News

A Night of Flavors: Royal Salute Pairing Dinner at St. Regis Kuala Lumpur - AlbertWines2u

A Night of Flavors: Royal Salute Pairing Dinner at St. Regis Kuala Lumpur

by Rachael Tan
On August 17th, whisky lovers gathered at the elegant St. Regis Kuala Lumpur for an evening of great food and exceptional whisky. This special event, put together with Pernod Ricard, featured a 10-course menu crafted by the talented Chef Shunsuke. To kick off the night, guests enjoyed two delightful cocktails—one crafted with Royal Salute and the other with Lillet—setting the perfect tone for the culinary journey ahead.  Limited Edition Royal Salute 21-Year-Old Miami Polo Edition   Meet Chef Shunsuke Chef Shunsuke’s passion for cooking began in his childhood, inspired by his father. Over the years, this passion led him through culinary school and into some of the top kitchens, where he sharpened his skills. Today, he brings his deep love for fresh ingredients and creative flavors to every dish he prepares. During the event, his talent was evident in each of the 10 courses, reflecting both his expertise and imagination.   A Night of Tasty Combos The evening kicked off with a flavorful Asparagus Soup, garnished with crab, asparagus, and croutons. This dish was paired with the Royal Salute 21-Year-Old Miami Polo Edition, a new limited edition whisky introduced that night. The Miami Polo Edition, with its hints of fruit and spice, set a great tone for the rest of the evening. As the night went on, guests were treated to a variety of flavors. From the savory UNI with eggplant and miso to the hearty Lamb Chop with mushrooms, green peas, and garlic, each dish had its own Royal Salute 21-Year-Old Whisky to complement it. The Blended Grain and The Signature Blend whiskies brought out the best in Chef Shunsuke’s dishes, making the meal even more enjoyable. One of the highlights of the evening was the Risotto, served with abalone river sauce and grilled clams. This creamy dish was paired with the Royal Salute 21-Year-Old Malts Blend, creating a flavor combination that many guests raved about.   A Memorable Evening The night wrapped up with a sweet finish, featuring Mikan and Kyoho Tuille. Guests left with fond memories of an evening where great food and whisky came together perfectly. The atmosphere was filled with enjoyment and a shared love for both whisky and fine dining. This Royal Salute Pairing Dinner wasn’t just another meal—it was an exploration of flavors, celebrating the wonderful mix of whisky and food. For those who attended, it was a night to remember, showcasing the creativity in both the kitchen and the bottle. If you missed this event, keep an eye out for future opportunities. Royal Salute continues to prove why it’s a favorite among whisky lovers.
Chateau Beaucastel Wine Dinner at Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur - Albert Wines

Chateau Beaucastel Wine Dinner at Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur

by Rachael Tan
Last night, our eagerly anticipated Chateau Beaucastel Wine Dinner at the Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur was a sold-out sensation, with all seats snapped up within hours of announcement. It was an evening where exquisite cuisine met world-class wines, showcasing the remarkable offerings of Famille Perrin. Amuse Bouche & Champagne Kickoff Our guests were welcomed with a trio of amuse bouche: a freshly shucked oyster with lemon and jalapeño-lime gel, truffle chicken with parmesan sable and fig jam, and a cheese cromesqui with comte and camembert. These bites were enhanced by the Ayala ‘Brut Majeur’ Champagne, its lively acidity and effervescent bubbles cutting through the rich flavors and setting a high bar for the courses to follow.   (Left) Hokkaido scallop ceviche, (Middle) Slow-roasted lamb loin, (Right) Pineapple mousse Appetizer Elevation The appetizer featured a Hokkaido scallop ceviche with white corn emulsion, coconut milk, lime, cilantro, shallot, almond, and taro chips. Paired with the Famille Perrin ‘Reserve’ Cotes du Rhone White 2023, this combination was a crowd favorite! The wine's citrus and floral notes harmonized with the ceviche’s fresh, vibrant profile, elevating the dish’s complexity and appeal. First Course Depth Our first course showcased a slow-roasted lamb loin, paired with Coudoulet de Beaucastel, Cotes du Rhone 2020. This pairing won over many guests with the wine’s robust fruit and earthy undertones beautifully balancing the lamb’s savory richness. The structured tannins enhanced the meat's succulence, and the red pepper hummus added a delightful contrast. Main Course Harmony For the main course, we served Korean BBQ beef short rib with grilled baby beetroot, caramelized onion puree, apple celery slaw, crispy polenta, and pickled beet. The Chateau de Beaucastel – Chateauneuf-du-Pape 2019 brought depth and intensity to the table, its dark fruit and spice notes weaving seamlessly with the beef’s bold flavors and the dish’s diverse textures. Sweet Finale Our dessert of pineapple mousse, accompanied by coconut sable, vanilla mascarpone cream, and star anise pineapple confit, was paired with the Famille Perrin Muscat de Beaume de Venise 2022. The wine’s sweet, floral notes and vibrant acidity provided a refreshing counterpoint to the dessert’s tropical and creamy elements, ending the night on a high note. The Essence of Famille Perrin Famille Perrin is all about passion and tradition. As one of the top producers in the Southern Rhone Valley, they’ve been crafting wines that truly capture the spirit of the region for generations. Their commitment to sustainable farming and time-honored winemaking methods shines through in every bottle. This event was more than just a dinner; it was a chance to share our love for great wine and food with others who appreciate the same. Famille Perrin’s wines made the night special, and we’re thrilled to have celebrated their incredible work with our guests. The Hokkaido scallop ceviche with Famille Perrin ‘Reserve’ Cotes du Rhone White and the slow-roasted lamb loin with Coudoulet de Beaucastel, Cotes du Rhone were particular crowd favorites. Why not try these pairings next time you have the chance? Thank you to all who joined us for this evening!  
A Night of Fine Wines with Familia Torres at Luca BSC - Albert Wines

