THE WINE AND FOOD SOCIETY OF NEW YORK was chartered in 1934. It is the oldest United States chapter of the International Wine & Food Society (IW&FS), which was founded in London by André Simón, a world renowned French gastronome and one of the outstanding writers of his time on food and wine. The Wine and Food Society of New York seeks to achieve the goals of its founder, who said: "Unless something can be done well, we are faced with the danger of losing the amenities of a gracious way of living, and thus might possibly lose even the desire for the best." Mission Our goals are to: Promote wider knowledge and understanding of the wines and foods of the world. Enhance our appreciation and discernment of good wines and good food. Encourage and nurture friendships of individuals who share culinary and enological joys. Top of Home Page Activities We pride ourselves on the innovative, educational and creative appeal of our activities. The events are one-of-a-kind and tailor-made by the Society. Our events include two or three monthly dinners, luncheons, tastings or seminars featuring both the familiar and the esoteric. We have sampled recipes culled from collections of royalty, accompanied 3-star chefs on their early morning market rounds, have had Consuls General of various countries to host an event, and have kneaded dough and chopped onions under the tutelage of the "pros" In our tastings we may learn how to analyze the components of a wine one month, or savor the glories of the First Growths a few weeks later. Our overall themes guiding each specific event result in culinary levels, wine selections, educational experiences, and a general enjoyment which is truly unique and unsurpassed. Top of Home Page Participation Our membership is by invitation. Members are encouraged to be actively involved in the Society by volunteering to join committees as well as chairing and attending events. The Wine Committee is responsible for maintaining our unique wine cellar and providing the wines as opportunities dictate. The Events Committee meets regularly to propose, plan and manage specific events. The Membership Committee is dedicated to overseeing the continual growth and active involvement of our membership. The resources of our membership are sometimes tapped with BYOB (Bring Your Own Bottle) events, with varying themes such as explorations of great years, regions, or properties. Top of Home Page International Involvement Members may attend functions of other International Wine & Food Society branches when they travel abroad as well as in the U.S., and thus may tap into a worldwide network of wine and food enthusiasts. They may participate in the International Festivals, where a specific region or nation touts its talents and those of the area's chefs, winemakers, and hoteliers. Each member also receives quarterly mailings of the Newsletter of the Americas, as well as the International Society Journal, which reports the activities of the branches worldwide.