October welcomes a weekend filled with wine, dining, tastings, and opportunities to meet winemakers from around the world, all organized by Ewineasia for the 9th edition of the Wine Discovery Weekend. This year is particularly special, as Alpha International Pte Ltd, the company behind Ewineasia, celebrates 20 years of wine import and distribution in Singapore.
After years of attending wine tasting events like the Wine Discovery Walkabout, we’ve picked up a few tips to help you make the most of these often fast-paced experiences.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of a Wine Tasting
It can be overwhelming with over 120 wines for tasting on a free flow basis. How do you try everything? You don’t. However much we want to, we simply don’t have the capacity to do so in the set amount of time for these tastings, and still hope to stay sober or remember everything you’ve tasted!
Do Your Research
Take some time to visit the event website and check out the wineries that will be showcased. This year’s theme is “Treasured Terroirs and Hidden Harvests,” focusing on small family-owned wine producers. For example, Celler Piñol continues to use indigenous grape varieties such as White Garnacha and Morenillo, giving you a taste of Terra Alta’s unique terroir. Another highlight is Agusti Torello Mata, one of the pioneers of cava production, which uses traditional organic grapes.
Ask the Experts
If you’re not sure where to start or what to try, don’t hesitate to ask the brand representatives for their recommendations. They know their wines best and can point you to their standout bottles and underrated gems. Try to ask them for recommendations of wines they would want to try from other brands. Joan Parera Mariné from Celler Kripta is known for his friendly nature and always has a tip or two to share.
Where to start? Bubbly, of course!
The fizz tantalises and wakes up the palate, preparing it to welcome all the new tastes that are about to land on the millions of papillae. Actually, I take it back. I will have bubbly anytime of the session to refresh my palate and get me ready to go again!
Start with Something Sparkling
A bubbly wine is the perfect way to kickstart your palate and prepare it for the range of flavours ahead. Look out for Gusbourne's Fifty One Degrees North, a blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir aged for at least 67 months. Nino Franco is one of the pioneers to introduce sparkling wine other than Champagne to the world. They’re known for their Rustico, which was produced since 1970. The non-vintage Prosecco di Valdobiaddene Rustico uses 100% Glera, it’s fresh, fruity and lively.
Be adventurous
We all have our go-to wines, and it’s easy to stick to what’s familiar. But at shows that feature such a wide variety, it’s the perfect opportunity to explore grape varietals or regions you haven’t tried before. What’s the worst that could happen? You might not like it, but that’s better than committing to a whole bottle that only half your fancy. While European regions are often favourites for red wine lovers – with classics like Italian Nebbiolo and Spanish Tempranillo – the same producers also craft equally robust whites, such as Umani Ronchi’s Plenio Castelli di Jesi Verdicchio Classico Riserva DOCG 2021 and Bodega Roda’s Roda I Blanco.
Watch Out for Newcomers
One way to try something different is to see who's new to the show. This year, a new producer from Yunnan, China showcasing their 10-year-old vineyard with the first year production of grapes from Himalaya is also one to watch out for. Célèbre’s (寶莊) motto is to create wines from the old world for the new world palate. The Célèbre Red 18 which will be features in the walkabout is a full-body Cabernet Sauvignon with dark berries, oaky and vanilla notes.
Take IT Easy and Eat Something
Pace yourself. After several samples, the ability to taste the subtle nuances in the wines may diminish. Drink water between tastings, and snack on bread or crackers to reset your palate and keep yourself grounded.
Masterclasses for a Quieter Experience
If you’re not a fan of crowds, consider attending one of the three thematic masterclasses ($38), which will take you on a deep dive into the world of Spanish and French wines. Featured wineries include Alvaro Palacios Grandes Vinos, Yves Cuilleron, and underrated Spanish producers such as Celler Piñol and Abadia Retuerta.
WDW Satellite events
4 & 11 October
Wine Pairing Dinners
Wine pairing dinners will be held over multiple dates at some of Singapore’s finest restaurants. Wine enthusiasts will have the chance to meet winemakers and vineyard representatives over curated meals and wine lists. Dine at renowned venues such as Gaig Restaurant, Araya Restaurant, and Restaurant Fiz, and indulge in wines from brands like Celler Pinol, Tabali, and Yves Cuilleron.
12 October
Special Dinners
On October 12th, get up close and personal with winemakers at the Meet the Winemakers Dinner, or join the lively Spanish Fiesta. Both events take place after the signature event – the Wine Discovery Walkabout, happening from 10am to 4pm at the newly refurbished Oriental Ballroom in Mandarin Oriental.
Wine Discovery Walkabout
During the Walkabout ($98), over 10 winemakers and export ambassadors will be present at their booths, pouring wines and sharing insights about their brands and vintages. Attendees can taste over 120 labels, featuring family-owned producers from 17 countries represented by the organizer.
Time: 10am - 4pm
Venue: The Oriental Ballroom, Mandarin Oriental - 5 Raffles Ave., Singapore 039797
Buy your tickets and take advantage of limited offers. A combined ticket for the Wine Discovery Walkabout and one Masterclass is available for $98 net per person until 29 September. Group tickets for three people are priced at $294.