This past Tuesday, a group of 63 lucky people had an exclusive opportunity to dine and taste amazing wine with the affable Jean-Bernard Grenié of legendary Chateau Angelus at IM Tapas Restobar in Naples.  Also joining us was Ivanhoé Johnston of the esteemed negociant Nathaniel Johnston & Fils.

Chefs Isabel Pozo Polo and Mary Shipman prepared a delectable Bordeaux friendly menu with Catalan and Castilian accents: Spinach Catalana with Shallots, Goose Liver Mousse with Piquillo & Xeres Honey Reduction, Grass Fed Beef Tenderloin with Red Onion Confit, Sous Vide Duck Breast with Caramelized Fig & Port Wine Demi, and Savory Calasparra Arroz con Leche.

Jean-Bernard treated us to 6 wines: 2005 and 2008 Chateau Angelus St Emilion Premier Grand Cru Classé, and 2005, 2007, 2008, 2009 Chateau Daugay St Emilion Grand Cru.  All of the wines were simply stellar, including the monumental 2005 Angelus and succulent 2009 Daugay. 

ABCFWS wine staff members skillfully provided the wine service throughout the evening.  A special thanks to Naples Wine Consultants Andrew Carmody, Stephen Simms, Steve Christmas and Regional Manager Mike McBride.  (Guys, I couldn’t have pulled it off without you!)

Jim Greeley, Wine Supervisor, SW Florida