The courtyard of the Stewart/Berkley residence was a stunning setting for the event. Photo by EQ Media

Wellington, Fla. – Feb. 12, 2019 – The old-world European-inspired Palm Beach Polo home of equestrians Ken Berkley and Scott Stewart was the setting of a spectacular dinner to benefit Equestrian Aid Foundation, Thursday, Feb. 7. The lavish event featured Dom Pérignon, a brand synonymous with vintage Champagne and prestige cuvées, and The Mascot, a wine brand created by Will Harlan born out of the famous Harlan Estate Vineyard.

Show jumper Shai Tertner’s Shiraz Creative produced the well-orchestrated event and the menu was created by Chef Jose Pinot. Dom Pérignon Vintage 2008, just barely released in the U.S., was served with passed hors d’oeuvres as the party kicked off. The first course featured Petrossian Caviar served with rare and complex Dom Pérignon P2 Vintage 2000.

 

Stephanie Bulger, board member Robert Ross, Scott Stewart and Ken Berkley. Photo by EQ Media

 

Julia Fitzroy, business development director, Dom Pérignon described the two vintages of the iconic brand served. "We love to showcase just how versatile Dom Pérignon is when paired with all different kinds of cuisine," she said. "It really is the ultimate food wine! So, don’t hold on to your special bottle, waiting for the ‘perfect moment’ to pop it and celebrate. Consider that opening the bottle is an occasion in itself and enjoy it with good friends and great food.”

The Mascot 2011 was paired with Organic Avocado and Heirloom Tomato Tartare and The Mascot 2013 served as the accompaniment for the main course of roasted salmon filet. Amanda Harlan, a dressage rider who trains with Olympian Jan Ebeling, and her mother, Deborah Harlan were on hand to represent The Mascot brand.

“My father always said, with much success, much should be given forward," said Amanda Harlan. "Part of our mission and purpose is giving back to our community, and to those that need our help. It is our duty to rise to the occasion and make the most impact where it is needed. When I heard about the Equestrian Aid Foundation, under the tent at Global last year, sipping a glass of wine with Robert Dover and Amy Ebeling, collectively we realized that we could come together, and create something magical that could move the dial within the EAF. It is our pleasure to support such an incredible cause, led by a group of passionate and committed individuals focused on changing the lives within this equine community. I look forward to continuing our support the best we can.”
 

Julia Fitzroy from Dom Pérignon and Amanda Harlan from The Mascot. Photo by EQ Media

 

Robert Ross, Equestrian Aid Foundation board member and Keller Williams Luxury Division agent, was introduced by fellow board member R. Scot Evans and spoke to the attendees on behalf of Equestrian Aid Foundation. Ross expressed his gratitude to the event committee and to Stewart and Berkley for hosting the event and the former board president, Stephanie Bulger.

“She (Bulger) gave us a legacy and a mission to fulfill,” Ross said. “We've made great strides in the past year and we're excited for what the future holds."

 

Jan and Amy Ebeling and Olympic gold-medalist and MBE Carl Hester. Photo by EQ Media

 

Ross also gave a nod to Amy Ebeling for making the introduction to Fitzroy and the Harlans. “I feel like they have become instant family,” he said.

Partygoers included some of the world's most celebrated equestrians, owners and sponsors. Funds raised from the event will further the Equestrian Aid Foundation’s mission of helping horsemen cope with medical crises.

 

    

  

 

Top Photo: Board members Scot Evans and Jenny Dunion, Julia Fitzroy, Deborah Harlan, Amy Ebeling, Amanda Harlan, board member Monique Keitz and Ken Berkley. Second row left: Ann Romney. Right: Shai Tertner and Scot Evans. Bottom left: Carol Cohen Hodess and Rebecca Cohen. Bottom right: Becky Gochman, Robert Dover and Scott Bailey. All photos by EQ Media