Dining in the Faubourg Sainte Marie

Branch President Chris Dorion and Cellar Master Michelle Dorion outdid themselves on this one! They worked with Chef Kristen Essig to create a fabulous five course dinner with wine pairings for our members at Sainte Marie Brasserie, the sister restauant of Leon and Pierre Touzet’s Patois in Uptown. We were so fortunate to enjoy the Clos du Marquis, St Julien, 2001, from our Branch cellar.

Sainte Marie is named for the Faubourg Sainte Marie, originally developed in the late 18th century as a residential district. It was the first expansion of New Orleans beyond its original French Quarter boundaries. Major investment in the new "suburb" followed the Louisiana Purchase in 1803. New Orleans was booming with people from other parts of the United States flocking to the city. Hence its name--"the American Sector". Today the area is the home of the Central Business District.

Good news, bad news! Bad first: Sainte Marie is closing in May. Good: The Touzets are moving Chef Essig and her entire staff to Rampart Street--to Meauxbar, a classic French bistro, which they recently purchased. Bon chance!

RECEPTION

Val de Mer Cremant Bourgogne Blanc, NV

COURSE ONE
Pork Rilletes
Pickled red onions. artisan ciabatta. creole mustard creme fraiche
The Crusher Viognier, Wilson Vineyard Clarksburg, 2012

COURSE TWO
Louisiana Crab Claw and Celery Root Remoulade 
Water Cress Salad, Rice Wine Lime Vinaigrette, Toasted Walnuts
The Crusher Viognier, Wilson Vineyard Clarksburg, 2012

COURSE THREE
Beef Tartare
Bacon Aioli, Cacao, Chipolte, Arugula
Bear Boat Russian River Pinot Noir, 2009

COURSE FOUR
Apricot Hazelnut Stuffed Mount Hermon Quail
Foie Gras Demi-Glace, Wild Rice Pilaf, Baby Carrot Parisienne
Clos du Marquis, St Julien, 2001

COURSE FIVE
Sweetened Goats Cheese
Chocolate Ganache, Pistachio Brittle, Louisiana Strawberries