A Night of Fine Wines with Familia Torres at Luca BSC

by Rachael Tan
Our wine dinner was a spectacular evening, celebrating the exceptional wines of Familia Torres, a winery with a rich history dating back to 1870. This special event highlighted their dedication to quality and innovation, perfectly paired with a menu crafted to enhance each wine's unique character. The evening started with a dish featuring Beetroot Coconut Vinegar Cured, Marinated Apple, and Young Mustard Grains. This dish was paired with Vardon Kennett 'Cuvee Esplendor' - Penedes, a sparkling wine with elegant bubbles and crisp acidity. Its light notes of citrus and green apple perfectly balanced the tangy and earthy flavors of the amuse-bouche, setting a refined tone for the night. Next was the "Crustacean & Shell" course, which included Soft-Shell Crab Recheado, River Prawns Peri Peri Arancini, Oysters Cafreal, Blue-Lipped Mussels Rawa Fry, Beetroot Biome, and Kokum Coconut Jus. Paired with Torre Penelas 'Pazo Das Bruxas' Albarino, this wine's bright acidity and floral notes beautifully complemented the rich, savory seafood, enhancing the sweetness of the prawns and the delicate brininess of the oysters. The "Crucifer Purée" was a delightful vegetarian dish with Broccoli, Olive & Raw Garlic, Fire Roasted Cauliflower Cream, Walnut, Tempered Mustard Cress, and Peanut Nectar. This was paired with Torres 'Salmos' - Priorat, a robust red wine with deep, complex flavors of dark fruit and spices. The wine's bold profile matched the hearty flavors of the cauliflower and broccoli, creating a perfect balance. For the main course, "Free Range Chicken" with Easy Grilled Thighs, Green Spice, and Flame Roasted Tomatoes & Cured Peppers Reduction was served. This was paired with Torres 'Perpetual' - Priorat. This wine, with its rich tannins and dark fruit notes, provided a great counterpoint to the savory and slightly spicy chicken, enhancing the dish's depth of flavor. The dinner ended with "Toffee Three Ways," featuring Coconut, Allium Sativum & Saffron Pudding, Raw Kodu Cocoa, Avocado, Honey & Walnut, and Stewed Apricot & Pineapples. Paired with Torres 'Floralis' Moscatel Oro, this sweet and aromatic wine was the perfect finish. Its floral and honeyed notes complemented the diverse flavors of the dessert, adding a delightful sweetness. Familia Torres' commitment to excellence and innovation was clear in each pairing, making the evening a true celebration of fine wine and culinary art. The rich history of Familia Torres, combined with their exceptional wines, made this dinner an unforgettable experience for all our guests.
Celebrating Bordeaux: Highlights from Our Exclusive Wine Tasting Event - AlbertWines2u

