A Peek into The 16th Grand Wine Experience

I was at the Wine Museum last week for Wine Wednesdays - a wine tasting event that gave us a peek into The 16th Grand Wine Experience happening on November 4th at the Marriott Hotel Resorts World Manila. The event was a collection of firsts for me. It was my first time at the Wine Museum in Pasay City; a first to experience wine tasting; and the first to drink as many alcoholic beverages in one night. The many first was surprisingly delightful to say the least.

You see I’m not really into alcoholic beverages. As a matter of fact, I started drinking beer when I was already working and in my mid-twenties, and only prefer “light.” I did try others but I didn’t like them at all. At one point, during an office Christmas gathering, one of our bosses poured me a glass hard drink. Despite hesitation, I was forced to drink. Immediately when the drink hit my stomach, I went rushing to the washroom to let it all out. Right then and there I swore I wouldn’t drink any of those anymore.

As time went on, the stigma of that experience wore off and I started having an open mind to a certain degree. So I started drinking wine, but with very little satisfaction. The experience was a hit and miss. Because of that we started giving away the bottles of wine that I would receive. The Wine Wednesdays experience changed all that.

Before the event proper, while waiting for the other guests to arrive, early birds were served with the aperitif - Gossips Pink Moscato. The wine is sweet, soft and delightful to drink. It’s a a perfect introduction and a great way to ease a non-drinker into the wine experience. I learned from further reading that a Moscato is historically known as a dessert wine.

Ms. Nori Wang of Philippine Wine Merchants kept the ball rolling, leading us to an introduction of the 16th Grand Wine Experience. Among the ‘Wine Wednesdays’ featured wines and spirits were Zonin Procecco, Robert Mundavi - Woodbridge, Pebble Lane Sauv Blanc, Elderton E-Series Shiraz & Cabernet, wines from Premier, Citra Sangiovese, Gancia Asti Pinot Di Pinot, Hugo, crowd favorite Rosso Noble Ciocolata, Wente, Pirramimma Shiraz, Angove, Vina Maipo Chardonnay, John Lee Bourbon, Corona Beer, and Dalmore which is considered as one of the most expensive wines in the world at P2.5M per bottle!

I have to admit that I was overwhelmed with all the wine that I tasted along with the information shared to us. But there are a few that stood out for me and have decided to take note of.

One of them is the Rosso Noble Ciocolata. Why? Because it tasted chocolate! I was so interested in buying it that I had to ask Ms Nori Wang about it. I learned that the wine is not yet available in the Philippine market. I’m guessing this will be made available at the 16th Grand Wine Experience.

Another wine that favored my palate is Pebble Lane Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc. With pale straw color, the wine is a mix of red currant, citrus and tropical fruit. This Sauvignon Blanc hails from the most respected wine-producing region of New Zealand, Marlborough.

We also had the chance to experience E Series Shiraz / Cabernet Sauvignon. This red wine from South Australia gave me a bit of a punch with its deep flavor.

Our wine tasting ended with The Dalmore. We started with the 12 Years Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky, then the 15 Years old. This drink woke me up with its intensity. I learned that The Dalmore is aged in meticulously chosen American white oak barrels and sherry casks. If you’re into very bold drink, this could be yours.

Judging from my experience at the Wine Wednesdays event, the 16th Grand Wine Experience at the Marriott Hotel Resorts World Manila will sweep your feet away. With over 500 eminent wines and spirits to choose from and a lavish buffet, it’ll be an unforgettable night.

The 16th Grand Wine Experience

The Philippine Wine Merchants (PWM) is the company behind this event. Founded in 1975 by Ralph Lim Joseph, together with his three brothers- Robert, Ronnie, and Raymond, the Joseph brothers had successfully run the business becoming one of the biggest wine importers and distributors in the Philippines. To date, they’ve established a strong market presence throughout the country.

The upcoming Grand Wine Experience 2016 is envisioned to be the most illustrious wine event in Southeast Asia as they will be featuring over 500 of the world’s most notable wines and spirits in one night. Apparently, there are over 5,000 known grape varieties in existence but only a few truly stands out and achieve the lofty status of “Noble Grape.” Attendees will be able to taste the best of the best. That’s value for money for the ticket price of Php5,000 per person.

To register to the 16th Grand Wine Experience, visit the official website http://grandwineexperience.com/#registration. Aside from enjoying wines, spirits and food, you can also join the masterclasses that will be held earlier in the day at MGB Executive Rooms 1, 2, 3, also at Marriott Grand Ballroom, Resorts World Manila. Notable speakers include Adam Knox (The Dalmore Resident Whisky Expert), Maurizio Bertacchini (Gruppo Italiano Vini Brand Ambassador), Mark Ramm (Export Manager), Christian Correa (Winemaker: Montgras Intriga), Sofia Kitouni (Asia Marketing Manager Quinta De Maipo Brands), and Eduardo Stark (Export Manager, Montes).

I’m glad I joined Wine Wednesdays. I learned a lot about wine, and found the ones that I should look for, not only at the 16th Grand Wine Experience, but also when I drop by Ralph’s Wines and Spirits - the retail store of Philippine Wine Merchants. Wine tasting is such a great experience that I will definitely attend moving forward.

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For advanced registration and ticket inquiries, please contact:

Philippine Wine Merchants Compound
2253 Aurora Blvd. Pasay City, Metro Manila, Philippines 1300
Telephone Number: (02) 853 7423 Email: [email protected]
Website: http://grandwineexperience.com[/box]