The Algarve Wine Society held its annual Gala Dinner and Dance at Pestana Hotel Vila Sol on February 28. Ninety-four members and guests attended.
The Annual General Meeting was convened by the Assembleia Geral’s Vice President, Larry Hampton.
Anne Green, President of the Direcção, summarised the 11 events that took place during “a very successful 2013”, including several wine tastings, the traditional gala black-tie dinner-dance following the AGM, a summer party, a Christmas dinner-dance and trips to the Alentejo coast and the Douro in Portugal.
The Secretary, Nigel Adams, reported that there were 215 members, with 25 new ones having joined since the start of the year. A new website – www.algarvewinesociety.com – has been created for members and potential new members are now able to apply to join direct from the website.
The Treasurer, David Grindley, gave his report, declaring a balanced financial situation for the Society. Ron Dodsworth, President of the Conselho Fiscal, assured the assembly that the Society’s books were in order.
With business matters over, the members meandered happily over to enjoy dinner at L’Olive Restaurant. The starter was crème brûlée au foie gras with figs and massala compote, walnut bread, followed by loin of cod fish on a bed of Champagne vegetables risotto, and a seafood butter sauce, and then pineapple sorbet with Goji berries and peppermint soda.
The main course was filet mignon of beef on chorizo gravy, potatoes gratin with truffle aroma and artichoke heart crusted with parmesan crumble. A cheese plate followed with compote and crackers, and the dessert was a trilogy of chocolate.
Coffee and traditional Portuguese custard tart finished the meal, which was accompanied by wines from Granadeiro and tawny and LBV port from Grahams.
Ilze van Zanten (pictured) provided the musical entertainment and kept everyone dancing late into the evening.
