Our annual Ordre Mondial des Gourmets Dégustateurs (OMGD) Chapitre was held just west of Stockholm in the Bailliage of Uppland. The venue was the former Royal castle of Ekolsund now transformed into a hotel, event and conference facility.

After a tour of the castle our focus was on the wines with the theme being ‘sparkling’. Our Échanson, Magnus Fritzell, together with Olle Schedin, Vice-Échanson (now Honoraire) of the Bailliage of Uppland, guided us through five sparkling wines from Italy, Spain, France and England.

In the Chinese porcelain room, we began with blind tasting in order to discover the differences and similarities of the various wines. During the tasting and when the wines were revealed our tasting hosts took us though the different countries, wines and their characteristics. Tasting and atmosphere both received top ratings!

Next on our programme was the Induction Ceremony held in the cellars of the former inn within the castle. Afterwards we enjoyed more champagne then moved upstairs for dinner.

Each course was accompanied by two wines: one safe, well-known wine and one wild card. We had great fun tasting and deciding which we preferred. The set up was highly appreciated. Discussions became very animated regarding which wine was the best.

The food was excellent of course. Asparagus, deer and rhubarb were the main ingredients of the fantastic dinner. Apart from the wines that is!

The whole experience at Ekolsund was a true joy. We will be back for sure. Next time Ekolsund will be a Chaîne establishment as well.

Carl Wachtmeister
Bailli Délégué