WesternTaste.com

Wine of the Month: Fetzer Chardonnay, California, USA

2012-03-01T01:34:00.000-08:00

Fetzer Vineyard is a unique winery that strives to be the best organic winery in the United States of America and they are very close to become that. They have pushed themselves to provide with the outmost best quality of grapes produced in a 100% organic farming. Through this Fetzer has also taken the next step in having the entire company in a sustainable approach with renewable energy solutions, sustainable water systems and organic farming.

Now when it comes to Fetzer Chardonnay which is the wine of the month for March, we at Western Taste found it to be very delicate and lovely to drink. Please see tasting notes below.

I found the wine, which is a clear lemon straw, a bit tight on the nose, but digging deeper I found an aura of peach and light, warm lemon fruit to match the colour. A further patient nosing gave me pineapple. The palate yields plenty of fruit acidity with a touch of complementary sweetness. Peach, lemon, and pineapple chime in at a higher level with grapefruit and green apple adding to the fruit-fest. The wine has also a creaminess enhanced by vanilla and baking spice (hint of clove), as well as caramel notes and a bit of candied fruit (and some fruit pucker) at the finish.

The wine is very reasonable and great value for money. This is to be enjoyed on a now warmer period on the balcony while enjoying your Sunday view.

Nr at Systembolaget: 16653
Cost in Sweden: 90 SEK
Cost in China: Not yet available
Cost in US: 7 USD

Written by Alexander Yü

Great American Pinot Noirs

2012-02-21T06:39:00.001-08:00

"Oh, its flavors! They are the most haunting and brilliant and thrilling and subtle on the planet."

So eulogized Miles in the 2004 cult-hit movie Sideways about that most magical, recalcitrant, frustrating and certainly most expensive of all red wines, Pinot Noir. As he goes to great pains to point out it is a difficult grape to grow, it isn't a survivor like Cabernet Sauvignon. It also produces low yields and is hard to ripen, at least in Burgundy, it's home territory, and often times results in thin, watery wine.

However, if you grow Pinots where there's a abundant sunshine, like California, it's too easy to wind up with over-ripe grapes and sweet jammy wine that tastes like stewed fruit. It is hard to find very well made American Pinot Noirs and that is why Western Taste wants to provide its readers with good recommendations.

In Sweden American wines are not that shown on the shells at Systembolaget which is a shame since

USA

makes amazing wines.

Western Taste recommends the fallowing American Pinot Noirs:

Fetzer Barrel Select Pinot Noir 2008

Russian River Valley, Sonoma County, California,

USA

Nr at Systembolaget: 70556

Cost in

Sweden

: 149 SEK

Cost in

China

: Approx. 350 RMB

Cost in US: 25 USD

Belle Vallee Grand Cuvee Pinot Noir 2003

Willamette Valley, Ore,

USA

Nr at Systembolaget: Spec. import

Cost in

Sweden

: Spec. import

Cost in

China

: Not yet available

Cost in US: 49 USD

Chalone Pinot Noir 2003

Salinas Valley, California,

USA

Nr at Systembolaget: Spec. import

Cost in

Sweden

: Spec. import

Cost in

China

: Not yet available

Cost in US: 25 USD

Cloudline Pinot Noir 2003

Willamette Valley, Ore,

USA

Nr at Systembolaget: Spec. import

Cost in

Sweden

: Spec import

Cost in

China

: Not yet available

Cost in US: 18 USD

Clos Du Val, Carneros Vineyard Pinot Noir 2001

Carneros, California,

USA

Nr at Systembolaget: 70359

Cost in

Sweden

: 219 SEK

Cost in

China

: Not yet available

Cost in US: 34 USD

Cristom, Jessie Vineyard, Pinot Noir 2002

Willamette Valley, Ore,

USA

Nr at Systembolaget: 71242

Cost in

Sweden

: 349 SEK

Cost in

China

: Not yet available

Cost in US: 45 USD

Written by: Alexander Yü

Article: Planeta - the heart of Sicily

2012-02-13T03:32:00.000-08:00

Planeta is a Sicilian wine company established in 1995, with 6 estates that produce their wines across the island of Sicily. These 6 estates makes it possible for Planeta to use the resources of the lands different aspects and create highest potential of quality.

Planeta’s patient and meticulous procedures shows as much to the past as to the future, with on one side the oldest Sicilian traditions with varieties such as Grecanico, Carricante, Moscato di Noto, Frappato, Nerello Mascalese and Nero d’Avola, and on the other side appraised varieties of classics such as Chardonnay, Syrah, Merlot and Cabernet.

What we love about Planeta is that they have the vision of taking its wineries to the future and are open to new and innovative ideas in terms of communication, labelling, management and corporate structure.

Western Taste was invited by Philipson Söderberg to attend a specialised wine tasting hosted by the lovely Export Director of Planeta; Penny Murray.

Planeta wines that were tasted:

White Wine

Planeta Cometa 2009

100% Fiano which is a native local white grape variety which is now starting to get world renown and a lot of attention.

The colour is straw yellow with evident green tints. On the nose it gives a surprisingly intense aromatic nose and charm. They differ litchies, nectarines, pineapple, mandarin, peppermint, and scents of Mediterranean as chamomile and thyme. On the palate it gives elegance and fat at the same time. It moves dynamically between the soft sensations on alcoholic and a vibrant acidity. Final full of aroma and varietals nuances that lead to a considerable persistence.

Grade 3,5 of 5

Nr at Swedish Systembolaget: 82491

Cost in

Sweden

: 239 SEK

Cost in

China

: Not yet available

Cost in US: Appr. 29 USD

New! Planeta Carricante 2010

This wine is called the volcano wine. The grapes are from Sciara Nuova vineyards which is Planetas first venture and first vintage on the volcano Etna.

100% Carricante grape with colour of pale yellow and shades of green. The nose gives you Green apple, typical of vines grown at an altitude, white flowers and wild honey. Some hints of mineral and very evident mint is also distinctive in the nose. The palate is mouth sour and fresh in the style of Etna with long and persistent obvious fragrance.

Grade 4 of 5

Nr at Swedish Systembolaget: 94355

Cost in

Sweden

: 159 SEK

Cost in

China

: Not yet available

Cost in US: Appr. 21 USD

Planeta Chardonnay 2009

From the oldest part of the estate Ulmo Sambucca, where the grape saw the dawn of light for the first time in 1994 it struck the world with its powerful innovative fresh taste and is by far one of our favourite Chardonnay from Italy to find.

The wine gives you golden yellow with lively green glints of colour. The nose is rich and intense. Aromas of peach, golden apple, white figs, vanilla cream, meringue. It also gives hints of hazelnut and honey. The wood is shy but well balanced. The palate is soft, round, energetic and full. The wine is balanced in its character by fine acidity, fresh flavours and substantial extract.

Grade 5 of 5

Nr at Swedish Systembolaget: 72882

Cost in

Sweden

: 249 SEK

Cost in

China

: Appr. 663 RMB

Cost in US: Appr. 29 USD

Red Wine

Casa Planeta Nero d’Avola Syrah 2009

The Casa Planeta collection was earlier called La Segreta one of the better great value wines.

Grade 3 of 5

Nr at Swedish Systembolaget: 72139

Cost in

Sweden

: 79 SEK

Cost in

China

: Appr. 217 RMB

Cost in US: Appr. 14 USD

Planeta Plumbago 2009

A single variety with Nero d’Avola grape. Its name comes from the purple wild flower that grows in the woods surrounding the vineyards of Ulmo. Its soft and fruity character comes from the grapes grown in the old vineyard around Lake Arancio. The perfect maturation in wood with its rounded tannins makes this wine a pleasure and elegant experience.

Grade 3,5 of 5

Nr at Swedish Systembolaget: 71800

Cost in

Sweden

: 129 SEK

Cost in

China

: Not yet available

Cost in US: Appr. 14 USD

New available in May! Planeta Dorilli 2009

This is a whole new wine variety and Planetas version of Cerasuolo di Vittoria Classico. 70% Nero d’Avola and 30% Frappato. Its expression is refined and elegant with a perfect mature blend of the dignified Nero d’Avola and the Frappato. The wine is very elegant and not the typical Nero d’Avola, it gives more balance to its structure and provides wood, red fruit with soft and silky tannins.

Grade: 4 of 5

Nr at Systembolaget: 90008

Cost in

Sweden

: 149 SEK

Cost in

China

: Not yet available

Cost in US: Not yet available

New Vintage! Planeta Santa Cecilia Nero d’Avola 2008

This is one of Planetas icon wines. The company’s name is Planeta di Santa Cecilia, so we understand why this wine lies close to the family’s heart. The grapes grow in Noto, where the first Nero d’Avola stocks once was planted long ago in Sicily. Santa Cecilia has been the landmark for this Sicilian national grape. This is really a food wine were you should match some heavier dishes like game i.e. deer, moose or reindeer. Also stronger cheeses are suitable for this wine.

