Haute Event: 2011 Whitney Gala and Studio Party

On Wednesday, October 5th 2011 The Whitney Museum of American Art hosted its annual Gala & Studio Party at Hudson River Park’s Pier 57 sponsored by The Ritz-Carlton Rewards by J.P. Morgan/CHASE, AOL, and Marchesa. I had the pleasure of attending the private soiree along with a star-studded crowd. The event was decorated with stunning flower arrangements, luxurious leather couches, endless champagne and tables lined with glowing crystals. The Whitney Director Adam D. Weinberg and Honorary co-chairs AOL CEO & Chairman Tim Armstrong, Georgina Chapman, Keren Craig, and Harvey Weinstein honored legendary art writer for The New Yorker Calvin Tomkins for his lifetime achievements. The Gala also featured a video installation by artist Marilyn Minter sponsored by AOL.

Guests including Bar Rafaeli, John McInroe, Georgina Chapman, Michelle Monaghan, Bar Rafaelli, Tamara Mellon, Tinsley Mortimer, Martin Dawson, Amanda Hearst, Nate Lowman, Dalia Oberlander, Kate Spade, Denise Rich, Jay Sanders and Vito Schnabel enjoyed a special performance by Fitz & The Tantrums. Then Questlove from The Roots DJ’d and kept everyone including John Legend and his girlfriend grooving on the dance floor into the nightand while enjoying specialty cocktails by Chandon.

Want to enjoy the same luxurious cocktails the celebrities drink this fall? The creative team behind the American Pioneer of sparkling wine suggests an ice-cold glass of Chandon Brut Classic or Rosé with a scoop of sorbet. Chandon Brut Classic, with its notes of almond and caramel as well as citrus and pear, together with the green apple sorbet will certainly evoke those classic fall flavors.  Chandon Rosé with blood orange sorbet delivers a memorable taste with a festive look! Check out these fabulous recipes perfect for fall entertaining.

• Green Apple and Brut Classic

This crisp and refreshing combination – both tart and sweet – is the ultimate in fall flavors. The sorbet softens the brut while adding a slightly creamy texture. Add a cinnamon stick for a bit of spice.

• Blood Orange with Rosé

For a spooky costume party, the spirit of the season comes alive with this sweet yet dry mixture. The flavors are light and round with a fruity start and bready end.

Recipe: Simply place 1oz of sorbet at the base of the glass and fill with Chandon sparkling wine.