Chefs gather for Gosset anniversary

A host of Europe’s finest chefs gathered in Paris last month to celebrate the 425th anniversary of Champagne Gosset.

Michel Roux, Ferran Adrià and Gary Rhodes were just some of the big names present, a testament to Gosset’s closely cultivated association with the world of gastronomy.

In his welcoming speech, Jean-Pierre Cointreau, CEO of Champagne Gosset, said: “These 17 quarter centuries in the service of excellence make Gosset the oldest wine house in Champagne.

"But this is more than just a title; it is a savoir-faire and passion handed down from generation to generation for over four centuries that we wish to honour.”

The event was also an opportunity to mark the 15th anniversary of the Trophée Gosset Celebris, an annual competition, which recognises and rewards those restaurants, whether fine dining or gastropub, which offer a wide range of Champagnes on their list.

Usually held in France, the competition was hosted by the UK from 2000 until 2005, with Michel Roux as chairman of the UK judging panel.

Cointreau highlighted the importance of this trophy to the house’s reputation, explaining: “For a decade and a half we have been working together to uphold the cause and maintain Champagne’s rightful place in French and international gastronomy.”

He added: “Of course, neither of these anniversaries is an end in itself. On the contrary, they allow us now to open a new chapter in the history of Champagne Gosset and for Champagne in general.”

Gabriel Savage, 13.10.09