‘Downton Abbey’ experience awaits at Connoisseur’s Dinner

Paul Brooke-Taylor, executive chef at Highclere Castle, where “Downton Abbey” is filmed, and Lisa Heathcote, the show’s food stylist, will share the time period’s distinctive cuisine with the State College community.

“The dinner is a unique way for the guests to be part of the castle experience,” says Brooke-Taylor. “I hope some of the combinations are unique to them, while also sharing a glimpse of history, and they leave feeling a little surprised in a good way.”

The hors d’oeuvres and four-course meal will feature several foods Brooke-Taylor prepares at Highclere Castle, which is located approximately 70 miles west of London. The first course will begin with confit Goosnargh duck leg and Agen prune terrine, while patrons will fulfill their appetites with a fusion of Highclere desserts.

“The food that will be served is from the family’s repertoire,” adds Brooke-Taylor. “If guests were eating this food at Highclere Castle, it would all be locally sourced within Lord Carnarvon’s estate. It’s something we pride ourselves on.”

An award-winning chef, Brooke-Taylor assumed his current position at the residence of Lord and Lady Carnarvon in January 2008. In addition to the castle’s primary residents, he has prepared food for British royalty and members of parliament.

The Connoisseur’s Dinner and Auction supports the programming and operations of WPSU-TV. The event is sold out, but you can join the wait list by contacting Chrissy Leidy at (814) 863-5597.