On Wednesday 11th October, our trio of Ambassadors present and past (Julian White, Gerard O’Shea, and Justin Rhodes), accompanied by a member of Council (Chris Noon), made their way to The Shelbourne, a world-famous five-star hotel on St Stephen’s Green, right in the heart of Dublin. The Shelbourne is a Caveau of the Confrérie’s UK & Ireland Embassy, and its General Manager, JP Kavanagh, is our Consul for the Republic of Ireland.
The occasion was hosted in partnership with Champagne house Laurent-Perrier, as a showcase of how fine dining can be complimented by decadent sparkling wines throughout the meal, not just beforehand.
The reception featured La Cuvée NV and a variety of delicious canapés, and several dozen guests and members of staff performed Novice Sabrage.
We then proceeded to The Saddle Room for dinner, which was a phenomenal five-course banquet prepared (and introduced) by Executive Chef Garry Hughes; each course was expertly paired with fabulous Champagnes by The Shelbourne’s Sommelier, Nisea Doddy.
The menu was as follows:
- Lambay Lobster Tartlet, Pickled Dulse, Sea Purslane (Laurent-Perrier Vintage 2012)
- Poached Black Sole, Sweetcorn, Laurent-Perrier cream, Pearl Caviar (Laurent-Perrier La Cuvée NV)
- Scallop Ceviche, Fresh Almonds, Kholrabi, Laurent-Perrier Snow (Laurent-Perrier Blanc de Blancs Brut Nature)
- Roast Lamb Saddle, Trompette Mushroom, Celeriac, Truffle (Laurent-Perrier Grand Siècle)
- ‘The Brunch’: Rhubarb & Keelings Strawberry Compote, Crème Anglaise, Strawberry Mousse, Coconut Dacquoise Sponge, Strawberry Rice Crisp, Lusk Rhubarb Consommé (Laurent-Perrier Cuvée Rosé)
- Selection of Chef’s Petits Fours
Suffice it to say, this was an unforgettable experience, even after seemingly limitless glasses of Champagne. I was very pleased indeed to have booked a room in the hotel for the night, but somewhat less pleased about my choice of a 7am flight back to London—at least the Cabin Service Director spotted my need for Champagne, although she was most apologetic that she was unable to provide Laurent-Perrier…
