Brennan's Honored on Wine Enthusiast's List of 100 Best Wine Restaurants of 2016
As a “Grande Dame” of New Orleans Creole cuisine, Brennan’s emerged from its recent renovation in proof that the big pink on Royal Street was back and better than ever. Once renowned for its fine wine, the cellar had been the focus of significant rebuilding: Ralph Brennan and his team were determined that it should house even more comprehensive collections as they revived in Brennan’s one of the most impressive wine programs in America. Now, with the announcement of Wine Enthusiast Magazine’s 100 Best Wine Restaurants of 2016, it is apparent that Brennan’s unyielding efforts have resulted in one of the best, brightest and most progressive wine and food experiences available today.
The Wine Enthusiast Best Wine Restaurants list is not just reflection of the "the best wine programs," but rather a list of restaurants where wine, food, service and atmosphere are all integral elements to the overall experience - with an emphasis on discovery. Brennan’s can be found in the category of “Classics” - stalwarts who don’t rest on their laurels, remaining a relevant part of the national wine and food conversation, always remembering to honor the reasons they’re beloved.
Just like the menu itself, Brennan’s cellar has one foot in the past, with classic regions well represented, while the other steps into the future, with a solid offerings from innovative producers. With over 1500 selections, the cellar is carefully managed by a staff in which the restaurant invests heavily, through education with the Court of Master Sommeliers; many are certified at the first level.
Originally the stable of the 1795 historic building, the cellar today features a private dining room with the original arches of handmade brick, rough-hewn timber beams and a sixteen foot long table, milled from a single sinker cypress found in a Mississippi bayou. Wine lovers may opt to dine à la carte with traditional individual courses amidst the bins, bottles and boxes of the fully functioning cellar, or indulge in a classic cellar experience – with a multi-course tasting menu from executive chef Slade Rushing with wine pairings tailored to individual tastes.
“Bubbles at Brennan’s,” the popular Champagne happy hour, has become a beloved tradition on Monday through Friday in “The Roost” bar and courtyard, where a revolving selection of five Champagnes is offered, as well as sparkling cocktails from the bar. As a special tribute to the growing Champagne collection, there is a colorful ceremonial sabering in the courtyard every Friday.
Steeped in history, and consistently influencing the national scene, Brennan’s has proven its commitment to building a wine program that will last for many more generations to come.
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