Spring (PDF) - CMAA

Society HappeningsCMAA International Wine Society Annual DinnerNew Orleans Country ClubFebruary 26, 2012By Paul Andrew Smith IIIBarristerI had the distinct honor and privilege to serve as yourToastmaster at the recent wine dinner at Conference.What a wonderful evening it was of good food, wine andcamaraderie hosted by Bobby J. Crifasi, CCM, CCE,CPA, the New Orleans Country Club and the entirestaff. From the moment you entered the club, you couldfeel the warmth and southern hospitality from the entireteam.The night began with a reception featuring the winesof Sokol Blosser Winery, Trefethen Family Vineyardsand Iron Horse Vineyards with New Orleans themedhors d’oeuvres and entertainment.We then entered the ballroom for the wine dinner featuringthe wines of Presqu’ile Winery, Stag’s Leap WineCellars, Sokol Blosser Winery, Peju Province Winery,Swanson Vineyards, Merryvale Vineyards, WaughCellars and Iron Horse Winery paired beautifully withthe menu selections. Please see the menu to the right forthe specifics. Kudos to Executive Chef Chris Tefarkis,Chef d’ Cuisine William Mauk and the entire culinaryteam on a truly remarkable food and wine experience.The final course was a “Pure Decadence Dessert Buffet”in the formal dining room highlighting an assortment ofchocolates, cheeses and wines. It was a great opportunityto stretch the legs after dinner, socialize with those not atyour table including the winemakers and winery representativesand eat and drink some more!Once again I would like to thank Bobby and his entirestaff for a memorable event and all the wineries for theirsupport of our wonderful society!I would like to finish with the way the night beganwith the toast for those who missed it.“Drinking good wine, with good food in good companyis one of life’s most civilized pleasures. But what is thedefinition of good wine? I believe it should start and endwith a SMILE! So to everyone gathered here tonight Iwish you all an evening full of SMILES!”CHEERS!I wish you all a season full of smiles!Vol. 25 No. 1 3Spring 2012