PDF 76KBTrummer's on Main - A Springtime Indulgence, A Beguiling Epicurean Dalliance
May 13, 2015By Claudette Veronica Ferron, Vice Chargée de Presse, Bailliage of Greater Washington, D.C.
The Greater Washington, D.C. Bailliage experienced a beguiling epicurean dalliance in a picture postcard perfect setting with Chef Rotisseur Austin Fausett at Trummer’s on Main, in Clifton Virginia on May 13, 2015. At the springtime indulgence Chef Rotisseur Fausett, a recent nominee of the Rising Culinary Star by the Restaurant Association of Metropolitan Washington (RAMMY) and a winner of the Chaîne’s Mid-Atlantic Les Jeunes Commis, amazed members and guests with his exceptional culinary artistry.
On the balcony of the charming country auberge overlooking the quaint boutique dotted Main Street of Clifton, the bucolic evening’s repast began with passed hors d’oeuvres. A refreshing Cucumber Soup with Chamomile yogurt enlivened the senses, as Smoked Trout Caviar Cigars and Beet Pickled Deviled Eggs tantalized palates, and Whipped Artisan Cheese with Plum Jam Crostini, highlighted the delightful harmony that can exist between savory and sweet. Paired with NV Henriot Champagne Blanc Souverian, a light, but flavorful cava with a hint of morning toast, the scintillating hors d’oeuvres combined with convivial repartee were the perfect prelude to an enchanting spring culinary overture.
Eager to partake of the full epicurean symphony Bailliage members and guests retired to the comfort of the well-appointed dining room, where Chef Fausett with the assistance of his sous chefs amazed diners with the culinary creativity of his imaginative “Tasting Menu.” The lyrical gastronomic experience was also heightened throughout the dinner by the informative narratives of the ingenious chef. And during the feast Bailliage members were thrilled to discover that among their number was an auspicious special guest of Vice Conseiller Culinaire Francois Dionot -- former White House Chef Roland Mesnier (and his wife Martha) who, over 27 years, had served five 5) of the nation’s Presidents.
The culinary allegro burst forth with a deeply flavorful House-made Beef Bresaola Carpaccio, created through a complex six-week, wine-soaking process, with poppy seed Caesar dressing, and parmesan and rye croutons. Expertly paired with a complex, but fruit-forward 2010 Domaines Ott Côtes de Provence Rosé Chateau de Selle, the carpaccio captivated expectant palates. Then with a swelling crescendo a graceful gastronomic adagio flowed with a unique, delicately succulent, Pan Roasted Local Golden Tilefish, with crisp scallion rice cake, earthy shiitake mushrooms and aromatic Hungarian paprika sauce. Accompanying this supple sampling, a rich full-bodied, floral noted, 2012 Domaine Chignard Fleurie Les Moriers, brought the course to seamless completion. Next, the ensuing culinary scherzo continued the momentum towards the meals climax, as appetites were enticed by a succulent and mild Rabbit Confit and Sweetbread Fricassee, complemented with tender morels, spring asparagus and a luscious cognac sauce. Harmoniously married to a 2007 Viňa Cono Pinot Noir Ocio, a jammy, dark fruit wine, with a hint of spice the delicate confit carried the melody of Chef’s Fausett orchestration skillfully through to the penultimate main course selection. And rounding out the savory symphony, a comforting and meaty Peking Paradise Duck Duo of duck leg confit and collard wrapped duck breast with spring onion soubise, cherry preserves and Bay leaf crumble. Deftly balanced with an exceptional, medium-bodied 2004 La Rioja Vina Ardanza Reserva with dried fruit and soft floral notes, the duo satiated appetites like a the fading warmth of a spring evening’s breeze. The springtime rhapsody was brought to a close by a delightful dessert of silky Buttermilk and Raspberry Rhubarb Parfait, with a tangy raspberry rhubarb compote with scrumptious cold poached rhubarb and cardamom anglaise. And complemented by a beautifully perfumed 2007 Domaine de Durban Muscat de Beaumes-de Venise, an exceptional desert wine with floral and honey notes, the exquisite dessert was a glorious final note to a joyous culinary composition.
In all, the spring fete was an evening of epicurean Maypole gaiety and luxurious frivolity, fulfilling the expectations of members and guests of the Bailliage and reinforcing Chef Fausett’s stature as a culinary force in the Washington D.C. area’s culinary world.
And the innovative Bailliage will usher in summer with another playful but delicious event, when members sojourn to the Vineyards at Dodon in Davidsonville, Maryland, where extraordinary local vintners are crafting delicious wines. The Bailliage will enjoy a tour of the vineyard and the winery production facility, complete with a special tasting. The tasting will be followed by a mid-afternoon “Paella” luncheon in the middle of the vineyard under a covered pavilion, catered by chefs from José Andrés’ Jaleo in Arlington, Virginia, courtesy of Maitre de Table Restauranteur Adriana Lucca, General Manager. And as a special treat there will be a reading from Death at the Grande Chapitre/The Chained Rose – a forthcoming novel by Chargée de Presse Claudette V. Ferron.
