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| Writer with Dr. Vijay Mallya |
Plenty of action centred around 14 exhibitors including FineWinesnMore (the premium rum Martinique Rhum was greatly appreciated by the guests), Sonarys, Schott Zwiesel, United Spirits, Pernod Ricard, Munjral Brothers, Le Cordon Bleu and La Fromagerie, who were the protagonists of the evening, with their wines and spirits on display and taste. Wild forest mushrooms, olives, red berries, jams and biscuits were the other products displayed.
The show was produced by Sopexa, as is done in many countries around the world every year on the first Thursday of June. Delhi has been the venue since it started happening in India 8 years ago. Explaining the shift of venue, Mr. Loïc Denneulin, Country Director of Sopexa said ‘we wanted to go to a new venue this year and Mumbai was the natural choice.’ Explaining the objectives of the event,he added,’ understanding of the culture of French food is an understanding of France itself. Therefore, one of the main objectives of the event is to increase the awareness of the simplicity of French cuisine.’
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| Dr.Vijay Mallya & Mr. Jérôme Bonnafont, French Ambassador |
Dr. Vijay Mallya, Chairman of the UB group had also taken time out to be with the invitees. He stated that his French connection dated back to over 25 years ago when he spent four weeks trying to learn the language. He also added that with homes in Paris and South of France, it was a destination that he visited quite often.
Ms. Dharti Desai, CEO of FWM said that her company gave a lot of importance to participating in such events because their company was all about lifestyle and French cuisine and culture was very much alive and vibrant as could be seen at the Champagne Ball Room- the name so apt for this evening.
A Gourmet tour brochure was launched by Kuoni, Cox & Kings and Club Med introducing Gourmet tours to France in association with Maison de la France (MDLF). Karim Mekachera, Director, MDLF India stated ‘We have showcased France through its culinary and wine heritage as one of the ways to explore the destination. We intend to promote attractions including the rich gastronomic heritage, wine and its treasure trove of incredible gourmet tourism destinations”.
The event provided an excellent opportunity to experience all things French including food and beverages in a grand ambience.
Malathi Natarajan
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