Wine & Dine: 1. Lucy Byrne & Brian Egan; 2. Clodagh McKenna; 3. Amanda Kavanagh & Alan Maher. (Pix. Brian McEvoy)
For four nights only in The Crypt at Christchurch Cathedral, a select group of 30 guests each night were given the opportunity to take part in a masterclass wine tasting and delicious culinary dining experience courtesy of Jacob’s Creek. The lucky attendees were encouraged to ‘See Beyond The Label’ and discover the true character of the wine and food on offer.
Using only their senses as a guide, guests were taken on a gastronomic rollercoaster as wine expert David Whelehan conducted a wine tasting masterclass experience. He revealed classic wine tips like how to understand a wine label and how to identify a Chardonnay from a Sauvignon Blanc. He also conducted a blindfolded wine tasting to help guests develop their sense of smell and recognise the aromas of different wines.
Top celebrity chef Clodagh McKenna delighted guests with a unique menu to match the wine on offer, creating a delicious three course dinner menu, including a starter of fresh crab salad from Ted Browne’s in Dingle, Irish wild Atlantic salmon for main course and a delicious cheese board of Irish artisan cheeses from Sheridan cheesemongers.
Incidentally fans of Clodagh McKenna are in for a treat as she is introducing her ‘Homemade by Clodagh’ brand to all the restaurants at Arnotts department store. The take-over is already complete, with significant investment in refurbishment and staff training to follow for the restaurants over the coming months. Customers are already getting a taste of the ‘Homemade by Clodagh’ offering, with preview dishes for the new menu being introduced as daily specials.