Grade: 4 of 5

Nr at Systembolaget: 72882

Cost in

Sweden

: 249 SEK

Cost in

China

: 663 RMB

Cost in US: Appr. 29 USD

Written by: Sofie Yü and Alexander Yü

Restaurant Review: Seikoen, Stockholm, Sweden

2012-02-08T01:59:00.000-08:00

Japanese cuisine is delicate, minimalistic, balanced flavours and very fresh. What Seikoen has done is that they brought the real

Japan

Sweden

with its authenticity of flavours, fresh ingredients and combining that with innovative cooking. What the Japanese cooking has been criticised mostly in the resent years is the deny and bad reputation in environmental fishing and treatment of animals, however Seikoen has taken this into account and using only environmental raw materials to its cooking. They have taken the King Prawn out of the menu and also the blue fin tuna and replaced with environmental friendly bred animals.

The kitchen is run by the famous Japanese owner Tamiji Yasumoto. His wonderful wife that always brings a smile to its dining room is Eva Yasumoto. They have together brought this wonderful restaurant group to a higher level of perfection when it comes to the Japanese cuisine in

Sweden

Do start with the lovely and fresh Sashimi selected by the chef or tuna tartar quail eggs. For main we can recommend the Tempura Moriawase and the duck presented with foie gras, parsnip pure and pickled mushrooms & red onions. The down side of Seikoen and perhaps all East Asian restaurants is the dessert selection. There is no new and innovative approach on the selection and you have to settle with a kind of mainstream and boring Crème Brule which I am not really interested in after a very nice Japanese dinner.

When it comes to the wine selection it is a bit short. I would have loved to see a wider and broader selection of wines that are presented in the menu for its guests, however the selection that is presented are suitable for the East Asian cuisine.

Overall we loved the visit at Seikoen and knowing that Mr. Yasumoto is in the kitchen giving orders to his chefs to perform on their best behaviour at all time is really comforting. The food is very well presented and the flavours are very good. We like the service very much and the open kitchen to its sushi bar.

Final Grade: 4 out of 5

Seikoen

Tegelbacken 2

08-100 310

http://www.seikoen.se

Written by: Alexander Yü

Restaurant Review: Green Tea House, Beijing, China

2012-02-05T02:18:00.000-08:00

This restaurant gives you with an amazing woaw upon entry. The restaurant is focused on two aspects; design and food. The restaurant is an art exhibition gallery on its own with modern day art from sometimes famous artists but also by the owner herself; Mrs Jin R.

The food is made with high delicacy and with absolute most prominent ingredients. It is a mixture and fusion of contemporary French and Chinese cuisine. The dishes are very delicate and balanced in flavour. Please go for Greent T House special fennel dumplings or black sesame veal which is very delicious. Something that we also liked was the Yunnan Black T Rice and to end with Naugh T Ending T Chocolate.

The food is an art by itself and is to be visited and tried. We loved the wine list with a good variety of dominant French selection. Although the staff could be a bit more knowledgeable and confident in wine presentation/ suggestion the whole experience at Green T. House was amazing and is highly recommended to visit when in Beijing,

China

Final Grade: 4,5 out of 5

Green T. House

Beijing朝阳区
工人体育场西路
010-65528310

http://www.green-t-house.com/

Written by: Alexander Yü

Article: Top 5 Airlines in the World by Sofie Yü

2012-02-02T04:43:00.000-08:00

Recently, as they do every year, the World Airline Awards was held. 18.8 million travellers gave their vote, and as so often, the Asian airlines made it to the top of the list.

Qatar

airlines took the first place on the list.

We thought we would compare some of the 5 star airlines and see what you get when it comes to e.g. service, food and comfort and these are the results from Western Taste:

1. Qatar Airways, Qatar

Qatar Airways have an amazing 34” seat pitch in Economy Class as well as a 10.6” seatback TV; in Business Class they have a 15.4” seatback TV. Full-flat beds in Business Class and an award winning 5-star service cabin crew. When arriving, starting off or transferring in Doha, Qatar has the luxury of providing you as a First Class passenger a personal pick up by a BMW 7-serie all the way to and from the airplane. On the plane you will be served a well composed 10 course meal mixed of different delicacies such as caviar, lobster, Arabian mezzas and fine chocolate. Along with your dinner you can select from different exclusive wines and champagne from

Qatar

’s own wine cellar. The food will differ depending on which destination and according to the passenger’s requests. E.g. on a trip to Osaka, Japan you may enjoy a meal consisting of sushi, seafood noodle soup, wagyu beef, smoked salmon, goose liver and fresh fruit.

2. Singapore Airlines, Singapore

Singapore Airlines gives you an award winning Business Class cabin where you’ll get KrisWorld AVOD IFE on long haul flights. They have a quality meal service across all cabins and on the A380 you’ll get a First Class Suite. You can wine and dine in style at your preferred time when you travel in Suites or First Class. Select your meals from their exquisite menus meticulously created by their International Culinary Panel comprising highly praised chefs from around the globe. A classic favourite on the menu is their famous Satay, a local delight of skewered slices of chicken, mutton or beef. Each satay dish is grilled to perfection and served with a tantalizing peanut sauce, along with some fresh cucumbers and onions. Of course Singapore Airlines offer you a wide selection of wines which includes e.g. Dom Perignon and Krüg Champagnes. They also provide travellers on

Japan

flights the traditional Kyo-Kaiseki service which originates from the 1500s as a meal preceding the traditional Japanese tea ceremony. The Kaiseki has evolved into an art form cleverly balancing visual elements and a numerous different flavours.

3. Asiana Airlines, South Korea

The South Korean airline Asiana, provides you with a award winning Economy Class cabin, and in almost all their flights they have flat-bed in First and Business Class. The seats in First Class are extra wide and spacious for maximum comfort. They also got the price for the world’s best cabin crew in 2011.
For its First Class passengers Asiana Airlines has worked in partnership with the nation’s best restaurants and experts in order to provide healthy and premium meals by the best chefs. As a step to diversify in-flight food service, their menus on the long-distance flights are developed together with La Cucina, which is Korea’s leading Italian restaurant; star chef Edward Kwon; and the Institute of Korean Royal Cuisine, which has maintained the traditions of Korea’s royal cuisine. Asiana's high-end wine selections in First Class are well composed together with top sommeliers. Fresh and elegant, high-quality champagne, XO class cognac, fine whisky, dessert wines, and a variety of other wines and beverages are offered to round off the pleasure of a great meal. In addition, the Asiana Tea Garden service, which offers environmentally friendly coffee (Rainforest Alliance), and selected teas, will satisfy the individual preferences of their customers.

4. Cathay Pacific, Hong Kong, China

Cathay Pacific has an award winning First Class seat, flat-bed Business Class seat in all their flights and they also have premium arrival lounges in HKG for Premium Class passengers. One of the highlights awaiting every First Class passenger is a superb array of Asian and International cuisine, all freshly prepared in our state-of-the-art galley boasting rice cookers, toasters, steam ovens and fresh coffee-making facilities. Because all dishes are made to order, you can choose what you’d like to eat. Cathay is among the first airline to have a rice cooker onboard. Cathay also offers a wide range of high-end Bordeaux and Burgundy wines, such as Domaine des Malandes Chablis 2009, Château Lynch Bages 2007 & Vincent Girardin Puligny-Montrachet Vieilles Vignes 2008.

5. Hainan Airlines, China

Hainan Airlines have a 5-star First/Business Class lounge in Beijing T1, as well as an award winning cabin staff service. They have high quality meals in all cabins and they’ve won best airline in

China

for many years. Hainan Airlines is the first 5-star airline in mainland

China

. In First Class you can enjoy your flight in a luxurious seat. You have your personal privacy and space ensured with seat partitioning, and an automatic and precise control system customizes seating to each passenger's body and guarantees a comfortable in-flight experience. As the Chinese saying goes," Etiquette originates from table manners", Hainan Airlines showcases traditional Chinese cuisine with Western cuisine generously. Their In-flight gourmet restaurant offers an exquisite selection of Chinese and Western entrees and accompanying dishes. Passengers have two main course options to choose from. The menu is changed regularly to provide a variety of choices to frequent travellers. For international routes, the meal selection will be enhanced by the local culinary flavours.

We must say that these top airlines will give you a flight experience of a life time, and we must praise the Qatar Airways for having their own wine cellar on their planes.

Written by: Sofie Yü

Wine of the Month: Lirac Les Chenaies 2010

2012-02-01T00:25:00.000-08:00

Patience, know-how, observation and intuition are the essential qualities to create and age our wines. Our team has shared this goal of Excellence since 150 years.

This passionate quest for making Rhône valley wines was born in the prestigious vineyards of Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Ogier ages the greatest appellations of the Rhône valley wines in ancient cellars.

Vine cultivation on the Lirac appellation has been part of the local resources for two thousand years. Over the centuries, the port of Roquemaure became important and prosperous and it was from here that "Côte du Rhône" wines left for Paris,

England

and Holland. The "Lirac" local Appellation was awarded by decree in 1947.

Grapes

60% Grenache, 25% Syrah & 15% Mourvèdre, Cinsault

Location

Southern Rhône Valley vineyard located at the right bank of the Rhône.

Tasting Notes

Colour: Deep red colour with bright tints.

Nose: Bouquet of ripe red fruits with hints of leather and spices.

Palate: This is a full-bodied wine with smooth tannins and a long finish.

Serving Temp: 16 - 18 ° C

Food Matching: Serve with game, red meat, full-flavoured dishes and strong cheese.

Cellaring: Will reward cellaring for 3 years.

