Our London Branch AGM was held at Noizé restaurant in Fitzrovia, central London, starting with a glass of crémant, and followed by dinner.
Alan Shepherd presented the Chair’s report. We had held a wide variety of outstanding events during the year, amongst which were superb lunches and tasting dinners, and several interesting and innovative wine tastings led by knowledgeable members; some including mature wines generously donated from their own cellars. We also organised the summer garden party at Cumberland Lodge, a great success.
We look forward to another excellent year. Rising prices in London are a major challenge, but we do all we can to offer value for money.
Noizé restaurant is named after a small village in the Loire Valley, where the proprietor, Mathieu Germond is from. Mathieu has been a great friend of IWFS for many years, having hosted splendid dinners and lunches for us. The Head Chef is George Farrugia, who joined the restaurant in 2021, and brings inspiration from his Cyprus origins. The Michelin Guide refers to: “A delightfully relaxed French restaurant, personally run by a warm and welcoming owner. The menu features a mix of classic and more modern French food, prepared with love and care.”
As ever, this year we were well looked after. We had the additional benefit of wines specially selected by Mathieu, from his extensive knowledge.
The menu and wines were:
NV Crémant de Loire, domaine des Hauts Perrays, Brut, Loire Valley, France
Cheddar Gougѐres
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Cod, Parsnip Salad, Vermouth Broth
2023 Viognier, 974, Ventoux, Rhone Valley, France
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Slow-Cooked Beef Bourguignon with carrots and mushrooms, mashed potato
2022 Carignan, Familia Cecchin, Mendoza, Argentina
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Île Flottante
2024 Coteaux du Layon Saint Aubin, Domaine des Barres, Loire Valley, France
Rachel Burnett