Bishop’s House in Perth, WA, is a two storey residence constructed in 1859 for the first Anglican Bishop of Western Australia. Built in a Victorian Georgian style, this Heritage listed home is now a magnificent function facility, and la Chaine was most honoured to present an evening of old style glamour and charm.
Champagne Pommery was founded in 1858 with the primary business being wool trading, however, thankfully for we lovers of the sparkling nectar that hails from Reims, under the guidance of Louise Pommery, the firm became dedicated to champagne production. Pommery soon became one of the region’s largest Champagne brands, and was the first house to commercialise a brut champagne in 1874.
One of the highlights of the evening, apart from sampling no less than 5 different cuvees, was the attendance of special guest Inge Fransen CEO of Pommery Australia. Inge entertained and captivated with the fascinating history of this major Champagne House.
Members and guests were dressed to impress as we revelled in the grandeur of the stately home, whilst sipping on our first champagne of the evening being Pommery Brut Royal and savouring the delicate duck parfait.
Once seated and after the Bailli’s welcome, the first course arrived. Shark Bay Scallops with Vadouvan beurre blanc and citrus pearls. The scallops had an undercurrent of curry flavour which was a nice surprise, and the Pommery Blanc de Blanc Apanage NV had the right citrus balance to cut through the richness of the dish to create a delicious pairing.
Lacquered quail with quinoa and sautéed kale proved delectable served with Pommery Brut Rose NV. The rosé is full of wet slate, even rock salt with some faint raspberry. Combined with the quail, the dish resulted in an earthy combination that brought out wild strawberry tones.
Our main course featured the highly acclaimed 2004 Cuvee Louise,
a nod and tribute to the founder of this famous Champagne House.
It is a blended Champagne whose wines were harvested in 2004 exclusively on the slopes of the 3 classified Grands Crus of Avize, Ay and Cramant, jewels set in the very famous classified region of Champagne.The Cuvee Louise expressed tight bead, brioche, pastry, almond and citrus which all came together in a delicately integrated wine. Served alongside White Rocks Veal Wellington that was perfectly cooked and served with gribiche sauce and mornay vegetables.
Chef then moved around the dining room to the delight of guests as he served melted brie with a generous shaving of truffle. How decadent !
Petit fours were placed on table to share which were delicate and tasty.
The final course of the evening was a delightful dessert of meringue roulade with chestnut cream and toasted almonds. Pommery Blue Sky was served in elegant balloon glasses on ice and proved to be a juicy, fresh, modern method of working with sweeter style Champagnes and a perfect accompaniment to the sweet course.
A fabulous evening was enjoyed by all, and many thanks must be extended to Lamont’s Chef Nathan Lee and his most capable service team. Lara McVeigh from Claret and Co who are the local agents for Pommery, who very capably and generously poured the wonderful champagnes. Matthew Schwind, Events Manager at Bishop’s House and last but not least the charming Inge Fransen.
How lucky we are !
Vive la Chaine !
Sande Saulsman
Vice-Chancelier