Cost in Sweden: 99 SEK

Nr at Swedish Systembolaget: 2214

Cost in China: Unkown

Cost in USA: 11 USD

Article: Gateau, probably the best bakery in Sweden

2012-01-25T01:40:00.000-08:00

On the 21st of February it is again time for the annual cream puff day here in

Sweden

. The day always occurs on a Tuesday, and is therefore called the Shrove Tuesday. In the good old days the Christian church encouraged us to eat up on this particular day because the fast would start the next day and last until Maundy Thursday, Easter. This would remind us of Jesus 40 days of fast in the desert.

And on this particular Shrove Tuesday, man was encouraged to eat for all it’s heart, and many delicious meals was on the menu, and the meal always ended with the cream puff bun (Semla). It’s not until the beginning of the 20^th century that we started to eat the bun as we do today, with the bun in the hand filled with almond cream and whipped cream. In the 18^th century they ate the bun in a plate of milk sprinkled with sugar and cinnamon.

Many Swedes associate the bun with the Swedish king Adolf Fredrik who died of eating too many cream puff’s on Tuesday February the 12th 1771.

Western Taste had a Cream Puff tasting with delicious buns from the famous Swedish bakery Gateau. Gateau was founded by Claes Christenson, who is himself born and raised in a bakery in Saltsjöbaden. The bakery where Claes was raised is called Kringelgården and was opened in 1902, and they still bake their pastries in these halls. Now it is Clae’s daughter and her husband who runs the bakery.

Kringelgården is not a part of the Gateu concern. In 1981 Claes and his wife Birgitta bought the little bakery Gateau in Södermalm in Stockholm. Soon after this they opened a big café in the centre of Södermalm and in 1984 they also started a big luxurious café in Norrmalmstorg. The café in Norrmalmstorg was a big hit and they had live music and fashion shows every week, and it was also here that Arla introduced Café au lait to

Sweden

In the end of the 1980´s they started Sturecompagniet, who in those days were a big restaurant establishment with night clubs, bars, restaurants and shops. In 1988 Claes and his co-owners made a trip to Paris to seek inspiration, there they met the famous baker Lionel Poilâne who made all his bread in a stone oven. Claes decided to put a stone oven in his own bakery in Sturecompagniet, which is a big part of Gateaus famous bread.

In 2011 Gateau was sold to the Fazer concern, but all board members from “old” Gateau is still a part of making Gateau continue to strive and expand. Gateau has today 15 shops in Stockholm and 3 in Malmö where the expansion is rapid.

Gateau is very proud of their cream puff’s (Semlor) and they put a lot of effort in making each bun perfect. They strive to make the bun light and spongy, not to bitter taste and just the right amount of powder sugar.

With our tasting panel we tried totally 17 Cream Puff’s from Gateau. The criteria we judged upon were aesthetics, consistency, sweetness, bread, cream and almond icing and here are the results:

Between ages 6-19, the men scored 4 out of 5

Between ages 6-19, the women scored 5 out of 5

Between ages 20-30, the men scored 4 out of 5

Between ages 20-30, the women scored 4 out of 5

Between ages 30-50, the men scored 4 out of 5

Between ages 30-50, the women scored 4 out of 5

Between ages 50-, the men scored 4 out of 5

Between ages 50-, the women scored 3,5 out of 5

The total score:

Men judged 4 out of 5

Women judged 4 out of 5

Some of the comments by our expert panel

6-19

Absolutely amazing

20-30

Perfectly balanced cream and sweetness

Perfect amount of almond icing

30-50

Very balanced sweetness

A bit to much cream but perfectly balanced with sweetness and the amount of almond icing

Perfectly made on the bread

50-

Perfectly balanced in sweetness and a amazingly good almond icing

Overall the Cream Puff was too sweet however the almond icing was amazingly good

Could improve on the aesthetics

Written by Sofie Yü and Alexander Yü

Norrtelje Brenneri

2012-01-19T01:08:00.000-08:00

Western Taste decided to join the Beer & Whisky festival in Stockholm, where I found a destillery from my birth town of Norrtälje. It made me interested and I really wanted to see what they had to offer. I must say, their punsch was absolutely lovely! I am not a fan of punsch normally, I really don’t drink it, but this was so soft and sweet that it even knocked me off my feet.

Punsch is a Swedish thing. People are speculating about why it’s called punsch, they think it’s probably from the English word punch.
Punsch first came to

Sweden

in 1731 when the spice arrack arrived with ships from the orient.

Norrtelje brenneri is owned by the couple Kristina Anerfält-Jansson and Richard Jansson who started the production nine years ago. Since then they’ve received many awards for their liquor. They only use ingredients from the archipelago around Norrtälje and carefully chosen fruit producers in

Sweden

. Everything is organic. They are very strict in exceeding all the environmental laws and they make sure all their alcohol reaches top quality.

Norrtelje brenneri produces not only punsch they also have different fruit snaps. But they are mostly famous for their punsch which is extraordinary sweet and smooth on the palate. The punsch is their biggest seller and stands for almost half of their yearly production of 30 000 litre. They are planning to increase the production in 2012 when they are introducing their newly developed whisky.

Their Roslags punsch is made with a mix of plums, arrack, honey, vanilla, lime and a few secret ingredients. It has 23% alcohol in it.

You can buy 50cl at Swedish systembolaget for 207 sek. They also sell all their products at Viking Line, Arlanda, Landvetter, Sturup and Bordershop Puttgarden.

Written and tasted by Sofie Yü

Article: Shanghai or Beijing?

2012-01-13T08:21:00.000-08:00

There is always this constant battle between who is the better city in

China

, Beijing or Shanghai?

Well, Western Taste has made some points, visited places, tried out restaurants, checked out hotels, prices, working environments and the most important thing; the people and their attitude towards life, change etc.

So, lets start with the most populated city, actually one of the most populated cities in the world - Shanghai.

Shanghai is a Beautiful city with full of life that never sleeps. It is not only highly populated but also very cultural integrated from all over the world. Foreigners from the west as well as the east came to Shanghai in the early 20s and started to integrate with the Chinese culture. Companies, organisations and cooperation’s with the government started very early and was one of the first major cities in modern history in China to be influenced by the western world. This can be seen from early architecture, people’s awareness and interest in globalisation and corporate understanding.

Although with high international integration and globalisation brings up the price and a faster inflation. This leads to higher prices, higher salary and faster market. People in this city tend to be more strict, highly corporate and less personal on matters. This makes it quite boring in the long term perspective. Money is the language and people become less important in a hectic market with strong investments.

When it comes to Beijing it is another story. Beijing has the strong cultural understanding of its own background awareness. The people in Beijing are proud to come from the capital and talks often about its historical heritage that dates back thousands of years in history.

Here the charm still exists and people still do not care about having white socks with black shoes to suits and speaks loudly in public. People are more worm and friendly which leads to a more relaxed environment to live in.

With this, Beijing is a rising star considering the Olympics, hundreds of new international restaurants and hotels that have been built. Beijing is a wonderful place.

We must say that Beijing wins as a city to live in, but Shanghai is a must see and visit, so we are recommending a few places to dine, party and live in.

As my mother always says:

Shanghai is a place to grow, make money, climb the letter and enjoy for the short term however Beijing is home.

Written by: Alexander Yü

Restaurants

Whampoa Club - Chinese contemporary

More than 400 RMB per couple

This restaurant offers organic food, high quality wines, innovative cooking, quality service and top standard. This is a place to impress and meet with most highly recommendations by Western Taste.

5/F, 3 Zhongshandong Yi Lu, the Bund

Phone: 021-6321-3737

Sens & Bund - French contemporary

More than 400 RMB per couple

High standard French restaurant that is the closest you can get to Michelin rating in Shanghai. Innovative cooking with excellent service and lovely view of the Huangpu river on the Bund. We enjoyed Sens & Bund and highly recommend this place.

6/F, 18 Zhongshan Dong Yi Lu, the Bund

Phone: 021-6323-9898

Lounge / Club

Lounge 18 / Bar Rouge

90 RMB per cocktail

This is a high end party place with the right crowd in Shanghai. Start with Lounge 18 and enjoy a few cocktails before going up to the 7th floor where the party is, same owner with different concepts. Bar Rouge offers a spectacular view to party with.

4/F and 7/F, 18 Zhongshan Dong Yi Lu, the Bund

Phone: 021-6339-1199

Park 97 Lounge & Club

90 RMB per cocktail

Hip and high standard lounge / club place in Shanghai with very creative and innovative events. The design and decor is very well made which provides nice environment while enjoying your Champagne.

Fuxing Park (inside park) 2A Gaolan Road, by Sinan Road

Phone: 021-5383 2328

Hotel

Park Hyatt Hotel

Around 4000 RMB per couple / night

One of the most amazing hotels in Shanghai were the best restaurants is located and absolute top luxury service you can imagine. However it is a price to pay.

100 Century Avenue, Pudong New Area

Phone: 021-6888 1234

Sofitel Hyland

Around 1800 RMB per couple / night

Very nice hotel in the city centre of Shanghai. The hotel is located near most of the important things around town. The hotel is also very beautiful and provides top standard and best possible service.

