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The ultimate affair

La Mer at the Halekulani closes out 2004 with a dinner designed with the hedonist in mind.

STAR-BULLETIN / 2003 The exclusive Louis XIII cognac comes in a Baccarat crystal decanter.

The nine-course "Ultimate Dinner" is built around Remy Martin's Louis XIII Grande Champagne Cognac, an elixir so special it sells for $150 per 1.5-ounce taste.

The entire La Mer dinner goes for that price, and ends with a bit of Louis XIII. Chef Yves Garnier's menu includes: Sauteed Foie Gras with Pineapple Confit, Opakapaka in Tarako Vinaigrette, Escargot Purse with Hazelnut Butter, Langoustine Wrapped in Pancetta (scented with Remy Martin), Crispy Skin Moi on Puff Pastry and Rack of Milk-Fed Lamb.

La Mer is one of 28 restaurants nationwide to host this annual dining affair, competing to sell the most of the deluxe dinners. Last year, the restaurant sold more than 1,050 dinners to take first place and raise $20,000 for the James Beard Foundation.

This year, a portion of each dinner sold will benefit the food-science program at Waianae High School.

The dinner will be available through Dec. 30. Cost is $150.

Wrath of Grapes

Indigo Eurasian Bistro's weekly wine club features a selection of Christmas wines at 6 p.m. Tuesday.

Theresa Milton of M&S Brokerage will present wines including Korbel "Natural" Sparkling, Lake Sonoma Winery Fume Blanc, Kenwood Chardonnay Reserve, Valley of the Moon "Cuvee de Luna (Meritage)," Kenwood "Artist Series" Cabernet Sauvignon and Korbel Brandy VSOP (with a side of eggnog if desired).

Seating is limited to 28. Cost is $20, which includes light pupus. Call 521-2900.

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