Chilean Wine Festival

Chilean wines at the Oakroom 

 By Earl D.C. Bracamonte 

Chilean geography could be considered to have the best terroir potential on the planet. It has a Mediterranean climate marked by summers with plenty of sunshine, along with enough rainfall in the winter, as well as protection from the elements by mountains on the east and a coastal range on the west. With the worldwide popularity of New World wines, especially those originating from Chile, the Oakwood Premiere Joy`Nostalg Center's fine dining outlet, Oakroom, featured a 3-week Chilean Wine Festival showcasing the Veramonte wines; labels that set the standard for Chilean wines. The featured Veramonte wines at the Oakroom come from the best wine-producing region in Chile's Casablanca Valley; complemented by signature dishes prepared by executive chef Jerome Cartailler. 

“It is our pleasure to introduce Chilean mellow bouquets to Oakroom diners. Chilean wine history dates back 500 years but it has evolved substantially in the past decade and has established its own identity in the global wine industry,” declared GM Brian Connelly during an intimate media luncheon. The gastronomic delights began with Crab salad, a delectable concoction with Mesclun leaves, mango pearls, and Miso dressing sprinkled with toasted rice flakes, that went well with the Veramonte Reserva Sauvignon Blanc 2009. Veramonte Sauvignon Blanc is considered the benchmark for all Chilean white wines. It has been named amongst the 'Top Sauvignon Blancs in the World' by Wine & Spirits magazine. 

The meal progressed onto the Salmon Chowder, a creamy soup with tasty morsels of fish, that blended seamlessly with the Veramonte Reserva Chardonnay 2009. 

Thereafter, the main course was proffered: Grilled Berkshire pork chop, a generous plate garnished with foie gras, crushed potato and port glaze, served with the Veramonte Primus 2006. Primus is blended from the Carmenere grape, a fine Bordeaux varietal unique to the country, with notes from Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. 

The gustatory onslaught was capped with Dulce de leche cheescake and Vittoria coffee. The Chilean Wine Festival is co-presented by its distributor, Wine Depot, and runs until May 23rd. Join the world's increasing appreciation for Chilean wines at the Oakroom on the 6th Level of Oakwood Premiere Joy~Nostalg Center in Ortigas Center. For details and reservations, simply call the restaurant's direct line 719-1160 or theough their trunk-line 637-7888 or 910-8888 Ext. 8604.