Gourmet News

Maison Jospeh Drougin Ships Wines to US Via Sailboat

Published July 15, 2024

Maison Joseph Drouhin, renowned for the quality of its Burgundy wines, is taking a new step in its sustainability commitment by announcing its first wine shipment by sailboat. In partnership with TOWT, 15,000 bottles of 2022 Chablis and Côte de Beaune white wines will set sail in summer 2024 aboard the Anemos for a transatlantic voyage between Le Havre and New York.

This initiative represents a strong commitment for the Beaune-based company, adopting this innovative and sustainable mode of transport in line with its long-established environmental approach. This carbonless navigation allows for a 90% reduction in CO2 emissions and a 98% reduction in sulphur oxide emissions while ensuring the quality and integrity of the wines during the 15-day voyage.

The USA holds particular significance for the Drouhin family, which has owned an import company in New York and 100 hectares of vineyards in Oregon for over 40 years. As pioneers in this region, the Drouhin family continues to affirm its strong connection with the American market, its first export market after France. This first transatlantic voyage by sailboat is set to become a regular occurrence, with two annual shipments planned in the coming years until the arrival of new boats.

This initiative by Maison Joseph Drouhin is based on its core values: Passion, Harmony, Audacity, Regenerative, Excellence (PHARE, “Lighthouse” in French).

Having long been committed to environmentally respectful practices, it was one of the first Burgundy houses to adopt organic and biodynamic viticulture practices in the late 1980s. It has introduced innovative initiatives such as creating a lightweight bottle in 2008.

Inspired by family values passed down through generations, Maison Joseph Drouhin has long been committed to embodying the principles of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and actively contributing to sustainable development in all its aspects.

Frédéric Drouhin, chairman of the executive board and a member of the fourth generation, expresses this vision by stating: “Today, the employees of Maison Joseph Drouhin and I are proud of our actions that go beyond the CSR approach. It represents not only our core values but also our commitment to a better future for our planet and future generations. Our goal for 2030 is to be a model in our choices for preserving the wine heritage and ensuring its resilience in the face of internal and external climatic and human challenges.”

Joseph Drouhin is the first wine company to have signed the Climate Business Convention, reaffirming its commitment to reducing its ecological footprint.

For Diana Mesa, General Manager, and Guillaume Le Grand, President of TOWT, this commercial partnership is a true success: “Joseph Drouhin, through its high-quality products and commitments to respecting our environment, is an exceptional partner for TOWT. Today, we are proud to collaborate together to decarbonize the maritime sector and promote sustainable maritime transport.”

Founded in 1880, Maison Joseph Drouhin has five generations of experience and expertise and relies heavily on family tradition. The estate comprises 100 hectares of vineyards, 14 of which are Grand Cru and 30 Premiers Cru, all managed according to organic and biodynamic viticulture principles since 1988. Additionally, the Maison purchases grapes from loyal suppliers to complete its range where it does not own vineyards. Respect for the originality of the terroir and vintage, finesse, elegance, and harmony: this defines the Joseph Drouhin style.

The Anemos is part of the new generation of sail cargo ships from TOWT (TransOceanic Wind Transport) for transporting wines by sail cargo ship. Currently being completed in Concarneau, this ship will be inaugurated shortly in Le Havre before departing for New York. The Anemos promises to reduce CO2 emissions by more than 90% compared to traditional cargo ships thanks to its primarily wind-powered propulsion. At 80 meters long with a cargo capacity of 1100 tons, Anemos is the largest and most efficient sail cargo ship in its category. It is the first of eight vessels for the company.

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Chef Andre Rush to Elevate Sodexo’s Government Service Menus

Published July 15, 2024

Sodexo, the nation’s largest federal foodservice contractor, is partnering with Chef Andre Rush, former White House chef for multiple administrations, bestselling author, award-winning Olympic chef, and U.S. veteran among other accolades. Through this partnership, Sodexo will benefit from Chef Rush’s culinary expertise alongside his special interest in supporting servicemen and women’s mental and physical well-being – to innovate and elevate menus across Sodexo’s government services.

“One of my primary goals – and something that’s been evident in both my journey in the military and as a chef – is making a meaningful impact,” said Rush. “Sodexo proudly serves servicewomen and men across the U.S. as the largest federal foodservice contractor. I’m thrilled to lend my expertise to Sodexo, ultimately touching lives – and notably those serving our country – from coast to coast.”

