Serendipity sometimes works best with the greatest mystery. The New Brunswick Chain held its annual induction gala for 5 new members on Sunday, November 24 at the Rossmount Inn in St-Andrews.
The event was originally scheduled to take place at another establishment, but problems beyond our control forced a change of venue and date.
Fortunately, chef Chris Aerni and his partner Graziella came to the rescue, agreeing to host the annual gala. Most symbolic of all, the first NB Baillage event took place in this magnificent country inn, just 5 years ago.
As tradition demands, Bailli délégué Tony Catanese of the Baillage du Canada was on hand in St-Andrews for the ceremonial induction of 5 new members and a ribbon change for an existing member.
The event was crowned by a delicious 5-course gourmet meal prepared by the chef and his team. The thirty or so guests enjoyed a pre-dinner cocktail with hors d'oeuvres and Drappier Champagne.
Chaine NB Bailli Cornel Ceapa sabered the magnum of sparkling wine to kick off the festive evening.
The feast began with a succulent fish soup as the first course, accompanied by Poplar Grove Chardonnay 2022 from the Okanagan Valley.
Next, Maritime flavors were again on display with a dish of Storeone Tonnato, Caviale, Riccio di Mare. This delicious combination of sturgeon, caviar and sea urchin was a delight when paired with a Pouilly Fumé, Château de Tracy Mademoiselle de T 2023.
After a refreshing sorbet, the 3rd course featured a delectable elk tartare paired with a California wine, Caymus-Suisun Grand Durif Petit Syrah 2020.
The Swiss-born chef kept up the protein momentum with a deconstructed “Wellington” beef tenderloin that tasted like the sky!
Paired with a most prestigious Okanagan Valley red wine in the Bordeaux style, this dish radiated on the palate in the presence of Grand Vin d'Osoyoos Larose 2019.
Finally, a bit of sweetness was offered at the end of the meal with a dessert of cranberry pudding, birch syrup, ice cream and a sweet pairing with a dessert wine from Italy.
The Ben Rye Muscat 2022 from the Sicilian house of Donnafugata was a perfect match.
Comments