I'm Back & Plans Moving Forward

April 18, 2016, 8:46 am

≫ Next: News Flash: Malaysian Wins Heineken Global Bartender 2016 Championship

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Hie! I'm back!

Lots to catch up on, I know!

Well, not really. I've still been quite active on Facebook and Instagram. Just didn't have the energy to put in additional effort to curate blog posts which usually takes more brain cells. 

See what I mean:

Instagram: Post a pic. Spend 10 -15 mins to curate a caption. Publish.

FB: Post a link / share instagram pic + write a paragraph of stuff = max 15 mins. Publish.

Blog: Choose 5 decent quality pics from the 65 I took + edit those pics = 60 minutes. Research subject matter = 45-60 minutes. Blog = 45 minutes. Edit = 45 minutes. Publish. Read whole post again = 15 mins. Re-edit because I always miss stuff the first round = 30 minutes. Publish. Edit 2-3x more. Publish again.

Phew. 

Anyway. This blog definitely needs to be updated more often. I realise that the reason I'm feeling blog-fatigue (totally made up word) is because I already spend a lot of time on Instagram & Facebook,  leaving me with not much desire / energy to spend any more time on the blog to basically say the same things, just with more words. It kinda feels redundant. It's actually to starting to feel like... work. Which was not supposed to be the point of this blog!

So this means I need to re-think my social media strategy, or maybe more specifically, my blogging strategy. It's going to take a while for me figure it out (because I'm a slow thinker), but the plan is simply this - some posts will be more succinct, less personal even, allowing room and energy for (hopefully) more personal opinion pieces. 

I believe most people are already on instagram and Facebook anyway for current updates, while blogs have turned into a secondary reference point, or a result of a Google search. But I could be wrong - let me know your thoughts! 

Meanwhile, thanks for watching this space. Regular programming will be back after this.:)

<3

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News Flash: Malaysian Wins Heineken Global Bartender 2016 Championship

April 19, 2016, 8:10 pm

≫ Next: Jacob's Creek Heritage Wine Collection Dinner @ Saujana Resort

≪ Previous: I'm Back & Plans Moving Forward

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(29.4.16- edited to include more details + image)

Eddy Jay Jaimin of The Beer Factory Express is very happy. (Image: Heineken)

Eddy Jay Jaimin from The Beer Factory, Setiawalk (Puchong) put Malaysia on the map yesterday by being crowned the Heineken's Global Bartender 2016 Championship winner!

This global competition is participated by top bartenders all over the world and are judged on their Heineken pouring (aka the Heineken Star Serve) ritual which involves 5 steps - rinse, pour, skim, check and serve. Apart from mastering the ritual bartenders will also need to have that extra something something to wow the judges over.

Eddy's journey was not an easy one.

First, he had to overcome over 1200 people from across Malaysia to earn a spot at the annual  GABPS Academy National Finals.

Then, he had to beat 7 other National Finalist to bag the GABPS Hero of the Year, thus, earning himself the right to represent Malaysia at the Heineken Global Bartender Championship in Amsterdam.

Finally, he had to compete against 16 top bartenders from all over the world to bag the Championship title.

The only other Malaysian that came close was Jimmy Goh, who was the world's No. 2 back in 2013.

ARAIMATI to you Eddy! 

Now go forth and do great things!

Jacob's Creek Heritage Wine Collection Dinner @ Saujana Resort

May 1, 2016, 6:00 pm

≫ Next: AIX Rosé Wine Media Tasting @ SkyBar, Traders Hotel KL

≪ Previous: News Flash: Malaysian Wins Heineken Global Bartender 2016 Championship

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Jacob's Creek Reeves Point Chardonnay + chilling at Saujana Resort = Bliss.

There's a trend that's taking over wine makers by storm - going rogue and breaking all the rules with new grape varieties, wacky names, edgy copy-writing and eye-catching label designs.

Sweet bitch. Fat Bastard. Bulls Blood. Gnarly Head. Fish Eye. Hocus Pocus. Bitch. Frog's Piss. Elephant on a Tightrope. No, I'm not making up rude words - these are ACTUAL wine brand names.

With an encouraging price tag (RM50ish), I have to admit that it's quite fun to play around with them. But it's almost like Russian Roulette - sometimes they turn out okay. Other times, they were so horrible I wish I was dead.

On days when I don't feel like placing a bet and just want to HAVE decent wine - I go back to the trusted, classic names. For me, that translates to a handful of Australian wine labels that I'm familiar with. I'm no wine snob and I like my easy drinking, uncomplicated, new world wines which usually comes with an attractive price point (i'm also quite cost sensitive).

The other thing is this - Australian wines were the first wines I was exposed & learned to enjoy back in my Sydney University days - so I guess you could say that I always go back to Australian wines because of nostalgia and misplaced loyalty. :)

So it was a nice surprise when an invite from Pernod Ricard Malaysia (PRM) came for a Jacob’s Creek wine tasting & dinner pairing session at @ Saujana Resort recently.

Drink us. DRINK US!

Pernod Ricard Winemakers Wine Ambassador, Jenny Rothenberg, took us through the 4 labels under the Heritage Wine Collection (and my thoughts below):

• Reeves Point Chardonnay - oh man, I really enjoyed this bubbly. Not too sweet, not too sour, just right. Call me Goldilocks anytime you want, just keep my glass filled with this beautiful stuff okay?
• Centenary Hill Shiraz - Soft with not much tannin or acidity which Shiraz's are known for. This is one of the rare Shiraz I enjoy a lot.
• Steingarten Riesling - flowery & fruity in the nose.. with a peculiar mineral-ly finish.
• Johann Shiraz Cabernet - dark. heavy. tannin is prevalent in this one.

