The “wows”: prestige wine cellar, rooftop garden, private salon, Notre Dame Cathedral, Port tongs.

We started with a guided tour of the “Miracle Cellar” (located on two levels below ground). We could not fail to be impressed by the 23,000+ bottles surrounding us - mainly from Bordeaux, Burgundy and Champagne. The oldest one was dated 1788!

The reception was on the rooftop, exclusively reserved for our group, where we could enjoy a glass of La Tour d’Argent’s Grand Cru House Champagne with selected spring-themed appetizers. The Rooftop Garden has a 360 degrees view of Paris, the charred structure of Notre Dame Cathedral being a prominent and poignant feature.

During the visit we learnt that it is all change at La Tour d’Argent. After over a century of business (and the place where you would be most likely to see Presidents or celebrities pop round for dinner), the historical restaurant located by the Seine will be launching a brand-new private salon as well as branching out into other activities.

Our lunch was in a private salon with a panoramic view of Paris. Decorated in the style of the 18th century, the salon is reputed for its silver table settings and adorable tableware. The three-course menu was exclusively created by Chef Philippe Labbé. Sommelier David Ridgway selected wines ideally suited to the occasion.

MENU

Wild pike quenelle
morels casserole, mushroom sauce
Rully Blanc 1er Cru ‘Gresigny’ 2012
Domaine Jacqueson

Roasted Challans duckling
baby broad beans, duck crackers
sanguette (blood sauce)
Fitou 2013 - Château des Erles

Surprising chocolate combinations
Churchill’s Quinta da Agua Alta 1992
Single Quinta Vintage Port

Sommelier David Ridgway specially selected a 1992 Port to accompany the dessert. With it came a fascinating tableside service featuring an 18th century method of cutting a vintage bottle with Port tongs. What a wonderful performance it was!

André Terrail, owner of La Tour d’Argent, came to greet us and say a few words, reminding us that his father was a Chaîne member and that he will now be continuing this family link which unites our Confrérie and this historical restaurant.

This exclusive event saw members visiting from China, Monaco and Alsace. Before leaving, everybody received their unique La Tour d’Argent “duck” certificate with an identical number.

All in all, we are honoured to announce that La Tour d’Argent and its chef Philppe Labbé are going to join the Chaîne family very soon!

Laurent Poultier du Mesnil
Chancelier (& acting Bailli Provincial of Paris/Île de France)