Matches made in heaven

American steakhouse chain Sizzler takes another step up the fine dining ladder with the introduction of Jacob’s Creek Winemaker’s Selection red and white wines to its menu.

With its reputation for great steaks and grills as well as the healthy and fresh salad bar, Sizzler is the restaurant of choice for diners after a delicious meal at a reasonable price. Now they can also enjoy fine quality Australian chardonnay and shiraz cabernet that pair beautifully with the restaurant’s signature dishes.

The official launch, “Modern Art of Appetite with Jacob’s Creek Winemaker’s Selection”, on Monday was joined by Bernard Hickin, Jacob’s Creek’s chief winemaker who made the trip fto Bangkok especially for the event. 

“I’ve been to Thailand many times in the past, and I’ve seen the increasing number of wine bars in Bangkok.” Hickin observed. “I believe wine has slowly become part of the Thai dining culture, and more Thais enjoy wine with a variety of food. That’s why we launched Jacob’s Creek Winemaker's Selection range. These wines are approachable and balanced with particular attention to food accompaniment. Our winemakers, including me, assessed various parcels of wines and selected only those with the right qualities to create generous fruit-driven flavour that best complements Asian taste. After more than 30 years of winemaking experiences, Jacob’s Creek Winemaker’s Selection is my pride.” 

Hickin’s passion and enthusiasm have impacted greatly on the winemaking team at Orlando Wines. He is well respected within the Australian wine industry and has inspired a raft of young winemakers to pursue their winemaking dreams. In 2006, Hickin became chief winemaker at Orlando Wines where he finds great satisfaction in honing and improving the company’s respected brands. From 2010 he also took on responsibility for promoting the Jacob’s Creek brand internationally and is driving the brand with a steady, considered hand, ensuring that from vine to bottle standards and quality are maintained. 

The lunched started with salmon Caesar salad, paired with Jacob’s Creek Winemaker’s selection chardonnay. The crisp, palatable and fruity wine went down beautifully with the slightly seasoned salmon on a bed of fresh green salad. The creamy texture, butter notes and nicely integrated oak of the chardonnay also helped to accentuate the subtle, creamy Parmesan that was sprinkled on top. 

Jacob’s Creek Winemaker’s Selection shiraz cabernet was paired with the main courses – barbecue pork spare ribs and grilled beef loin – served with creamy mushroom and fresh pepper sauce. The spiced and charred red meat matched well with this medium bodied wine with rich layers of dark fruits and soft tannin. 

Guests were encouraged to hold on to |the red for the dessert to chocolate mud cake. The rich, suave gooey chocolate |was even more pleasing when savoured |with the shiraz cabernet blend. If the |combination of chocolate and red is too intense, opt for the white for a more |mellow and fresher effect.

   

 

GRAPES OF JOY

Jacob’s Creek Winemaker’s Selection wines are served exclusively at all Sizzler restaurants throughout Thailand.