Krug Collectors Dinner Shines
Krug Hatbox; Photo by Frederick Breedon
They say you never forget your first taste of Krug. Although the 30 guests at l’Eté du Vin’s Krug Collectors Dinner were far from Krug virgins, it’s safe to say none will forget the six course champagne dinner that kicked off 2011 Nashville Crush. Held at the home of Jamie and Larry Beckwith and prepared by Chef Johnny Haffner of Capers Catering, this Collectors Dinner was exquisite. The tablescapes were provided by Cynthia Himmelfarb and The Premiere Event, and the wine service was executed meticulously by Hoyt Hill of Village Wines.
Beckwith Cellar; Photo by Frederick Breedon
Guests started the evening by ogling at the Beckwith’s outrageous cellar while sipping Krug Grande Cuvée and enjoying a Seafood Bar on ice. The cool of the Brut, the cellar and the crustaceans were much appreciated on what was one of the year’s hottest evenings – July 15. After sufficient summer greetings, the group was eager to be seated and move on to the Soufflé and Osetra Caviar with Homemade Potato Chip and Crème Fraiche paired with Krug’s Clos Du Mesnil 1998 and even a pour of the Clos d’Ambonnay. Comments on the Champagne were offered by Moët Hennessy’s, Scott Ridlen with punctuations by Hoyt Hill.
Chairman Steve Taylor & Hoyt Hill; Photo by Frederick Breedon
Subsequent courses of Truffle Ravioli paired with Krug Vintage 1998 and Dover Sole Meunier pleased the oenophiles. Next came Breast of Pheasant with Caramelized Onions and Golden New Carrots with Krug’s Rose’ NV, perhaps the favorite of the night. The final course – Roquefort Ice Cream with Grilled Honey Glazed Peaches was accentuated by a blind tasting of 2005 Chateau d’Yquem and 2005 Chateau Climens. Some of Nashville’s best palates guessed incorrectly.
The evening was special to say the least. Thank you Krug. Thank you for helping l’Eté du Vin unite the wine community in the fight against cancer with this rare and special offering of unforgettable Champagne.