555 Cochon 2010 DC: My judging experience

We started early the VIP with a "Surf & Turf" station featuring oysters from Choptank Oyster Company & Whole Foods and then dig into Gryffon's Aerie Devon Steak Tartare prepared by Chef Varley. 

We enjoyed the reserve wine tasting from Silver Oak Cellars, Blenheim Vineyards, Anderson's Conn Valley and Donkey & Goat Winery. 

Cowgirl Creamery presented an artisan cheese installation along side craft brews from Heavy Seas Beer. 

After the VIP reception, I headed into the judging room to begin the 45 course tasting. 

Brady Lowe introduced the chefs.  

The tasting began with NICHOLAS STEFANELLI - Bibiana.

Bev and Chef Nicholas served the courses to 20 hungry judges, including:  Nycci Nellis and Melissa McCart.

Each chef gave us a presentation about their dishes.

Chef Nicholas went all out with 18 dishes.  Impressive!

Dessert included nutella lollipops.

Already stuffed, we still had 4 more chefs to judge...find out more tomorrow! Photos by Emily Clack