24 April, 2025 – Gosset Matchmakers proudly announces its tenth anniversary, marking a decade of nurturing talent and collaboration between emerging chefs and sommeliers to create exceptional food and Champagne pairings.
Established in 2016, this prestigious competition has become a cornerstone in the culinary world, celebrating the partnership between high-end gastronomy and fine Champagne.
Over the past ten years Gosset Matchmakers has been instrumental in identifying and nurturing rising talents in the culinary arts. The competition has consistently attracted participants from renowned restaurants across the UK, challenging them to craft innovative dishes that pair perfectly with Champagne Gosset’s distinguished cuvées.
The competition’s credibility is underscored by its panel of esteemed judges, comprising leading figures from the culinary and wine worlds. Notable recent judges include Benjamin Ferra y Castell, Head Chef at Pavyllon; Matthieu Longuère MS, Wine Director at Le Cordon Bleu London; Melody Wong, Director of Wine at The Peninsula London; and Luciana Berry, Top Chef Brazil winner and Le Cordon Bleu alumna. Their collective expertise ensures a rigorous evaluation process, upholding the competition’s high standards.
This year’s contestants will be invited to create a dish to pair with Gosset Grande Réserve Champagne that pairs beautifully with food due to its rich, structured profile and balanced acidity. Made from a blend of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Meunier, it offers depth and freshness that complement a wide range of dishes. Its fine bubbles and vibrant citrus notes cut through richness, while toasty, nutty undertones enhance flavours in poultry, seafood, and creamy sauces. The wine’s complexity and persistence make it versatile across appetisers, mains, and even certain cheeses.
Reflecting on the competition’s impact, Philippe Antony from Champagne Gosset commented, “It is a source of great pride to reflect on the past ten years of the Champagne Gosset Matchmakers competition and to recognise the wealth of emerging talent that has participated, as well as those who have distinguished themselves as winners.â€
Antony continued: “Looking to the future is even more inspiring, as we welcome new competitors at the outset of their professional journeys and provide them with this rare opportunity to express their creativity and present their ideas as they embark on their careers.†As Gosset Matchmakers commemorates this milestone, it reaffirms its commitment to inspiring and recognising the next generation of culinary professionals. The competition continues to celebrate the art of pairing fine Champagne with exceptional cuisine, fostering innovation and excellence throughout the UK hospitality community.