Elite Traveler November-December 2017

DISCOVER

elite traveler NOV/DEC 2017 57

Tasting notes Spirits

We love… Asprey’s bobsleigh cocktail shaker ‘Tis the season for snow sports and wintry cocktails. This perfectly packable shaker travels with you to your favorite ski chalet and you can even pick the colors for the racing stripe detail. $11,920, available at Asprey in St Moritz, +41 818 333 880, asprey.com

TAKE THREE/// BAR ACCESSORIES

Forget red or white. When it comes to drinks with dinner, we’re making the case for innovative pairings featuring spirits. And with Michelin-starred chef Alain Ducasse on board, you can be confident that it is a trend worth trying. Teaming up with Grey Goose cellar master François Thibault, Ducasse is pioneering vodka gastronomique , a new interpretation of the spirit dedicated to the culinary experience. Have dinner at lauded Le Meurice Alain Ducasse in Paris and sip vodka cocktails paired with signature dishes. “Grey Goose Interpreted by Ducasse is a gastronomic vodka to be enjoyed from dinner to the rest of the night,” Ducasse tells us. “The three different levels of toasted French wheat combined together result in a rich and complex roasted aroma that lends itself well to food pairings.” Even tequila is making the bold journey from the bar to the dining table. In collaboration with the French crystal brand, Patrón released the stunning Lalique Serie 2, the perfect complement to butter-poached lobster tacos. The richness of the lobster balances this expression’s dry fruit notes, while the fresh crunch of the garnish gives a brightness that pairs with the

tequila’s medium oak. For dessert, why not sip a neat bourbon-aged Clase Azul Reposado, which brings out the flavor in a caramel-filled milk chocolate truffle for an indulgent twist. Not just for toasting, champagne is ideal to serve alongside your meal rather than simply introducing it. Dry champagne pairs best with savory dishes, and should be served in a traditional wine glass at 50 degrees for the fullest expression. Explore the possibilities in the height of decadence at an Ultimate Champagne Dinner hosted by Moët Hennessy, where a champagne expert will guide you through five courses accompanied by various vintages. Taste scallops with Dom Pérignon P2 Vintage 1998, root vegetable risotto with Krug Grand Cuvée 163rd Edition, pan-roasted mallard duck with Moët & Chandon Grand Vintage Rosé 2008 and end your feast with roasted apple profiterole with Veuve Clicquot Demi-Sec. Patrón en Lalique Serie 2, $7,500, patron.com Ultimate Champagne Dinner price based on champagne selection. Contact privateclient@ moethennessy.com

BACCARAT Petit Palais Ispahan decanter For those preferring pieces from a bygone era, this re-edition of the decanter presented at the 1878 World’s Fair in Paris is limited to 100 numbered clear crystal copies hand-painted in colored enamel and gold. $7,360, baccarat.com CHRISTOFLE Marly crystal vodka glass Add a punch of red to your bar display with these crystal vodka glasses, adorned in an intricate gold leaf pattern. While Christofle hails from Paris, the details here are all imperial Russia — making it a perfect glass for vodka sipping. $1,950 for set of six, available at Christofle in New York, +1 212 308 9390, christofle.com

BUCCELLATI Caviar champagne bucket

Inspired by sturgeon eggs, the spherical motif on this sterling silver champagne bucket is an elegant way to chill your favorite cuvée. Naturally, you’ll have to get

the caviar server to match. $14,500, buccellati.com

Words Olivia Cuccaro