The "Grand Tastings" at the New Orleans Wine & Food Experience showcased wines from around the world and food served by some of New Orleans' finest chefs.
Wine connoisseurs rubbed elbows and compared palates with winemakers, asked questions and tasted special appellations from across the globe, while novice wine drinkers enjoyed the experience of trying new wines and learning what about different styles, varieties and price ranges. In addition, attendees chatted with well-known and up-and-coming chefs in the culinary world.
The Fleur de Lis Culinary Awards were bestowed duing the "Grand Tastings." Best of Show honors were awarded to Restaurant R'evolution's chef Jana Billiot for Savory and to DTB's chef John Hill and pastry chef Jessica Shoemaker for Sweet; Gold awards were awarded to Hyatt's chef Jonah Nissenbaum for Soups and Stews; Tsunami's chef Jared Graves for Seafood; Hyatt's chef Aleksandre Nadirashvili for Meat and Poultry; Miti at Black Penny's chef Octavio Ycaza for Lagniappe; and Tsunami's chef Salita Natasine for Dessert.
Event at a Glance
What: “Grand Tastings,” benefiting New Orleans Wine & Food Experience
Where: New Orleans Convention Center
When: Friday, May 25
Chef Stephen Fried, Aimee Brown and chef Julie Ricks
Jim Fein and Honoree chef Jana Billiot
