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Philippine Sommelier Association Presents Manila Uncorked 2019

January 13, 2020 Phantasm Darkstar 2 Comment(s)

Last December, I was invited to the Philippine Sommelier Association's event, Manila Uncorked 2019. It features wine classes, chef throwdowns, sommelier wine flights, and over 300 wine labels. 

The Philippine Sommelier Association is a non-profit professional organization established in the Philippines with a vision to develop, enhance, and uplift the local sommelier profession to be at par with world-class standards. The association held two events at the new DusitD2 in The Fort, Bonifacio Global City: The 8th SEA Sommelier Competition and the 3rd year of Manila Uncorked 2019.  
I am a fan of wines but it is my first time to attend Manila Uncorked. Being able to attend Whisky Live of the past few years, I'd say this event still has a long way to go. I find the venue quite cramped, and the low ceiling of the venue makes it feel less exquisite for such a fine event. The crowd was a mix of professionals and students under the hospitality and F&B industry.
Upon registration, you may start signing up for the Sommelier Guided Wine Flights and classes. You will be given a stub to claim your wine glass from the Schott Zweisel booth--you'll use this for tasting the different wine portions. You have to return the glass after attending the event, though. I hope that one day they can give wine glasses as souvenirs just like what Whisky Live does: the tulip glass is yours after the event. 
Booths from different wine merchants are available where you can have a free taste of some of the different wines that they offer, as well as purchase directly from them. Spittoons or spit buckets are also available. 
A list is also provided upon registration where you can see the winery/name, type, variety, region, country, vintage, price, and which merchant provides them. 
Worried about being a newbie? Don't be. These sommeliers are much willing to explain things to you and recommend the best ones to try. 
There's a huge variety to try: from bubbles to whites...
... to reds...
... and even rare finds. Zinfandel for me was hard to find in common wine shops. Glad to finally find and try it here. They even included sake tasting this year.
I'm a fan of red wines more than white. One of the red wines that I enjoyed was this Chateau Paul Mas Clos Des Mures 2016 that was recommended by Planet Grapes. On the palate, it is exceptionally well-balanced with smooth tannins and a full mouthfeel. Strong fruity characters with a long finish evolving towards vanilla and toasted notes. 
Last, I also learned about Wine Story Academy which offers certification modules on wine studies. In the above photo are small vials that contain different wine aromas. Can you guess each of them? I couldn't. So I opted to play another game that they offer and won a prize. Yay! I'm looking forward to taking one of their classes in the near future. 

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