505 Nanjing Road East (the main street)

Phone: 021-6351 5888

Top 10 Best Value Hotels in the World

2012-01-09T03:04:00.000-08:00

What does 5 stars means for a hotel? Most of the cases it is only a stamp from the official organisation that approves its star ratings, however small hotels that does not posses the large entrance halls or swimming pools or even perhaps 3-4 restaurants in one single property. What can they offer that stands out from the large, highly invested and large backgrounds from multinational cooperation? Well that is the concept of boutique hotels. Something that is cheque, focused on design, provides something extra, special and highly great valued hotels that are pleasant and very enjoyable to stay in. It can be half the price of a multinational 5 star hotel and it gives you an experience that is much more than the standardization of branded international hotels.

Our tip is go boutique for experience and something different if you are looking for that extra charm rather large and multinational branded hotels.

Warm regards,

Founder of WesternTaste.com

Alexander Yu

1. Dana Hotel & Spa (Chicago, USA)

With around 200 rooms, wonderful interior design, excellent service and the hotel screams boutique style makes it even more interesting. The rooms feel large, very comfortable and give you the feeling of high standard approach with a twist. A must stay when you are in Chicago.
www.danahotelandspa.com

2. Paris Hotel Petit Moulin (Paris, France)

This is a fashion and design hotel in the middle of Paris. This hotel is strangely beautiful and everything seems quite surreal however when experiencing everything you understand the design and its intentions on romance, barrock and boutique style hotel at its top standards.

www.paris-hotel-petitmoulin.com

3. Park Hotel (Tokyo, Japan)

Great location with spectacular decor a very service minded staff and great price for all of it. Park Hotel brings Tokyo a brand new concept of luxury with great value. This hotel is a highly recommended hotel to stay in when visiting Tokyo in

Japan

www.parkhoteltokyo.com

4. Haymarket Hotel (London, England)

Probably the best value hotel in London. Normally hotels in London are either really bad or really good. There is nothing in between for the normal crowed and if you want to pay a good price for an excellent hotel it very hard to come by however Haymarket hotel has brought London another aspect of the business. The interior is fantastic and modern; it also brings another level of success to the market in

England

when it comes to boutique style hotels.

www.firmdalehotels.com

5. Cedarbrook Lodge (Seattle, USA)

There are so many reasons why Cedarbrook Lodge is among the best lodging choices in the greater Seattle area. Thoughtfully situated less than five minutes from Sea-Tac International Airport, Cedarbrook Lodge is a distinctive, 104-room retreat. Guests are afforded a quiet, secluded environment ideal for a wide variety of business and leisure travel needs as well as professional and social gatherings. Cedarbrook's premier location makes it a transportation hub. And the lodge's shuttle service delivers guests to and from SeaTac International Airport and/or to and from the nearby Seattle Link light rail station. Each is a quick trip... less than ten minutes. And both are free!

http://www.cedarbrooklodge.com/

6. Huka Lodge (Huka Falls Taupo, New Zealand)

Probably the most awarded hotel in

New Zealand

with amazing relaxation when it comes to be close to nature. Live in the centre of the country just by the biggest river of

New Zealand

in Taupo. The scenery of nature and environment is absolutely breath taking. Either takes the limo service for 2-3 hours or a 1, 5 hour helicopter ride from Auckland to the hotel.

www.hukalodge.co.nz

7. Hotel Twentyseven (Copenhagen, Denmark)

This hotel is more than just a hotel; it gives you a living experience of design and innovative thinking. They try to differentiate themselves by having different room experiences with luxury packages. One room for example is the wine room were you can have different wines and gastronomic experiences with it. They even have an Ice bar in the hotel run by the famous Swedish brand Absolut Vodka.

www.hotel27.dk

8. Jia Shanghai (Shanghai, China)

JIA Shanghai is a luxury-residence concept. Inside it edges closer to design-magazine luxe, with bold graphic colour schemes, an impressive collection of modern furnishings, and bathrooms decked out in marble and Bisazza mosaic tile. Rooms and suites are bright and sunny, especially those with balconies, and all come with entertainment centres, and free wireless internet, as well as a smattering of local colour in the form of Chinese antiques.

www.jiashanghai.com

9. Nordic Light (Stockholm, Sweden)

This hotel is part of the group; Design Hotels which gives the most amazing Nordic designs around the world. The interior and environment around the hotel feels very Scandinavian and cheek. Please try out there amazing Sunday Brunch were 1 cocktail is included with coffee and tea for only 245 SEK. If you ask me that is a great bargain.

www.nordiclight.com

10. Langtry Manor (Bournemouth, United Kingdom)

Bournemouth is one of the best cities to find great value hotels around the world. Especially for leisure and business travellers that is located among 4 star hotels. One hotel in particular that we liked was the Langtry Manor which gives you a luxurious feeling with a very reasonable price. The staffs are friendly and the hotel gives you a feeling of home. This hotel made this list just because it gives you a personal touch to the hotel experience.

www.langtrymanor.co.uk

Stockholm’s Best Whisky Selections

2012-01-04T05:18:00.000-08:00

Stockholm is very different from Beijing when it comes to whisky bars. It is not even close to what Beijing has in terms of focus. Beijing provides pure whisky bars with maybe 4-5 more additional selections of beverages however in Stockholm you have to have more than whisky to survive. Every bar provides food, interesting beer selections and also other services. It is more like a mixture of really interesting beers and whisky blended in one bar where they complement each other very well. That is why we cannot edit the best whisky bars in Stockholm because of the simple fact that there is no pure whisky bars. We had to rate "the best whisky selections" instead.

Although the Swedish people do love whisky and has always been very found of it. If you look at the percentage among the people of

Sweden

, they are one of the biggest drinkers of whisky in the world. Almost every single household has a nice little selection of whisky in their home, ready to be taken out when someone special is visiting.

We at WesternTaste.com hope you will have an interesting visit to our recommendations in Stockholm.

1. Bull & Bear Inn (Stockholm,

Sweden

)

This bar is probably one of the oldest whisky hangouts in Stockholm that is still around and very known for its wide variety of excellent whisky and beers. They also serve some easy and simple food, however the main focus is the beverage. When requesting the whisky menu you will get a size of a book with over 200-230 kinds of whisky depending on the specials that are in. The interior is really old and authentic if comparing with some old bars in Dublin or London, which to be honest, I find quite boring. I would like to see a boutique style whisky bar in

Sweden

, hopefully in a near future.

http://www.bullandbear.se/

2. Akkurat (Stockholm,

Sweden

)

This bar and beverage selection is really something but the food is simple and boring. The selection is amazing with probably the widest Japanese whisky selection you can find in

Sweden

. The menu consists of approximately 400 selections of whisky with all Islay houses represented and a great deal of rare highland selection to taste from. A must for all whisky and beer lovers it is just a shame that you cannot enjoy a nice cigar all year around to complement the lovely whisky. Same stories here, everything about the beverages are amazing however the interior and surroundings are not.

http://www.akkurat.se/

3. Glenfiddich Warehouse (Stockholm,

Sweden

)

The bar is quite new in Stockholm. It has been around for 4 years approximately and it has improved its reputation each year. More and more customers are drawn to the restaurant / bar. It offers actually quite good food but charges it too much. I usually go there for the beer since the service and selection is probably one of the best when it comes to beer. However the variety and selection of whisky is a bit shorter than expected, they have a much more interesting beer selection which is odd for a whisky bar. This is probably the only whisky bar that offers a nice setting and environment to sit in.

http://www.glenfiddichwarehouse.se/

4. Saddle & Sabre (Stockholm,

Sweden

)

If you are hankering for some fine American bourbon the place to go in Stockholm is “Saddle & Sabre” on Tegnérgatan 9. They have the widest assortment of bourbon whisky in Stockholm. Since good bourbon is pretty hard to get your hands on in

Sweden

this place is a real gem.
As if the bourbon wasn’t enough ”Saddle & Sabre” also serves some the best steaks in Stockholm. If you want to you can enjoy your food and drink in two western themed “chambre separée”.

http://www.saddleandsabre.com/

5. Shamrock Restaurant & Bar (Stockholm, Sweden)

Shamrock restaurant and bar is a genuine Irish pub where you can find good pub food, great pints and quite a good assortment of whisky. They serve Irish whisky as well as a wide array of single malts. If this sounds like kind of place you can find Shamrock restaurant and bar on Söder at Folkungagatan 102. You can’t go wrong with an Irish bar!

http://www.shamrock-bar.com/

Written by: Alexander Yü

Wine of the Month: Tommasi Appassimento 2010

2012-01-02T02:25:00.000-08:00

This wine is produced with the typical and indigenous grapes of the Valpolicella Classico area, Corvina and Oseleta, and in the traditional “Appassimento” method.
Appassimento means “drying process”. “Arele” is the local name of the traditional wooden trays where a part of the grapes are laid down and partially dried prior to being gently pressed.

ORIGIN: Tommasi hillside vineyards in the Valpolicella Classico area

GRAPES: Corvina Veronese 90%, Oseleta 10%,

VINIFICATION: a part of Corvina and Oseleta grapes are partially dried prior to pressing

MATURATION: 12 months maturation in Slavonian oak casks.

COLOR: Intense, deep ruby red

FRAGRANCE: Very fruity, rich, spicy, black pepper nose

TASTE: Full body, very intense, spicy, smooth, full of flavors.

RECOMMENDED WITH: White and red meats, game, fresh and aged cheeses.

This wine is probably one of the best value wines that you can find in the Swedish Systembolaget.

