The Gentleman’s Christmas of Michael Koopmann

For the holidays, we wanted to hear from some of Gentologie’s friends and collaborators. We asked them how they celebrated their Christmas. We called this ‘The Gentleman’s Christmas of…’ because Christmas is all about being a gentleman (if you’re wondering how, we have some tips here). We continue this series with The Gentleman’s Christmas of Michael Koopmann, Clefs d’Or concierge at the Mount Stephen Hotel, ex-sommelier, frequent traveler and sometimes contributor to Gentologie.

The Gentleman’s Christmas of Michael Koopmann

What does Christmas mean to you?

For me, Christmas has always been a time for reflection, but also an opportunity to see family and friends again. I love admiring the Christmas decorations, especially if there’s snow!

How is Christmas spent in your family?

Because I have a small family here (Michael is of German and Filipino origin), it’s always been, first, preparing Christmas dinner with my mother, followed by Christmas Eve and dinner!

What does your family eat at Christmas?

We eat a leg of lamb, quail and typical Filipino dishes such as Chicken Adobo (braised chicken with vinegar and soy sauce and various other spices) and Pancit, the national dish, which is actually a noodle dish.

What does your family drink at Christmas?

As a former sommelier, I look for the best bottle of red wine, or possibly champagne! But more specifically, I prefer wines that are full-bodied and fleshy on the palate, such as Spanish wines from the Rioja region, because, in terms of quality/price, they’re hard to beat. My brother likes Tuscan wines, so we often have them at our table. These wines go well with lamb.

When it comes to Champagne, we don’t really have a preference. I like Spanish Cavas as an alternative, but vintage Champagnes are also an excellent option.

What would you like to receive for Christmas?

I don’t ask for much for Christmas! A gift card is enough for me!

 What do you like to give at Christmas?

I like to give great bottles of wine! Otherwise, Lego! Everyone loves Lego, young and old, in my opinion, of course!

What are your Christmas wishes for Gentologie readers?

I wish Gentologie readers a wonderful holiday season, a white Christmas and lots of joy!

We hope you enjoyed The Gentleman’s Christmas of Michael Koopmann. To read his various articles (More are coming soon) on Gentologie, click here.