Laurent Perrier Afternoon Tea at The Dorchester

Posted by winesleuth in Champagne, Hotels and Spas | 0 comments

Now that Spring has sprung, that means that the RHS Chelsea Flower show is just around the corner. The show was first held in 1913 on the grounds of the Chelsea Hospital and except for gaps during both World Wars, it has been held there ever since. It used to be the biggest flower show until it was overtaken by the Hampton Court show. It is still, however the most prestigious with members of the Royal Family attending Opening Day every year.

Laurent Perrier is taking part for the 16th year in the Chelsea Flower Show. I was invited to preview the Laurent Perrier Garden at the flower show as well as the launch of The Dorchesters Afternoon Tea series with Laurent Perrier in The Dorchester’s Penthouse and Pavilion. The Penthouse has fabulous views of the city with the London Eye and other London landmarks clearly visible for miles on a clear day.

The Dorchester will be running a Rooftop Afternoon Tea Series with guest speakers during Chelsea Flower Show week from 19 – 25 May 2014. Please visitwww.dorchestercollection.com for further details on speakers. The tea will be served at 2:00pm and 4:30pm. The tea will include a glass of Grand Siècle champagne and an exclusive gift on departure representing a flower from the Chelsea Flower Show garden. Priced at £75 per person. The 2014 RHS Chelsea Flower Show runs from 20-24 May.

The Penthouse and Pavilion are sumptuously decorated and the finger sandwiches and pastries, developed by The Dorchester’s pastry team were delightful. I have to say though, the scones were my favourite. I love clotted cream and strawberry jam. The big debate around the table being, of course, which goes first, the cream or the jam? I’m firmly in the clotted cream first camp but there was plenty of disagreement!

All in all a wonderful Afternoon Tea with amazing views and that wonderful Laurent Perrier Grand Siecle to go along with it.