Touting significant military and culinary achievements – including training over 10,000 troops in culinary arts and serving as a combat trainer, qualifying over 1,000 service members and civilians in hand-to-hand combat – Chef Rush is a devout advocate for veterans’ well-being. This led to the launch of his nonprofit, 2222 Inc., in tandem with his various culinary ventures.

“It’s a privilege to partner with Chef Andre Rush, a truly iconic chef blending culinary excellence with experience in military service. Chef Rush’s dedication extends beyond meeting physical needs; he holds a profound passion for mental health and well-being, which is especially crucial for those in service,” said Brett Ladd, CEO, Government, Sodexo U.S. “The partnership between Sodexo and Chef Rush exemplifies a shared goal of making a meaningful impact.”

Sodexo serves 160 military and U.S. federal government locations in 28 states. With a commitment to improving quality of life and making a positive impact, Sodexo creates solutions for everything from dining and nutrition to facilities management and rehabilitative services for U.S. government and military organizations.

Sodexo North America is part of a global Fortune 500 company with a presence in 45 countries. Sodexo specializes in sustainable foodservice and valued experiences, in all 50 U.S. states, Canada, Puerto Rico and Guam, at every moment in life: learn, work, heal and play. Additionally, the company indirectly supports additional jobs through its annual purchases of goods and services from small to large businesses. Sodexo North America is committed to meeting the challenges of everyday life with a dual goal: to improve the quality of life of our employees and those we serve, and contribute to the economic, social, and environmental progress in the communities where we operate. Our purpose is to create a better everyday for everyone to build a better life for all.

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Claussen Pickle Cupcakes Launch for Limited Time Only

Published July 15, 2024

Claussen, the 150-year-old brand known for its signature refrigerated pickles that pack a superior cold crunch, is teaming up with New York-based bite-size dessert company, Baked by Melissa, to create a first-of-its-kind pickle cupcake. To celebrate National Pickle Month, the dill-ightful dessert will be available for pickle enthusiasts nationwide, while supplies last.

Over the past year, pickle products continue to trend with 73 percent of Americans reporting that they enjoy the taste of pickles. To give the fans what they wanted, Claussen entered the beverage space for the first time last year, launching a sparkling wine cocktail, and this summer, it’s all about desserts.

“We’re excited to keep our pickle momentum going this summer with our first-ever dessert,” said Caroline Sheehey, Brand Manager for Claussen Pickles. “Pickle is such a universal flavor, so we are constantly working to find new and unique ways to bring Claussen’s signature taste to many different beloved occasions. These cupcakes will be the perfect unexpected twist for pickle fanatics everywhere.”

Combining Baked by Melissa’s famous handcrafted bite-size cupcakes and Claussen Pickles’ tangy flavor, the Baked by Melissa x Claussen Pickle Cupcakes feature a delicious pickle-infused cake topped with pickle buttercream icing and red and white celebratory sprinkles. These bite-sized delights combine beloved Claussen pickles with Baked by Melissa’s classic vanilla cake and icing. The result is a bright, balanced sweet-salty-sour pickle treat, perfect for your summer parties.

“Anyone who’s seen @BakedByMelissa on TikTok knows I am a pickle lover, whether I’m making pickles at home or adding pickles to my favorite dishes, so it only made sense to bring the Claussen’s iconic flavor to Baked by Melissa cupcakes next, for an unexpected tangy treat,” said Melissa Ben-Ishay, Co-Founder & CEO of Baked by Melissa. “The addition of pickle gives the cupcake a zippy sweet-salty-sour kick, making it a truly unique ingredient for a bite-size cupcake.”

The Baked by Melissa x Claussen Pickle Cupcake is available in packs of 6 or 25 while supplies last. The 6-pack is available exclusively at all Baked by Melissa store locations for $10.25 while the 25-pack is exclusive to BakedbyMelissa.com for $37.00 for nationwide shipping. For more information, visit @claussenpicklesofficial on Instagram or BakedbyMelissa.com.

Founded by Melissa Ben-Ishay in 2008, Baked by MelissaBaked by Melissa is the New York-based dessert company specializing in handcrafted bite-size cupcakes and treats in a variety of flavors, all developed by Melissa herself. Today, Baked by Melissa has 13 retail locations in the New York area and an online store offering nationwide shipping. With its highly acclaimed assortment of flavors, gift boxes for every occasion and custom shipping packaging to ensure treats arrive safe and fresh, Baked by Melissa has become a go-to brand to celebrate all of life’s moments across the U.S. Find current flavors and more at bakedbymelissa.com.

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