Together with Chef Phoebe Cleland, Executive Chef of Johnnie Walker House in Beijing, this blended scotch whisky hosted a unique culinary experience with a feature of Malaysian flavours at the Ritz Carlton Kuala Lumpur last week and I was blessed to be a part of this gastronomical journey. This is the first time John Walker & Sons XR21 whisky held a 5 Senses Pairing dinner and I must thank #taufulou for extending the invitation. Being a plus one at the dinner, I went without my camera and enjoyed every bit of the dishes served throughout the night. I got some of it on snapchat (@sycookies) though.
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ta94uLP4TZQ?rel=0&w=640&h=480]
Following the key elements of the original whisky blending process, the whisky pairing courses showcased Barley, Sea Salt, Oak, Peat/smoke, rich fruit and spices. The first presented as a starter with toasted barley after a fresh ocean note of oyster, and a rich finishing of a lovely balance from the characteristics of John Walker & Sons XR 21 whisky.The XR 21 Glazed King Scallops puts together fresh scallops and our local flavour together with the Gold Label Reserve, to cleverly and classily delivering sweet finishing.
Pan Seared Rougie Foie Gras, Duck Rillette, Ginger Pickled Cherries, 10 year Barrel Aged Modena Balsamic, with Okra Paper was quite a champion in winning the heart of many of us. The other mains were amazing. Also not forgetting the lovely dessert finishing; it was such a pity my phone didn’t last through the line of perfect pairings that night.
When it comes to the rare blend, Pan Seared Cod was showcased with taro root, parsley, leek ash to accessories, and the beautiful finishing of XR 21 mist to compliment the dish. The rich elegant whisky blended from rare casks with its wonderful layers of citrus, malt and raisin could be the perfect match to the delicate flavour of cod, herbs and charcoal.
Chef Phoebe was brilliant when it comes to executing John Walker & Sons XR21 whisky blend to pairing it with dishes showcasing our local flavours. John Walker & Sons XR 21 was created to honour the inauguration of Alexander Walker II’s knighthood received from King George V in 1920. Inspired by Sir Alexander’s own hand-written notes, it is blended from the exclusive Johnnie Walker reserve of rare whiskies, all of which have been matured for a full 21 years .
There would be plenty more of the night’s coverage on the internet for sure, and I am sorry I didn’t have more photos because the phone went flat before we reach the dessert. Hopefully, there would be a next one very soon and should I have the privilege to be a part of it, I promise better photos.
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