighty happy, and proud, to present the first dinner of this kind at Table, Jacob Sessom's elegant Farm to Table restaurant on Lexington Ave, in downtown Asheville, definitely one of the trendiest culinary venues in the town. There we will be enjoying a very urban view and a high quality meal, conceived in partnership with Chef Patrick Rumley and with the orchestration of Malcolm Knighten, Table's Wine Director whose professionalism has earned my greatest appreciation.

As per the tradition of this dinner format of mine, we will compare two wines with each of the two first courses, and venture a bit outside of the dusty alleys of traditional food pairing, and with wines that are themselves rather outside of norms. If you like modern food and wine with exceptional conviviality, come enjoy Asheville at its best.

All wines are of course from my import portfolio.

TABLE, Asheville

Thursday March 7, 2024, 6:30pm

Only up to 17 guests, plus this French Wine Urban Minister.

$145 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

Wines will be available for purchase at great pricing from Metro Wines.

Please note:

* Given the farm to table nature of the restaurant, some minor changes may occur to the food menu.

* Chef inspired Vegetarian option available upon request.

MENU:

4 NEW BRUNSWICK OYSTERS Heidi's Bread, House Cultured Butter, lemon, pepper.

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

CHATEAU FARLURET, BARSAC-SAUTERNES, 2016
90% Sémillon, 10% Sauvignon Blanc

Two rather upscale pairing with these oysters, the Pouilly Fuissé is a very delicate Burgundy wine from one of the finest plots in the appellation, in one of the top climates (appellation with particular merit within the appellation). A delicate minerality and notes of apricots. This Sauternes with oysters is one of my favorite pairings, marrying the saltiness of the oyster with the relative sweetness of the wine, they cancel each other, letting the palate enjoy a more flavorful oyster magnified with a firework of savors from the Sauternes.

WOOD ROASTED PORK Heirloom Grits, Early Spring Vegetables

DOMAINE RICHEAUME, TRADITION 2018, Red, Biodynamic
Syrah 47%, Grenache 43%, Cabernet Sauvignon 10%

PATRICK GALANT, CAIRANNE OLD VINES 2016 and 2017
80% Grenache, 20% Syrah. 12 months in small oak casts

The Domaine Richeaume Tradition is a fleshy and fresh, wine from Provence, exhibiting definite savors of plum and black currant. The Cairanne Old Vines, has velvety tannins infused with violet savors, leather, garrigue spices. Both will enchant your palate with this dish.

BLACK FOREST CAKE Cocoa-Cherry Frosting, Amarena Cherries

CORINNE DEPEYRE AMITIÉ 2015, Organic
100% Late Harvest Grenache Rouge

This wine is amazingly unique, it evokes Banyuls, but in a substantially drier and fresher variation, loaded with cherry savors, a wine made for chocolate pairing, especially a Black Forest of this magnitude.

I look forward to your company for this exceptional Asheville Dinner.

cairanne, dentelles de montmirail, mont ventoux

Patrick Galant's Vineyard with view on Cairanne in the background

FEBRUARY 3, 2024, PARIZADE, DURHAM, PAELLA DINNER WITH BORDEAUX WINES

Up to 21 Seats. SOLD OUT, but please let me know your interest to be on the wait list. Thank you.

Parizade Board Room

Every first weekend of the month, Chef Jason lawless proposes a Paella, but in this dinner you will have a chance to experience it with a series of Bordeaux white wines selected especially for this dinner. Because of course Bordeaux is also a great region for whites.

Zhait the Wine Director at Parizade, is joining me as a host of the June 2024 Bordeaux Wine Tour and so this will set the atmosphere for the participants to this glorious journey to come.

And depending on availability and the overall numbers, we may be in the Board Room, the most precious space at Parizade, as illustrated in the photographs.

This dinner is rather well suited for Gluten Free people and also has vegetarian substitutions.

PARIZADE, Durham

Saturday February 3, 2024, 6:30pm

Only up to 19 guests, plus this French Wine Matador.

$92 per person, including tax and gratuity.

Reservation: Please make your reservation with me: email with button at bottom of page, and send your payment after reading how on the page linked below.

Payments and Cancelation Policy

Wines will be available for purchase at great pricing.

MENU:

GREEN CHICKPEA AND MUSHROOM FALAFEL creamy feta dressing, pickled onion, cucumber salad (Gluten Free)

DOMAINE DU CASSARD, CRÉMANT DE BORDEAUX
100% Sémillon

You may read about this out of the ordinary wine here.