Nr at Swedish Systembolaget: 5354

Cost in Sweden: 89 SEK

Written by: Alexander Yü

Article: Champagne for New Years Eve

2011-12-26T05:04:00.000-08:00

You have all seen it in the Bond movies when 007 orders a Dom Perignon 1997 with Bolivier Caviar. Some of you are wondering how it taste like and some of you is having the smile on your face because you already had the pleasure of tasting it.

Although what is a good Champagne and which Champagne is the best one? These are quite hard to answere for people. Most people do not know what Champagne truly is and how to find out the quality. There are different classes and vintages but also other rules that could be of interest.

French monks were the first to bottle a sparkling form of wine called Champagne, named after the Champagne region of France.
The method of making -mousse- (another name for bubbles) in a bottle was invented by the efforts of Frere Jean Oudart (1654 – 1742) and Dom Pierre Perignon (1639 – 1715), Benedictine monks and cellarmasters at the respective abbeys of Saint-Pierre aux Monts de Châlons and Saint-Pierre d’Hautvillers.

Until medieval times, it was the monks who tended the vines: the wine was blessed and drunk during mass. The wines of Champagne were given a unique destiny when the paths of geography and history crossed. It was Saint Rémi, bishop of Rheims, whilst living in a villa surrounded by vineyards near to the present town of Epérnay, who baptised Clovis when he converted.

The first King of France was anointed with wine from the Champagne region one Christmas evening in 496. Several centuries later, the marriage of Jeanne de Navarre, heiress of Champagne, to the heir to the French throne, later Philip the Fair, linked the destiny of the Lords of Champagne to the crown of France. We will present some Champagne tips in this section for your special occasions:

Duval Leroy Blanc de Chardonnay Millesime Vintage 1996
Grade: 5

This vintage Champagne is one of the proudest products from Duval Leroy. The quality is very elegant and made with exceptional taste. 100% Chardonnay and used with traditional Champenois pressing. The colour is green gold and gives away dried fruits and butter aroma. The taste is very fine with a tight finish.

Nr at Systembolaget: 96541

Cost in

Sweden

: 469 SEK

Perrier-Jouet Belle Epoque Vintage 1999
Grade: 4

Here we have a gentle and reserved nose, revealing in a rather tight fashion a little core of honey and toffee. There is freshness and delicacy of fruit, so we believe that there is potential for this to come together in bottle.

Nr at Systembolaget: Closest you can find is the Brut with 87914

Cost in

Sweden

1060 SEK

Bollinger Le Grande Annee Vintage 1999
Grade: 5

Not only is it enjoyed in the new Bond movie but it is also a brilliant vintage champagne from 1999 with distinctive aromas of coconut and vanilla, with oxidation adding complexity, followed by fresh citrus, oatmeal and honey notes. It's all displayed on a firm, powerful structure that needs time to integrate all the elements with a classy finish.

Nr at Systembolaget: Closest you can find is 2002 with 7579

Cost in

Sweden

: 849 SEK

Möet & Chandon Brut Imperial
Grade: 2

This is Champagne is average and not so exciting, too commercial, to massive in production and only focused on branding not on quality. It is about sales not about the best. You can find it in Supermarkets, 7eleven and all small shops. It is something you simply drinks because you have nothing ells to drink. However they are the largest Champagne house in the world and one of the most powerful brands in the beverage industry. Some calls it the supermodel brand with no brains and no content, only for show and exterior.

Nr at Systembolaget: 7518

Cost in

Sweden

: 354 SEK

Cristal Louis Roederer Vintage 2004
Grade: 4

Expensive, which is the reason for the grade 4; however the quality is very good. Cristal is usually seen with celebrities in US which are the reason for its status and high market value. With a Chardonnay and Pinot Noir blend, fruity scent and ripe fruity taste makes the Champagne very enjoyable. This wine is to be enjoyed with food and can be paired with shells or salty seafood. This Champagne has aging capacity of 8-10 years.

Nr at Systembolaget: 92096

Cost in

Sweden

: 1650 SEK

Western Taste wish you all a Happy New Year!

Written by: Alexander Yü

See also the article about Champagne written by Sofie Yü

http://www.westerntaste.com/2011/06/article-wonderful-world-of-champagne.html

Article: What Beer to have for Christmas?

2011-12-21T10:55:00.000-08:00

If you don’t know what to drink when Christmas rolls around you do not have to worry. Western Taste helps you out and recommends four good Christmas beers that you can get at Systembolaget:

Ayinger Winter Bock 6,7%, Doppelbock 500 ml
(nr 11011, 29,90 SEK)

The Ayinger Brewery (pronounced "eye-ing-gr") is a medium sized German brewery from 1876 located in Aying, Bavaria, about 25 km from Munich. Ayinger beers have been frequent award winners in international beer competitions.

This year they have a dark Dobbelbock Christmas ale. It has large, malty nuanced scent. It has a creamy head of tight bubbles contrasting beautifully with its profound dark robe. There is a wonderful and complex balance between the various malts, the alcohol and the subtle hops. Although it is strong, it is not overpowering. Despite its richness, it has a faintly smoky dryness in the finish.

Nils Oscar Julöl 7,7%, Ale 500 ml
(nr 11314, 49,90 SEK)

Nils Oscar brewery in Nyköping is

Swedens

main craft brewery and it always produces a different dark Christmas beer every year.

This year’s edition is very good and pours brown to black with a medium tan head. Aroma is Christmas spices, smoke, a touch of pepper, roasted malt and coffee but also apricots and cloves. Taste is to the sweet side but with a soft bitterness to balance it up. Smoke is present here as well but not as much as in the nose, body is medium. You can also taste some soy sauce, “kavring” and chocolate.

The Shipyard Longfellow Winter Ale 5,9%, Ale 650 ml
(nr 11013, 34,80 SEK)

Since 1994 the micro brewery Shipyard Brewing Company has been brewing fine quality products in Portland, Oregon,

USA

. All their beer is hand crafted from recipes developed by master brewer Alan Pugsley and they are the 19th largest craft brewery and 28th largest brewery in the

Shipyards Christmas beer is named for the poet Longfellow from Portland. It is a quite light but it has a malty scent with hints of bitter orange, chocolate, “vörtbröd” and dried fruit.

The taste is quite interesting with a malty bitterness balanced with licorice, dried fruit and dark syrup.

S:t Eriks Barley Wine God Jul 8,5%, Ale 330 ml
(nr 11542, 21,90 SEK)

S:t Eriks was one of

Swedens

premier breweries and a purveyor to the king but it was closed down in 1929. Recently Galatea Sprits acquired the brand and Three Towns Brewery now produces S:t Eriks again.

All their beers are very praiseworthy and the Christmas Barley Wine is no exception. It is a dark red/brown liquid with small to medium off-white head. Aroma is malty and hoppy with notes of burnt caramel, grapefruit, toffee, citrus and biscuits. Taste is also malty and toasty. It is overall light to medium sweet and medium bitter with some light smoke and good carbonation. It is an OK Barley wine but nothing spectacular. But if you take the price into account it suddenly becomes spectacular!

All of the beers above go great with the Swedish “julbord”. Have a Merry Christmas and be sure to drink and eat good!

Written by: Kristian Kull

Restaurant Review: Mosto Beijing

2011-12-19T06:24:00.000-08:00

This restaurant is probably one of my favourite places in Beijing,

China

. Its prices are very reasonable and the service is top notch. I love the simplicity and concept of the place. Alex, who is the Co-founder and front figure of the restaurant, always gives you a great welcome upon arrival.

The wine list is very good and provides you with a great variety of selection. They also have a specialized wine fridge to give you the best possible temperature and condition of wine experience. For lunch you can choose from 2 selections, either a two course meal or a three course meal for the price of 80 RMB or 95 RMB. It is very reasonable and very good.

For dinner the food quality goes up and also the price which is fully understandable.

This restaurant is one of my favourite places in the city and will always be on my recommendation list for its high quality food, very nice service and perfect management.

Thank you Mosto for a pleasent stay in Beijing!

Mosto Restaurant
3rd Floor Nali Huayan
81 Sanlitun Beilu
Beijing, China
http://www.mostobj.com

Grade: 4 out of 5

Written by: Alexander Yü

Beijings Best Whisky Places

2011-12-13T00:02:00.000-08:00

To find a good bar with a wide selection of whisky in Beijing is quite difficult. Most hotels have a small selection of 10-15 kinds however 80% of the selection are the most common varieties like Jack Daniels, Glenfiddish, and Johnny Walker etc. So to find the best of the best you really have to look. We have established that there are approximately only 5 places that are worthy of having a selection wide enough and interesting enough to be called a whisky place. Most of the bars are located in a very odd and difficult place. Some you have to struggle to find, although it makes everything much more interesting when it comes to it.

To enjoy the perfect whisky is not only about drinking, there is so much more around the whisky that creates a higher satisfaction. From the glas, the water, the service, and even the ice (even though I prefer whisky to be neat) needs to be handled with a certain care.

1. Glen Boutique Bar (Beijing, China) ***

A bar with a history since 2008 and a whiskey collection of close to 200 kinds, mainly single malt whisky from Scotland and a very nice selection of Islay whisky, actually all 8 Islay houses are represented in the bar. Some special representations are also available for special request. Just ask the owner Wilfred Kwok for further services or talk to the amazing bar tender that is probably one of the most skilled and professional bar tender in Beijing. This whisky place is ranked as number 1 in Beijing because of its service, quality, environment, innovative ideas and detailed perfection.

