“Carnivale du Vin 2019” marked the 15th year for the nationally recognized wine auction and gala dinner for Emeril Lagasse Foundation’s signature program, Emeril’s Culinary Garden & Teaching Kitchen, and nationwide nonprofit youth organizations supported by the foundation’s community grants program. The event was held at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center. The evening began with the G.H. Mumm Champagne Reception. During the Bacchus Reception, guests enjoyed food from culinary greats and wine from renowned vintners: Richard Blais, David Burke, Ashley Christensen, Sarah Grueneberg, Castello Banfi, Chateau Gaby, Paradigm and Paul Hobbs Winery. The Krewe du Vin Dinner featured a four-course meal created by Emeril Lagasse, Emeril’s Chefs de Cuisine and New Orleans Center for Creative Arts culinary students. Together with students from Café Reconcile, the students formed the service team for the special evening.
Auctioneer DawnMarie Kotsonis and Special Guest Auction Reader Michael Haney offered prizes for bidding. Décor was provided by Perfect Presentations, including draped linens in gold, white, black and vibrant red, floral arrangements and candelabra adorned tables. Beverages were provided by G.H. Mumm Champagne, Buffalo Trace, Abita, Fiji Water and Republic National Distributing Company. Burlesque performers from Fleur de Tease greeted guests as they entered the G.H. Mumm Champagne Reception. Aerial performers provided by DreamCast Entertainment entertained guests during the night’s Bacchus Reception. New Orleans native band, The Soul Rebels, closed out the evening with a lively performance.
The official commercial airline sponsor was American Airlines. Flexjet was the private flight sponsor, and the media sponsor was Wine Spectator. The event raised $1.5 million for nonprofits providing nutrition and culinary education, life skills development, arts education and basic childhood needs.
Event at a Glance
What: 15th “Carnivale du Vin,” benefiting Emeril Lagasse Foundation
When: Saturday, November 9, 2019
Where: Ernest M. Morial Convention Center
Board Member Andi Oustalet, Kate Rushton and Maggie McCabe
John and Kimberly Foster
Mary and Dr. George Van Wormer with Jennifer Joubert
Board Member Paul and Suzie Frank with Marilyn and Ron Harris
Chefs Richard Blais and Duff Goldman