NECI to Host Le Weekend Chocolat

Montpelier, Vermont – Just in time for Valentine’s Day, two friends and culinary masters will be at New England Culinary Institute to offer special classes in the fine art of chocolate.  Master Chocolatier, Eric Girerd, owner of L’atelier du chocolat in New York City and vice-president Academie Culinaire de France, US delegation, joins his long-time friend and NECI’s own Master Chef and Chopped Champion 2012 Jean-Louis Gerin to offer a unique chocolate weekend event in the capital, February 9 and 10.

Saturday afternoon, adults can attend a chocolate class with Master Chocolatier Girerd in the NECI kitchens at La Brioche, and in the evening enjoy a chocolate martini cocktail followed dinner at Chef’s table. Children ages 8 to 12 can take a chocolate class, and enjoy dinner and a movie. NECI’s award-winning Sunday brunch will continue with the chocolate theme. The weekend is planned á la carte style so participants may book one or more activities. Package rates are available. The Inn at Montpelier and the Capital Plaza are offering discounted rates for Chocolate Weekend participants traveling from out of town.
“We are honored to have Master Chocolatier Girerd with us for this special event, said NECI President Fran Voigt.  This is a unique opportunity for the community to spend time learning from a celebrated chocolatier. Girerd’s passion is inspiring. There is a dynamic between Girerd and Chef Gerin that creates an
atmosphere charged with fun and memorable culinary experiences. Saturday’s dinner menu prepared á quatre mains (meaning with “4 hands”) is not to be missed by anyone who enjoys good food and likes to explore creative taste and flavor pairings.”

Chocolate classes are from 1 to 3 p.m. in the kitchens at La Brioche. Chocolate martini’s will be served at a 5 p.m. at Chef’s Table (upstairs from NECI on Main ). The Savory Chocolate dinner for adults features 3 courses and an assortment of chocolate desserts beginning at 6 p.m.  The more traditional children’s dinner and movie feature, Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, starts at 6 p.m. in the lounge at NECI on Main . Please visit the NECI website www.neci.edu/valentines or call 802-223-3188 for more information and to make reservations. Class size will be limited to 25 and reservations are required.

Founded in 1980, New England Culinary Institute is a fully accredited, degree-granting college recognized for its innovative immersion style of education featuring small classes, hands-on learning, and personal attention.  Its graduates are sought the world over for their high level of skill and preparation, and are employed in a variety of industry-related careers.  For more information, go to www.neci.edu.

Photo Caption: Master Chocolatier Eric Girerd, left, and NECI Master Chef Jean-Louis Gerin.