The Algarve Wine Society held its annual black-tie gala dinner and dance at Vila Vita Parc in Porches last Friday night. Members also attended the annual general meeting which was convened by the president of the general assembly, Michael Savage.
Anne Green, president of the board, paid tribute to the committee members and welcomed Jane Chesworth to the management committee. This was Anne’s final year as president having held the position for six years and been a committee member for eight years.
Under her leadership, the society has expanded its membership and broadened its appeal.
Michael Savage presented Anne with a commemorative bowl together with some Douro wine and the AGM approved her becoming an honorary member. Anne is succeeded by Gaynor Stapleton who is an experienced committee member and is well connected in the world of wine.
After pre-dinner drinks, guests enjoyed their meal which commenced with tepid goat cheese with Nashi pear, orange blossom honey and field salad, followed by beef consommé with root vegetables and chive. The main course was veal medallion in a truffle jus, served with wild mushrooms and crunchy potato. Then there was a cheese plate and finally a dessert of chocolate with passion-fruit and pine seeds, completing “a truly wonderful meal”.
The wines accompanying the meal were familiar to those who attended the trip to the Dão region. The white was an Encruzado 2015 from Quinta das Marias and the red was the Quinta da Falorca Lagar Reserva 2011 that scored 95 points with Robert Parker. There was some fine LBV port to finish.
Dancing ended the evening with music provided by Wendy and Adam Bunney who kept all and sundry on the move.
www.algarvewinesociety.com
Photo: The committee: back row, from left, Steve Rigby, Nick Sykes, Nigel Adams, Steve Hencher, Derek Lambert. Front row, from left, Larry Hampton, Michael Savage and Anne Green (President)
