New Orleans Wine & Food Experience
It's a natural pairing: one of the world’s top 10 wine-and-food festivals with one of its greatest international cities.
By Poppy Tooker
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At the time of year when the rich, floral scents of late spring still hang heavy in the warm air, the New Orleans Wine & Food Experience is a “feastival” for the senses.
I am a New Orleans-born food fanatic who has never missed a New Orleans Wine & Food Experience in 18 years. Over time, my palate has become more keenly polished, but my appetite for the thousands of wines and countless dishes served up over the five-day event has never been satiated.
My favorite evening in the French Quarter is NOWFE’s Royal Street Stroll. It’s a street party as only New Orleans can throw one. At the Stroll, I indulge in the pleasures of trying on glistening, antique jewelry and ogling art in galleries that display everything from Old Masters’ oils to cutting-edge, modern sculptures. Along with a huge spectrum of wines, there are delectable nibbles served outdoors all along the stroll and in the shops of Royal Street.
During the week, intensive seminars bring together chefs and winemakers to address new tastes and trends. The Grand Tastings are a grand value as well. I’ve have yet to work my way through everything offered from the 400 wineries and 50 restaurants participating, but I never miss any of the entertaining cooking demos.
The spirit of competition has always ruled the Grand Tastings. The dishes served are judged by an expert panel and awarded a coveted first, second and third place each day. Imagine foie gras done three ways, the most delectable duck breast on perfect polenta or classic crabmeat ravigote from New Orleans’ classics standard bearer – Galatoire's.
For more information, visit www.nowfe.com or call 504-529-WINE (9463).










