Tim Whiteside, a culinary student at AID, is one of 9 finalists in the Second Annual Champagne Pairing Culinary Contest! His recipe for Orange and Champagne Poached Pear, paired with Laurent-Perrier Cuvee Rose, was one of three winning dessert recipes. Tim says of the dessert, “It goes well with dry Champagne. With the dryness of the Champagne and the sweetness of the pears, it makes the perfect combination.”

He will receive a trip to the Champagne region of France for up to six days, including airfare and accommodations.

Tim is currently a fifth quarter student at AID, and has won two dessert competitions sponsored by the school. He also works at the Lakewood Country Club as an assistant to the pastry chef.