And with a name like "Heritage Wine Collection" it's definitely your premium-level stuff. 

Update: We're looking at a lower RM2XX for the Chardonnay and Riesling, mid RM2XX for the Shiraz and lower RM3XX for the Cab. Only available at hotels for now, and Saujana is definitely one of them.

Thanks for having us, PRM!

More:
http://www.jacobscreek.com/my/our-wines/heritage/
http://pernod-ricard.com/21/home/asia

AIX Rosé Wine Media Tasting @ SkyBar, Traders Hotel KL

May 4, 2016, 6:42 pm

≫ Next: Hennessy V.S.O.P Privilège Collection 6 Launch

≪ Previous: Jacob's Creek Heritage Wine Collection Dinner @ Saujana Resort

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All the AIX Rosé you can drink.

Provence, France is the birthplace of rosé wines - just like the AIX Rosé, which was officially launched last month. 

It's produced by Maison Saint AIX winery that only produces 1 wine - the AIX.

AIX is made from a blend of Grenache (60%), Syrah (20%) and Cinsault (20%) grapes.

A glass Rosé with a view. Life is good.

It's fresh, fruity (citrus! berries! mango!) and not too sweet. I could drink this all night - and we did! This has easily became one of my favourite Rosés.

AIX Rosé is distributed by The Straits Wine Company and retails around RM2XX a bottle.

You can get it directly from distributor (The Straits Wine Company), or at Traders Hotel KL, Babe, No Black Tie, Havana, Bistro a’table, Ploy, Pinch & Troika, among other outlets.

Here's a couple of jokers that tried to selfie with the AIX to win a 1.5L bottle home. They lost.

More:
www.aixrose.com
https://straitswine.com/
https://www.facebook.com/straitswinecompany/

Hennessy V.S.O.P Privilège Collection 6 Launch

May 8, 2016, 4:00 pm

≫ Next: (Re)Launch: Johnnie Walker Green Label Datang Lagi!

≪ Previous: AIX Rosé Wine Media Tasting @ SkyBar, Traders Hotel KL

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Hennessy VSOP has some dazzling new clothes made by Peter Saville, an English graphic designer, and some of us were invited to check it out.

Hennessy V.S.O.P Privilège Collection 6 by Peter Saville (Image: MHDM)

This would be their 2nd collaboration while limited editions have been released yearly since 2010. 

Hacha Mecha grub waiting to be eaten. (Image: MHDM)

We got to taste a few cocktails made with the cognac, paired with food by Hacha Mecha @ TREC KL.

3 Hennessy VSOP cocktails and on the rocks. (cocktails images: MHDM)

Horse’s Neck (Hennessy V.S.O.P, Ginger Ale, Angostura Bitters and Lemon Wedges)

A nice starter drink with ginger flavours that wasn't overpowering. Like teh halia. Except hold the tea and substitute with it Henessy. :)

Side Car (Hennessy V.S.O.P, Triple Sec and Lemon Juice)

A classic brandy sour cocktail. Birthed during (likely) the pre-prohibition, the beauty of this drink is in its simplicity. I love this.

Mint Julep(Hennessy V.S.O.P, Angostura Bitters, Mint Leaves)

Traditionally made with bourbon, good if you have a sweet tooth (I don't) and prefer a light-tasting, minty drink which doesn't taste strong.

Hennessy on the rocks - there's really no better way than to enjoy a good cognac except neat or on the rocks. 

New Ikki Hennessy Signatures (On left: MHDM)

We were also introduced to 2 IKKI signatures created by the Lead Bartender, Osmund Bernard.

• The French Summer - Osmund's tribute to summer in France and a nod to Hennessy's birth country.
• A Letter from Mr. Ikki - strong flavours of oak and coffee. Also available on menu at IKKI. 

Age caught up to us and we had to leave before the REAL party started at Avalon, LiveHouse and Zouk Club KL. :(

(Having a good time with Deepak (ThirstyBlogger, Locker & Loft) 

& Brian Martin (The Star) Image: MHDM)

Thanks very much for having us, MHD!

More:

www.hennessy.com and www.mhdm.com.my

Facebook : Hennessy Malaysia

Instagram : #HennessyMY

(Re)Launch: Johnnie Walker Green Label Datang Lagi!

May 11, 2016, 4:00 pm

≫ Next: Launch: Carlsberg Smooth Draught Beer in Malaysia - first in the world!

≪ Previous: Hennessy V.S.O.P Privilège Collection 6 Launch

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Johnnie Walker Green Label is back!

Heart were broken, (manly) tears were shed, shelves were emptied and basements were filled up with green boxes (YOU BLOODY HOARDERS) when Diageo decided to discontinue selling the Green Label back in 2012 (except in Taiwan, because you know, where, instead of oxygen, they inhale single malt whiskies) to introduce the Gold Label and Platinum Label.

Then in 2015, cheeky Diageo teased selected countries (North America..& Australia too I think... But not Malaysia I believe ) with a limited time offering of it which was in conjunction with their 10th anniversary.

Happy people: Georgie Bell, global whisky expert from Diageo & Rajesh Joshi, Marketing Director for Diageo Brands - Moët Hennessy Diageo Malaysia (Image: MHDM)

This year, Diageo finally decided to bring the prodigal 15 year old back for good.

Like the old (pre-2012) version, this 40% ABV blended malt is made with the combination of the following 4 single malts (which we got to taste individually ... except for the Linkwood, sniff.):

Talisker (Skye) - spice, smoke & the sea
Linkwood (Speyside)
Cragganmore (Speyside) - fruity, malty sweetness
Caol Ila (Islay) - sweet peat. peat. peat.

