The Algarve Wine Society held its annual gala dinner and dance at the Vila Vita Parc near Porches last Saturday.
An excellent attendance by the society’s members ensured the evening’s success and with the champagne flowing, the evening got off to a lively start.
But business came first, and in the Society’s case this meant the Annual General Meeting, marking the Society’s 15th year of existence. It was convened by the Assembleia Geral’s President, Michael Savage, and attended by more than 100 members.
Anne Green, President of the Direcção, in her written report, summarised the 11 events which took place in 2011, including several wine tastings followed by dinner, the traditional gala black tie dinner dance following the AGM, a summer party, a Christmas lunch and a Swiss themed gourmet dinner and trips to the Western Cape Province of South Africa, La Rioja and the Ribera del Duero regions of Spain and a day trip to the Alentejo.
The Secretary, Larry Hampton, reported that there are 222 members, with 16 new ones having joined since the start of the year.
There are 11 events planned for 2012, the next ones being on March 14 (a lunch port tasting at the EHTA Catering School in Faro), April 17 (a gourmet dinner at Florian’s Restaurant in Quinta do Lago), in early May (an organised trip to Bordeaux) and the weekend of May 19-20 (a food and wine event in Almendralejo, Spain, hosted by Cofradia, the wine society of the Ribera del Guadiana).
The Treasurer, David Grindley, gave his report, declaring a healthy financial situation for the Society. Edwin Bisset, President of the Conselho Fiscal, assured the assembly that the Society’s books were kept according to sound and accepted accounting principles.
With business matters over, the members quickly turned their attention to the more pressing issue of enjoying themselves.
Champagne and cocktails were followed by a five course dinner. The wines included a Mulderbosch Sauvignon Blanc 2010 white from South Africa and a Pintas Character 2009 red from the Douro.
Music for dancing was provided by Ilze van Zanten, who kept all on the move until the wee hours.
The society wishes to thank Simon Rose for the organisation and Vila Vita for the service.
The Algarve Wine Society’s membership is at its upper limit, and a waiting list is in effect, but if you would like more information about the Society please contact the Secretary, Larry Hampton at email [email protected].
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