Members and their guests enjoyed a very special “Vegas Strong” Champagne Chaîne Gala Holiday induction evening at Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino.

The elegant reception featured outstanding wines from Italy, Spain, and California. Hors d’oeuvres were prepared by Wolfgang Puck’s Lupo, Michael Mina’s Stripsteak, Akira Back’s Kumi Japanese Restaurant and Bar, and the Mandalay Bay Culinary Team. An edible “Toyland” centrepiece masterfully created by Chef Christophe Feyt wowed the members and guests and set the stage for his dessert later in the evening.

After welcoming remarks by Bailli Larry Ruvo and Michael Severino, Vice-Conseiller Gastronomique, Ira Falk, Member of the Conseil Magistral and Chancelier of the USA, inducted eleven new members and promoted two members to a higher grade.

Several of the stellar chefs from the resort’s outstanding restaurants contributed their culinary skills. Chefs Charlie Palmer, Rick Moonen, Shawn McClain, and Susan Wolfla, Executive Chef at Mandalay Bay, were just a few of the names of this epicurean ensemble who collaborated on this wonderful holiday menu.

Master Mixologists lifted everyone’s “spirits” with their talents, and three Master Sommeliers from Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits of Nevada selected the “bubbles” for each course.

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Smoked ricotta gnudi with Parmesan and black truffle
- by Chef Shawn McClain, Libertine Social -
Champagne Louis Roederer by Phillipe Starck 2009

Moroccan cured salmon with Beluga lentils
quinoa, crisp taro, and tomato harissa
- by Chef Rick Moonen, RM Seafood -
Champagne Mumm ‘Cordon Rouge’ NV

Imperial Wagyu tournedos of beef
winter root vegetables, tiny herbs, Madeira-flavoured natural jus
- by Chef Charlie Palmer, Charlie Palmer Steak -
Champagne Dom Pérignon 2006

Spiced apple hazelnuts with cider gelée
blackcurrant caviar, cocoa crumble, chocolate “Showpiece of Joy”
- by Executive Pastry Chef Christophe Feyt, Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino -
Beau Joie Champagne Sugar King Demi-sec

Fox Company, 2nd Battalion, 23rd US Marines presented the colours, followed by the National Anthem sung by talented young Vicki Jamie. Entertainment spotlighted Vegas Master Magician Lance Burton and cast members of “Michael Jackson One”.

The unforgettable evening concluded with the traditional “Twelve Days of Christmas” competition led by Cher impersonator Heidi Thompson and a dazzling performance by award-winning entertainer Skye Dee Miles.

Marilyn LaRocque
Chargée de Presse Provincial, Far West