Sixth Annual Gourmet & Grapes – The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island, South Carolina
One of the highlights of the weekend was the Gourmet Culinary Luncheon on Saturday afternoon with Executive Chef Colin Bedford of The Fearrington House Restaurant in Pittsboro, North Carolina. Chef Bedford has also earned the distinction of being named a Relais & Chateaux Grand Chef. We have had the pleasure of working with Chef Bedford in the past and waited with great anticipation for his cooking demonstration and dishes prepared along with his Sous Chef, Thomas Card, and the culinary staff of The Sanctuary. They did not disappoint. The flavors were outstanding and each course was paired with Mira wines from Napa Valley. Winemaker Gustavo Gonzalez, of Mira Winery, took guests through the selection of wines with each of the courses.
Three beautiful dishes were served at lunch. From a Celery Root and Apple Soup with Smoked Crab Salad and Spiced Cake paired with a 2011 Mira Chardonnay (Oak Knoll) to the stunning Chocolate Soufflé with Bitter Chocolate Sauce and Vanilla Whipped Cream, paired with a 2009 Mira Cabernet Sauvignon from Rutherford Valley, guests enjoyed the dining experience while Chef Bedford entertained everyone with his British wit and culinary expertise.
An afternoon of champagne tasting with Laurent-Perrier’s Southeast Manager, Sarah J. Halstead, or a wine tasting with Jordan Vineyard & Winery’s winemaker, Rob Davis, followed the culinary luncheon. For those guests wanting a break from food and wine, a stroll around the property or other outdoor activities such as bike riding, golf, or nature hikes around Kiawah Island are always an option before the last evening’s event.
such a great time and a joy to be a part of this event!
jimihatt