On October 3, 2026, Cork Dorx brought guests together for Sip & Spice: An Intimate Wine Dinner in Laurel, Maryland. Alongside the Caribbean-inspired creations of Chef Marqués Julius of Sweet & Spicy Fusion Bistro, three thoughtfully selected wines demonstrated how sparkling, red, and white styles can bring different flavors to the table.
Each pairing was chosen to make wine education accessible, encourage discovery, and create conversation. Here is a closer look at the bottles featured during the evening.
Antech Crémant de Limoux Emotion Rosé: A Sparkling Welcome
Our evening began with a sparkling rosé from Limoux, France. The wine’s bright acidity and lively bubbles were a lovely match for Chef Marqués’ crab cakes, making this opening pour a guest favorite.
Delicate berry aromas, especially wild strawberry, give the wine an inviting character, while its freshness provides a welcome contrast to the richness of the crab cakes. It was an elegant but approachable way to greet guests and set the tone for the dinner.
Wine: Maison Antech Crémant de Limoux Emotion Rosé
Style: Sparkling rosé
Region: Limoux, France
Featured pairing: Chef Marqués’ crab cakes
Learn more: Producer and importer wine details
Jean-Claude Debeaune Spécial Sélection Beaujolais-Villages: A Red Wine Surprise
This French red wine, made from 100% Gamay, was selected to challenge a familiar pairing assumption: red wine can absolutely belong alongside poultry. Served slightly chilled, its light-to-medium body and juicy acidity worked beautifully with the spice and Caribbean flavors of the curried chicken.
Fresh notes of strawberry and cherry, subtle flowers, a touch of earthiness, and a whisper of spice meet a smooth texture and refreshing, fruit-driven finish. Instead of overpowering the dish, the Beaujolais complemented its warmth and seasoning. The pairing was an ideal dance.
Wine: Jean-Claude Debeaune Spécial Sélection Beaujolais-Villages
Style: Light- to medium-bodied red
Grape: 100% Gamay
Region: Beaujolais, France
Featured pairing: Caribbean curried chicken
Serving tip: Enjoy slightly chilled.
Frisk Prickly Riesling: A Bright, Playful Finish
From Victoria’s Alpine Valleys in Australia, Frisk Prickly Riesling brings a refreshing combination of gentle sparkle and off-dry sweetness. Tiny bubbles add a playful spritz, while lively acidity keeps each sip crisp and balanced.
Aromas of lime zest, lemon, green apple, white peach, and soft floral notes lead into flavors of citrus, white nectarine, green pear, and subtle minerality. The result is clean, zippy, and tart on the finish, with just enough sweetness to invite another sip.
Wine: Frisk Prickly Riesling
Style: Off-dry, lightly sparkling white (frizzante)
Region: Victoria’s Alpine Valleys, Australia
Tasting highlights: Citrus, orchard fruit, floral notes, crisp acidity, and a gentle spritz.
More Than a Wine Dinner
From a sparkling rosé with crab cakes to a slightly chilled Gamay with curried chicken, these selections illustrate what makes thoughtful wine pairing exciting: there is always something new to discover. Sip & Spice celebrated wine, food, culture, and the connections that happen when people gather around a table.
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