FLOATING WINERY

The purpose of wine tastings and fairs is to expanding our knowledge of wine, tasting the latest vintage, and finding a new gift to take to your next dinner party. Miami International Wine Fair was no different. There were wines representing 15 different countries; countries that I had no idea even made wine. Thailand was on my list of surprises.

Siam Winery located about 60km form Bangkok in Samuk Sakoun is Thailand’s oldest and most prized winery. Using only grapes grown in Thailand, Siam Winery produces Monsoon Valley wines. The vines are planted on islands separated by canals, floating wineries, harvest is done by boat. I had the pleasure of sippin their Red and White varietal. From the first sip you can tell that these wines were made to complement the spiciness, sweet, salty, and sour taste of Thai cuisine. Monsoon Valley Red made from the Pok Dum grape is a medium bodied fruity berry wine. Monsoon Valley White is made from the Malaga Blanc grape introduced in Thailand in 1685 by the French. Ninety percent of the vines grown in Samuk Sakoun produce Malaga Blanc grapes. This is light, “modern” wine that is great for a warm summer day. I did not get a chance to sip the Rose but I will save that for another day. They also have a Premium Reserve Collection of White Shiraz, Colombard, Shiraz, and Fortified Muscat.

Monsoon Valley, my first taste of wines of the Orients. Can’t wait until I have a glass with a plate of Pad Thai 