The combined end product was sweet upfront, oaky & a little spicy in the mouth with a faint malty (like horlicks!) finish. But the mouthfeel not as dense as I've hoped though.

Now to keep a look out for how much it'll be. Do drop me a note if you've already seen it on shelves, k? It's about RM550 on retail, and will be available at selected upscale hotels, restaurants, cocktail bars and high-end grocers.

In the meantime - if you're thinking of getting rid of your old Green Label stocks (the ones pre-2012), give me a holler! I need them. You know, for research purposes, like side by side tasting and all. It's work. No, really. ;)

Party people united - with Angel Ng (PS150), Junior (Marini's 57), 

Kenny (MHDM), Shawn (Omakase)

More:

www.johnniewalker.com 
www.facebook.com/JohnnieWalkerMalaysia/ 
#johnniewalkermy
#johnniewalkergreenlabel

Launch: Carlsberg Smooth Draught Beer in Malaysia - first in the world!

May 15, 2016, 9:00 am

≫ Next: The Macallan: Edition No.1 Sample & Rare Cask Malaysia Launch

≪ Previous: (Re)Launch: Johnnie Walker Green Label Datang Lagi!

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That's right! We're the first in 140 Carlsberg markets in the world to have this!

Officially launched end of April, the intention of this new version is to provide the "freshly tapped beer" experience at outlets that typically have no access to draught beer. We're looking at coffee shops, food courts, hawker centres, chinese restaurants & some supermarkets (ie, your home).

So, this version is supposed to be smoother, easier to drink with a nicer carbonation, (which they claim is) like "freshly tapped beer". This is achieved by Carlsberg Smooth Draught's slightly different brew techniques from the Carlsberg Green Label:
- double the maturation cycle
- uses cold hopping technique (...but Googling provides me with no explanations)

Big smiles by Henrik Juel Andersen, the outgoing Managing Director of Carlsberg
(Image: Carlsberg Malaysia)

It's currently available only in the big 580ml bottle now and should be priced similarly to the green label. However, at 4.8% ABV, it's 0.2% less ABV than the original - which probably contributes to the "smoothness".

I find it very agreeable. It really does feel easier going down, and it has none of that usual bitter / metallic finish (unlike the Green Label). I could even detect some malt on the nose. When you're in a hot stuffy coffee shop or in need of a quick, cold, fix at home, a chilled bottle would be hard to beat.

Carlsberg Malaysia re-enacted a hawker centre in the brewery for the launch. MANY JOYS
(Image: Carlsberg Malaysia)

This launch event also marks the current Marketing Director's impending departure and warmly welcomes the new MD, Lars Lehmann (above picture, 5th from left). A warm selamat datang to you sir!

For more:
www.smoothdraught.com 
www.facebook.com/CarlsbergMY
www.carlsbergmalaysia.com.my

The Macallan: Edition No.1 Sample & Rare Cask Malaysia Launch

May 18, 2016, 9:15 am

≫ Next: Diageo World Class South East Asia Finals 2016: Meet our Malaysian Representatives!

≪ Previous: Launch: Carlsberg Smooth Draught Beer in Malaysia - first in the world!

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Macallan has been actively moving away from age-statements and are now putting all their focus on wood.

So expect to see new NAS bottlings and even more geekery about their casks.

I'll be featuring 2 of them in this post, as they were all shared with me during my hiatus back in January - but better late than never eh?


THE MACALLAN EDITION NO. 1

Was contacted to be 1 of 25 people chosen to try a sample - thank you for the honour, Edrington.

This new Macallan is the first release of their new annual limited releases to come. So we can expect a new one every year!

The Edition No. 1 is matured in 8 unique European & American oak cask styles selected by master whisky maker Bob Dalgarno. Of 8, 7 are sherry, 1 is American oak. It's a mix of liquid aged between 11 to 25 years.

I get the dry sherry. Spices. And with a few drops of water = more fruits come out for me. But in subsequent tasting, there seems to be some strong sulphur scent going on there. Hmm.

At 48% ABV, it's priced at around RM4XX (at selected liquour shops & supermarket) up to RM8XX at outlets. Distribution is very limited but you can try your luck at Enfin by James Won, HYDE at 53M, 81 Monarchy, Italian Wine Shop, The Whisky Bar and Tong Woh Retail shop... IF they still have it.

#MacallanCreates


THE MACALLAN RARE CASK LAUNCH @ RUYI & LYN, BSC.

The name may seem a little misleading as it's actually made from a blend of 16 different CASKS. The claim is that some these emptied casks will not be re-used - thus, making those liquid rare.

The liquid is a combination of Spanish & American sherry oak casks, mostly first fill.

I got vanilla on the nose, woody spices in the mouth, warm finish down to the throat.

At 43% ABV, it's available at selected outlets like The Penthouse, Hyde53M, Monarchy 61, H20, Merchant Pub, Club De-Royale, Ojos Bar, Zouk, Avalon & Meja and Brussels Beer Café at about RM2k. Supermarkets at about RM1.6k.

#MacallanRareCask

For more:
www.themacallan.com
http://facebook.com/themacallan

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Diageo World Class South East Asia Finals 2016: Meet our Malaysian Representatives!

June 1, 2016, 7:30 am

≫ Next: 5 Reasons Why You Should Kanpai with Sake Masters at Kampachi Plaza33

≪ Previous: The Macallan: Edition No.1 Sample & Rare Cask Malaysia Launch

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The Diageo World Class Malaysia 2016 took place recently (2-3 May, to be exact) at the KL Journal.

