Behind The Bubbles – Sparkling Wine Vs Champagne
It is that time of the week when you feel like enjoying a delicious dinner in KL. You stop at Marini’s on 57, because that is the place to go when you crave authentic Italian food in a sedate environment. However, it is still early, so you decide to indulge in an aperitif before having your meal. The view of the Petronas Towers is awesome, and the elegant atmosphere calls for a glass of wine. But which one to choose? Sparkling or Champagne
Sparkling Or Champagne? A Never-Ending Debate
Forget about ‘pops’ and bubbles, the difference lies in the name. Produced in the north-eastern region of France, Champagne is indeed similar to other upmarket sparkling wines, but only labels within a hundred miles from that site are entitled to bear the designation. Of course, there are other differences, the grapes used being one of them. Of the dozens of varieties that populate the area, just three bases (cuvées) are used for champagne:
- Blanc de noirs: A white wine that is produced only from two black grapes that is permitted within the Champagne AOC, Pinot Noir & Pinot Meunier.
- Blanc de blancs: Made exclusively from Chardonnay grapes which is well suited to pairing with food.
- Rosé wines: Prestigiously made by leaving the clear juices of black grapes to macerate on its skins for a brief time resulting in the beautiful pink colour.
The making of Champagne, known as Méthode Champenoise, is rigorously regulated and controlled. Grapes are handpicked and pressed in a covered environment not more than twice, one for the cuvée (high in sugar and acid) and one for the taille (lower in acid and higher in minerals and pigment). The juice is then fermented into alcohol and bottled individually to trap the CO2 necessary for the bubbles to be formed.
Sparkling wines may or may not follow the same procedure, it is a matter of costs and quality sought, the latter being determined by the size of the bubbles: the smaller they are, the more exclusive the taste. Sekt, Prosecco and Cava are just three of the most famous products on the market. Some of them bear a certain resemblance to Champagne, whereas others are quite distant in terms of flavour. But all in all, the distinguishing criterion remains in the place of origin.
The Marini’s Group And Celebrities’ Wine: A Fancy Liaison
Day by day, wine is becoming increasingly popular among VIPs. They love it, they drink it, they make it. Angelina Jolie, Brad Pitt, Francis Ford Coppola, James Cameron are just a few western stars who have turned their passion into a profitable business; and big names in Asia have followed the trend. Former Houston Rockets centre Yao Ming, Zhao Wei and Canadian-born Chinese actress Bernice Liu, all own commercial wineries, vineyards or started a company in the industry.
And let’s not forget Modesto Marini’s compatriots. Italy is not only the land of fashion and fast cars, but also of skilled winemakers. Lately, two prominent personalities have been collaborating with The Marini’s Group to launch their brands: Italian fashion designer Anna Fendi and ex-Formula 1 Pro, Jarno Trulli.
The fashion icon has chosen to trust The Marini’s Group to introduce her bottles into the Asian market: ‘I believe I have found the right partner to work with here. Modesto Marini has proven his acumen in building brands in Asia,’ stated the world-famous designer. The line is called ‘AFV’ and can be found only at Marini’s on 57 and Marble 8. It is the perfect choice to accompany your dinner in KL. Click here to read the entire story behind this fruitful partnership.
In 2013, the Italian racing driver, who spent his childhood among his grandfather’s curling vines, hosted a wine pairing dinner at Marini’s on 57, which eventually led to a liaison between him and The Marini’s Group. The investment he made to acquire his vineyard has earned him several accolades including the bronze award at the Shanghai International Wine Challenge.
By joining forces with such important figures, Marini’s on 57 aims to provide its guests with a special dining and taste experience, where not only exceptional sparkling wines can be savoured, but also outstanding Champagnes.
Marini’s On 57 – Oenophiles’ Wonderland
Perfect for a first-class dinner in KL with authentic Italian cuisine, Marini’s on 57 brings you only the best sparkling wines and Champagnes.
Moét et Chandon, Dom Perignon, Angel, Armand De Brignac, you observe the bottles and ponder the choice, the different flavours. Which one suits your mood? These Champagnes all come from France, either from Epernay or Reims, they are the real thing.
The lights are mellow, the music is pleasant and the view of the city at sunset, with its skyscrapers and parks, is unbelievable. You pick a bottle and sit right in front of the Twin Towers. The atmosphere is one of overwhelming luxury, you bring the glass to your mouth and the experience begins. At Marini’s on 57, bubbles are constantly exploding. Click here to see our menu and offer.