Star Wine List Abu Dhabi launches with ambassador Bhatia Dheeraj: "I love Abu Dhabi’s serenity"
Today, we launch Star Wine List's first guide to Abu Dhabi with five Red Stars assigned by our UAE Ambassador, Dubai-based sommelier Bhatia Dheeraj.
This expansion across the country comes as we prepare to return to Dubai with the second ever Star Wine List of the Year UAE – our competition celebrating the best wine lists and the teams that create them. We will be awarding Gold Stars to winners in categories including ‘Best Long List,’ ‘Best Short List,’ ‘Best Sparkling List,’ ‘Best Newcomer’ and more. Entries are currently open and, as always, free of charge. The deadline for submitting applications is Sunday 20 October. Find out more.
Check out our new guide to the best wine bars and restaurants in Abu Dhabi, here.
In the meantime, we asked Bhatia for his thoughts on Abu Dhabi's wine scene.
What are you up to at the moment?
“It’s been a year since I took a break from Australia, moving to Dubai to open The Lana as Head of Wines. It’s the Dorchester Collection’s first hotel in the Middle East, with three celebrity chefs and eight food and beverage venues.”
How would you describe the food and wine scene in Abu Dhabi?
“The food scene is very international and super dynamic, with whole heaps of options to indulge — from small, local restaurants to Michelin dining, there is something for everyone.”
What can people expect from your selection of venues?
“I’d say, decent wine options to indulge in and fulfil your wine cravings. I know the feeling when you are new in town and struggle to find the right places that tick all boxes, hence, I hope the recommendations will come in handy.”
How has the wine culture evolved over the past few years?
“The wine culture is very exciting at this point, firstly because of the number of distributors that exist, and then international beverage professionals coming through and each bringing their expertise — the wine community is evolving.”
Have you noticed any emerging trends?
“There are quality offerings for wine by the glass, especially Champagne. Then wine flight options, pairing menus and brunch are trending well.”
What are guests looking for?
“I guess there are patrons from all over the world and everyone has a different approach to wine, so it’s our job to read them. Guests are typically looking for affordable restaurant price points since they are well travelled and get surprised with wine mark-ups. Let’s not forget that wine retail is big and quite approachable in Abu Dhabi, and guests are aware of those pricing strategies.”
Which wine styles or regions are most popular?
“The wine scene is very global and, depending on the style, ethos, and cuisine of the restaurants, both New and Old world are doing well.
“One good thing to watch is that the Champagne selections on lists are getting bigger.”
Do you have any favourites among your Red Stars?
“Honestly, I love what the guys at Hakkasan are doing and there is so much going on with their offering: an impressive wine-by-the-glass page; a section of “Bubbles and Bites” where a bottle of Champagne is accompanied with paired snacks; and then ‘Hakka’ night brunch with free-flowing wines alongside other beverages.”
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