cuisine

We’ve already featured some wines in our columns, mainly Grands Crus from France and Europe, regions so renowned for the exceptional quality of their grape varieties. But there are other wines that are quite popular, though not necessarily at the top of the world’s list.  When we asked the manager of Malis Phnom Penh, Chamrouen Pok, which wines were most popular in her restaurant, she mentioned without hesitation the white wines produced in South Africa, Chile, Argentina, Italy, New Zealand and the USA… The reason is quite simply that these countries produce wines that offer good value for money and, according to Ms Pok, go well with the distinctive flavours of Khmer cuisine. Among her favourites, Ms Pok does not hesitate to mention the Argento Chardonnay Reserva (2020), a white wine produced at the foot of the Andes, between 900 and 1,000 metres above sea level, on land rich in clay and limestone.  “It’s a balanced, simple, smooth wine with a refreshing taste and subtle notes of fruit, citrus and a hint of wood,” she says, explaining that it’s ideal for lunch because of its freshness and the fact that it’s fairly easy to drink.  How can Argentina, a country best known for its meat and folklore, successfully sell wines halfway around the world in such a different country? According to winemakers, Argentina’s Chardonnay wines are among the country’s most popular white wines, but they have gained a solid reputation around the world. There has been something of a revolution in recent decades to find new places to grow grapes, including extreme locations in the mountains. Argentina is blessed with altitude and sunshine, and wines made from grapes grown at high altitudes have delicious citrus and mineral flavours.  Overall, wine lovers say, “2020 Argento Chardonnay Reserva is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a smooth, easy-drinking wine”.  Reserve a table Subscribe to the Thalias newsletter for exclusive offers invitations to events and culinary news. Subscribe here Find out more: Discover our culinary world in more detail. Visit our website