Champagne Taittinger announces the final call for applications for the prestigious 56^th annual Le Taittinger. Established in 1967 as Le Taittinger, this celebrated competition is dedicated to preserving the richness of culinary heritage and passing it on to future generations of talented chefs.

With just two weeks remaining in the application period, the Taittinger family is reminding burgeoning chefs from across the U.S. to submit their applications for this culinary journey by September 30, 2023. Past winners include a roster of currently Michelin-starred chefs such as Joël Robuchon and Michael Roth and rising stars like Jan Smink of Wolvega, last year's winner from the Netherlands.

"Le Taittinger has always focused on uplifting the innovation, ingenuity and creativity showcased by new generations of young chefs," said President Vitalie Taittinger. "We want more than ever to celebrate the flair and talent of the chefs at the top of their game. The Le Taittinger invites the most gifted people from kitchens around the world to draw from their culture, roots and history."

The competition, taking place in Paris, France, from Jan. 28 to Jan. 30, accepts applicants between the ages of 24 and 40 with five or more years of culinary experience.

As part of the onsite competition, candidates create a dish highlighting one main ingredient or theme selected by the organizing committee. Candidates have the freedom to be inspired by ingredients and cuisines from all over the world. Their final recipe will be evaluated by an eight-member committee of esteemed and lauded chefs from around the world, and first-prize winners are awarded €20,000 ($21,468). For more information is on the Le Taittinger website