Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/118688
THE MESSAGE Whether THE TASTING PANEL goes to the brand execs or the brands call us, there is an abundance of news to report, from the latest releases to behind-the-scenes experiences with some of the world's most influential importers, winemakers, distillers . . . well, you name it. Brief Encounters We may not have enough pages in each issue to devote as much attention as we would like to each person whose path we cross, but please note that if it's in the publication, we deem it noteworthy —Meridith May, Publisher & Executive Editor A Gala for Bordeaux ew York's landmarked Byzantine church on Park Avenue, St. Bartholomew's, was turned into a temple of wine worship as 12 leading châteaux participated in the inaugural BurdiGala, a La Paulée–style fête for Bordeaux. Each château poured three vintages of its choosing, with all pouring from 2010. BurdiGala, drawn from the ancient Latin name for Bordeaux, is becoming a celebration for Bordeaux as it sheds its stodgy reputation and attracts young drinkers. But now—and more important—Bordeaux is grabbing the attention of sommelier influencers such as self-proclaimed "Riesling Overlord" Paul Greico, who owns Hearth restaurant and Terroir wine bars. He had the company of some 40 leading sommeliers recruited into service at producers' tables. They hailed from A-list Manhattan restaurants such as Le Bernardin and Eleven Madison Park, and from as far away as Café Boulud Palm Beach. The event was organized by New York importers Louis Kressman and Eric Dubourg, both transplants from Bordeaux, and Justine Tesseron whose family owns Château PontetCanet in Pauillac, the only biodynamic estate in the Médoc. The afternoon tasting preceded a black-tie dinner featuring specialties from the Gironde and Southwest France and catered by Alain Ducasse. Sadly, THE TASTING PANEL's invitation to the $850 dinner had been misplaced, or we'd report on the food and wine pairings. —Lana Bortolot Robin Kelley O'Connor (right) of Italian Wine Merchants samples Château Haut-Bailly, poured by Sommelier Alexander LaPratt of Jean-Georges. 16 / the tasting panel / april 2013 PHOTO: LANA BORTOLOT N Alfred Tesseron of Château Pontet-Canet, a biodynamic estate in the Médoc.