The Gurgaon chapter of the Delhi Wine Club held its third wine-tasting event (and the last of the year) at the newly opened Park Plaza hotel on March 21. Having rained an hour earlier, the weather was just right to have the tasting out in the open on the terrace right next to the swimming pool and bar. We had a good turnout of 36 members and guests who were welcomed by Ajay Bakaya, Executive Director of Park Plaza hotels........ and also a wine enthusiast ! On offer were four Chilean wines, a Sauvignon Blanc 2004, Chardonnay 2004, Cabernet Sauvignon 2003 and Cabernet Sauvignon Reserva from Furlotti.

All four wines were presented by Subhash Arora, President of the Delhi Wine Club. The snacks served very efficiently by the staff brought out the contrast in food and wine matching. Nachos were too spicy for the aperitif wine. Most people agreed rightly that no wine could be enjoyed with snacks that are too spicy. On the other hand the canapés went well with both the whites. Especially, salmon canapés were ideal for Chardonnay.

Effect of aging in the oak was amply demonstrated by the two Cabs from the same producer. The first one was very tannic. It became approachable after keeping in the glass for a while. It was, of course, too young to make any impression. But it did bring to center stage the fourth wine, Reserva which was fruity with a touch of vanilla and spices, with the smell of berries exploding in the nose and the flavour lingering on the palate. Decidedly, it was the top of the chart for the evening.
It is heartening to notice more new faces and guests coming in and this bodes well for the future of the chapter. We now plan to hold a wine dinner at one of the upmarket restaurants in Gurgaon such as Cilantro at the Trident or the China Club.

Ranjan Pal
President, Gurgaon Chapter
Delhi Wine Club