PENANG's reputation as a street food haven has drawn not only tourists but wine producers.
In the past six months, three wineries have made their way to Penang, courtesy of their local distributor, Vantage Wines & Cigars Sdn Bhd, which has an outlet in Tanjong Tokong promoting their products.
Such labels as Barton & Guestier, Haselgrove, and Latue & Cleary have made their debut in Penang to much acclaim.
The success is owed to a growing Asian awareness of such wines and the ability of their producers to pair the wines with local cuisine.
Vantage group business development manager Benjamin Chung said demand for wines in Penang surged post-pandemic, especially among connoisseurs.
Chung said hotels and restaurants are keen to tie up with wine producers to offer wine dinners and tasting sessions.
He said there is a need to educate consumers that alcohol consumption must be measured and not abused.
Haselgrove chief executive officer Christophe Forrel said the winery has been exporting large quantities to Malaysia and Penang since 2016.
"We have a wonderful partnership with Quintmas (our importers) and Vantage, and we have seen steady growth over the past eight years. Penang is known for its amazing food culture."
"In my experience, it is mature and inquisitive palates that continue to show an interest in wine and the subsequent pairing of its flavours with the complex and diverse cuisine featured around Penang. I think there are opportunities in this maturing wine market at Penang."
Brand ambassador Alejandro Bria said organic wines are gaining in popularity because they are cultivated and processed without harm to the environment.
Malaysian Association of Hotels vice-president Datuk Khoo Boo Lim hoped the recognition of Penang as a food and wine paradise would consolidate the state's position as a leading tourism destination. – June 20, 2024.
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