Société Mondiale du Vin, which translates to “World Wine Society” is the wine affiliate organisation of the Confrèrie de la Chaîne des Rôtisseurs whose focus is the appreciation of wine and crafted beverages.

The Société Mondiale du Vin encourages the collection and dissemination of information on wines and quality spirits as well as enjoyment, understanding and procurement of fine beverages. Société Mondiale du Vin provides a means for a mutual sharing among those who appreciate fine beverages as part of the Chaîne dining experience as well as those professionals who are beverage-oriented.

Our First Meeting

Recently the local chapter of Société Mondiale du Vin held its inaugural event at the Hilton Kingston Hotel. What better subject to choose than to sip and study the world of Champagne? Wray and Nephew, the local importer of the wines and spirits of Moët Hennessy, did not hesitate to provide assistance at the thought of us tasting and discussing the Champagnes of Moët and Chandon, Ruinart and Veuve Clicquot.

Société Mondiale du Vin members and guests enjoyed, compared and discussed the different house styles of Champagne, vintage vs non-vintage and hosts of other interesting topics. We compared all the Brut and all the Rosés from each house.

Surprise tasting

A very special surprise was the tasting of the 1996 Veuve Clicquot La Grande Dame. The 1996 La Grande Dame is golden in colour with light green accents, fine, light bubbles. Initially the nose is rich and intense, evoking fresh fruit (apricots, vine peaches, citrus fruits) and dried fruits (hazelnuts, marzipan). After aeration, the nose opens up to reveal lightly toasted and mineral notes as well as aromas of mild spices and brioche. On the palate the aromatic complexity of this champagne dominates. The balance between the strength of Pinot Noir and the elegance of Chardonnay grapes has rarely achieved such perfect harmony. The wine is round and generous on the palate, with a delicate and silky texture and a dynamic, sparkling final edge -very typical of the 1996 vintage. The finish is quite remarkable, seemingly never-ending. This is a wine which constantly evolves once it is opened, revealing a gracious, pure structure, and a promise that it will mature magnificently over time.1996 is undoubtedly one of the most vibrant versions of La Grande Dame.

Société Mondiale Membership

The membership of Société Mondiale du Vin is comprised of Chaîne members who are professionally involved in the wine and spirit industry or are amateur connoisseurs with special knowledge or interest in wine and crafted beverages, and who are dedicated to promoting the education and enjoyment of them as a vital part of the dining experience.

Membership of the Chaîne des Rôtisseurs is by invitation only. Most new members join through recommendation by friends who are already members. Chaîne membership offers great opportunities to meet people who share a common interest in fine dining and good friendship. Members are also made to feel especially welcome when patronising Chaîne member establishments such as hotels and restaurants worldwide.

Chris Reckord is a member of the Chaîne des Rôtisseurs and the Société Mondiale du Vin and currently serves as Vice Echanson in the local Chapter. Please send your questions and comments to creckord@gmail.com . Follow us on twitter.com/DeVineWines

What I am drinking this week: Moët & Chandon Champagne Grand Vintage 2003

Since conducting a few tastings with all the Moët Hennessey products recently, while my favourite is still Ruinart, I must say that the Moët & Chandon Champagne Grand Vintage 2003 made me sit up and take notice. The Vintage 2003 is very much Chardonnay- led, with the blend being 50% Chardonnay, 34% Pinot Noir and 16% Pinot Meunier. This wine has fresh white fruits such as peach and pear appear on the nose along with dried fruits, hints of toast and malt notes. The palate is inviting and firm with ample and fleshy fruitiness.