The sun set on the horizon and ushered in Singapore Wine Fiesta 2013. The afternoon was almost marred by the horrendous storm that attempted to foil the plans laid out by the good people of Straits Wine Company. Fortunately all went well by dusk and Dan Sims was back under the limelight introducing seven Italian wines that are available over this weekend.
One of the key difference this year is the set up with most of the tables centrally located. Last year’s Australian wine merchants were the first row on the flank upon admission. While the show did not put up the iconic wines from the wineries tonight as planned (unless what they meant by iconic was everything) I did managed to seek out some of the highly anticipated labels.
Starting from New Zealand, Urlar estate presented one of the most unusual Sauvignon blanc from Marlborough. Proudly proclaimed as the best along the table, its Sauvignon blanc was more Sancerre-like. Its Pinot gris was buttery, round and with pronounced intensity. Jumping the gun into France, Mischief and Mayhem by British winemaker Michael Ragg featured some interesting wines with a white from Puligny Montrachet and red from Nuits St Georges. Going down south of France into Rhone Valley and Delas Freres Crozes Hermitage Domaine Des Grands Chemins, St Joseph – Saint Epine and Hermitage Rouge – Les Bressards are some of the stuff that cannot be missed. They are quite costly too.
In the Italian corner, aromatic whites from Monte del Fra and Vietti took me away. But the most prized gem for me was Vietti’s Castiglione Falletto Barolo, the similar quality that I tasted with Luca during his previous visit. In his absence, he was well represented by his nephew Francesco. This young Barolo showed its signature grip along a rather feminine aromas that guarantees to allure.
Friday will be officially the first day of fiesta with Dan Sims taking the stage twice at 7pm and 9pm. I was told the masterclass will be tasting some delightful French wines. As of which, well I have no idea what. Will find out tomorrow.