PAELLA Chorizo, chicken, shrimp, clams, rice, saffron (Gluten Free)

CHATEAU LA FLEUR DES PINS, GRAVES BLANC 2019
80% Sémillon, 20% Sauvignon. Aged in Oak.

CHATEAU LÉHOUL GRAVES BLANC FÛT, 2020
65% Sémillon, 35% Sauvignon Blanc, aged in oak.

The La Fleur des Pins is a natural choice for this dish. It displays a light oakyness assorted of rather forceful stone fruit like yellow plum, and citrus savors. The Chateau Léhoul is a firework of more exotic aromas, citrus as well, but also mango, lichee, passion fruit, that will hold their ground to danse a festive complicit chachacha with this rather powerful dish. I cannot think of better wines to pair with this dish, and it will be fascinating to see which ones resonates better for you.

VEGETARIAN: GOLDEN QUINOA, edamame, green chickpea, kale, roasted mushrooms, toasted almonds (GF)

or PUMPKIN GNOCCHI, spinach, toasted pumpkin seeds, sage & brown butter alfredo.

KEY LIME PIE

CHATEAU HAUT BERGERON 2016, SAUTERNES
85% Sémillon, 15% Sauvignon Blanc

This is a superb Sauternes for dessert dishes (Sauternes may be paired as well with some savory dishes), due to its acidity content that balances well its sweetness, and allows a full enjoyment of its intense aromas of apricot, orange peel, pineapple etc.

Gluten Free substitution: Crème Brulée.

I look forward to your company for this uncommon Bordeaux Whites affair.

Parizade Borad Room, Wine Dinner Set Up

JANUARY 25, 2023, AVENUE M, ASHEVILLE, WINTER MOUNTAIN DINNER WITH FRENCH WINES

Up to 20 Seats. SOLD OUT, PLEASE CONTACT RESTAURANT TO BE ON WAIT LIST

Avenue M

What could possibly be nicer than winter in Asheville? Come get warm with the dishes conceived for this dinner by Chef Zack Ghidotti, paired with French wines selected by Ralph and I. It will take place in the private room for a convivial ambiance in which we can hear each others.

AVENUE M, Asheville

Thursday January 25, 2024, 6:30pm

Only up to 19 guests, plus this French Wine Missionary to the Altitude Territories.

$80 per person, plus tax and gratuity. (that's right, no typo, it's a no brainer, Ralph wants to warm up your heart)

Reservation: (828) 350-8181

Wines will be available for purchase at great pricing.

MENU:

RADISH CAESAR roasted radish medley, watercress, black garlic crouton, boquerones

MAS DE CYNANQUE MÉANDRES 2017, VdF de Saint Chinian, Organic
40% Albarino, 40% Petit Menseng, 20% Grenache Gris

A definitely southern France white but rather rare blend, with a fair amount of bottle aging now. Extremely balanced and round in a white fashion, with a delicious sunshine bitterness.

SCALLOPS duck fat potatoes, fennel, horseradish cream, roe

CHATEAU LA FLEUR DES PINS, GRAVES BLANC 2019
80% Sémillon, 20% Sauvignon. Aged in Oak.

A Sémillon dominant white from Bordeaux, and the corresponding stone fruit savors to be expected, mostly mirabelle (yellow plum) with traces of oak left after quite a bit of aging already. A lovely seafood companion.

RISOTTO mushroom & leek ragu, fried & pickled beech mushrooms, parmesan

KARIM VIONNET, CHIROUBLES 2021
100% Gamay, Vin Nature, Carbonic Maceration.

A lot of magenta fruit in this very expressive Beaujolais, with a controlled but determinant acidity.

HICKORY NUT GAP PORK CHOP warm red cabbage, apple chutney

DOMAINE CATHALA A' 2017, SAINT CHINIAN.
Syrah 50%, Grenache 40%, Mourvèdre 10.%

CHATEAU ROCHECOLOMBE, CÔTES DU RHÔNE 2021, Organic.
60% Grenache, 40% Syrah. Paris Gold Medal.

We could not decide which wine would be best with this dish, so you will be experiencing both. The Cathala A' is juicy and rich, very balanced after 6 + years in bottle, yet retaining a slight acidity and a fair amount of violette and notes of cherry. The Rochecolombe is the reference in Côtes du Rhône, juicy, fleshy, with dominant savors of raspberry, plum and licorice on the finish. Very addictive.

MIGNARDISES

I look forward to exchange the warmth with you.

Karim Vionnet in Villié Morgon, amazed at this menu.