Working in the restaurant industry during the year-end festive season can be hectic as most people are eager to wind down with convivial gatherings. Having worked as a Sommelier for seven years, N. Faizal, Sommelier and Restaurant Manager at wood-fire restaurant Butcher’s Block in Raffles Hotel Singapore knows better and appreciates festive get-togethers with his colleagues.
He says: “Having a proper sit-down meal with my fellow colleagues and chefs, who are part of your restaurant family, is one of my favourite memories of the Christmas season. It’s one of the most special times in the year, where we gather round, eat and drink wine to our heart’s content, creating meaningful moments.”
Prior to working at the heritage hotel, Faizal honed his craft at several renowned establishments overseas including the one-Michelin-starred Le Cigalon in Switzerland, the Australian embassy in Jakarta, and the Mouton Cadet Wine Bar, which is part of the Cannes Film Festival.
Getting into the festive spirit at Butcher’s Block, Faizal has selected the 2015 Chateau Musar from Lebanon by the glass to complement the multi-sensory dining experience of smoking, roasting and grilling meat and seafood over the fire in a menu by Chef de Cuisine Jordan Keao. He shares his tips and picks for wines to celebrate Christmas with.
What’s your favorite wine to bring to a Christmas dinner party?
Champagne! I believe you can never go wrong with a good bottle of Champagne. It is perfect for any occasion and there is something about the fizz that never ceases to put me in a good mood.
What’s your favourite Christmas food and wine pairing?
It is an earthy styled Pinot Noir either from Burgundy or New Zealand, which does justice to a plate of smoked ham. The Smoked Western Plains ham from Australia at Butcher’s Block is served alongside a preserved lemon gribiche, and creates a perfect marriage of flavours when paired with a bold Pinot Noir.
Best tip for serving wines at a Christmas party at home?
This is the time you can whip out your fancy glasses at home! Do make sure you give them a good wash and polish first though.
It’s time for desserts at a Christmas party. What is your go-to wine?
I would go for Sauternes (French sweet wine) or Port wine. Another option is a simple bottle of Maury from the Roussillon wine region in France. The Mas Amiel AOC Maury is a great selection as it reminds me of a dark black forest cake in glass.
All I want a wine for Christmas is…
Whatever wine that is gifted to me. The more wines the merrier!