After 2 days & 4 grueling challenges later, 4 local bartenders were chosen to represent Malaysia in the Southeast Asian World Class Finals 2016 - happening right now in Bali.

Meet the 4 Malaysian representatives for the Diageo World Class South East Asia Finals 2016: (L tp R:) Joel John Timmis, Osmund Bernard, Jeffri Sulaiman & Boy Labib

I've googled and googled but couldn't find much info about our heroes. Which is why I've decided to put on my spy glasses, hunt them down, pose them a few questions, then get their background out here so that they have some form of a digital footprint on the interweb.

Introducing:

Boy Labib (Tate, The Intermark)

Hailing from Pahang, this shy ex-barista of 6 years probably wouldn't have ventured into bartending if it wasn't for a chance job opening with the Big Group. He hopped on board the drinks slinging ship and never looked back. Boy has been slinging drinks with Tate for about 5 years now.

Boy's Bees Knees, Tanqueray G&T, Hibiscus Spank & Uluwathu Sunset.

Jeffri Sulaiman (Enfin by James Won)

Jeffri knew he was passionate about the F&B industry at the tender age of 15. This Klang boy went on to pursue his hospitality degree, majoring in Culinary (against his parents' wishes to pursue engineering!) before officially starting off his career in TGI Fridays. He has been with Ten Japanese Fine Dining, then worked towards becoming Big Group's beverage operations manager, before currently settling down at Enfin by James Won as the resident beverage manager.

Jeffri's The Happle, Pick Me Up and Fly Me to Miami and his 6 speed challenge cocktails.

Osmund Bernard (Ikki, TREC KL)

Armed with a Mechanical Engineering degree, this Sabahan lad moved from KK to KL in search of a job. While job hunting, he casually worked behind a bar for a couple of months to make ends meet. Those 2 months of dabbling behind the bar stretched into 7 years! This self-professed "Drinks Engineer" has worked across the entire Soul Society Group (Souled Out, WiP, 7ateNine now Tujo, Sky Lounge) & is currently residing at Ikki Bar as their Head Bartender / Beverage Manager.

Osmund's Sunny Honey, Bali Dreams, Tanqueray GnT and Last Word.

Joel John Timis (Sparrow, Kota Damansara)

Joel started off his bartending career in 2008. Having worked in Skybar (Trader's Hotel), Elixir Bar and Arthur's Bar (Shangri-La), he went on to become the pioneer team (and then later, head mixologist) of View Rooftop Bar @ GTower. This Sabahan has bagged umpteen local, regional & even international accolades in the past 8 years of his colorful bartending career. 

Joel's Miami Fizz, Bali Club & his 6 speed challenge cocktails.

Boy Labib, Jeffri Sulaiman, Osmund Bernard & Joel John Timmis are currently competing alongside participants from Indonesia, Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand & Vietnam. 

Today (2 June 2016), one of them will be chosen (there will be 1 rept from each country) to represent Malaysia at the Global Finals in Miami this coming September.

So come on boys, show the world what you're made of! Go #TeamMalaysia! 

Majulah Sukan Untuk Negara!

All photos courtesy of MHDM.

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3.6.2016 Update :........  And it's Osmund!!! Congratulations!!!! Make us proud in Miami! 

5 Reasons Why You Should Kanpai with Sake Masters at Kampachi Plaza33

June 20, 2016, 7:54 am

≫ Next: What You Should Know About Absinthe

≪ Previous: Diageo World Class South East Asia Finals 2016: Meet our Malaysian Representatives!

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It's back! OMG it's back!!! For its 3rd consecutive year - Kampachi's annual KANPAI! with Sake Masters from Japan is BACK!!!

Kanpai promotional poster lifted off from Kampachi.com.my

It's one of the most awesome sake & buffet dinner session you'll ever get to experience in Malaysia, IMHO. I had the utmost pleasure of attending last year's session and loved every second of it - you bet your liver I won't miss this year's for the world.

If you are still in two minds about going, well, here are 5 reasons why you should NOT miss it (largely based on my previous experience, which should be similar to the upcoming one):


1. It's Kampachi.

Also borrowed from Kampachi.com.my

Do a quick Google Search and you'llcomeacrossumpteenwrite-upssingingpraises of Kampachi's quality, freshseafood, legendaryweekendbuffets, how it's one of the best Japanese restaurants in town and how it has won years and years of awards.

I'm sure you don't need me to ply you on with any more annoying hyperlinks because I totally could, as there are MORE reviews easily available online. :)


2. ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT Japanese food buffet.

A mere FRACTION of what we got to stuff our face with last year. 

You've heard of their legendary Sunday buffet, yes? Well, this Thursday's session will be a buffet session too - which means, you get to eat ALL the sushi, sashimi, teppanyaki, soups, noodles, oden, bbqs, cold cuts, dessert that you can stomach! BONUS - the sake masters may even bring special delicacies from their OWN hometowns to pair with their respective sake labels.


3. ALL-YOU-CAN-DRINK Junmai sake.

From last year's Kanpai session. It's like I died and went to sake heaven.

Kampachi is famed for its largest array of Junmai sakes (sake made with just 3 basic ingredients, with no added alcohol) compared to any other Japanese restaurants in Malaysia. For this upcoming Kanpai session, they'll be featuring 3 labels - Fusozuru, Taketsuru & Asahigiku. Each label will be showcasing 3 variants each, so we're looking at a being able to try 9 different types of sake!


4. You don't need to go Japan to meet ACTUAL Sake masters...

Last year's Kanpai featured (from L to R): Izumibashi's Yuichi Hashiba,  Kazuyoshi Sato of Abe Kameji, Benten Musume sake's Shotaro Ota, Tomohiko Ohata, owner of Ohata brewery & sake sommelier Shigeyuki Masaki.

