Blogger was released from the shackles of his cage to participate in one of the Hospitality Wine Tastings at the JL Hotel with members of The Festival team and Hospitality package winners. This is why the blog has been fairly sparse this evening, despite some tournaments being in play. The former bartender in me jumped at the opportunity to sample some of Malta's wine. Updates on those will follow. Here is a rundown of the wines sampled at the roof top bar.
First on the tasting menu was a 2024 oak-aged Chardonnay. It was fresh, tangy and full of notes of apricot with a decent body and legs when swirled around the glass. Usually a grape I would avoid, it was refreshing and perfect before a meal or during a light dinner.
The next offering was a Shiraz Rose from the idyllic island of Gozo. On the nose, the fragrance was delicate. Traditionally a young wine, this particular rosé was a 2023 vintage. That was apparent on the palate; a lot was going on, dry but refreshing, and definitely one that gets better with every sip, a well-rounded fruity and floral tipple. As a non-rose drinker, it was infinitely drinkable. Maybe it's the heat.
Third up was a 2024 Medina Syrah, a red wine. It was dry and refined, with a decent body and long legs. Particularly woody on the nose, on the taste buds, fruity and full-bodied. This wine was aged in steel barrels. A very pleasant and easy going wine.
Fourth was the Victory Falls Merlot from Gozo, made with 100% Gozo Merlot grapes. On the nose, it was light, airy and floral. It was a pale purple colour, akin to a Pinot Noir. It was fruity on the palate, nice tangy acidity and very easy going.
Last but not least, the 2024 Cabernet Sauvignon. It was very fruity and rich in tannins, lots of plum and berry flavours which are beautifully fresh and ripe. A long finish, and pairs with meat, it was both simple to drink but rich in complexity simultaneously. It pairs well with anything you would eat for dinner and well worth buying. Definitely saved the best for last, at least in this blogger's opinion.
A big thank you to JL Hotel for their Hospitality, and this event just goes to show that the Festival Series isn't just about poker.
Cheers!
