Taittinger gastronomy competition reaches the big 50

By Jo Gilbert

Published: 01 June, 2016

Champagne Taittinger is celebrating the 50th anniversary of their renowned Taittinger Prix Culinaire International.

This year marks the beginning of the fifth decade for the competition - which is currently the longest in Europe.

Michel Roux Jr will again be the Presidential Judge for the UK and will head up a panel of twelve top chefs from leading Michelin Star Restaurants and 5 star hotels including John Williams of the Ritz, the Rosewood's Amandine Chaignot and Andre Garret from Clivedon - all previous finalists of the culinary prize.

The gastronomy competition is now open to chefs between the ages of 24 and 39, with over five years' experience.

Seven countries will host national finals with the one in the UK taking place at Roux in Parliament Square on September 10.

The winner of the UK competition will be chosen by the panel of judges and announced by Michel Roux Jr and Champagne Taittinger's Marketing Director Vitalie Taittinger at a reception following the cook-off.

Rajkumar Holuss and Michel Roux Jr Rajkumar Holuss and Michel Roux Jr

In December, Champagne Taittinger bought land in Kent to establish its first English vineyard, making it the first Champagne house to invest in English sparkling wine.

Champagne Taittinger will own 55% of the vineyard operating under the name Domaine Evremond, with the remaining shares going to UK agent Hatch Mansfield, together with a number of private British investors and friends.

The first fruit for winemaking is expected in 2020, with the first bottles the following year.

The first Domaine wine is likely in 2023.

Speaking of the competition, Lynn Murray, UK Marketing Director, Hatch Mansfield - UK sole agents for Champagne Taittinger, said: "Champagne Taittinger has always been committed to the promotion of young, upcoming chefs. We are absolutely thrilled to have Michel Roux Jr as UK Presidential judge again this year, himself one of the finest chefs in the UK. And with this year marking the Golden Jubilee of the competition it we are sure it will attract the best talent from around the world."

Entry forms for the competition are available through sole UK agent Hatch Mansfield, tel. 01344 871 800 or info@hatch.co.uk.

The closing date for entries is August 19 and the International Final will be held in Paris on November 16.

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