Review: Westerville Symphony Presents an Exquisite PAIRINGS: AN EVENING OF WINE AND MUSIC

In continuing its commitment to bring the highest quality of classical music and music education to Central Ohio, the Westerville Symphony presented PAIRINGS: AN EVENING OF WINE AND MUSIC at The Medallion Club on November 6.

Fine wines and food, when paired correctly, can offer an exquisite tasting experience with full flavors, rich aromas, and tactile sensations. Wine flavors are derived from specific components that work to complement and balance the richness and texture of various foods.

We've seen wine and food pairings, wine and cheese pairings, wine and chocolate pairings, and even wine and art pairings. However, in taking it another step further, Music Director Peter Stafford Wilson (now in his 23rd year) led members of the Westerville Symphony Orchestra in a program that also paired beautifully not only with wines, but also with an exquisite lineup of hors d'oeuvres from Chef Patrick Kennedy of The Medallion Club.

The evening began with wait staff serving cheese and fruit kabobs paired with the sparkling and refreshing Mionetto Prosecco as guests viewed auction items and placed bids. When guests were seated, we were served gluten-free gnocci and scallops paired with the lush and flavorful Mannequin white wine.

With each course, Internationally touring sommelier Jerry Siegel guided us through the textures, aromas and tastes of the wine and food pairings, as Maestro Wilson evoked a sense of old-world charm with the beautiful sounds of Dvorak's Serenade for Wind Instruments, all blending in perfect harmony together. Siegel explained, "Wine is driven by the music," and he presented five unique wines, including reds and whites, that worked in perfect balance with the gorgeous sounds of the symphony and the delicious hors d'oeuvres and assorted truffles. Peter Stafford Wilson took the time to explain each Movement, as well as the history and background of Antonin Dvorak, for a very informative, educational, and well planned evening.

A silent auction and special wine auction and lottery were held, all benefitting the Westerville Symphony. The Medallion Club offered an elegant atmosphere to host the event, and Chef Patrick Kennedy prepared an array of delectable foods that included gluten-free gnocchi, scallops, chicken skewers with assorted dipping sauces, sesame pork tenderloin, and more.

A truly elegant evening of music, wine and food to support the Westerville Symphony, as it continues its mission to educate Central Ohio and bring people together through classical music.

For more information on the Westerville Symphony, visit: westervillesymphony.org. The next event will be their holiday show, SOUNDS OF THE SEASON, on December 13 at the Riley Auditorium, Battelle Fine Arts Building in Westerville, Ohio.

If you missed this event, you can still donate to the Westerville Symphony through personal contributions, volunteer opportunities, or corporate sponsorship. Click here for more information on how you can support the arts.

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