Burgundy Dinner Friday 13th November with Dunell's and Berry Bros.

After our Burgundy Tasting upstairs and apertif of Perrier Jouet Belle Epoque 2002, it was downstairs to the private room in Bohemia for the Burgundy Dinner.  Shaun Rankin devised a menu especially for the evening and after the welcoming introduction from Adrian Burns there was much anticipation for the food and wine combinations ahead. 

First up was Grilled local mullet and roast scallops, cauliflower puree, blood orange, white chocolate and fourme d’Ambert.  This was served with Les Heretiers du Comte Lafon Macon-Milly ‘Clos du Four’ 2007 and Bret Bros Pouilly-Vinzelles ‘Les Quarts’ 2007.  When we were told what Shaun had planned for our starter, we must admitt that we were a little daunted as to what wine to choose (especially with the use of white chocolate) but we came up trumps with the two choices but in particular the Comte Lafon Macon-Milly with its creamy minerality, richness and length.  What a stunning wine, not to mention the dish.  A flavour explosion and every mouthful was different, delicate yet textured.  The wine really brought out the flavours of the mullet and scallop which against all the other flavours on the plate was quite remarkable.  The room was almost silent as no one wanted the dish to end!  The second wine was also great, much crisper than the Macon-Milly but equally powerful.

Next up was Slow cooked fillet of Scottish beef Rossini, woodland mushrooms , “pomme galette” and Summer truffle served with Patrice Rion Nuits-St-Georges Vieilles-Vignes 2006 and Frederic Mugnier Nuits-St-Georges 1er Cru ‘Clos de la Marechale’ 2006.  Stunningly presented, this dish was perfect with both wines and it was hard to choose which was the best.  The wine from Patrice was plummy and made in the classic Nuits-St-Georges style, full of fruit and finesse and the wine from Frederic was harmonious, classy, plummy and superbly structured to age.  The room was very divided on opinion.  It is great when that happens and reinforces the choice to serve two wines. 

The cheese course of Brie des meaux and Perigord Truffles was delicious.  Always a great combination, Neil loved loved loved this dish.  This was served with Arnaud Ente Meursault ‘Clos des Ambres’ 2005.  Unfortunately, I didn't get a chance to photograph this dish as it was devoured rather quickly. Sorry.  It was easy to see why Domaine Arnaud Ente is one of the hottest wine properties in Mersault today and is arguably Burgundy's brightest rising star.

Finally, the dessert of Slow cooked caramelised pineapple chop, coconut sorbet and sesame seed brittle adorned the table and was served with Domaine Cauhapé Jurancon Vendange Tardive ‘Symphonie de Novembre’ This was a WOW dish and I could have happily eaten two plates! Incredible flavour and the coconut sorbet was to die for.  Unfortunately, the dessert wine wasn't from Burgundy as Burgundy is not really known for its dessert wines so we chose a Jurancon and it delivered! A very intense nose, combining citrus fruit and exotic perfume (pineapple & quince) with hints of fine oak, resin, spice and toasty notes.  Another dish and flavour combination that no one wanted to end.

We finished the evening with coffee, some gorgeous petit fours (we even asked for more) and a glass (or two, or three) of Chateau de Montifaud 'Reserve de la Famille' 30 Year Old XO.  Remarkable aromas of dried fruits and, in particular, grilled almonds. Great freshness and not too tannic.  A perfect end.

All in all a fabulous evening and wonderful company.  Huge thanks to Adrian and Damien for their wisdom, to all the satff and chefs at Bohemia for an incredible meal and to all the guests who made it a evening to remember!

Jane