In anticipation of the Winter Solstice, we will be hosting a wine tasting reflecting the wines that would be served at the French Royal Table in Versailles during the 17th and 18th centuries. This gathering also serves as an homage to George Inness - the XIX century American landscape painter, and INNESS namesake.
George Inness spent time in France and was highly influenced by 17th century French landscape masters such as the spiritualist Claude Lorrain and the French Impressionist School of Barbizon, and we believe he would very much enjoy this evening’s wine tasting!
During the 17th century, French Royals favored light whites and reds as they believed in the therapeutic properties of the white wine regions of Champagne and the red wines of Burgundy. Over time, tastes changed - though the wine of Champagne remained a cheerful party staple due to its effervescent novelty. In fact, Madame de Pompadour used to say that Champagne was the only wine that would make a lady look fresh and beautiful the next day! The King, on the other hand, preferred the heavier Bordeaux blends over the lighter Burgundies.
A story will accompany each wine, in addition to tasting notes and light snacks will be served. The suggested “degustation” will consist of the following wines:
- Saint-Hilaire Blanquette de Limoux (the oldest sparkling wine in France)
- White Burgundy (Macon and Chablis)
- White Bordeaux
- Red Burgundy (2)
- Red Bordeaux (2)
- Cognac
- Porto
More about the Host: Carlos Navarro, owner of Palate Wines and Spirits in Newburgh, was born in the Pyrenees, half way between France and Spain. He has extensive international experience working with the European Union and the United Nations before settling down in NYC. In 2020, he decided to pursue his passion for wine, which runs in his family, and relocated to Upstate NY to open a boutique wine shop. Carlos spends time indulging in, and educating himself on, wine history and curation.
Participants are encouraged to arrive 10-15 minutes early in order to make their way down to the Farmhouse from the main parking area. All cancellations must be made at least 48 hours in advance in order to qualify for a refund. We are unable to make exceptions, as it would be difficult for us to fill those vacant seats with such short notice. This event is not open to the general public.
Please contact Marcy at membership@inness.co if you have any questions.
