UniSA Alumni
Following the success of the function that marked the launch of the joint SA Universities Alumni (UK Branch) last September at the Senate House of University of London the alumni committee wanted to provide something different next time around.
When internationally renowned, SA born, sommelier Matthew Wilkin volunteered to help organise and run a gourmet wine and food tasting the alumni committee were delighted, if a bit overawed, by the prospect of what they were getting into. Most know how to open bottles and pour, but a proper tasting? This was an untrodden path for most of us.
While being primarily a social gathering for alumni it became apparent this was going to be an event with style. Where better in London to have a function with style than Australia House. Without the support of SA Agent General, Maurice de Rohan, OBE, who graciously offered to host the evening and Southcorp Wines, who most generously sponsored the superb wines for the tasting, such a brilliant event could not have been contemplated.
Weeks of hard work by Matthew, Kristina and her committee team, followed by some frenzied last-minute finishing touches, meant all was ready for the doors to open. For the 125 or so who made their way to Australia House on a damp, dreary spring evening it was soon apparent it was a journey worth making.
Having been ‘warmed up’ with a chilled glass of Levin rose on arrival it was not long before everyone was engrossed in the night’s tasting journey. Under Matthew’s guidance and tutelage we were led on an exquisite taste experience, of premium wines and gourmet canapés that were specially selected to complement each other.
Matthew captivated his audience with his knowledge and descriptions of the wines, explaining what styles and types complement particular foods tastes. After a lively and amusing question and answer session the evening ended in true alumni style with most guests mingling for a last drink or two before heading home.
An amusing aside to the evening was the auction of a case of Cooper’s Sparkling Ale. After spirited bidding it was eventually knocked down for £65 ($A150), believed to be a UK, if not world, record for what is obviously the beer of choice amongst expatriate alumni. Rumour has it that it will be shared about at the next alumni function. Watch this space!
Record Price For Cooper’s Sparkling Ale (photo)
What is believed to have been a British, if not world, record price of £65 ($A150) was paid last night at Australia House, London, for a case of Cooper’s Sparkling Ale stubbies.
The Cooper’s Ale was the star attraction to end an evening of gourmet wine and food tasting organised by the South Australian universities Alumni (UK Branch).
Hosted by Agent General, Maurice de Rohan and generously sponsored by Southcorp Wines some 125 South Australian alumni and their guests tasted their way through some fabulous South Australian wines and exquisite gourmet canapés under the guidance of internationally acclaimed, and South Australian born, sommelier Matthew Wilkin.
Why auction a case of beer at a wine tasting? While quality SA wines are widely available in the UK the favourite beer of many expats in the UK is almost impossible to find. Please Mr Cooper, help us!
