Receiving a ratified invitation to a White House affair claims the flash and material of graceful hospitality and unique cuisine. But, the job of guaranteeing that fact is remaining to a triad of officials--of which Shanks is part--who are leaders of the government mansion's lasting home staff, a 100-plus member cadre that will not generally depart with the previous government, usually staying on as continuity in controlling the inner workings of the government mansion. Shanks and his associates (along with a couple of outside consultants) select wines to be offered at each diplomatic event. Their ultimate problem is to impress without creating a political gaffe in the process.

Shanks amounts wine experience and food coupling abilities with diplomatic discretion, therefore a wine's provenance is used with visitors'social sensitivities (for example by putting a certain National wine because the winemaker was raised in the visitor's state, or as the varietal originated there.) Sometimes the Bright Home matches wine to guests first, menu next, with the greatest goal of neither bad the dignitaries nor the cuisine. Shanks believes it's only the reality of politics. Providing kings alongside sultans and ambassadors keeps every one on their toes as they consider customs, traditions and sensitivities.

It becomes a challenge of global ratios, wherein the perfect home and wine coupling formula may run afoul of politics, creating a menu for cultural blunder. In November, when economic contagion was continuous to distribute to any or all sides of the world, giving Asian, European and South National stock markets reeling, Leader Bush located a summit on financial areas and the world economy. Finger-wagging newswires selected on the white house market link wine selection, going to "a $300 bottle of 2003 Shafer Hillside Pick" as an undoubtedly distinguished but poorly-timed pour.

On another give, setting it up proper can be hugely rewarding. International like was earned at a Might 2007 banquet pleasant King Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, whilst the 2003 Chris Jordan Les Pavots House cabernet and 2004 Newton Vineyard unfiltered chardonnay were served with clean flair. The style: both California wineries were established by Englishmen who'd been knighted by the double for their stature and achievements.

George Washington never had the opportunity to reside in the design he'd designed to be house to the First Family. Nonetheless, he was a good number who discovered pleasure in wine (and spirits) service. A recently-uncovered tally reveals that, in June of 1776, the nation's first President purchased instances of claret, muscat wine and cordials, and also a keg of brandy, probably for entertaining his officers and guests.