2. Ichikura (Beijing, China) ***

Very specialized whisky bar focused with the outmost highest standard when it comes to whisky and cocktails. The bar tenders are very serious and take time with their cocktails. Upon order it can take up to 15-20 minutes before serving you the cocktail. It is very important for the bar tender to make the drink as best as possible. The bar is also very hard to find, it is on the right side of the Chaoyang Theatre and from the outside it looks like a dump. But when you enter the bar you understand its importance of ambiance. The whisky selection consists of more than 200 varieties and you will be amazed by its professionalism.

3. ER (Beijing, China) **

One more Japanese whisky / cocktail bar that offers exceptional service and mixing techniques in Beijing. The skills in these Japanese whisky bars are very skilled and professional. They beat most of the 5 star hotel bars around the country and this is a perfect example. ER in Beijing located close to Lufthansa Centre offers around 100 different kinds of whisky and superb service. A must try in Beijing!

4. Bar Promise (Beijing, China) **

Probably the smallest bar you can find in Beijing with only 15 seats a long the bar, excellent bar tender service and a very strong selection when it comes to whisky. The service style is very Japanese with a whisky tradition focused on the Japanese side. The large polished round ice cubes or to drink the whisky with a half of the glass with water is the typical way of the Japanese whisky culture.

5. Bookworm / Q-Bar (Beijing, China) *

Among all the bars that has been selected for best whisky selections, these two candidates are the only one that is not a whisky place. They have other focuses but with a good variety and selection of whisky and that is why we have given the 5th place a tie.

Bookworm offers 40 kinds of whisky on the shell however it changes depending on the amount of frequent travel the owner does abroad. Bookworm is a library / restaurant that arrange several events focused on different gastronomic experiences.

Q-Bar offers a variety of 30-40 varieties of whisky on its shell. The selection offers some interesting finds from Islay and the Highlands of Scotland. The bar is mainly focused on cocktails and drinks. They are supposed to be the best cocktail bar in the city.

Written by: Alexander Yü

Top 10 Favourite Hotel Restaurants in the World

2011-12-07T01:44:00.000-08:00

Hotels can provide you with the utmost luxurious experience when it comes to food & beverage. Sometimes hotels main revenue is the restaurants and bars. That is why it is a crucial importance for hotels to stay innovative, strong on the market and create ideal events for keeping the marketing and strong positioning of the hotel in this highly competitive business. We at Western Taste have listed the top 10 hotel restaurants in the world that we have tried.

Enjoy!

1. Le Louis XV - Hotel de Paris (Monte Carlo, Monaco)

In the hotel de Paris in Monaco lays one of the best French restaurants in the world with all amazing food qualities you can imagine when it comes to the western world of cuisine. However there is a price to pay, a high price with a total average price of 200 Euro a head. The restaurant is owned and managed by the world famous restaurateur Alain Ducasse which many claims to be an artist in the kitchen. Service here is known to be the best in the world with no exceptions that the customer is always right. A have to visit at least once in a life time.
http://www.alain-ducasse.com

2. Tang Court - Langham Hotel (Hong Kong,

China

)

2 Michelin stars restaurant and one of the few Asian restaurants in the world that has received Michelin star ratings. Tang Court reflects the classic timelessness of the Tang Dynasty, Chinas golden age. You may dine assured that only the finest freshest ingredients make it past the watchful eyes of our ever alert chefs and into our very creative kitchens. Many international critics have claimed this restaurant to be among the top 10 hotel restaurants in the world and indeed it is.
http://hongkong.langhamhotels.com/

3. Amber - The Landmark Mandarin Oriental (Hong Kong,

China

)

With 2 Michelin stars gives the restaurant an edge but also top standards. Amber is one of only seven Michelin two-starred restaurants in Hong Kong and it brings truly a culinary experience to its test. Perfect harmony balance when it comes to the combinations of flavours in the dishes. Chef Richard Ekkebus signature dish “Dungeness Crab in 5 Textures and 4 Temperatures”, “Langoustine with Iberian Pork Belly” and “Tasmanian Salmon with Kyuri Cucumber” are just some of the outstanding dishes that have contributed to this latest honour.
http://www.mandarinoriental.com/landmark/

4. Gordon Ramsay - London West Hollywood (Los Angeles,

USA

)

Gordon Ramsay’s first restaurant in Los Angeles in this award winning hotel brings dining to another level. Gordon has always been famous for its cursing and short temper however his food standards and quality perfection is among the highest in the world. We believe that the little things that make a place stand out and this restaurant absolutely provides it with the outmost individual service.
http://www.gordonramsay.com/gratthelondonwh/

5. Matsalen - Grand Hotel (Stockholm,

Sweden

)

The celebrity chef Mathias Dahlgren has been awarded 2 stars for its prestigious abilities in Matsalen at Grand Hotel in Stockholm. He has also been awarded 1 Michelin star in the other restaurant in the hotel Matbaren, but that is another story. Matsalen used to be a traditional French restaurant before Mathias time at Grand Hotel. Even tough Mathias has respected the foundation and tradition at the restaurant he brings something more to the table stronger innovative –ideas, -cooking and modernizing with amazing improvement of the place.
http://www.grandhotel.se/

6. Blue Lobster - Shangri-La (Beijing,

China

)

When it comes to strong innovative dining it is Blue Lobster at Shangri-La Beijing that has it. It is probably one of the most innovative cooking styles I have seen in China however since the Asian celebrity chef Brian McKenna from

Ireland

left for Park Hyatt in Beijing, most of the gastronomic experience changed as well. It is still top quality but not as exciting as it was before. That is why it is only number 6 on the scale.
http://www.shangri-la.com/en/property/beijing/shangrila

7. Barolo - Ritz Carlton (Beijing,

China

)

Very nice Italian restaurant that provides absolute luxury and perfect service for the guests. The food provides is at the highest standard and you can enjoy the most of its ambiance. Try the risotto that is ladled into a Parmesan wheel, dusted with luxurious shavings of black truffles, giving it a flavour that’s intense, salty and earthy at the same time. The price is good to, around 400 RMB per head. Ask for the sommelier when it comes to wine selection. You can easily get lost in their enormous wine list.
http://www.ritzcarlton.com/en/Properties/Beijing

8. Al Mahara - Burj al-Arab (Dubai,

United Arab Emirates

)

This underwater themed restaurant begins with a mock submarine ride from the reception to the dining area. Also adding, though not as enjoyable, is the cold air temperature. As the name (which translates to oyster) suggests, the dishes here are mainly seafood, though there is fusion with other meats and Asian flavours. The surroundings make you feel as if your food was plucked freshly out of the ocean. With a dinning experience as exciting as this, it is no wonder that this place was named one of the 50 best restaurants in the world.
http://www.jumeirah.com/en/Hotels-and-Resorts/Destinations/Dubai/Burj-Al-Arab/

9. Sureno - The Opposite House (Beijing,

China

)

Must be the most fabulous design hotel I have ever seen. The famous Australian wine critique Jeremy Oliver has been here, Mr Gaja himself and many other experts within food & beverage has done amazing events with food and wine in this hotel restaurant. Please try their seafood soup for starter and enjoy either the best pizza in Beijing or go for Numerous of five star hotels have opened restaurants in the last year in Beijing however there is only one that stands out more than the others; a must visit is the Opposite House.
http://www.theoppositehouse.com/

10. Made in China - Grand Hyatt (Beijing, China)

When it comes to Beijing Duck people usually talk about Dadong Kaoya, however not many knows that the amazing luxury hotel, Grand Hyatt in Beijing serves probably the best Beijing Duck there is in China. The reason is that the duck is prepared upon request. If you want the duck you need to request it in before hand and it will be made only for you which mean that the quality of the food can be provided individually.
http://www.beijing.grand.hyatt.com

Written by: Alexander Yü

Restaurant Review: Restaurant Grill

2011-12-06T01:04:00.000-08:00

Part of the restaurant group of F12 and one of Melker Anderssons more successfull dining places in Stockholm. This restaurant gives you very interesting interior design with different sections of different themes. It is also one of the most popular lunch places in the city with a queuing line worth waiting for.

The food is obviously grill and provides great meaty dishes. However for the person that is interested in fish or seafood you can also have smokes shrimps or grilled tuna.

The quality of food is very nice and the raw materials are one of the best for a great bargain price. The restaurant could fool you and give you an impression of high prices however the cost is not that high but rather surmountable.

The wine list is very nice and is perfectly matched to its dishes.

With its reputation I would like to been treated with a much better experience at Grill during dinner service, with the lack of attention from waiters and slow service it made it not as high as expected from F12 Group.

Overall the food is good but not great, the meat is a bit to salty and the service is very slow.

Grade: 3,5 of 5

Drottninggatan 89

113 60 Stockholm

Sweden

Phone: 08-31453

http://www.grill.se

Written by: Alexander Yü

Wine of the Month: Jean-Marc Brocard Petit Chablis Domaine Sainte Claire

2011-12-01T01:24:00.000-08:00

Clear straw colour. Aromas focus on baking apples and rising bread dough, standard-issue Chardonnay without obvious oak. Clean, apple fruit adds a touch of lemon on the palate; good body and crisp acidity. Nicely structured if a bit on the simple side - you won't find much of the region's fabled minerality in the Petit Chablis bottling - but it's appropriately young and fresh.