.. because Kampachi flew them all HERE just so you can meet them in person, ask them all you want about sakes in general and about their own sake labels. They are super accommodating, are such sweet guys and love nothing more than to see you enjoy their sake and learn about it. This year, you'll be meeting:

1. Tomohiko Ohata, 4th generation owner of Ohata  (since 1903).
2. Toshio Taketsuru, 14th generation owner of Taketsuru (since 1733 - yes, the same family that founded Nikka - but they made sake first).
3. Noriaji Harada, 4th generation owner of Asahigiku (since 1900)
4. Shigeyuki Masaki, a licensed sake Sommelier 

5. Value for Money

ALL the sake from last year's Kanpai. It was madness.

So you think RM320 is a little steep? It really isn't. Let me break it down for you.

The usual Kampachi's legendary Sunday (and public holidays) buffet costs you RM148, which leaves you with a RM172 cost for the sake tasting portion.

The sakes featured are on the average, no less than RM200 (based on last year's Kanpai line-up,it's between RM180 to RM300++) per 720ml bottle (that's about 20 standard pours) = RM5.50 / shot.

Say you suck at drinking so much that you can only manage 5 shots per label  - because you'd want to try each with the different types of Japanese food, ie - 1) oden / soupy stuff 2) sashimi / cold cuts 3) teppanyaki / bbq / cooked stuff  4) stuff with carbs like noodles & rice 5)  dessert.

Then you're looking at trying NINE bottles (by the way, they are usually around 15-20% ABV - just slightly higher than wines, which means, it's deceptively SO EASY TO DRINK).

So = 5 x 9 = 40 shots.
40 x RM5.50 = RM220
RM220 >> RM172 
= YOU WIN (QED)

And there you have it. 5 reasons why you SHOULD Kanpai with the Sake Masters at Kampachi Plaza33 this Thursday. As if you need any more reasons, there will also be fun & games, giftaways and promotional prices on sake bottle purchases.

But you'll need to RSVP very quickly because it's by reservations only and places get snapped up too fast. So don't say I #bojio!

KANPAI! with Sake Masters from Japan 2016 details:
23 June 2016 (Thursday)
7.30pm 
Kampachi Plaza33 
RM320 nett
For reservations, call +603 7931 6938 

More 
http://www.kampachi.com.my/
https://www.facebook.com/KampachiOfficial

What You Should Know About Absinthe

July 7, 2016, 12:52 am

≫ Next: Upcoming Event: Toast the Macallan

≪ Previous: 5 Reasons Why You Should Kanpai with Sake Masters at Kampachi Plaza33

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New age brains don't read articles unless they are in some form of a list, right?

Well then, since I'm at your brain's mercy - here is a listicle on 5 things about Absinthe you might not already know:

1. Drinking absinthe can make you go crazy or kill you.

Image:Faded Industry

No entirely true. Absinthe once upon a time gained a bad rep when it was banned internationally (from misinformation and mass hysteria) after a man allegedly killed his entire family from drinking absinthe. But people always leave out the part about 1) him being an alcoholic 2) how much alcohol he was actually drinking (it was evidently, ALL DAY for a FEW DAYS in a row).

But you CAN die from it if you :
1) drink cheap imitation stuff (from methanol)
2) drink too much of it (from alcohol poisoning)

Now is probably the time to tell you that absinthe's ABV can range from 45% to over 80%. FYI - cask strength whisky can NEVER get that high.

2. Drinking absinthe makes you hallucinate.

So you think after drinking copious amounts of absinthe you'll hallucinate & see the green fairy like this infamous scene from Moulin Rouge (in the form of Kylie Minogue no less)? :



Sorry to burst your bubble, but no.

Frankly, drinking a lot of anything that has a high percentage of alcohol (45% and above) gets you high and drunk. It didn't help that absinthe was so popular with the Bohemians (who were usually the creative & artistic sort) who can't help but took creative licenses when explaining their drunken state upon consuming one too many glasses of the stuff.


3. It's made with herbs - so it must be healthy for you.

Image: Huffington

Among other herbs, what gives absinthe its distinct medicinally flavours are essentially:

• Wormwood - The oiliness that coats your tongue and mouth is caused by this. Supposedly good for digestion.
• Anise - The liquorice (think Hacks sweets) flavour comes from this. Both wormwood and anise is supposed to help stimulate the appetite
• Fennel - Lends some sweetness to the mix, balancing out the bitter flavours. Also known in ancient times for its medicinal properties.

Absinthe is still quite popular aperitif in Europe - but is it really healthy for you? I guess the only way to find out is try... in moderate amounts.

4. The only right way to drink absinthe is with a sugar cube on fire.

Nah, it's just ONE of 3 ways - also this burning sugar cube thing is not the traditional method. This method became popular mainly because of its cool (hot) flashy factor.

Traditionally, absinthe is drank 2 ways:
1. Just with water, with sugar added to taste (aka the Swiss way).
2. Dripping water over a lump of sugar into a glass of absinthe (aka the French way).

However you drink it - with fire, water or sugar - perhaps best NOT to drink it neat, or as shots.

5. It's related to Pastis.

Pernod Ricard pastis Image: Telegraph

Kinda. Absinthe is popularly known to be the granddaddy of a pastis, a type of anise-flavoured liqueur.

At locations where absinthe was banned (eg, France..), pastis became an acceptable herbal-ly alternative over a decade later because of its familiar anise flavour.

