LOUNGE /
EAT
January 22, 2015
EAT: Event Report - "Master of Wine & Spirits 2014"
EAT | DFS Group Unveils a Masterpiece Collection Selected from Around the World
Master of Wine & Spirits 2014 Event Report
On November 8th, DFS Groupheld its fourth annual "Master of Wine & Spirits" gala event.This year, over 80 rare wines, champagnes, and spirits from more than 65 leading distilleries and wineries were gathered, making it the largest exhibition to date.
Text by KUROMIYA Yuzu / TANAKA Junko (OPENERS)
Over 400 Collectors and Connoisseurs Gathered, Guided by a Rare Collection
The venue was the "Black & White House," a 1900s mansion located in the Mount Pleasant area of Singapore. On the night, over 400 collectors and connoisseurs, captivated by rare wines and spirits, along with brand ambassadors, made for a glamorous evening.
The lineup featured over 30 types of precious Armagnac, Baijiu, Cognac, Scotch whisky, and single malt whisky, plus more than 50 wines and champagnes, totaling over 80 rare selections.
The venue chosen was the "Black & White House," designated as a national cultural property.
Here, we will introduce the main brands that graced the highlights of the event.
From the Scotch whisky giant Johnnie Walker, the "Johnnie Walker The Epic Dates Collection (1938, 1949, 1956)" was presented, featuring the brand's best from the past and present. From the Scottish whisky maker Dalmore Distillery, the single malt whisky "Dalmore 45 Years" was specially created for this exhibition.
Other exclusive items that would impress collectors included "The Macallan Master of Photography Series 4: Elliott Erwitt Edition," one of only three complete sets worldwide; "The Glenlivet Winchester Collection Vintage 1964 50 Years"; the cognac "Martell Queen's Carafe," one of only two in existence globally; and "Camus Cognac Borderies 8.2L Decanter," housed in a unique bottle that is the only one of its kind in the world.
(Left) "Dalmore 45 Years," specially created for this exhibition / (Center) "Camus Cognac Borderies 8.2L Decanter," housed in a unique decanter crafted using a wooden mold / (Right) This year's event, themed "Hospitality at Home is the Ultimate Luxury," was notably presented within the 1900s mansion, serving as a canvas for the free-spirited display of the collection.
These collections are currently on display and available for purchase by the public until Saturday, February 28, 2015, at the DFS Singapore Changi Airport store.
This year's event, themed "Hospitality at Home is the Ultimate Luxury," also featured a talk session by world-renowned wine critic James Suckling and Singapore-based spirits expert Michael Callahan on "The Six Elements of Hospitality (Welcome, Guests, Food, Conversation & Service, Setting & Atmosphere, After Dinner)."
What is the Ultimate Hospitality According to Jonathan Driver?
Finally, we bring you an interview with Jonathan Driver, ambassador representing Johnnie Walker, a brand with many fans not only in Japan but worldwide. Johnnie Walker has been a regular participant since the inaugural "Master of Wine & Spirits" in 2011. We asked him about his impressions of the event and the collection presented this year.
Jonathan Driver (left) speaks about how talking with buyers visiting the event is one of the pleasures.
—What distinguishes Johnnie Walker from other whiskies?
Born in Scotland in 1820, Johnnie Walker has spent nearly 200 years cultivating advanced knowledge and skills, dedicated to crafting whisky. Today, it is known worldwide as a Scotch whisky with a global following. At its core is a commitment to innovation. The phrase "Keep Walking" truly embodies the brand's spirit.
—What is the significance of participating in a large-scale exhibition like "Master of Wine & Spirits"?
There is no other place in the world where such a superb collection of brands gathers. However, the greatest charm is that, despite being a large-scale event, it maintains a welcoming, at-home atmosphere. Being invited to such events is a great honor for us. Also, I always look forward to engaging in in-depth conversations with the knowledgeable buyers who visit the event.
—Could you elaborate on the "The Epic Dates Collection" presented this time?
"The Epic Dates Collection" is a milestone that connects Johnnie Walker's past and present. Each edition – 1938, 1949, and 1956 – is a unique entity embodying its era. Originally created in limited quantities for DFS and Johnnie Walker Houses (the brand's flagship locations worldwide), they are rare and highly sought after. These special blended whiskies are then bottled in beautifully designed containers and delivered to a select clientele.
The collection "The Epic Dates Collection," previously available only at DFS and Johnnie Walker Houses, made its grand debut.
—This exhibition is themed "Hospitality at Home is the Ultimate Luxury." If you were hosting guests at your home, how would you use "The Epic Dates Collection" to entertain them?
To fully appreciate the complex flavors and beautiful packaging of "The Epic Dates Collection," creating a quiet and private atmosphere is essential. I would first focus on setting that mood. Beyond that, I believe that sharing intimate moments with dear friends, savoring subtle nuances, is the most important form of hospitality.
Jonathan Driver
With a 25-year career as a premium whisky expert. After earning a degree in Japanese history, he worked in the European art import/export business in Japan. Returning to the UK two years later, he became involved in marketing for Garrard (jewelers), achieving success such as securing sales rights for the Seibu and Mitsukoshi department stores in Tokyo. In 1989, he joined United Distillers as a Premium Marketing Specialist. In Scotland, he was involved in the development of Classic Malts and, in the company's travel retail division, played a role in the launch of Johnnie Walker Blue Label.
"Master of Wine & Spirits" Collection Exhibition and Sale
Dates | Until Saturday, February 28
Location | DFS Singapore Changi Airport Store
http://www.dfsmasters.com