Charity Opera and Haut Brion

The final fund raising dinner to benefit the Opera Company of Philadelphia was enjoyed in early December. The dinner was purchased by a patron to celebrate a special Birthday. She invited 15 of her best friends, gals only. She also selected a tenor and baritone to perform. It was a serious evening, that everyone seemed to enjoy. Jay Tolson opened his house fot the event, Savonna Restaurant created and served the excellent menu. Steven Somkuti provided all the Grand Format bottles of Haut Brion from his cellar.
Tim Ribchester was the Pianist for the 2 young talents from the Curtis Institute. He is an Oxford educated musician, local conductor and musicologist. Diego Silva of Mexico City was the tenor, he chose a lot of pieces that are associated with Placido Domingo and made a great first impression. Baritone Elliot Madore made a return appearance and I think he and Diego did an interesting program that showed their range.. They both sang Donizetti from different Opera, the Bel Canto suited their voices admirably. Diego finished off the evening with a Zarazuelo piece from Sorozabal's La Taberna del Puerto which once again evoked memories of Placido Domingo. Elliot Madore and Diego Silva are real future stars.
The generosity of Savonna Restaurant and the talent of Chef Drew Mascianglo gave us a great pairing of food and wine.

Aperitif Champagne Pierre Moncuit Grand Cru en Magnum with Hors d'Oeuvres

Plantieres Haut Brion 2006 and Domaine de Chevalier 2005 with
Herb tossed Gulf Shrimp on Mache with Asian Pear, Shitake and Hazelnut Vinaigrette.

1985 Haut Brion en Dbl Magnum and 1992 Haut Brion en Dbl Magnum
Roasted Pheasant Breast, carmelized onion, apple risotto & chestnut foie gras emulsion.
(Haut Brion and pheasant, a spectacular combo)

2004 La Mission Haut Brion and 2003 La Tour Haut Brion
Braised Bison Short Ribs, Red wine strained salsify and Brussels Sprouts.
(Savonna's cuisine paired so well with the wine.)

1997 Ch Lafaurie Peraguey Grand Cru Sauternes with
Apple Bread Pudding, Caramel gelato.

Savonna's Melissa Monosoff the Philadelphia readers choice of Top Sommellier, her enthusiasm is contagious and she was her vivacious self. Great Food, Fantastic Wine, Brillant Young Opera Stars and one of the Great Houses on the Mainline who could ask for more. All for a very good cause, The Opera Company of Philadelphia.