You might think you've never heard of pastis before.. but have you heard of Pernod? Or Ricard? Well, Pernod was originally an absinthe producer, before switching over to pastis when absinthe got banned, AFTER Ricard made it popular in France. Both Pernod and Ricard merged into 1 company - and are now known as this huge monster which owns umpteen spirit labels under its umbrella.

Sources for items 1-5 : The internet

So where can you get them in Malaysia? Well, it's quite a standard stock to have at the back of any reputable cocktail bar - especially the ones specialised in classic cocktails.

But if you're interested to get a full bottle, it is available at selected supermarkets like Jaya Grocer, Tong Woh Retail @ PJ State & Eau De Vie @ Nexus (which is both a bar and a retail shop). The specific brands I'm familiar with are the ones distributed by Tong Woh and they are priced as follows:

Angelique Verte Suisse @ 68% ABV, 70cl (RM300 RM330), 20cl (RM100 to RM130)
La Clandestine @ 53% ABV, 70cl (RM255 - RM285), 20cl (RM88 to RM110)
Butterfly “Boston 1902” @ 65% ABV, 20cl (RM105 to RM135)

Should you get a bottle? It's probably a good idea to keep 1 at home if you're a fan of the Sazarec or a Corpse Reviver... or just simply want to transport yourself to Europe by having a swig of it (with water!) to whet your appetite before a meal.

This post was inpsired by Tong Woh Enterprise x PS150KL's 
"The Secret Door Fairyland" Absinthe Event held on 5 May 2016.

Upcoming Event: Toast the Macallan

September 18, 2016, 8:46 pm

≫ Next: Upcoming Event: The Whisky Society 2016 - Win Tickets!

≪ Previous: What You Should Know About Absinthe

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What is it?
Finally coming to our shores after dropping by Singapore, Taiwan & Thailand, Toast the Macallan is a pop-up experiential event by The Macallan to showcase their range of whiskies & history through an exhibition & tasting session; hosted by The Macallan Brand Trainer, Keith Nair and Brand Advocate, Randall Tan.

The Macallan will also be unveiling its newest series, the Trilogy, which consists of:

• The Macallan Fine Oak 12 Years Old,
• The Macallan Sherry Oak 12 Years Old &
• The Macallan Double Cask 12 Years Old.

The Macallan's Trilogy can't wait to meet you.

What's in it for you?
At merely RM50 nett per pax , you'll be getting:

• a whisky tasting flight of the Trilogy
• an entry pass to the exhibition area of The Macallan range display
• 2 whisky (The Macallan based, of course) cocktails
• A miniature bottle door gift

When?
26th of September to the 1st of October 201 @ the Ritz-Carlton Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia).

Purchase your tickets at:

http://www.eventbrite.sg/o/the-macallan-malaysia-11263789437

For more information:
http://toastthemacallan.my/

Keith Nair & Randall Tan can't wait to meet you either.

So see you then!

Images by Edrington

Upcoming Event: The Whisky Society 2016 - Win Tickets!

October 4, 2016, 8:23 am

≫ Next: Event: Malaysia Wine Fiesta 2016

≪ Previous: Upcoming Event: Toast the Macallan

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TLDR: 2 pairs of FOC The Whisky Society event tickets worth RM229 each up for grabs. Find out how at the end of the blog post.

What is this?
Back for its second year, The Whisky Society is a mini Malaysian whisky tasting festival which is especially ideal for people who want try a whole bunch of whiskies but don't really want to  commit to full bottles of too many different expressions.

Confirmed participating brands so far(....with MORE coming!):

• The Balvenie (12, 14, 17)
• Bruichladdich (Laddie, Port Charlotte, OCTOMORE!!)
• Chivas (Extra, 12, 18)
• Glenfiddich (12,15, 18)
• Johnnie Walker (GREEN LABEL!!!)
• Kavalan (concertmaster, ex-bourbon, podium)
• Monkey Shoulder 
• Nikka (Coffey Grain & Malt)
• Paul John (Brilliance & Edited. It's the "new" SMW from India!)
• The Singleton (Signature)
• Tomintoul (Peaty Tang, 14, 16)

Format:
Simple - the price of the ticket allows you to sample as many whiskies & as many times as you'd like (or for as long as your liver can stand it). Canapes included & you get a 2016 Whisky Society lapel pin as a souvenir. Plus: other fun activities like an VR tour of selected distilleries!

Price & Purchase:
Standard tickets priced at RM229 - buy it from: http://tws2016.peatix.com/
ForDRAMFULL members only at RM199 - ASK ME HOW!

It's not evident in the ticket site, but there's something else called Under the Dram too. These are selected whiskies which you will also get to try with an additional fee via token purchase (minimum purchase of RM50 for 2 tokens) at the event. You buy as many as you want as 1 token gets you a shot of any of the following:

• Balvenie 21 
• Glenfiddich 21 
• Diageo Classic Malts (think Talisker, Oban etc.. etc..)
• Kavalan Solist Sherry / Port
• Mortlach, 
• Nikka Yoichi / Miyagikyo 

Where:
Ruyi & Lyn, Level 4 Bangsar Shopping Centre KL

When: 
22 October 2016, 6pm-10pm

Buy:
http://tws2016.peatix.com/

More info:
https://www.facebook.com/pg/whiskysocietyMY
https://mywhiskysociety.wordpress.com or http://www.thewhiskysociety.tk/
societywhisky@gmail.com

WIN TICKETS TO THE WHISKY SOCIETY 2016!

Thanks to the folks at The Whisky Society, I've got 2 pairs of tickets (yes, 2 + 2 tickets) worth RM229 EACH to be given away to 2 lucky winners.

