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in
wine today
Wine:
A nation's ultimate diplomat
By
Georges Meekers
An invitation to a presidential social event holds the promise of
exquisite and superb hospitality. But privileged wine lovers shouldn't
raise their hopes of indulging in rare and expensive wines cellared
at The Palace or Verdala Castle.
Although there is a suitable stock of fine wines to match the ‘carte
du jour', the State of Malta does not possess an official wine cellar
of collectable vintages from around the world.
When planning the menu, the guests of honour's religious affiliation,
cultural traditions and dietary habits are obviously being considered.
Food and wine are paired by the catering staff on duty.
The presidential wine service itself however is said to be given
less meticulous thought. Surprisingly really, since the wines served
at state functions must suit the discerning palate of diplomats,
queens and kings, even that of the occasional emperor and pope.
Officially there's is no presidential sommelier in Malta whose duty
it would be to check the wines for flavour and food affinity, as
well as for political correctness. Yet, selecting that specific
bottle of wine that not only complements the menu but also honours
the eminent dignitaries could prove to be a delicate diplomatic
affair of state.
Pouring an Italian envoy a prestigious gold-medallist Maltese Grand
Vin de Hauteville, made from Italian Cabernet Sauvignon grapes,
tastefully highlights the close ties with Italy. A far-fetched Cab
from Stag's Leap Wine Cellars (made by Warren Winiarski, the vintner
of Polish descent) might leave a lesser palatable impression but
gratify Pope Jean-Paul II in a symbolic kind of way.
But breaking open an off-dry white Swiss Chasselas is guaranteed
to make visiting EC commissioners raise an eyebrow, and not because
the Chasselas (or Fendant) grape is perhaps not a noble variety.
Unaware, the person landed on the job to pick a bottle for the presidential
guests might be tiptoeing through a minefield of wine choices that
might result in national embarrassment and insult.
Wine, a symbol of national pride and a valuable addition to any
meal on its own merit, deserves full attention – especially
at the presidential table, as wine is the ultimate diplomat.
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