Great wine isn't just about taste, it's also about connection. It ties us to the land where it was grown, the hands that crafted it, and the moments we shared while sipping it. For wine importer Mary Taylor, building those connections has become more than a profession, it's become her mission. And now, she's bringing that mission to New Orleans in a celebration of wine, food, and community that's as down-to-earth as it is delicious.
On April 14, Taylor's traveling wine showcase, The Poor Man's Paulée, will make a stop at one of the city's most unexpected and enchanting venues: the Louisiana Swamp Exhibit and Cajun Ballroom at the Audubon Zoo. Surrounded by cypress trees, mossy waters, and maybe even the occasional alligator sighting, this event promises to be a wine tasting unlike any other.
The name "Paulée" is borrowed from an old French tradition. Described as a rustic, end-of-harvest feast where winemakers and workers came together to celebrate the season's bounty. Over time, la paulée has evolved into exclusive wine festivals, often with high ticket prices and stiff formalities. Taylor's version flips that script, offering an approachable, festive alternative that embraces the spirit of the original gatherings, minus the pretense.
Mary Taylor first came on the scene during the New Orleans' virtual wine-and-cheese escape during the early pandemic which was a Zoom-based event hosted by Commander's Palace sommelier Dan Davis. Folks began to talk about Mary Taylor and her thoughtfully curated wine label. Her goal? To make the often-confusing world of European wine designations more accessible, shining a spotlight on small growers and regional expressions, usually at price points under $20.
Now, she's taking her vision on the road with The Poor Man's Paulée, connecting wine lovers directly with the people who produce the wines. At the New Orleans event, around two dozen winemakers from France, Spain, Italy, and Portugal will be in attendance, pouring over 50 different wines and sharing the stories behind them.
The event kicks off with a walk-around tasting, where guests can sample wines and mingle with the winemakers. Following the tasting, a seated dinner will showcase the talents of acclaimed local chefs: Susan Spicer and Allison Birdsall of Rosedale, and Jenny Breen of The Joint. On the menu are regional dishes like crab salad, crawfish bisque, and brisket that are perfect pairings for the diverse wine offerings.
Tickets are $120 and include both the tasting and dinner. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Audubon Foundation, supporting conservation and education efforts in the region. Tickets are available now at nolawinemerchant.com.
With good wine, great food, and the lush backdrop of the Louisiana swamp, The Poor Man's Paulée offers a night that blends celebration with connection—just as Mary Taylor intended. Whether you're a longtime wine lover or simply wine-curious, this is one event that promises to make lasting memories—without breaking the bank.
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