Each month in our ‘Spotlight On…’ series, we explore a new city and its wine culture, diving into the drinking trends, where to go for great wines, and any unique products or services linked to the region. Keeping our finger on the pulse when it comes to the wider world of wine is critical when helping us to identify areas of opportunity for our clients, aiding our eventing arm ‘Wrapped’, and for our online product offering on Uncorked. Whether curious about the habits and happenings of a city, or looking for wine-centric areas to visit, our ‘Spotlight On…’ series is for you.
This month we turn to a wine scene as ever-evolving as the country itself: Singapore. The last couple of years have seen our beloved beverage of choice shift away from the narrow reservation of fine tasting events, towards a more casual and freely enjoyed drink — not just for the world famous Bordeaux‘s, but also the burgeoning production of Asian-grown wines. For example, Vitis Wine Bar and Bistro, opened only in January this year by renowned sommelier Gary Low, has decided to utilise its lusciously designed interior to exclusively showcase wines with a strict Asian heritage — be that Asian farmers across the globe, or wines grown in China, Thailand, Japan, and more.
OVERALL TRENDS
- Emphasis on Asian grown wines, alongside the classics, with a focus on pairing with Singapore’s diverse cuisine.
- As a highly explorative and experimental culture, there is a general preference for diversity in wine style and origin.
- A love for the convergence of classicism & modernism: not only in wine style, but also food-pairing, and interior design.
- Sustainability and natural wines are enjoying a comparable spurt in popularity along with growth in Northern Europe.
BAR HOPPING
Le Clos
Location: 46 Kim Yam Road, #01-18, New Bahru, Singapore 239351
Vibe: Intimate moody restaurant, blending Singaporean environment with French brasserie design staples.
Known for: A huge range of 750+ wines, all the way from refreshing Champagnes to complex Nebbiolos.
67 Pall Mall
Location: 1 Scotts Rd, No. 27-00 Shaw Centre, Singapore 228208
Vibe: Exclusive, ornate, minimalist; an elegant private-members club.
Known for: A large supply of the world’s best wine, an adept team of sommeliers, and a strong reputation established in London.
Le Bon Funk
Location: 29 Club Street, Singapore 069414
Vibe: Classy, bright and playful.
Known for: Natural wines, sustainable wines, small producers, with a wide range of classics and easy-to-pair wines.
RVLT
Location: 38 Carpenter Street, Level 1, Singapore 059917
Vibe: Edgy, unorthodox, fun yet sophisticated and knowledgeable.
Known for: Organic wine, bar food, great environment and staff.
PAIRING WITH ASIAN CUISINE
Given the vibrant nature of Singapore’s sought-after cuisine, there is ample, if not abundant room for unique food pairings. Many of the aforementioned locations often host these kind of events, wherein customers are guided carefully through the spicy and umami flavours, and how they are not only complimented, but enhanced, by fine wines. Whether it is a sweet white like the Leeuwin Estate Art Series Riesling to take the edge off the Sichuan heat, or a cool-climate Wayfarer Vineyard Pinot Noir to mesh with a complex sauce, you are sure to not only find a great combination, but be guided carefully by the many sommeliers who love to bring the world of wine drinkers — domestic and abroad — into their equally strong passion for food. For example, against the iconic Laksa dish, a refreshing and tropical white is a go-to recommendation. Here are a few of our dish pairing recommendations, with wines available to enjoy through CB Uncorked:
Laksa and Leeuwin Estate, Art Series Riesling 2019 — As mentioned before, the sweet notes of a Riesling (especially one that has aged a good few years) will provide a harmonious balance to the intensity of the Sichuan spice, and in addition, the crispier citrus notes bring a welcomed compliment to the seafood.
Nasi Lemak and Planeta, ‘Cometa’ Fiano Menfi 2020 — On the darker-fruit end of the white wine world, this expressive Sicilian Fiano brings a stone-fruit depth and nutty finish to the table (literally). Its notes of apricot and subtle herbal/jasmine in the background are certainly not amiss when accompanying this fragrant, coconut-forward dish. In fact: Fiano is an official Michelin listed pairing for this dish.
Fish Head Curry and Mayacamas, Chardonnay 2020 — White wine is the standard choice for a seafood pairing, and whilst we typically look for the lighter options, this noticeably creamier Chardonnay is a perfect way to match the complexity of this Indian-infused curry; not only is there a textural compatibility, but those desirable tropical/citrus notes add to the mix.
Chilli Crab and Ceritas, Chloe Pinot Noir 2020 — Forgoing the trend, we find this aromatic and slightly spicy/earthy Pinot Noir makes for an excellent feature in the experience of this classic Singaporean dish. The red fruit acidity provides a sharpness, the finish of cloves lends an extra dimension of spice to the chilli focus, and the lower ABV ensures that the spice/alcohol combination is not over-bearing, but rather operates in striking symphony.
