La Jolla Wine & Food Society, Champagne, Caviar, and California Sunshine

La Jolla Wine & Food Society, Champagne, Caviar, and California Sunshine
By Richard Smith, LWFS Chair & Cellier

How else can I say it but… WOW!

To celebrate the Summer Solstice and our 74th year, the La Jolla Wine & Food Society hosted an evening that will be long remembered. Held at the world-renowned La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club in La Jolla, California, the setting was as exquisite as the experience itself. Even casual passersby paused to marvel at the scene. From the crisp elegance of three outstanding Champagnes to Chef Michel Malécot’s (The French Gourmet) seafood-forward feast, every detail was elevated to perfection. A special delight: Michel’s brother, Olivier, flew in from France to join the celebration.

Our Cellier (modestly remaining unnamed) curated a superb Champagne lineup, paired thoughtfully with glistening caviar and oysters on the half shell— All served perfectly chilled, of course:

• NV Henri Giraud “Dame-Jane” Brut Rosé
• 2010 Drappier “Grande Sendrée” Brut
• NV Jacquart “Mosaique” Brut
• And for those with a preference beyond bubbles: 2022 Joseph Drouhin Grand Cru “Vaudon” Chablis

The French Gourmet team delivered flawless service—on sand, no less—with grace and genuine warmth. The 65 guests formed a brilliant mosaic of seasoned connoisseurs and new friends alike. Dressed elegantly in white, adorned with medallions, they brought refined palates, sparkling conversation, and laughter that lingered well past sunset.

And what a sunset it was. California gifted us her finest: a golden horizon, gentle ocean breezes, and—at just the right moment—a generous tide that crept up like a whispered encore, softly closing the evening in a final note of coastal magic. Vice President Charlie Black even had a quiet word with the seagulls to prevent them from dive-bombing our Champagne flutes. It worked. (Mostly.)

Our sincere thanks go to our gracious and esteemed Event Hosts: Lisa Casey, Frania Black, Lise Wilson, Lisette Farrell, and Lisa Albanez. Your behind-the-scenes orchestration made the evening feel effortless.

A special toast to “Champagne Lynn” Lathrop, whose eloquent tasting notes brought each glass to life.

Waves lapped at the shore while Ronald Freshman’s classical guitar melodies floated through the evening. Though occasionally overwhelmed by the sea breeze, the music added a perfect touch of coastal elegance—not a hint of Beach Boys.

And to everyone who joined in celebrating the longest day of summer—thank you. Your warmth, good humor, and (let’s be honest) impressively chic beach footwear made the evening unforgettable. As for the remarkable absence of Speedos? Sincerely appreciated. I was worried. Truly.

À la prochaine.  Because life without Champagne? Well, that’s just sparkling water.

Richard Smith, LWFS Chair