The nationally acclaimed wine auction and gala dinner “Carnivale du Vin” was held at the Hyatt Regency New Orleans. Upon arrival at the navy carpet, guests received a glass of Brut Premier at the Champagne Reception by Louis Roederer.
Visiting guest chefs Jimmy Bannos Jr., Jimmy Bannos Sr., Michelle Bernstein, Roy Choi showcased their talents with a spectacular four-course meal paired with wine from Patz & Hall, Merry Edwards, Post Parade and Broadbent.
Guests dined on tables adorned with navy and gold pintuck linen with four spectacular Waterford crystal glasses at each place setting, ready to receive the perfectly paired wine selections with each course.
The silent auction was the foundation’s largest yet, offering more than 80 wine lots and 90 luxury goods and travel experiences, which were displayed on tiered shelving running the length of the tables covered in midnight blue linen, dendrobium blooms and glistening twinkle lights.
Ty Pennington served as emcee throughout the event. Meschiya Lake and the Little Big Horns played the reception music, and Michael Cavanaugh, Broadway actor of musical Movin’ Out, performer and musician, provided the feature entertainment.
Each guest received a lapel pin commemorating the 10th anniversary “Carnivale du Vin,” a collectible tradition each year. Gift bags featured a special cookbook called The Pot and The Palette Cookbook by George Rodrigue Foundation of the Arts and Louisiana Restaurant Association Education Foundation, along with notecards from St. Michael Special School, a bloody Mary spice blend from NOCCA Culinary Students, FIJI water, Emeril’s coffee and spices, a Lenox crystal votive and chocolates from Jacques Torres.
The Emeril Lagasse Foundation celebrated a major milestone with the 10th anniversary of “Boudin, Bourbon & Beer” and “Carnivale du Vin,” a weekend of fundraising for children’s charities that raised $2.25 million this year.
EVENT AT A GLANCE
What: “Carnivale du Vin,” benefiting the Emeril Lagasse Foundation
When: Saturday, November 8
Where: Hyatt Regency New Orleans
