On August 3, Cebu’s prestigious NUSTAR Resort played host to an exclusive celebration of exceptional wine and culinary artistry at the north Asian restaurant Huangdi. The event, featuring a bespoke menu curated by Chef Martin Rebolledo, Executive Chef at NUSTAR, showcased an unparalleled dining experience that highlighted the harmonious pairing of top-tier wines from Billecart-Salmon and Château Malherbe.
A Night of Culinary Excellence and Fine Wine
The evening began with a refined introduction to Billecart-Salmon’s prestigious range, guided by Mr. Sebastien Papin, Champagne Billecart-Salmon’s Asia Pacific Director. Papin’s insights offered guests a deeper appreciation of the brand, emphasizing its rich history and commitment to quality.
“Billecart-Salmon has been around for more than 200 years and is still owned and operated by the original family. We pay special attention to where our wines are found and consumed. NUSTAR is the best place in Cebu to have Billecart-Salmon,” Papin remarked during his introduction.
The meticulously designed menu was crafted to complement the extraordinary wines being showcased. Each dish was selected to enhance the unique characteristics of the wines, creating a symphony of flavors that delighted the attendees.
The evening commenced with the Billecart Brut Reserve, a champagne known for its delicate balance and finesse. This exceptional bubbly was paired with an exquisite dish of abalone, adorned with porcini and morel craqueline, and enriched with a white truffle mascarpone. The combination offered a nuanced flavor profile that highlighted the champagne’s elegance.
Exploration of Billecart Brut Nature
Following the Brut Reserve, guests were introduced to the Billecart Brut Nature. This crisp and clean champagne was paired with a sophisticated mille feuille of shrimps and caviar. The dish’s delicate flavors were perfectly matched with the champagne’s purity, offering a refreshing palate experience.
Delighting in Billecart 2016 Vintage
The tasting progressed with the Billecart 2016 Vintage, a wine noted for its depth and complexity. This vintage champagne was complemented by a scallop ceviche featuring calamansi citrus, dried scallops, and coriander dust. The ceviche’s bright flavors and textures harmonized beautifully with the champagne’s rich profile.
Highlighting Château Malherbe Rouge 2021
One of the standout moments of the evening was the robust Château Malherbe Rouge 2021, Côtes de Provence. This full-bodied red wine was paired with a sumac-crusted lamb loin, served alongside herbed flaky put blanket, charred cauliflower florets, and black truffles. The rich, savory elements of the dish resonated with the wine’s bold flavors, creating a memorable dining experience.
A Sweet Finale with Billecart Brut Rosé
The event concluded with a sweet note, featuring the Billecart Brut Rosé paired with a delectable black sesame, pecan, and apple tart tatin, accompanied by homemade Tahitian vanilla ice cream. The Rosé’s vibrant character complemented the dessert’s complex flavors, providing a fitting end to an exceptional evening.
Papin’s Praise for NUSTAR’s Event
Papin expressed high praise for NUSTAR’s execution of the event, highlighting its exceptional setup, impeccable service, and the seamless pairing of dishes with their champagnes. “Having hosted a plethora of champagne dinners in the region, I can safely say that NUSTAR put together an amazing event that will set the bar very high in Cebu. The setup was great, the service was on point, and the quality of each dish matched with our champagnes excellently,” Papin commented.
Billecart-Salmon: A Legacy of Excellence
Founded in 1818, Billecart-Salmon is a prestigious champagne house celebrated for its exceptional quality and elegant wines. Located in Mareuil-sur-Aÿ, France, this family-owned house is renowned for its meticulous craftsmanship and adherence to tradition. Billecart-Salmon’s dedication to excellence continues to make it a symbol of luxury and sophistication in the world of champagne.
NUSTAR’s Commitment to Innovation
NUSTAR Resort remains dedicated to bringing first-to-market initiatives to the Visayas region through strategic partnerships with leading figures in the food and beverage industry. By hosting events such as this one, NUSTAR continues to set a high standard for luxury and culinary excellence in Cebu.
This exclusive celebration at NUSTAR Resort not only highlighted the exceptional quality of Billecart-Salmon and Château Malherbe wines but also underscored NUSTAR’s commitment to offering unparalleled experiences in the Visayas. The event’s success serves as a testament to the resort’s dedication to excellence and innovation in the world of fine dining and luxury.
The event at NUSTAR Resort on August 3 was a masterclass in pairing fine wine with culinary artistry. From the refined Billecart Brut Reserve to the robust Château Malherbe Rouge 2021, each element of the evening was meticulously crafted to offer an unforgettable experience. With its commitment to excellence and innovation, NUSTAR continues to elevate Cebu’s dining scene, setting a high benchmark for future events in the region.