Its pleasant if rather neutral Chardonnay style makes it versatile enough to wash down just about any fare, even - as in our experiment - red meat such as steak. It's really best suited, though, for freshwater fish, poultry or even lighter-style pork dishes.

Nr at Swedish Systembolaget: 5588

Cost in Sweden: 105 SEK

Cost in US: 23 USD

Cost in China: Unkown

Written by: Alexander Yü

Article: 5 Great Red Wines for the Winter

2011-11-23T09:15:00.000-08:00

During winter time in

Sweden

we tend to eat more meaty dishes, warm stews and game. This affects of course what we choose to drink with our food and that is why Western Taste gives you 5 red wines that we think are a perfect match to the winter dishes we attend to select.

So the first idea you think of is that we will give you strong, round, heavy wines that matches the meaty dishes, however that is not really the case to all the food we have on our Scandinavian plate. Sometimes a more balanced and smooth red wine can actually go with the heavy Scandinavian winter food.

Please see what Western Taste has taken out for you all. All the wines can be found at Swedish Systembolaget, US and

China

Pelissero Dolcetto d'Alba Munfrina 2009, Piemonte, Italy

Nr at Swedish Systembolaget: 88623

Cost in

Sweden

: 122 SEK

Cost in

China

: 258 RMB

Cost in US: 19 USD

The Dolcetto Munfrina is one of the finest Dolcetti produced in

Italy

today. The wine is supple and solid with huge extracted fruit that melts over the palate like milk chocolate from a chocolate chip cookie just out of the oven. The raspberry, dark cherry, tobacco, and lavender flavors are soft and mature with a velvety quality that can only be described as elegance in a bottle. Luscious and thick, bold and powerful, complex and balanced, full of bright young fruit and still brimming with a multi- faceted character seldom achieved with this grape varietal. This wine is truly a wonder of winemaking. It is the perfect partner for a variety of dishes ranging from heavier fowl, light and dark meats, stew, rabbit, venison, wild boar, red-sauced pasta, pizza and even with rich cheese and bread.

Tommasi Amarone della Valpolicella Classico 2006, Veneto, Italy

Nr at Swedish Systembolaget: 22350

Cost in

Sweden

: 269 SEK

Cost in

China

: 1117 RMB

Cost in US: 46 USD

Tommasi Amarone is a wine which one can proudly serve on special occasions, particularly with red meats, game and ripe cheeses. But it can also be sipped an ideal companion to enjoyable conversation.The wine is warm, ripe on the nose, with aromas which are intense and of great refinement. On the palate the flavros are complex, smooth, full bodied, with lots of cherry notes and plum.

Charles Joguet Les Varennes du Grand Clos AOC, Chinon, France

Nr at Swedish Systembolaget: 95620

Cost in

Sweden

: 215 SEK

Cost in

China

: 450 RMB

Cost in US: 22 USD

In the 1950s, pioneering non-conformist Loire vigneron Charles Joguet determined that grapes from varying vineyards should be vinified separately to maximise expression of terroir and preserve fruit vibrancy. Innovative in his day his methods are now widely copied and regarded as standard practice for quality estates. This single vineyard selection comes from a patch of vines of up to 80 years old, giving great concentration to the wine.

Château Gigognan Clos du Roi Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Rhone, France

Nr at Swedish Systembolaget: 70783

Cost in

Sweden

: 379 SEK

Cost in

China

: 900 RMB

Cost in US: 32 USD

The 2007 vintage in Southern France was wonderful. Here is what Robert M. Parker (Wine Advocate Issue 179) said about it, “Throughout the southern Rhône, 2007 is the greatest vintage I have tasted in my thirty years working in that region. I think of 2007 as a hypothetical blend of an opulent, powerful, sumptuous year such as 1990, and a cooler draught vintage such as 2001. The cool weather and the remarkable three weeks of Mistral in September that concentrated the grapes without any spikes of high heat appears to have given the 2007s an aromatic dimension and freshness that I have rarely witnessed. Combine that with wines that are substantial, powerful, and relatively high in alcohol, with super depth of fruit! These are very aromatic wines of great concentration, freshness, laser-like focus, and amazing purity as well as depth. It is the vintage of my lifetime for this region, and I don’t say that lightly.”

Planeta Santa Cecilia Rosso IGT 2006, Sicily, Italy

Nr at Swedish Systembolaget: 72852

Cost in

Sweden

: 249 SEK
Cost in China: 663 RMB

Cost in US: 30 USD

Often regarded as the flagship wine. 100% Nero d'Avola. Rather closed on the nose. Some mineral perfume. Rich and creamy, svelte, with a wealth of tasteful red and black fruits. Ripe tannins, excellent balance. Great length. Another that needs time - three to four years again.

Written by: Alexander Yü

Hotel Review: InterContinental Madrid

2011-11-20T13:19:00.000-08:00

A stay at InterContinental in Madrid offers you great comfort in a modern luxury 5 star hotel with great service. The hotels décor and design is focused to be a high end modern style hotel in the pulsating city of Madrid,

Spain

. The hotel is very famous in the city and can offer you great seats and shows at upscale places, make sure to talk to the concierge and they will definitely assist you.

The downside of the hotel was that the design was a bit outdated and not as high on standard as other InterContinental Hotels Western Taste visited around the world.

The all day dining restaurant offers a great selection of lunch and dinner dishes however focused mainly for breakfast, which is international continental with East Asian choosing if needed.

The room service is well done with great concern for guest hospitality.

During evening the hotel has a very nice Champagne bar with a large outside terrace. They have a large selection of Champagnes and cigars to choose from complemented with very nice evening tapas dishes.

All-in-all the hotel gives a nice experience and Western Taste enjoyed it.

InterContinental Madrid

Paseo De La Castellana 49
28046 Madrid, Spain
Phone: +34-91-7007300
www.madrid.intercontinental.com

Grade: 3,5 out of 5

Written and graded by: Alexander Yü

Restaurant Review: Brasserie Le Rouge

2011-11-14T02:53:00.000-08:00

In Stockholm you can find a classical up scale restaurant calls Brasserie Le Rouge. It is owned and run by the famous chef Melker. He is the owner of the large restaurant group; F12 Group. He owns all kinds of restaurant classes from Michelin star restaurants to small down to earth cafes. He has really embraced the quality and feeling of French style from the romantic era.

The food however is a bit disappointing. The dishes are too much salty and not the petit and balanced flavours as you expect from

France

. The wine list is impressive and the service is very good. They also have a bar on the first floor where you can enjoy more easy dishes and very nice cocktails.

I love the interior design, the staff and the service. The only thing that I have to complain about is the food quality. It is ok if the dishes are a bit to salty however this one had too much salt and it was not only my dish it was all of our dishes (4 people) and that is not acceptable.

Although we will recommend this restaurant for guests who like to check out the design have exclusive cocktails and very nice service.

Grade: 3 of 5

Le Rouge

Brunnsgränd 2-4

Östrlånggatan 17

Old Town (Gamla Stan)

Stockholm

08-50524430 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 08-50524430 end_of_the_skype_highlighting

http://www.lerouge.se/

Written by: Alexander Yü

Wine of the Month: Bisol Prosecco Riserva Brut, Valdobbiadene, DOCG, Italy

2011-11-03T03:18:00.000-07:00

Carefully selected grapes grown in the upper hills that undergo pure vinification: the definitive Cuvèe is obtained from the essence of this wine, which after 3 years of aging is transformed in to this elegant Riserva Brut.
This Prosecco is amazing and I love the brand and its proud dedication of manufacturing high quality Prosecco. There are too many bubbly wine from Italy that are bad but Bisol always provides quality and great standards.
Usually Prosecco is classified as D.O.C., however Bisol Prosecco Riserva Brut is classified as D.O.C.G. which is the highest of standards in Italy.

This bubbly wine cannot be purchased in Swedish Systembolaget and has to be special ordered. However in Italy the price is very reasonable and set at approx. 7-9 Euro.
Since many of my readers are in China, you can also find this by ordering it from EMW-Fine Wines and it costs 247 RMB (around 24 Euro).

This is my favorite Prosecco and by far one of the best value bubbly wines that I have tried.

Written by Alexander Yü

Hotel Review: Hilton Wangfujing, Beijing, China

2011-10-19T07:50:00.000-07:00

World Travel Awards recently awarded Hilton Wangfujing with the “world’s leading lifestyle hotel”, third year in a row. The hotel is set in the shopping area of Wangfujing, forty minutes by taxi from the Capital Airport and just ten minutes from the Forbidden city.

At the very first sight, the hotel gives you a sense of luxury and modern style, and when you step out of the taxi you immediately feel the excellent service from the concierge who opens the door for you and quickly gets your bags. It is all done in such smoothness and already before you enter the door you feel welcome. When you step in to the reception you are struck by the clean design and lovely white lilies that will follow you all through the hotel. Even the smell gives you a calm sense of feeling. You are greeted with a smile and exceptionally good service every time you step towards the reception. Only time when the service fails is when a problem occurs at the front office. They can not take a decision and the problem twirls around from person to person, which makes the customer desperate and angry. A small problem then turns out to be a big problem, and that is not good customer service. It is important for them to see the big picture and the future business they can make with that customer.

