3rd Annual Champagne Pairing Culinary Contest

Someone sent me this notice of a Champagne Pairing Culinary contest for culinary students that I thought you might be interested in. I don’t know anything about the association but wanted to pass it on to any interested culinary students who visit my blog.  I did visit their site and there is a ton of interesting information about Champagne and food.

From the Office of Champagne web site:

“Office of Champagne, USA located in Washington, DC, is the U.S. representative of the Comité Interprofessionnel du Vin de Champagne (CIVC), the trade association that groups all the grape growers and houses of Champagne, France. The Office works to educate American consumers about the uniqueness of the wines of Champagne and expand their understanding of the need to protect the Champagne name in the United States.”

The Office of Champagne, USA is hosting a culinary contest for Culinary Students, the winning prize is a trip to France!

3rd Annual Champagne Pairing Culinary Contest

Office of Champagne, USA cordially invites culinary students from around the country to participate in its 3rd Annual Champagne Pairing Culinary Contest. Champagne, long recognized as the world-wide drink of celebrations, has a place at meals too. Champagne is a versatile wine that can complement a wide range of cuisines. From succulent shellfish to delectable desserts, Champagne is ready to take its place in American culture as a complement to a variety of dishes.

Culinary students interested in entering the contest are asked to submit an original recipe in one of three categories – appetizer, main course or dessert – paired with their favorite style of Champagne. Each recipe will be judged on taste, creativity/originality, ease of preparation and Champagne pairing.

Three finalist’s recipes in each category will be prepared by a renowned Washington, D.C. chef and judged by a panel of independent experts who will determine the winner in each category.

The creators of the three winning recipes will receive a trip to the Champagne region of France, including airfare and accommodations. While in the Champagne region, winners will take part in a once-in-a-lifetime educational experience. They will learn firsthand about the terroir, history and strict winemaking regulations of the birthplace of true Champagne.

To view the application and contest rules, please visit our website at www.champagne.us.

Entries should list ingredients, instructions, as well as the recommended Champagne pairing. A written explanation as to why the Champagne style pairs well with the recipe must also be included.

All entries must be received by Friday, June 29th, 2007. Finalists will be announced in July.