The James Beard Foundation hosted another fabulous event that welcomed over 600 guests to the Wolffer Estate Vineyard. This year’s honoree, renowned Chicago restaurateur, Charlie Trotter, is a multiple James Beard Foundation award winner and author of several best seller cook, food and hospitality related books. The James Beard Foundation is dedicated to celebrating, preserving and nurturing America’s culinary heritage and diversity in order to elevate the appreciation of our culinary excellence. The warm, friendly and personable Chef Charlie Trotter was honored for the strong part he has played to continue this legacy. And where else to celebrate culinary excellence than in the beautiful Hamptons where fabulous dining is prevalent? With the funds raised at events such as this one, the Beard Foundation continues in the same spirit by administering a number of diverse programs that include educational initiatives, food industry awards, food and wine courses, scholarships to culinary students and publications, and by maintaining the historic James Beard House in New York City’s Greenwich Village.

An amazing coincidence this year is that along with the Beard Foundation and Wolffer Estate Vineyards, Charlie Trotter’s restaurant is also celebrating its twentieth year. Chefs and Champagne features over thirty chefs from around the country preparing culinary delights for sampling. All evening Wolffer wine and Champagne Charles Heidsieck flows freely as a compliment to the food. Exquisite reception preparations of meats, fish, salads, soups, appetizers, and desserts are offered, all with the finest ingredients and prepared by Chefs from these five star restaurants! Held in a huge white tent on the vineyard grounds, once inside guests discover table arrangements that are creativity designed to emphasis the beauty and eye appeal of the culinary creations. Diners mingled, listened to a live band, and had an opportunity to sign up for a silent auction. Prizes ranged from unique travel destinations, weekend getaways, and top of the line cookware, gift baskets, fine wines, dinner and other gift certificate choices.

The event opened with a greeting by Susan Ungaro, President of the James Beard Foundation, who welcomed Chef Charlie Trotter to the stage. Joining this duo was Christian Wolffer to present the newest recipients of the James Beard Foundation Christian Wolffer Scholarship award. This year’s recipients, Winnie Hsia and Jennifer McCoy each received a $5,000 award to continue their education in the culinary arts. Jennifer McCoy was on hand to receive her award presented by Mr. Wolffer. Later in the evening Wolffer Estate Vineyard Wine Master, Roman Roth, and all the Chefs were invited on stage for recognition and additional ceremonial commendations and gifts.

The Chefs and Champagne party is one of the Hampton highlights and not to be missed. For more information about the James Beard Foundation events held on the East End and in New York City, check their website. Be sure to watch for notices about next year’s Chefs and Champagne date and honoree. Make your reservations early! The Foundation phone number is (212) 675-4984 or (800) 36- BEARD or visit the James Beard Foundation website at www.jamesbeard.org