The Grandest Pour of the Year

We literally saw spirits. They were of grapes, rice and wheat at the biggest party of the year, the Grand Wine Experience 2025. 

The moment you walk in, you are met with an overwhelming welcome from thousands of wines, whiskey, sake and other spirits lined up across the Grand Ballroom of Marriott Hotel in Pasay City on 14 November. 

The celebration, made possible by the Philippine Wine Merchants, brought together enthusiasts, collectors and curious guests who simply wanted to enjoy a night of flavors.

The experience was not only about the drinks. It was also a gastronomic journey that felt like traveling across continents through food. 

Bouef A La Bourguignonne, a classic from the Burgundy region of France, was served as a rich and comforting dish that paired beautifully with red wine. 

Asian stations brought their own showstoppers, including a Peking duck carving area, trays of golden tempura and fresh sashimi arranged near the sake selections. 

For guests who wanted hearty comfort food, the sausage and mash station and the taco corner drew long lines throughout the night.

The real scene-stealer was the dessert and charcuterie spread. Tables were filled with macarons, seasonal fruits, cheeses and biscuits that guests kept returning to between tastings. 

Later in the evening, adorable chocolate boxes were delivered to guests through small parachutes that floated from above. It instantly became the standout moment of the night and a core memory for many, thanks to executive chef Meik Bramer of Marriott Hotel Manila, whose creativity added a playful twist to the event.

Where there are drinks, there is always a good time. Entertainment filled the ballroom as guests mingled, chatted and made new friends.

The relaxed and cheerful atmosphere made it easy for everyone to enjoy themselves, because as many know, one glass often leads to good conversations and shared laughter.

Truly, the Grand Wine Experience 2025 lived up to its name. It was a night filled with overflowing drinks, culinary highlights and a rare chance to explore the finest regions of the world through every pour. 

Guests left with hearty laughs, full glasses and a shared feeling that the event was the perfect way to cap off the week with a celebration worth remembering.