All you need to do is follow these simple steps:

1. LIKE the Whisky Society FB page.

2. SHARE the Whisky Society FB page on YOUR OWN FB timeline.

3. TELL me(either on my FB page or in the comments below) which whisky you're looking forward to trying & why. :)

This contest will end at the end of the week - 9 October 2016.  I'll contact the 2 winners via email right after - so please make sure you're contactable either via email or Facebook, okay? Terms & conditions etc. apply.  

GOOD LUCK HAVE FUN!

Event: Malaysia Wine Fiesta 2016

October 10, 2016, 7:10 am

≫ Next: Updatus Interruptus.

≪ Previous: Upcoming Event: The Whisky Society 2016 - Win Tickets!

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WOOT! 5 pairs of entry tickets up for grabs! Read till the end of the post for more.

What is it:
A wine fair that lets you taste, learn about (from 15 visiting winemakers) & buy (at a promo rate) over 60 types of wines from France, Italy, New Zealand, Spain, South Africa, USA and even China. Ideal for wine noobs to connoisseurs of all (legal drinking) ages!

As a prelude to the main event, there’s also a Wine Makers’ Night - a private dinner with the winemakers featuring a 10-course meal paired with 12 wines!

Ticketing:
Wine Fiesta 2016:
From TicketPro or Jenna from Straits Wines @ 016 2282084 before event: RM108 nett
Walk-in: RM120 nett
*GrabCar discounts to and from (RM15 off each way) event for debit & credit transactions.
Promo code: winefiesta

Wine Makers’ Night:
RSVP through Jenna @ 016 228 2084: RM268++

When & Where:
Wine Fiesta 2016:
29 October 2016
11am – 7pm
APW Bangsar, 29 Jalan Riong 59100 KL

Wine Makers’ Night:
28 October 2016
7pm onwards
Babe, Clearwater, Jalan Changkat Semantan, Bukit Damansara, 50490 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

More info:
www.winefiesta.com.sg
FB: Straits Wine Company Malaysia, Malaysia Wine Fiesta 2016
#WineFiestaMY
#MyStraitsWines

WIN TICKETS TO WINE FIESTA 2016! 5 PAIRS UP FOR GRABS!

Thanks to the folks at Straits Wines, you could win a PAIR of tickets for the event & try ALL the wine you want at the event for FREE! Simply follow these steps for a chance to win:

On Instagram:
1. Like my Instagram page (if you haven’t already!)
2. Repost my Instagram Wine Fiesta post on your instagram timeline
3. Leave a comment on my Instagram page.

On Facebook:
1. Like my Facebook page (if you haven’t already!)
2. Share my FB Wine Fiesta post on your Facebook timeline
3. Leave a comment on my Facebook page.

Yes you can participate on BOTH channels. It’ll increase your chances to win – but you’ll only be eligible to win 1 pair of tickets per person okay? Other T&C apply (basically I have final say in everything la hehe).

Contest ends at the end of the week - 16 October 2016. Winners will be PM-ed for personal details – so make sure your Instagram/Facebook pages are accessible for me to PM you!

Updatus Interruptus.

December 5, 2016, 5:26 pm

≫ Next: Win: Probably the Best Brewery Tour by Carlsberg

≪ Previous: Event: Malaysia Wine Fiesta 2016

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Hi!

This is an automated reply.

The author has been very involved with getting used to many new aspects of her offline life and as a result, blog posts have been sparing. She feels sorry for this and promises to get on track as soon as she is able.

However, she is still quite active on Facebook and Instagram. So feel free to stalk her on those channels for updates on events, promotions, her homemade cocktail shenanigans and other boozy misadventures. Links are on the sidebar - - - - - >

Please stay tuned. Regular programming shall resume.

Until then, drink safely.

FA

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Win: Probably the Best Brewery Tour by Carlsberg

July 11, 2017, 8:27 am

≫ Next: K1664's “Pause for a Le Moment!”

≪ Previous: Updatus Interruptus.

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DRINK ALL THE BEER!

I used to live just a mere 3km from a beer brewery and now after moving in (to, what seems like, another "continent") with my old man, I live 7km away from another. I’ve been to both countless of times but never have had the participate on a brewery tour... until recently.

I was super stoked when Carlsberg Malaysia Sdn Bhd invited ME as a VIP to a rare brewery tour and sensory experience.

Happy 170th birthday, Carlsberg!

And in conjunction with their 170th anniversary, Carlsberg is now giving you an opportunity to visit its mother ship in Copenhagen, Denmark for “probably the best brewery tour" of ‘’probably the best beer’.

Yup, Carlsberg was born in 1847, by JC Jacobson, by the way.

All the brands under the Carlsberg brand

How do you win this all-expense trip to Denmark with a friend? Simple: From now till the 31st of July:

1) drink copious amount of Carsberg (640ml Carlsberg  or 580ml Carlsberg Smooth Draught), and remind the serving lengchai (or lenglui) to give you the bottle cap which needs to have the winning designs on the rubber bit or

FRESH BEERS on tap in the brewery's bar!

2) spend a min RM30 on a Carlsberg or Carlsberg Smooth Draught in a single receipt at participating bars, supermarkets or grocery stores.

tap your own beer in the brewery!

Even if you don't win a grand prize (10 chances to win!), there's still 300 chances to go on an exclusive VIP Carlsberg Malaysia brewery tour with 5 friends!

Sneak peek of the brewery

For more details, terms & conditions, click here:

Collect & Win
Snap & Win

So if you win, don’t forget to jio me ah!

K1664's “Pause for a Le Moment!”

July 23, 2017, 2:09 am

≫ Next: About Jon," The Bodyguard".

