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Australia Festive Dinner

Bailliage of Western Australia, Australia
Perth, December 21, 2022

A very Christmassy affair!
" The food was delicious. Wine pairings were ideal "

The Bailliage’s annual Christmas dinner was a night to remember. Guests dressed in festive red, gold, and green attire were welcomed with chilled glasses of Champagne Pommery and delectable hors d'oeuvres. The dining room was exquisitely decorated setting the stage for the evening's menu.

Bailli Thurston Saulsman welcomed guests. Executive Chef Clayton Green shared a preview of the delicious dishes to come. Club Secretary Hugh Stowell gave an entertaining and informative presentation regarding the wines. Vice-Argentier Sonny Rahim proposed the toast with a Chinese-inspired poem based on the “Twelve Days of Christmas”.

The meal began with cured scallop and shark bay scampi with kohlrabi, chilli, tobiko, coriander, and spiced mango. This well-balanced dish was paired with the 2022 Leeuwin Estate Art Series Riesling, adding a nice acidity to the dish and complementing flavours superbly.

Second course: Exmouth Red Emperor with Chardonnay cream, cranberries, crisp capers, and charred baby leek, was a standout dish. The flavours of the fish were delicate and expertly executed. Paired with the 2021 Shaw and Smith M3 Chardonnay whose buttery notes balanced the flavours of the fish perfectly.

Main course: Marri honey-glazed Wagin duck breast with cauliflower, asparagus, chestnut, and plum, and spiced mango sauce was beautifully cooked. The duck was tender and flavourful. The 2020 Bouchard 'La Vignee' Bourgogne Rouge was a great match. The wine's rich and full- bodied nature complemented the flavours of the dish excellently.

Dessert course: candied ginger and new season cherry parfait with gingerbread, white chocolate snow, cherry gel, and nutmeg mascarpone was a delightful conclusion. The 2017 Sauternes from Château Pechon was a great match. The wine's sweetness balanced the dessert’s flavours.

Coffee with White Christmas and fruit mince pies was a lovely way to finish the meal.

The service team ensured the evening proceeded with total efficiency and elegance. Overall, it was an extraordinary degustation dinner. The food was delicious. Wine pairings were ideal.

Vive la Chaîne!

Sande Saulsman
Vice-Chancelier

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