Celebrating Bordeaux: Highlights from Our Exclusive Wine Tasting Event

by Rachael Tan
An Evening of Elegance and Excellence In the heart of Kuala Lumpur, we recently hosted an unforgettable evening of luxury and sophistication—the Exclusive Bordeaux Wine Tasting Event. With the charismatic Caroline Jounault from Maison de Luze/Grand Vins de Gironde leading the way, the night promised to be an exquisite journey through the world of Bordeaux wines. The Storied Legacy of Maison de Luze Before diving into the wines, it's worth appreciating the legacy of our hosts. Maison de Luze, founded by Baron Alfred de Luze in 1820, has been a beacon of excellence in Bordeaux for over two centuries. As one of the first wine merchants in Bordeaux, their dedication to quality and passion for winemaking has made them a global favorite. For 200 years, they have expertly selected, supported, and promoted wines from all appellations, offering wine lovers the best quality at the right price. A Wine Lover’s Dream: The Tasting Lineup Our guests were treated to a carefully curated selection of seven exceptional Bordeaux wines, each offering a unique taste of the region's rich terroir and winemaking expertise. 1. Chateau Peyredon Lagravette 'Chardonneret' - Bordeaux BlancWe began our journey with the crisp and refreshing Chateau Peyredon Lagravette 'Chardonneret' Bordeaux Blanc. Its vibrant acidity and lively citrus notes were the perfect palate opener. 2. Les Pagodes de Cos - St Estephe 2016Next, we indulged in the Les Pagodes de Cos, a 2016 vintage from St Estephe. This wine enchanted us with its deep complexity, revealing layers of dark fruit, chocolate, and subtle earthy undertones. 3. Chateau Phelan-Segur - St Estephe 2016The journey through St Estephe continued with the Chateau Phelan-Segur 2016. Its velvety texture, rich flavor profile, and elegant tannins left a lasting impression. 4. Chateau Laroze - St Emilion Grand Cru 2016From the renowned St Emilion region, the Chateau Laroze Grand Cru 2016 was a true delight. Its elegant structure, ripe berry notes, and hints of spice captured the essence of this celebrated appellation. 5. Chateau Lascombes - Margaux 2017The Chateau Lascombes 2017 from Margaux showcased the hallmark elegance of the region. This wine's refined balance of fruit and oak, with a lingering finish, made it a standout favorite. 6. Chateau Gruaud Larose - St Julien 2016Our next stop was St Julien with the Chateau Gruaud Larose 2016. This robust and full-bodied wine, with its rich bouquet and long finish, epitomized the excellence of Bordeaux reds. 7. Domaine De Chevalier - Pessac-Leognan Rouge 2017The official lineup concluded with the Domaine De Chevalier Pessac-Leognan Rouge 2017. This wine’s complexity and finesse, with layers of dark fruit and subtle smokiness, made it a fitting finale. A Delightful Surprise: Rocas De Sena 2020 Just when our guests thought the evening couldn't get any better, we unveiled a surprise bonus wine—the Rocas De Sena 2020. This exceptional wine, with its vibrant flavors and impeccable balance, was the perfect way to cap off the tasting experience. The Art of Wine: Showcasing Laguiole Corkscrews No wine event would be complete without the right tools, and we were proud to showcase the exquisite Laguiole corkscrews from Fontenille Pataud and Chateau Laguiole. These beautifully crafted pieces are not just tools but works of art, embodying the same dedication to quality and craftsmanship that defines Bordeaux wines. An Evening to Remember Our Exclusive Bordeaux Wine Tasting Event was more than just a wine tasting; it was a celebration of history, craftsmanship, and the sheer joy of discovering new favorites. Caroline Jounault's expertise and passion brought each wine to life, making the evening both educational and thoroughly enjoyable. Thank you to Caroline Jounault and Maison de Luze for making this event a success, and to our guests for joining us. We look forward to many more such evenings of shared discovery and delight. Stay tuned for our next event and join us as we continue to explore the wonderful world of wine. 
Familia Torres Wines: Voted Most Admired Wine Brand - Albert Wines

Familia Torres Wines: Voted Most Admired Wine Brand

by Rachael Tan
When it comes to iconic wineries, Familia Torres is a name that resonates among wine enthusiasts worldwide. With a rich history spanning over 150 years, this esteemed Spanish winery has consistently delivered exceptional wines that embody the essence of their terroir and tradition. A Legacy of Excellence Founded in 1870 by Jaime Torres Vendrell, Familia Torres has remained dedicated to crafting wines of the highest quality while preserving the integrity of the land. Today, the fifth generation of the Torres family continues this legacy, combining innovation with a profound respect for tradition. Terroir-Driven Wines At the heart of Familia Torres' winemaking philosophy is a deep understanding of terroir. From the sun-kissed vineyards of Penedès to the rugged landscapes of Priorat, each wine reflects the unique characteristics of its origin, expressing a sense of place that captivates the senses. Award-Winning The accolades bestowed upon Familia Torres wines are a testament to their unwavering commitment to quality. In a historic achievement, Familia Torres was honored with the title of "Most Admired Wine Brand in the World" by Drinks International, reaffirming its status as a global leader in the wine industry. Innovation and Sustainability Beyond its winemaking prowess, Familia Torres is at the forefront of innovation and sustainability. From pioneering organic and biodynamic practices to implementing cutting-edge technology in the vineyard and cellar, the winery continually strives to minimize its environmental impact while producing wines of exceptional quality. Experience Excellence Whether you're savoring a glass of the iconic Gran Coronas or exploring the nuances of their diverse portfolio, Familia Torres invites you on a journey of discovery and delight. With each sip, you'll experience the passion, craftsmanship, and legacy that define this extraordinary winery. Conclusion In the world of wine, few names command as much respect and admiration as Familia Torres. From its humble beginnings to its global acclaim, this storied winery continues to set the standard for excellence, innovation, and sustainability.