There are dinners—and then there are experiences that etch themselves into memory. For our anniversary this year, Michelle and I treated ourselves to Aubergine, the celebrated restaurant at L’Auberge Carmel. I’d heard that their approach to dining was unlike anywhere else, but I wasn’t prepared for just how special the evening would be.
The Aubergine Philosophy
One of the most fascinating things we learned is that each year, the chefs take a month-long culinary pilgrimage—traveling to a different part of the world, immersing themselves in the cuisine, and bringing back inspiration that shapes the menu for the year. There are no menus handed out at Aubergine. Instead, each meal is a multi-course tasting experience, carefully curated with flavors and techniques from their latest journey.
This year, the inspiration came from Thailand. Every plate was a masterpiece—layered with bold, aromatic flavors, yet delicate and refined in presentation. The food felt like a story unfolding, course by course, with each bite revealing a new chapter.
A Sommelier’s Playground
Of course, for me, the wine experience was just as thrilling. Aubergine’s sommelier offers three pairing options:
A Champagne-only pairing for those who love the crisp elegance of bubbles with every dish.
A classic pairing, thoughtful and varied.
And finally, the Reserve Pairing—a journey through rare, old, and once-in-a-lifetime wines.
Naturally, I couldn’t resist the Reserve. Each pour was a treasure: aged wines with stunning complexity, wines you simply don’t find on most lists. The way they complemented the Thai-inspired dishes was pure magic—each pairing elevated the flavors and textures, transforming an already incredible meal into something unforgettable.
The Perfect Evening
The pairing was flawless. The food was impeccable. And the wine—the wine felt like a privilege to taste. By the end of the evening, we weren’t just celebrating another year together—we were celebrating the artistry of food and wine, and how beautifully they can come together to create moments that feel eternal.
Final Thoughts
If you ever find yourself in Carmel and want to experience something truly unique, Aubergine is more than a restaurant. It’s an exploration of culture, flavor, and craftsmanship. And for us, it was the perfect way to mark another year of memories with Michelle.
Cheers!
Alex, Founder of Wine Scholars
