A select group of internet influencers, sommeliers and journalists shared a bold, immersive celebration of Rhône Valley white wines, from France at Chicago’s Room 1520. The experience was coordinated by Colangelo Partners, the nation’s leading marketing and public relations agency serving the wine and hospitality industries and sponsored by the Rhone in White Society.
The presentation and walkaround tasting experience were inspired by the iconic French Dîner en Blanc (dining in white) concept. Participants were all requested to wear white summer garden party attire. The event was held in the elegant Room 1520 in Chicago’s Fulton Market. The setting was decorated to replicate an indoor version of a French Garden Party.
Participants tasted through more than 80 exceptional white wines from 18 Rhône appellations, including AOC Condrieu, Côtes du Rhône, AOC Ventoux, the second-ever vintage of Gigondas Blanc, and samples from the newest Rhône Cru: Laudun, among others.
The tasting experience offered a deep dive into the rich diversity and unique profiles of the white wines of the Rhône Valley. Tasters entered an all-white universe complete with accompanying gastronomic dishes such as seared White Tuna with Maitake Mushrooms, Baby Scallops on a bed of pureed White Cauliflower, Colossal White Shrimp with Creme Fraiche and Classic Shrimp and Grits with Creamy Cauliflower Gazpacho. An all-white decor was provided by Room 1520.
A masterclass preceded the tasting, featuring Master Sommelier Jim Bube followed by a series of lively discussions led by Rhone in White Ambassadors Derrick C. Westbrook of Chicago’s Hawksmoor Chicago British Steakhouse, 500 North LaSalle and fellow Rhone in White Ambassadors Kat Hawkins, and Rachael Lowe.
It was a completely comprehensive and lovely experience with one exception-the conspicuous absence of the winemakers themselves. It would have added greatly to the dynamic of the event to have had first-hand contact with the producers of these exquisite wines.
A representative from Colangelo assured me that I would have an opportunity to experience individual wines of my choosing at a later time. I look forward to an opportunity to have a more focused experience with these exceptional white wines in the near future. I would love to pair them with my own recipes, including my Grandmother’s White Gumbo and my own Shrimp and Grits version with a White Chevre Sauce. For more, visit rhoneinwhite.com/
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