The 2016 FICB international Congress will take place next June in the Sonoma and Napa Valleys in California. The programme comprises a stop at Raymond Vineyards, one of Jean-Charles BOISSET wineries in Northern California. As a foretaste to this event, the Knights of the Vine of America, members of F.I.C.B. and hosts of the Congress, held their fall “assemblage” on this estate.
The evening was a spectacular gala event, during which a number of inductions were held, in particular that of Gina GALLO, well known as the “maître de chais” of the top range brands of the Gallo group, world leader in wine production. She is now the third generation of GALLO’s to be inducted as a “Supreme member” of the Order.
The Grand Commander of the KoV of America, Buddy HAGNER, elevated Ken HICK to the rank of Grand Master of the newly forming Washington State Chapter. Ken is known also as a member of the Board of Administration of F.I.C.B., representing the Oregon Wine Brotherhood.
Also actively present as host for the evening, was Jean-Charles BOISSET, head of the outreaching Boisset Family Wines in Burgundy and North America. He introduced the guests to the emblematic parts of the estate: the Red Room lounge, in typical Napoleon III style, and the Crystal Cellars, where a spectacular and sparkling long continuous table had been layed, were particularly appreciated. The wines from the estate and the food prepared by Chef Michel CORNU were of outstanding quality.
A brilliant preparation for the events yet to come next June in California !