The deluxe rooms with their 50m²takes your breath away, they are very spacious, with walk in closet, and gives you a feeling of calm and serenity. You immediately get content and when you see the big spacious bed you can not do anything else than to smile and try it out. The beds have perfect comfort and makes you feel truly relaxed, which gives you a good nights rest. They are not, like other heavenly hotel beds, to warm. There is a perfect balance and the mattress breaths in perfect harmony with your body. The bathrooms are well thought out and made in the same clean design as the rest of the room. With a rain fall shower, TV and a beautiful bath tub standing with lion head legs.

Hilton also offers a spa area, gym and a grandiose swimming pool with glass walls overlooking the area. The only thing that’s a bit of a shame is that they don’t offer a sauna, which is a perfect way of relaxation when being out in the busy Beijing.

The three different restaurants/bars all blend in to each other, except the Chinese restaurant Chynna, which has a more specific Chinese touch. Chynna is their Chinese restaurant that offers the traditional Beijing duck as well as other well combined Chinese dishes. The Beijing duck is one of the best ducks we’ve eaten; it even beats the famous Da Dong. I would strongly recommend you to try it. The restaurant has a very elegant design and is empowered by all the red features and the white little details. That is also an on going theme through out the whole hotel; every little detail is very carefully thought out and fits perfect.
The all day dining restaurant Vasco’s, which is connected with the bar and lounge restaurant Flames, has a more clean design and has more natural colours. The breakfast at Vasco’s offers a wide range of both traditional Chinese breakfast, including for example dim sum and fresh made wonton soup, to an intercontinental breakfast with omelette, bacon, fruit and much more. We can guarantee that you won’t be hungry when you leave.
Flames is where you can have a stylish cocktail sitting by the elegant bar, or have a glass of wine in the comfortable sofa in front of the fire. What ever mood you are in, you will surely be satisfied. Down by the lobby we have the lounge area and The Library, where you are offered a coffee and some gourmet snacks while you have a nice conversation with your friends or colleagues.

The down side with all the restaurants; is that the staff has very little training in how to serve, there is no lack of trying it’s just a lack of knowledge. A big recurring problem is when it comes to serve wine, several of the staff doesn’t know how to serve, in which order or when to serve.

We can not forget that Hilton Wangfujing have the largest wine cellar in Beijing, where you are offered a wide selection of different wines. The Vintage Bank has more than 1000 bottles with more than 500 different labels.

Overall I can say that Hilton Wangfujing is well worth a visit, either you are on a business trip or leisure. I can guarantee that you wont be disappointed and what ever your needs are, they will be fulfilled.

Hotel Grade: 4 out of 5

Hilton Wangfujing
8 Wangfujing East Street,
Dongcheng,
Beijing, China 100006
Tel: 86-10-58128888

http://www.hilton.com/

Written by: Sofie Yü

Restaurant Review: PM & Vänner

2011-10-17T07:29:00.000-07:00

Dear readers,

In the mist and deep forests of Småland, Sweden where nothing is represented except for IKEA and famous furniture designs you will find the very small town of Växjö. A town that is more famous for its active green and sustainable work than culinary experience. However, the town offers more than meets the eye, it offers a distinct restaurant with prestigious and high class service. The food is creative, high in quality and impressive in taste. They even have the world champion Sommelier from the World Championship Competition for Sommeliers to select the wine list.

This little restaurant is called PM & Vänner and gives great quality food with innovative cooking and distinct service. Through the years I have been disappointed by their service but impressed with its cooking. For the first time it has shown great performance when it comes to its staff where the first point of aspect are, customers first and service as it should.
Please do try the oysters for starter and go for its locally bred meet. Its local ingredients are all eco friendly and locally bred for a more sustainable thinking and pleasant palate.

My final grade for PM & Vänner is:

4 out of 5

Storgatan 22
352 31, Växjö
Sweden
0470-700444

http://www.pmrestauranger.se

Written by: Alexander Yü

Wine of the Month: Mt. Difficulty Pinot Noir 2009

2011-10-01T03:32:00.000-07:00

This wine reflects the nature of a cooler vintage displaying great concentration and balance; red fruits of the forest dominate the aroma and these are underpinned by black cherry, Christmas cake spice and savoury herb. The wine has a dark concentrated front palate, which displays these same characters in abundance. The mid palate is fleshy and well textured. The wine finishes with a lovely combination of sinewy tannin, fruit and acidity.

Mt Difficulty Estate Pinot Noir will improve for 7-10 years given optimal vintage and cellaring conditions.

The wine can only be special ordered at Australian Wine Club for home delivery and is not available at the Swedish Systembolaget.

Cost: 369 SEK (Australian Wine Club)
Grape: 100% Pinot Noir
Aging: Can be opened from 2011-2016

Restaurant Review: Frantzén/Lindeberg, Stockholm, Sweden

2011-09-21T07:12:00.000-07:00

In 2011 Frantzén/Lindeberg was named “restaurant of the year” by the prestigious White Guide and ranked 57 on ”The S.Pellegrino World’s 100 Best Restaurants 2011”. It also sports two Michelin stars!

The restaurant is located in historic Old Town and gastronomy buffs from Stockholm and beyond are fighting over the tables. Eating here is a sensory experience with a touch of humor. Chefs Björn Frantzén and Daniel Lindeberg serves up fresh ingredients from the restaurant's own garden to create culinary artistry with intriguing surprises such as the dessert "burger" where the bun is a macaroon, the burger is made of chocolate and the lettuce is a slice of mint. The surprises continue with the sommelier-selected drink package that pairs pre-selected wines with specific food courses.

For an unforgettable evening event, Frantzén/Lindeberg can accommodate groups of up to 12 people in its "chambre separé". It features its own entrance, bar and sommelier. The restaurant is also awarded with 2 star "Cru Beverage Selection Award" for its great selection of wines and beverages that goes perfectly with its food.

This truly is the most exciting eating experience in Stockholm!

Lilla Nygatan 21

111 28 Stockholm

Sweden

http://www.frantzen-lindeberg.com

Grade: 4,5 of 5

Western Taste beverage Grade: 2 Stars = Cru Beverage Selection Award
Award: Top 3 Best Restaurant in Stockholm 2011 by Western Taste

Written by: Kristian Kull & Alexander Yü

Article: Cognac Recommendations

2011-09-14T08:48:00.000-07:00

Cognac named after the town of Cognac in France, is a variety of brandy. It is produced in the wine-growing region surrounding the town from which it takes its name, in the French Departements of Charente and Charente-Maritime.

As an Appellation d'origine contrôlée, in order to bear the name Cognac, the production methods for the distilled brandy must meet specified legal requirements. It must be made from certain grapes; of these, Ugni Blanc, known locally as Saint-Emilion, is the most widely used variety today.It must be distilled twice in copper pot stills and aged at least two years in French oak barrels from Limousin or Tronçais. Most cognacs are aged considerably longer than the minimum legal requirement, because cognac matures in the same way as whiskies and wine when aged in a barrel.

My 3 cognac recommendations:

Courvoisier Napoleon Fine Champagne (5 of 5)

The artistry behind the blending of this complex cognac brings out its signature old port, prune, and orange blossom notes. The maturity of the blends from the Grande and Petite Champagne crus, matured up to 20 years, has made Courvoisier Napoleon Fine Champagne Cognac the classic reference for connoisseurs.

No Systembolaget: Not available

Cost: Around 700 SEK

Packaging: 750 ml

Delamain Vesper Aged 35 years (5 of 5)

Some say that this is one of the worlds best Cognac brands and provides the Rolls Royce of Cognac to its drinkers. Ageing for 35 years in barrels gives this cognac its golden-amber hue. It has a bouquet of ripe fruit, herbs, spices and dry wood, incredibly smooth with a very, very long finish.

No Systembolaget: 86646

Cost: 989 SEK

Packaging: 700 ml

Grönstedts XO Cognac (3,5 of 5)

It is very rare to sell great value prices of XO cognac around the world, however if anyone has done a good cognac for a great price then it is Grönstedt. There is also a Christmas edition that sells out every year.

No Systembolaget: 242

Cost: 349 SEK

Packaging: 500 ml

Wine of the Month: Lawson’s Dry Hills Gewurztraminer

2011-09-01T05:59:00.000-07:00

This wine is one of my favourites from New Zeeland. Usually when I go for New Zeeland wine I choose Sauvignon Blanc and if I by any chance would have a Gewürztraminer, it would be something from Alsace, France. But Lawson’s Dry Hills gives you a wonderful and amazingly good Gewurztraminer that is long lasting and dynamic in flavours.

The wine brings you bright pale straw colour with slight greenish tinge around the edges and watery hue. The nose delivers an intense sniff with lifted top notes of musk and rose petal followed by some lychee and a hint of honeysuckle spice. Showing strong varietal character the palate is thick and rich with good balanced acidity. Mouthfilling flavours of lychee, rose petal and musk followed by some spice. Clean finish. Excellent concentration with long lychee, spice and honeysuckle aftertaste.
Drink over the next 2 years

Cost in Sweden: 99 SEK

Nr at Systembolaget: 957772

Area: Marlborough, New Zeeland

Grade: 4 of 5 (great value for money)

Written by Alexander Yü