For this Ordre Mondial des Gourmets Dégustateurs (OMGD) event, 14 members and guests visited Chateau Nine Peaks Winery in the nearby town of Laixi in Shandong Province.

On arrival we were warmly welcomed by the resident winemaker, Denise Consentino, who hails from Italy. She introduced us to the vineyard and its history with a guided tour during which she explaining all of the processes that they operate in the amazing facility.

We were fortunate to taste a Chardonnay directly from the stainless-steel vat, as well as the same Chardonnay from an oak barrel in the barrel cellar at a different stage in its life.

We also sampled a Petit Verdot from the barrel which was a new experience for many members.

Whilst overlooking the actual vineyards as well as the historical photos of the vineyard on the walls we enjoyed a pre-lunch drink of light sparkling Villa Maria Sauvignon Blanc from Marlborough in New Zealand paired with a delicious selection of canapés.

Then we moved to the beautifully-appointed dining room for lunch. Denise explained the wines, and Vice-Conseiller Culinaire Fabio Polidori introduced the paired menu items.

We were served a selection of Chateau Nine Peaks wines, including the Chardonnay Classico, Chardonnay Reserve, Pinkker Rose, Cabernet Sauvignon Classico and the Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve, all complemented by a great selection of culinary delights.

As lunch ended, we presented a Certificate of Appreciation to the team thanking them for their fabulous preparation and presentation of the menu, for the excellent pairing of Chateau Nine Peaks wines and for their warm service that embodied the high standards expected of the OMGD.

Our members and guests were so impressed with the selection of Chateau Nine Peaks wines that everyone in attendance purchased some to take home and enjoy at a later date.

Vive la Chaîne!

Carl Duggan
Bailli