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Podcast – The wine list 7.0 – Le Taillevent ** [fra]

Picture of Björnstierne Antonsson

Björnstierne Antonsson


Listen to the podcast – The wine list – episode 6 – on two star Guide Michelin restaurant inParis – Le Taillevent [read the full champagne story]

Estimated reading time: 5 minutes

[read the full wine list at Le Taillevent here]

The pod cast – The wine list

episode 6.0

Le Taillevent

★★

Paris


Le Taillevent, an iconic two-star Michelin restaurant in Paris

Le Taillevent, an iconic two-star Michelin restaurant in Paris, stands as a testament to the harmonious blend of haute cuisine and an unparalleled wine selection. Since its inception in 1946, the establishment has not only been a beacon of French gastronomy but also a sanctuary for oenophiles, boasting one of the most extensive wine cellars in the world. 

A Legacy Rooted in History

The name “Le Taillevent” pays homage to Guillaume Tirel, a 14th-century chef renowned for authoring “Le Viandier,” one of the earliest French cookbooks. This historical reference underscores the restaurant’s commitment to culinary excellence and tradition. 

Founded by André Vrinat in 1946, Le Taillevent quickly distinguished itself in Paris’s 9th arrondissement. By 1948, it had earned its first Michelin star, a testament to its exceptional cuisine and service. In 1950, the restaurant relocated to the former mansion of the Duke of Morny at 15 rue Lamennais in the 8th arrondissement, near the Champs-Élysées, where it continues to welcome guests. 

The Cellar: A Treasure Trove of Vinous Excellence

Le Taillevent’s wine cellar is nothing short of legendary. Housing over 30,000 bottles, it is a timeless jewel where time seems to stand still. Among these many bottles, some from another century, sleep peacefully and patiently wait to reach their peak, to be released and reveal their most beautiful dress in the light of day. 

The wine list features approximately 2,800 separate offerings, encompassing a vast array of regions, vintages, and styles. The oldest wine in the cellar at the time of a recent visit was apparently from the 19th century, highlighting the restaurant’s dedication to preserving and presenting historical vintages. 

A Pioneering Spirit in Wine Selection

André Vrinat was a pioneer – he was the first in Paris to break away from the hegemony of Bordeaux wines and offer other terroirs, notably Burgundy – and his wine list became an incunabulum of a cellar book. 

This forward-thinking approach not only diversified the restaurant’s wine offerings but also set a new standard in the Parisian dining scene, encouraging patrons to explore a broader spectrum of French viticulture.

Les Caves de Taillevent: Extending the Legacy

In 1987, Jean-Claude Vrinat, who had taken over the reins from his father, expanded the family’s passion for wine by establishing Les Caves de Taillevent. This venture into retail wine sales allowed enthusiasts to access a curated selection of wines and spirits, reflecting the same dedication to quality and diversity found in the restaurant’s cellar. 

Les Caves de Taillevent features one of the most impressive wine selections in the world with more than 2,000 wines and spirits, available in its wine shops. 

A Commitment to Food and Wine Pairing

At Le Taillevent, the art of food and wine pairing is taken to sublime heights. The menu evolves with the seasons, accompanied by wines matured in their historic cellars where crus and grands crus meet. The art of table cutting or buckling are the highlights of this discovery. 

This meticulous attention to pairing ensures that each dish is complemented by a wine that enhances its flavors, creating a harmonious dining experience that delights the senses.

The Modern Era: Embracing Change While Honoring Tradition

In recent years, Le Taillevent has continued to innovate while staying true to its roots. The restaurant’s wine list reflects a traditional European hierarchy: French labels dominate, then Italian, Spanish, plus the occasional Californian bottle. One entry stands out: a white wine from Denmark. 

This inclusion signals a recognition of the evolving wine landscape and a willingness to embrace quality wines from emerging regions, ensuring that the restaurant remains at the forefront of oenological excellence.

Conclusion

Le Taillevent’s legendary status is built upon a foundation of culinary mastery and an unwavering commitment to wine excellence. Its extensive cellar, pioneering spirit, and dedication to perfect pairings have solidified its place as a temple of gastronomy and oenology in Paris. For those seeking an unparalleled dining experience that celebrates the symbiotic relationship between food and wine, Le Taillevent remains an essential destination.

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