The Réunion’s Honorary Chaplain, and fellow Gastronome, The Reverend Roderick Leece, extended a warm welcome to the service at St George’s, Church, Hanover Square. The service included music specially selected for the occasion, and the truly heavenly choral singing by the Choristers of St George’s.
St George’s Hanover Square is the parish church of Mayfair and it has always been at the heart of its community and history. More information on St George’s can be found at: https://www.stgeorgeshanoversquare.org/
Luncheon
The service was be followed by a splendid luncheon arranged under the auspices of Fellow Gastronome Stuart Johnson, at Brown’s Hotel, London.
The award-winning Brown’s Hotel opened in 1837 and it has been the hotel’s pleasure to welcome the world through its doors. Brown’s became part of Rocco Forte Hotels in 2003 and reopened in 2005 after a multi-million-pound refurbishment. More information on Brown’s can be found at: https://www.roccofortehotels.com/hotels-and-resorts/browns-hotel/
Sparking Reception
A generous range of canapés was served together with Moët & Chandon NV
Created in 1869, the iconic Moët & Chandon Impérial, reflects the diverse and complimentary nature of Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier and Chardonnay. Golden straw yellow with hints of green apple, citrus fruit and with mineral nuances, this wine was drinking well.
Moving through to the luncheon, members and guests were welcome by the President Wallace Vincent and Brown’s Hotel Manager, John McLean. Grace was said by the Réunion Chaplain and fellow Gastronome, The Reverend Roderick Leece.
First Course – Lightly spiced Delica Pumpkin soup
Very seasonal, warming, comforting and gently spiced soup with the pumpkin flavour shining through.
Albert Mann Gewürztraminer. Alsace AOC 2017
Pale gold with aromas of citrus and tropical fruits, this off dry wine displayed high acidity set balanced against flavours of tropical fruits.
Main Course
Crown of Blackwell Farm Turkey with Cranberry sauce and seasonal trimmings
Traditional roast turkey from the Farm Assured Blackwell Farm with all the traditional accompaniments.
Perez Cruz Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon, Chile DO 2014
Award winning Cabernet Sauvignon with a deep burgundy colour, aromas of ripe red berries and spices, oak flavours, mature tannins and a smooth finish. The wine is also vegan friendly
Selections of cheese
Traditional selection of cheeses, together with grapes, figs, celery and crackers, were offered at the tables for Members and Guests to help themselves.
Brown’s Mince Pie with Vanilla ice cream
Delightfully warm mince pie, topped with spiced butter, and served with vanilla ice cream.
Coffee, infusions and chocolates
Chocolates were offered for the table and there was also a special gift for the ladies.
The Loyal Toast was proposed by The President Wallace Vincent who also proposed the santé du chef et du service.
Christmas carols
In readiness for the carol singing, the President, Wallace Vincent, handed out some Christmas bells. Members and guests then enjoyed the special annual treat of members of the St George’s choir leading the exuberant carol singing.
Appreciative thanks were given to Chef James Willis, to Amit Prabakhar and the team in the room and to Hotel Manager, John McLean.
Text and pictures by Gastronome John Cousins