CALIFORNIA WINES CELEBRATE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE JUDGMENT OF PARIS

 

It’s a coup like no other. In 1976, California wines outscored highly regarded French wines in a blind tasting organised by British wine merchant Steven Spurrier in Paris.

Known as the Judgment of Paris, the ground-breaking event established the excellence of California wines and California as a world-class wine producing region.

In celebration of the 50^th anniversary of the Judgment of Paris, California Wine Institute hosted a convivial afternoon of California wine sampling for trade partners and local media.

Christopher Beros, Director for Greater China & Southeast Asia (top pic) said, “2026 is a landmark year for California wines. The 50^th anniversary of the Judgment of Paris not only commemorates the historic victory for California wines but also showcases how California continues to lead in quality, innovation and sustainability of its wine-making.”

Held at the Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur, we watched a short documentary on the Judgment of Paris. A curated range of California wines including those from participating wineries in the pivotal event 50 years ago.

The Chardonnays showcased were Chateau Montelena Napa Valley Chardonnay 2023, Spring Mountain Vineyard Chardonnay 2024, Veedercrest Vineyards Chardonnay 2022 and David Bruce Winery Chardonnay 2022.

Notable Cabernet Sauvignons included Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars Artemis Cabernet Sauvignon 2021, Ridge Vineywards Monte Bello 2023, Mayacamas Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon 2021, Clos du Val Winery Cabernet Sauvignon 2023, Heitz Wine Cellars Martha’s Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2018 and Freemark Abbey Cabernet Sauvignon 2021.

 
Stellar pioneers such as Grgich Hills Chardonnay 2022 and Robert Mondavi To Kalon Reserve Cabernet 2022 left us thoroughly charmed.

The Golden State of Mind, embodying California’s optimism, boldness, innovation and sustainability, is in every bottle of California wines.

Notable modern day picks included Gallica Albarino 2022, Maggie Hawk Jolie Pinot Noir 2021, Massican Annia 2024, Matthiasson Cabernet Sauvignon 2023, Rombaeur Chardonnay 2024, Senses Charles Heintz Chardonnay 2023, Terah Barbera Amador County 2024 and Titus Napa Valley Zinfandel 2023.

For more information, visit the official website: www.discovercaliforniawines.com
 

NATTOME UNVEILS NEW LOOK WITH BRAND AMBASSADORS

Nattome recently launched its new brand identity and packaging, partnering with Hong Kong actress Michelle Yim and YB Syed Saddiq as brand ambassadors.

 
Invited guests comprising media, customers and business partners witnessed Nattome unveiling its new look and packaging for its Digestive Health and Digestive Remedy product range, with both brand ambassadors in attendance.

Nattome’s founder Jon Lai shared how his own search to overcome acid reflux led him to focus on the importance of gut health, and how Nattome has transcended from a natural gut care solution to being a proponent of digestive health in Malaysia.
 
According to a World Health Organization 2021 report, 1 in 3 people suffer from digestive disorders, and gut-related diseases cited is the fourth leading cause of hospitalisation in Malaysia.

 
According to Associate Professor Dr. Tan Chung Keat of UCSI University, Nattome has been clinically proven to provide relief for acid reflux, bloating, and overall digestive discomfort issues in addition to helping to improve digestive immunity.

 
Member of Parliament YB Syed Saddiq along with Hong Kong actress Michelle Yim also shared their personal experiences on how Nattome proved effective against their digestive health concerns. Now both brand ambassadors are actively involved in raising more awareness about the importance of gut health through natural solutions proffered by Nattome.

The vibrant new look and modern packaging by Nattome reflect the brand’s determination in making digestive health care more accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

Available from Caring and BIG pharmacies, Lai announced Watsons will follow suit on carrying Nattome products. For more information, visit: https://nattome.com.my/

DELHI DELIGHTS AT DILLI 6

Delicious Northern Indian specialities prepared with aplomb by Delhi-born chef Ankita Aggarwal take centrestage at Dilli 6 restaurant. Also known as the Tandoori Temptress, Ankita started as a caterer in 2009, cementing her reputation in rustling up hearty, family-style offerings. Her maiden poolside Waves Café in Mont Kiara opened in 2020.

Last October she levelled up with Dilli 6, referencing an old Delhi postcode where bustling shops and street food scene abound in the district. Hence the resto menu integrates street food fare alongside keto-friendly, vegan and meat-based Northern Indian fare with some fusion touches.

Stepping into the whitewashed interior, we took instantly to the austere space, decked with framed colourful pictures.

 

An eye-catching wall mural of a lady in a tuk tuk adorns the spacious, air-conditioned private dining area. Sturdy wooden armchairs, a three seater divan and a low coffee table are complemented by a long dining table. Potted plants and a book shelf exude homely vibes to the overall space.

Our palate-pleasing openers of Dahi Puri (RM25) and Gobi 65 (RM22) proved on-point from the get-go. Yogurt-filled with sev (chickpea noodle crisps) and spiced potatoes, the crispy balls unleashed tons of bright, invigorating flavours and varied textures.

We also gushed over the spiced batter-coated fried cauliflower florets. They were superbly yummy with the coriander chutney.

Fish tikka, kebab and tandoor-cooked chicken made up the shareable Mini Tandoori Platter (RM50). Portions were ample enough to satisfy whilst leaving us eagerly anticipating the mains to come.

Heeding the chef’s advice, we paired Jeera Rice (cumin-flecked basmathi rice RM12), triangles of Garlic Naan (RM9) and poufy Poori (RM8, 2 pcs) to savour and mop up the spice-rich Achari Chicken (RM28) and Fish Curry (RM28).

The achari chicken was deliciously creamy and fragrant with multitude of exotic spices whilst the chunky fish curry in turmeric yellow gravy proved equally appetising. Dark verdant green Palak Paneer (RM32), testifying to the substantial amount of spinach used, was a nice contrast to the plethora of meaty dishes.

Our sweet treat for the day was Kulfi (RM16), a chilly luscious treat with almond flakes. I lapped up every spoonful with gusto, washed down with a rather mild Masala Tea (RM8). My friends shared a sunshiny yellow Mango Lassi (RM16) which got the thumbs up.

For reservations, please call Dilli 6, Tel: 017-260 8693. Address: 42A, Persiaran Zaaba, Taman Tun Dr Ismail, Kuala Lumpur. Open Tuesday to Sunday, 11am-10pm