We are back for another year of fabulous food and champagne pairings and looking forward to getting to know this year’s batch of competitors.
This year, we invite teams to submit a creative food pairing with Gosset Petite Douceur Rose Extra Dry. Your dish must be savoury and we want to encourage inventive and imaginative entries.
Petite Douceur Rose is a versatile, off dry wine that evokes the champagnes of old. It is a carefully selected Chardonnay dominant blend that emphasises freshness, with a minimum of 11 years ageing and extra dry level dosage which both contribute to the wine’s vinosity and affinity with food.
In return we offer the opportunity to take part in what could be your first competition. We prioritise a supportive atmosphere and wish to encourage teamwork and creativity. You will receive promotion through our digital channels and if selected, attend the final at Le Cordon Bleu’s restaurant Cord in the City of London. The finals will take place on Monday 23rd September 2024.
What to do next
Find your teammate and apply! Teams must include one sommelier and one chef, who have both five years or less professional experience and are currently working in a UK restaurant. You do not need to work together.
- Submit your application via our website ASAP.
- We will confirm your eligibility and provide instructions for the next steps.
- You submit your final written entry with supporting photos and/or videos by 30th June 2024 for first round paper judging.
- The five finalists will be notified by email in early August to give ample time to prepare and arrange their transport.
The Final
The final takes place on Monday 23rd September 2024 at Cord by Le Cordon Bleu in London.
Each team will work together to prepare their pairing and then present it to our panel.
During the presentation the teams have the chance to explain their inspiration and any special elements they wish to highlight.
The second element of the day is the mystery champagne and food challenge. A surprise champagne and basket of ingredients will be revealed and each team required to discuss and create a second pairing. The objective is to further demonstrate understanding of how food and wines interplay, teamwork, and kitchen skills.
To read about the experiences of some of our previous winners, head over to the endorsements page. Recent winners have include teams from Dinings SW3, Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester and Fishers Baslow Hall.
Good luck and we look forward to hearing from you!