A distilled spirits tasting experience, where Embassies came together and celebrated as well as showcase their respective wine industries.
The soiree, which had been organized by Diplomat magazine was held at the Hotel Crowne Plaza on Monday 13 May 2019. The evening was a reception-style event with 18 tasting stations where guests were able to sample the different types of wine and spirits.
The countries that were featured at the show were: Armenia, Bosnia Herzegovina, Czech Republic, Ecuador, Georgia, Greece, India, Kosovo, Lebanon, Luxembourg, Mexico, Republic of Moldova, Noth Macedonia, Peru, Portugal, Russia, South Africa and Uruguay. Many of the invitees were able to appreciate and savour wines and spirits from countries both ancient and modern.
For instance, think of sampling the wine culture of Lebanon or Armenia both being very old civilisations compared to offerings of the so-called “new kids on the block” such as India and Ecuador.
Key Grape varieties producing fine selections of both reds and whites, not only afforded those in attendance the opportunity to relax and enjoy great company, but it also proved to be an educational experience. They were able to learn about the different regions’ viticulture, understanding how to taste, enjoy and evaluate the different varieties of wine.
Many persons were quite impressed by the quality and variety of the wines and spirits offered such as the Red Lebanon and the Ecuadorian Crespo Gin. The occasion also created fine opportunities to network and buildup new potential partnerships.
Admission to the Diplomat Wine and Spirits Extravaganza was exclusively by invitation. Entertainment was provided by a jazz band which helped to create a convivial atmosphere at the well-attended evening. It is estimated that attendance of the event was approximately 250 to 300 people including many diplomats, importers, sommeliers, wine bars and shops, restaurants and members of the press.
One visitor observed that it had been a pleasure to attend the Diplomat Extravaganza Wines & Spirts tasting and purchasing evening. The wide selection that was available, the elegant décor, the programme and staff, whose professionalism and attention to detail were beyond compare making the evening a great success with high notes of praise from all.
Photography by Roy Strik.
