The Holborn Road retail space Locale was the venue, Thursday last, of Vine and Bean, presented in partnership with Caribbean Producers Jamaica Limited (CPJ) and co-hosted by lifestyle doyenne Cecile Levee and chocolatier Nadine Burie.

The late-afternoon-into-evening pours, notably Sterling Pinot Noir, Murphy Goode Merlot, Sebastiani Cabernet Sauvignon, Three Finger Jack Old Vine Zinfandel, and Antinori Franciacorta Blanc De Blanc, were paired with Hazelnut Milk Chocolate, Toffee Brittle coated with dark chocolate and sesame seeds, Chocolate Bonbons infused with spices, Scotch Bonnet Pepper-flavoured chocolate, and Chocolate Mousse sealed in white chocolate, mango, and passion fruit.

Each was introduced by Levee and Burie who explained the process behind their choices, highlighting the complementary characteristics of the wines and chocolates. Levee explained how to identify the dominant flavour of the chocolate and pair accordingly, be it contrasting or similar, while Burie highlighted the various textures of the chocolates and accompanying flavours.

The nose, swirl, sip and taste (wine and chocolate experience) attracted a bevy of stylish wine enthusiasts signalling a demand for more creative affairs of this nature.

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