Friday, April 6
Once everyone arrived we enjoyed a splendid evening of flamenco and gastronomy at one of Chef David García’s two restaurants Tablao in Corral de la Morería.

Saturday, April 7
In the morning our destination was Alcalá de Henares, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Arriving at the centre of city life, the beautiful Plaza de Cervantes, we had a tour of historical interest. Many snapshots were taken in the Casa Natal de Miguel de Cervantes. Lunch at Hostería del Estudiante was a specially created Cervantes menu.

In the evening the Induction Ceremony and Gala Dinner of Spain’s 68th Grand Chapitre took place in the impressive setting of the Palace of the Dukes of Santoña dating from the 16th century. Bailli Délégué Rosa Román received us with her wonderful smile and a welcome cocktail. A photo call recorded the occasion.

The palace’s majestic staircase’s walls are splendidly decorated in the purest Baroque style. The setting’s elegance enhanced the symbolism of the Induction Ceremony, conducted by Klaus Tritschler, Member of the Conseil d’Administration from Germany, and held in the Assembly Hall.  One by one, Klaus named new positions and new members in a warm, emotional ceremony.

At the reception Veuve Clicquot Champagne was served with Don Finardo Iberico Bellota ham, artisan cheeses and marinated salmon.

A delicious five-course Gala Dinner created by Chef Miguel Ángel Mateos Robles was held in the Oriental Room. Each table took a Spanish writer’s name and quote. Terras Gauda wines, Pago de Carraovejas and Gramona sweet wine were perfect partners.

MENU

Avileña beef paired with kimchi
warm cream of truffled potato

Fillet of grouper
citrus sauce, sautéed vegetables

White garlic with apple, vermouth and caviar

Crispy glazed duck
cream of sweet potato, candied onion

Trilogy of chocolate
red fruits, violet ice cream

No detail was missing. Everyone received a bottle of Extra Virgin Olive Oil silk-screened with the Chaîne logo. Gin and tonic was served as the new friendships forged this special night were enjoyed.

Sunday, April 8
A cold, cloudy morning did not deter us from our city walk. Coffee halfway was welcome and as our walk ended so the sun shone. Lunch, typically Castilian, was at Restaurant el Segoviano with Chef Carlos Martín Carbonero Cornejo, a member since 2004.

We finished our Grand Chapitre with a toast for friendship and gastronomy together with a resounding “Vive la Chaîne!”

Raquel Fernández
Dame de la Chaîne