Autumn in Normandy: Cooper’s Hawk September 2026 Wine Club Dinner in Madison, Alabama
Updated: Sep 30
PLEASE REMEMBER TO DRINK RESPONSIBLY
Cigar smoking and drinking alcohol are for adults of legal smoking and drinking age.
About Coopers Hawk in Madison, Alabama
Website: Madison, AL | Cooper's Hawk
Address: 8228 Hwy 72 W, Madison, AL 35758
Phone Number: (938) 225-1212
PLEASE REMEMBER TO DRINK RESPONSIBLY
Cigar smoking and drinking alcohol are for adults of legal smoking and drinking age.
Autumn in Normandy: A Cooper’s Hawk Wine Club Evening Wrapped in Apples, Elegance, and a Dash of Chaos
Written by Nancy Fae for His, Hers & the Good Life
Introduction
Cooper’s Hawk has quickly become one of my favorite places in Madison since opening in February 2026. The monthly members-only themed wine dinners are a highlight — little anchor points of joy and indulgence tucked into the calendar. But this month, Jeff was traveling for work, leaving me to attend solo … well, solo-ish. Our dear friends Dean and Stacie Della Pella joined me, and as always, their company made the evening sparkle.
Without Jeff — my human timekeeper — I dashed in right as the event began. Thankfully, Stacie saved me a seat, and I had just enough time to take in the beautifully dressed tables and the warm, autumnal glow of the “Autumn in Normandy” theme.
Autumn in Normandy: Cooper’s Hawk September 2026 Wine Club Dinner in Madison, Alabama Autumn in Normandy: Cooper’s Hawk September 2026 Wine Club Dinner in Madison, Alabama Autumn in Normandy: Cooper’s Hawk September 2026 Wine Club Dinner in Madison, Alabama
About the Event
Cooper’s Hawk hosts monthly members-only Wine Club Dinners, each themed, curated, and paired with thoughtful wines. For September 2026, they hosted Autumn in Normandy, a celebration of France’s apple-rich countryside.
To set the tone, Cooper’s Hawk described the evening as:
“Celebrate the arrival of fall the French way with an evening inspired by the Fête de la Pomme, Normandy’s beloved apple festival. Crisp autumn flavors, artisan cheeses, and our elegant Franc come together for a fête that honors the quintessential fruit of the French countryside.”
And with that, we were off to Normandy—no passport required.
How the Evening Unfolded
Rebecca, the General Manager, welcomed us warmly and introduced the team behind the evening: Kitchen: Chef Danielle; Ernie and Trish (the husband-and-wife duo behind the magic—Trish makes desserts); and Chris, who was busy in the kitchen. Front of House: Brittany, Heather, Amy, and Caleb.
I always appreciate acknowledging the team. They’re the heartbeat of these dinners.
The room glowed with autumnal décor—warm lighting, apple-themed touches, and a cozy elegance that made the evening feel like a French countryside fête.
The Menu
Start with: Harvest Fizz
A sparkling fall sipper blending Rémy Martin VSOP Cognac, bright lemon, caramel apple, black sugar, ginger beer, and a cinnamon sugar rim.
My Impression: Absolutely delicious. The layers of flavor were beautifully balanced, and the cognac was a delightful twist.
Bread Course
Petite Baguette
Served with Apple-Rosemary Butter.
My Impression: Warm, delicious, and hilariously oversized. Truly the size of a newborn baby.
First Course
Soupe à l’Oignon
Caramelized Onion & Roasted Apple Soup, Camembert Crouton, Snipped Chives.
Wine Pairing: Pinot Gris
My Impression: Comforting, rich, and perfect with the baguette. The Pinot Gris was a lovely match.
Wine Pairing: Pinot Gris First Course: Soupe à l’Oignon First Course: Soupe à l’Oignon & Wine Pairing: Pinot Gris
Second Course
Porc à la Normande
Thyme & Apple-Glazed Roasted Pork Ribeye, Pommes Darphin, Haricots Verts, Cherry-Brandy Sauce.
Wine Pairing: Franc
My Impression: A stunner. Tender, flavorful, and beautifully paired with the Franc.
Wine Pairing: Franc Second Course: Porc à la Normande Second Course: Porc à la Normande & Wine Pairing: Franc
Third Course
Roasted Apple Galette
French Vanilla Ice Cream, Toasted Almond Honey.
Wine Pairing: Almond Sparkling
My Impression: Dessert perfection. The Almond Sparkling made it sing.
Wine Pairing: Almond Sparkling Third Course: Roasted Apple Galette Third Course: Roasted Apple Galette & Wine Pairing: Almond Sparkling
A Note on the Evening’s Pace
While the food and pairings were wonderful, the pacing struggled. Our table was consistently served last, and poor Dean waited far longer than anyone should for a plate of pork ribeye. Brittany, our lead server, apologized sincerely and offered the Della Pellas two bottles of wine for the inconvenience. Assistant GM Ryan Stone also stopped by to make things right.
It wasn’t ideal, but the kindness and accountability softened the frustration - at least for the Della Pella's.
Rebecca closed the evening with a fun trivia game. Without my ringers — Jeff and Ashley — I didn’t stand a chance. Several guests tied for the win and took home bottles of wine.
Despite the delays, the night was enjoyable, warm, and filled with good company. And yes — I’m already looking forward to October’s event.
His Take (Jeff)
I was bummed I couldn’t attend — especially since these dinners have become our monthly date-night ritual. But I'm already counting down to October’s “Dinner After Dark,” ready to make up for lost time (and lost wine).
Her Take (Nancy Fae)
Even without my better half, the evening was lovely. The food was delicious, the company delightful, and the theme beautifully executed. Normandy in September? Yes, please. I missed Jeff, but I’m grateful for friends who make solo nights feel anything but.
Closing in the His, Hers & the Good Life Style
His (Jeff)
Missing this one stung, but I’m glad Nancy Fae had a great evening — and that the Della Pellas kept her laughing. October, I’m coming for you.
Her (Nancy Fae)
Autumn in Normandy was charming, flavorful, and full of heart. Even with a few hiccups, Cooper’s Hawk delivered another memorable night.
The Good Life
This dinner fits perfectly into our Good Life — seasonal flavors, shared experiences, and a community that keeps us coming back month after month. Normandy may be far away, but Cooper’s Hawk brought it right to our table.
PLEASE REMEMBER TO DRINK RESPONSIBLY
Cigar smoking and drinking alcohol are for adults of legal smoking and drinking age.
Disclaimer: Cigar smoking and drinking alcohol are for adults of legal smoking and drinking age. Life’s Rants promotes the responsible and legal enjoyment of premium cigars and alcohol by individuals of legal age. We do not endorse or encourage smoking or drinking among minors.
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