By Joseph Steele.
Few events match the grandeur and history of ‘the race that stops the nation’. This year is no different, with The William Inglis Hotel taking its annual Melbourne Cup luncheon to an unparalleled level. Blending refined cuisine, exquisite Champagne and immersive entertainment this year’s luncheon creates a spectacular event that pays homage to the rich equestrian heritage of the hotel.
At this storied venue, where champion thoroughbreds have been celebrated, guests will revel in the thrill of race day surrounded by an atmosphere that exudes elegance and heritage. With a sprawling buffet featuring paddock-to-plate delicacies, live entertainment and a partnership with Pommery Champagne, perfectly suited for discerning racegoers in search of the epitome of sophistication.
Nestled in South West Sydney, The William Inglis Hotel stands as a monument to Sydney’s horse-racing history. Part of the MGallery collection, the boutique hotel is infused with a passion for equestrian excellence. Its architecture and décor are thoughtfully designed to tell the tale of the Inglis family’s legendary contributions to horse racing, with refined nods to its thoroughbred heritage adorning each corner of the venue.
As guests step into the sales arena – a grand space reserved traditionally for the famed horse auctions – they enter a setting where elegance and history intertwine. Horses destined for greatness have been showcased here and it’s precisely where the Melbourne Cup luncheon finds its grand stage.
Luxurious touches adorn the space. From floral arrangements that reflect the Pantone colour of the year, Peach Fuzz, to equestrian-themed flourishes bought to life by NPM Events’ creative director, Natalie Pacialeo, every element speaks to an authentic blend of glamour and sophisticated rustic charm. The lush gardens will be dotted with traditional games and refined touches, creating a space where guests can sip Champagne, mingle and enjoy the timeless elegance of The William Inglis grounds.
At the heart of this luxurious celebration is the partnership with Pommery Champagne, an esteemed French Maison with a history steeped in elegance and refinement. Hailing from Reims, Pommery is synonymous with grandeur and an affinity for the culinary arts. Known for its crisp acidity, vibrant bubbles and ability to elevate every bite it complements, it’s a match made in gastronomic heaven. As one of France’s most renowned Champagne houses, Madame Pommery is credited with creating the first vintage ‘Brut’ style of Champagne in 1874.
Upon arrival, guests are welcomed with a glass of Pommery, setting the tone for an afternoon where every moment feels like a celebration. Pommery’s Brut Royal is the sip du jour, with an elegant and lively palate, subtle hints of red fruits and a rounded complexity that lingers, it’s the perfect accompaniment to the array of delicious morsels.
Image: Pomery Champagne Facebook, credit: Mathilde Giron
There is an undeniable synergy here: Pommery’s commitment to luxury and gastronomy aligns with The William Inglis’ celebration of heritage and excellence, creating an atmosphere that is sophisticated, yet undeniably Australian.
The gourmet buffet prepared for the event is a culinary experience that captures all that the team at The William Inglis does so well - quality, delicious food prepared with a touch of theatricality. Moving well beyond the typical canape offerings, guests can expect an experience crafted by a Chef-hatted team, that caters to the fussiest of gourmands.
The seafood bar is the first stop for many diners, showcasing an exquisite selection of Australian coastal treasures. Freshly shucked oysters glisten on ice, while plump prawns and delicately sliced sashimi beckon with the promise of oceanic flavours. Pommery’s Brut enhances the briny, natural flavours of the seafood, creating a refreshing balance that is both light and indulgent. Guests are transported to a seaside retreat with every bite, adding an elegant – yet relaxed – element to the day’s fare.
For those who appreciate bold flavours with a European flair, the antipasto station is a visual and culinary delight. Featuring a selection of Australian-cured meat, sumptuous cheese, pickled and marinated morsels all paired with artisanal accoutrements, this spread is all about contrasts – salty, creamy and savoury.
Revel in the carving station, taking centre stage and embodying the spirit of paddock-to-plate dining with premium cuts of Australian beef and lamb, each roasted to perfection. These succulent slices are served alongside seasonal accompaniments that highlight the quality of local ingredients. This is a highlight for meat lovers. Carefully constructed salads and fresh produce, prepared with the sophistication of The William Inglis’ culinary team, provide lighter options showcasing the depth and versatility of an elevated salad bar.
Adding an interactive element to the buffet is a live pasta station, where Chefs prepare a creamy vegetarian pasta inside a Parmesan wheel, infusing the dish with bold, umami-rich flavours. Watch on as the cheese melts into the pasta, creating a velvety, decadent dish that pairs seamlessly with a glass of Pommery.
No event is complete without a touch of sweetness. The dessert station delivers a selection of petit-fours and artisanal confections crafted by The William Inglis’ Pastry Chefs. Bite-sized indulgences from lighter-than-air macarons to rich chocolate truffles, these are a fittingly luxurious end to the meal.
Live entertainment provides a sensory backdrop to the day. Australian DJ Dylan Xavier will set the scene, welcoming guests with an upbeat mix of Afro and Deep House tunes that blend seamlessly with the venue’s chic, equestrian aesthetic. While activities. such as Fashion on the Fields, invite guests to dress in race-day finery, to celebrate Spring racing style with an air of glamour and friendly competition.
On the beautifully landscaped hotel lawns, traditional games offer a relaxed way for guests to mingle and enjoy the day’s festivities, creating an open-air experience that enhances the Melbourne Cup’s social atmosphere. With multiple screens streaming the race live, no one will miss a moment of the action as the horses thunder towards the finish line.
This is an experience that celebrates the intersection of luxury and heritage. As guests revel in the glamour of race day, indulge in culinary delights and sip on France’s finest, they’re invited to step into a world where the spirit of Australian horse racing and high-end hospitality come together in perfect harmony. Get ready to immerse yourself in the ultimate Melbourne Cup experience.
