Sulgrave Club

How has this idea enhanced your club's operation, etc.?

The Judgement of Paris tasting of 1976 transformed the wine industry when a panel of top French wine experts shocked the industry by choosing unknown California wines over France’s best in a blind tasting. This pivotal moment put Napa on the map and was depicted in the movie Bottle Shock. The Wine Committee at Sulgrave Club encompassed this theme into their annual fall wine dinner. The dinner featured California Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnays vs. French Bordeaux and Burgundy Chardonnays. Was this wine revolution momentous or calamitous? They were the judge! The response, turnout, and overwhelming feedback was the members enjoyed the education and how interactive the dinner was.

How was this idea implemented, and what have been the club members' reactions?

The Judgement of Paris event took place in our Ballroom where long tables were set with topiaries and candles down the center. Each member was given a ballot for the wines and a paddle with an American and a French flag. Each course featured an American wine and a French wine paired with Chef’s selection of American and French food pairings. After each course a member of the wine committee spoke about the wines before taking a vote from the members. The members raised their paddles and cheered for their wines. The members enjoyed the education about the wines, the camaraderie that occurred with the table layouts, and most especially the engagement component that happened with the voting. The club is now considering keeping the concept and changing the countries annually.