With a selection of four champers from GraceKennedy’s Harbour Wines & Spirits’ bubbly portfolio, the 2016 Jamaica Observer Salut! festivities wrapped this year’s week-long celebration of fine wines and Champagne at OAK Wine Bar and Cocktail Lounge. The Hillcrest Avenue wine-and-dine hotspot did not disappoint, either; the well-stocked wine rack at the entrance was enough to have winos feeling at home. Wine connoiseur and consultant Marilyn Bennett was on hand to break down the notes and aromas and provide insight into the selections.

Round one started off with the welcome bubbly, the Trivento Brut Nature Sparkling wine from Argentina, which turned out to be a crowd favourite – dry, zesty, and light on the palate. This was served with maple bacon meatballs and garlic bread. In-betweeners included the Marquis de la Tour – a crisp fruit-flavoured wine with a gentle fizz ­– from Loire, France, and the Cavit Lunetta Prosecco from nothern Italy, with aromas of apple and peach. Both wines were served with either the crispy chicken slider or the bourbon chicken liver pâté.

Round four required a visit to the USA by way of the Michelle Brut, a blend of 63 per cent Chardonnay, 19 per cent Pinot Noir, and 18 per cent Pinot Gris.

Imagine the obligatory Salut! as OAK staffers replenished stemware with the effervescent Michelle Brut.

‘Tis the season to enjoy bubbly with Harbour Wines & Spirits!

Monday Social gives you four new reasons to imbibe.