This week, we had the privilege of attending an extraordinary dinner event hosted by Cloudy Bay, a celebration of the art of entertaining amidst the breathtaking natural beauty of an outdoor setting.
The atmosphere was set from the moment guests arrived at the Fireplace Farm in East Hampton, dressed in chic Garden Party attire. As we stepped onto the property’s driveway, a warm greeting awaited with a glass of Cloudy Bay’s signature Sauvignon Blanc, a tantalizing prelude to the delights that lay ahead.
A testament to Cloudy Bay’s heritage, the Sauvignon Blanc has been the brand’s flagship wine since 1985, earning its reputation as a zesty, vibrant, and captivating vintage that forever transformed the perception of ‘new world’ wines and Sauvignon Blanc as a variety.
A leisurely stroll down a scenic trail led to the event space, where a deck adorned with bouquets and vines of blooming flowers and lush greenery offered an idyllic vantage point overlooking the azure ocean. The waterfront ambiance, coupled with the inviting warmth of the evening breeze, provided the perfect backdrop for unforgettable photo opportunities. Among the notable attendees were Suki Waterhouse, Jessica Wang, Ty Hunter, Ryan Clark, Shelcy & Christy Josephs, Kelsea Olivia, Charlotte Bridgeman, Laurie Ferraro, and more.
Suki Waterhouse wore a white silk dress by Stella McCartney paired with tan Aquazzura heels.
The evening commenced with the Cloudy Bay team gathering the guests for opening remarks, encouraging them to forge new connections at the communal table. The underlying theme of sustainability, farming, and community echoed throughout, as they toasted to good food, stunning locations like Fireplace Farm, and the joy of making new friends.
A highlight of the toast was from Amber Waves, a non-profit organization, who lauded the partnership and expressed gratitude for Cloudy Bay’s commitment to sustainability. The event’s collaboration with Outstanding in the Field also garnered appreciation, acknowledging the dedication of local farmers who brought delectable food to the guests’ tables. We were also reminded that, regardless of our diverse backgrounds and journeys, we all come together at the table, united by the simple act of breaking bread.
Soon, the guests took their seats at a beautifully adorned table, each plate bearing a charming shell inscribed with our names, a thoughtful touch that mirrored the breathtaking waterfront setting.
Teaming up with Outstanding in the Field, esteemed Hampton chef Jason Weiner orchestrated a culinary masterpiece thoughtfully paired with Cloudy Bay’s iconic portfolio of New Zealand wines. The menu tantalized the taste buds, featuring delightful dishes such as Amber Waves Farm summer squash with cracked wheat pita; tantalizing Tuna: Crudo & Cured, adorned with fermented carrot dressing and caraflex cabbage; and Steamed Clams boasting Dylan’s soba, charred Balsam Farms corn, lemon balm, Jonny’s mushroom dashi, Amber Waves Farm tatsoi, and wheatberry miso, each artfully complemented by Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc 2022, Cloudy Bay Te Koko 2020, and Cloudy Bay Te Wake 2018, respectively.
A standout among the wines was the Te KoKo, a captivating blend with notes of white flowers, warm hay, and succulent summer stone fruit, gracefully balanced with preserved citrus and subtle brioche undertones. The palate offered a delightful texture, revealing layers of white peach, pear, and white flowers mingling with mineral nuances, all culminating in a refreshing acidity and an elegant, lingering finish.
As the night progressed, the dinner transformed into an evening of conversations, laughter, and newfound friendship among the guests.
The dinner experience at Fireplace Farm with Cloudy Bay Vineyards was an ode to the art of entertainment and the allure of exquisite wines, set against the backdrop of an unforgettable view. The grand finale of mignardises of lemon bars, macarons, and chocolate truffles around the fire left a lingering sweetness to the wonderful evening. With memories made, connections forged, and palates delighted, the enchanting evening marked another chapter in Cloudy Bay’s story is one of vision, adventure and captivating flavor.