≪ Previous: Win: Probably the Best Brewery Tour by Carlsberg

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When in France drink as the french do, which we’d probably think; wine right? But the French also have their own beer too - the Kronenbourg 1664 - which you'll also see Parisians enjoying in their little cafes in the heart of a city on a hot summer's day.

K1664 showing you how to chill correctly.

There are actually 2 types of Kronenbourg, but we only have the Blanc version here. Just in case you didn't already know, Kronenbourg 1664 Blanc is a cloudy fruity wheat beer at 5.0% with a citrusy finish. Easily chugged down as it tastes like fizzy lemonade - dangerous on a hot day.

Drink more Kronenbourg

These guys threw a party on the 14th & 15th in conjunction with Bastille day, urging Malaysians to enjoy the "French Way of Life" by taking the time eat and drink, enjoying the company of loved ones and just live the moment.

Lots of pretty Kronenbourg everywhere - happy to ply you with more beer.

Kronenbourg 1664 converted Publika’s The Square into a French-like carnival of sorts which was open to the public, featuring loads of food (Kronenbourg-infused sorbet and macarons!), entertainment (a cancan performance, 9Lives jazz band, mime, street magicians, lots of photo opportunities with "French landmarks") and most of all, Kronenbourg 1664 bottles on promotion.

Kronenbourg-infused macarons and sorbet, WHAT!

We had plenty of food and drinks - a great way to spend the weekend with friends and loved ones.

Entertainment for the night.

Thanks for the jio, guys.

- Jon

About Jon," The Bodyguard".

July 23, 2017, 2:28 am

≫ Next: Locker & Loft's Shake and Take

≪ Previous: K1664's “Pause for a Le Moment!”

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So Fireangel/FA/Ah Fa has been inundated with her offline obligations and I've decided (on her behalf) that it's time to dust off the cobwebs on this blog and bring it to life again.

Allow me to introduce myself.

I started off being known just as… "The Bodyguard", which was before I became "the boyfriend" to which then blossomed into "the Fiance".

Today, I go by different monikers namely "the ex boyfriend" or her "ol man", and "grumpy ol man" (depending on my mood).

My past resume reads like this: 1. Accompany FA to events and prevent her from getting herself drunk.

Yup, actually just ONE job, really.

Apparently I have done a decent enough job and now she trusts me enough with her blog to provide research and creative content for Angeltini.com.

So for any posts with my input, I'll be signing it off with "Jon'".

Or you could also call me “O ghost who writes"

Cheers!

- Jon

P/S:  FA is still very active (perhaps too active1) on  www.instagram.com/fireangel80. Boozy updates (#angeltini) will be interspersed with her daily shenanigans too. If you'd like to take a peak into her life, go ahead and follow her now!

Locker & Loft's Shake and Take

July 26, 2017, 8:00 pm

≫ Next: Angeltini reviews… Caught on Video

≪ Previous: About Jon," The Bodyguard".

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At one point of his life, Deepak of The Thirsty Blogger told himself, “I’ve had enough of this nonsense” - alcohol prices were going off the charts in prices (no thanks to imposed taxes) which led to too many unscrupulous players in the industry, "cheating" customers.

Then Deepak said FTS and went on to open a bar with his business partner - giving birth to Locker and Loft.

The man himself, Deepak.

Locker and Loft has been the talk of town ever since it opened - no surprises why. A casual chilled out place with well-priced cocktails, bites and even beer on tap. For music aficionados, the establishment runs Bluesy and Alternative Rock Nights on Tuesdays as well House Sessions on Friday nights, featuring local deejays such as Blastique.

The outlet is dog-friendly every Sunday, where the animals can relax in the terrace. On the first Sunday of the month, a fun BBQ in the Balcony happens. From 1pm to 5pm, a cookout takes place, with specially-priced cold beers and meats awaiting guests. It is so well-loved that after just over a year of operations it has even also been nominated by Timeout magazine for the neighbourhood bar category this year.

One of Locker & Loft's friendly neighbourhood bartender

True to its philosophy of ''Making cocktails accessible and fun!", Locker and Loft has lately introduced a hands-on cocktail making session called the "The Shake and Take", which works this way:

1. Tell the friendly mixologist how you’d like your drink, what tastes you prefer, how your day was, the name of your pet and if you’re adventurous; your phone number (preferably ladies only please), etc etc..

2. The very-friendly house mixologist will then guide you as you Shake your own drink.

3. Pay the price of your cocktail and Take it.

4. If your creation is awesome, it'll even be included into their menu!

Trying my hand at cocktail making - I look like a pro!

Bonus: Creative guests that concoct memorable cocktails will be shortlisted for The LnL Amateur Bartender Challenge happening in September. The winning prize is a whopping RM1,000 with bragging rights.

Fireangel doing the thing she loves the moves - shaking and drinking.

The Shake and Take takes place every Thursdays from 8pm onwards.

So… don’t say I Bojio ah. Sau lu ahhhhh!

- Jon

Angeltini reviews… Caught on Video

August 13, 2017, 7:02 am

≫ Next: Know about your wine before you drink it - Vivino

≪ Previous: Locker & Loft's Shake and Take

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So we're gonna be trying to do some casual vblogs.

The stuff reviewed will be random and unadulterated and possibly (no, will be!) NSFW from a verbal point of view.

The products featured will be random items we either have in hand or recently bought to try.

It's an honest review from FA, unscripted, one take and full of imperfections.

This one's on 2 types of Guinness 0% ABV which was purchased from a nearby Hero supermarket at the soft drinks section, priced at RM3.50 each. One looks like an "original" version and the other is called a 'Ginseng zesty lime".

Enjoy!



- Jon