Several dozen large dinner parties and many more private ones take place every other year during the five days of Vinexpo in Bordeaux. The Châteaux know how to throw a great party, but the most prestigious of all is the Fête de la Fleur. The Commanderie du Bontemps is in charge of organizing the Fête de la Fleur, the Vinexpo closing dinner that is traditionally the hottest ticket of the week.

This year's event was held on June 20th at Château Lagrange in Saint Julien, property of the Japanese drinks giant Suntory since 1983.

Michelin-starred chef Frederic Simonin’s fine culinary creations of the evening were paired with the following lineup of wines:

Château Le Sartre 2009, Pessac-Léognan, white

Château Labégorce 2005, Margaux

Château de Malle 2008, Sauternes

Château de Fieuzal 2010, Pessac-Léognan, white

Château Lafon-Rochet 2003, Saint-Estèphe

Château Lagrange 1995, Saint-Julien

Château Lafite Rothschild 1990, Pauillac, magnum

Château Suduiraut 2001, Sauternes

The 1990 Lafite-Rothschild, supplied by the Commanderie's own cellars, was the star of the evening; tasting First Growths always puts my wine experience journey in perspective. Two hundred food waiters and 80 wine waiters provided impeccable service to the 1500 guests; the evening climaxed with a spectacular fireworks display.

Atanas Nechkov, ABC Fine Wine & Spirits Wine Supervisor

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