The wine and spirit industry is not known for its overarching diversity. However, a fundraising initiative by fine wine research & experience company, Liquid Icons aims to change that. This October, a three-day extravaganza - which is fast becoming known as the Oscars of the Fine Wine World - will offer fine wine, rare spirits, gastronomy and (almost) money can't buy experiences to a lucky 300 guests.
Golden Vines: Changing the world of wine & spirits, one scholar at a time
Words by
Sphere Editors
15th September 2023
Golden Vines® is changing the world of wine and spirits, one scholar at a time. Proceeds of their 3-day Fine Dining and Wine Experience will directly benefit the Gérard Basset Foundation. Explore Michelin-starred five course menus and an array of fine wines within stunning locations in and around Paris, whilst striving to fund scholarships for individuals.
The Palais Garnier Opera House
The Golden Vines® Fine Dining & Wine Experience will be held at some of the most iconic institutions in and around Paris from 13 - 15 October including evening galas at Les Pavillions de Bercy and Palais Garnier Opera House featuring bespoke Michelin-starred gastronomic 5-course menus curated by Alain Ducasse and Akrame Benallal paired with the world’s finest vintage cuvées; ‘diversity & inclusivity scholarship’ plus ‘best in class wine & spirit maker’ awards; and entertainment from world-class talent. The exceptional weekend programme also includes a series of masterclasses, lunches and tastings hosted by winemakers from the most celebrated estates.
Attend tastings hosted by celebrated winemakers
Proceeds will directly benefit the Gérard Basset Foundation funding a range of diversity and inclusion-related scholarships for individuals to provide certification, mentorship and paid internships leading to professions within the wine, spirit, retail and hospitality industry.
“The late Gérard Basset was one of the most loved and influential individuals in the global wine industry. My business partner Sasha Lushnikov and I chose to raise funds in my good friend Gérard’s name as it was very apparent to us that the wine, spirits & hospitality industry was neither diverse nor inclusive – principally for historical, cultural and socio-economic reasons. This annual Golden Vines® event showcases the potential of providing much needed access to the mastery of this special profession and since 2021 has funded over 50 diversity & inclusions scholarship and mentorship schemes and 19 grantees around the world,” explains Lewis Chester, Co-founder & CEO of Liquid Icons.
Gérard Basset
The Golden Vines® 3-Day Fine Dining & Wine Experience
13 - 15 October 2023, Paris
Tickets priced at £10,000 per person, including VIP concierge services for all travel, hotel and on-the-ground requirements, are available from https://liquidicons.com/work/golden-vines-awards
