Mediterraneo, Taj Resort & Spa, Maldives is set to host a nonpareil wine dinner planned by Chef Jeffrey Vella and Sommelier Luiza Torrezani. The two maestros are collaborating for the first time to create an immersive experience that brings together Mediterranean flavours and the finest of wines on June 14, 2024. 

Mediterraneo is a vibrant confluence of exquisite culinary creations and breathtaking ambience. From the meticulously curated menu to the authentic tropical vibes, everything at Mediterraneo comes together as an unmatched dining experience, further enriched by the serenity of nature. Perched over a tranquil lagoon, Mediterraneo is the perfect destination for the dining experience crafted by Chef Jeffrey Vella, and Luiza Torrezani, renowned Sommelier and South Asia Area Manager, Santa Margherita Wine Group.

Known for his Mediterranean culinary artistry, Chef Jeffrey Vella inherited an unwavering passion for food and hospitality that took him across continents. Chef Vella is all about crafting gourmet journeys marked with rich flavours and spectacular presentations. At Mediterraneo, his scrumptious signature dishes complement the untamed magnificence of the clear blue waters and skies.

Though Brazil is her home, Luiza Torrezani’s love for wine took her all around the world. She holds a Master’s degree in Wine & Spirits Business from the prestigious University of Bordeaux and has garnered formidable experience at all major Wine destinations across Asia. Based in Thailand, Torrezani is associated with Santa Margherita Wine Group. 

For the culinary extravaganza at Mediterraneo, Chef Vella’s preparations will be paired with the world’s finest wines tastefully chosen by Torrezani. Here are a few veg and non-veg delights from the exceptional Menu curated by the two artists

• Parmesan Custard, Crab, Thyme Ashes 
• Parmesan Custard, Celeriac, Thyme Ashes
• Doughnut – Barbecued Chicken, Smoked Salt
• Doughnut – Slow-Cooked Celeriac, Smoked Mushroom Salt 
• Seaweed Tartlet – Beetroot, Almonds

Paired with Santa Margherita, Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superior, Veneto, Italy

• Lemons and Scallop – Seared Scallops, Confit of Leek, Smoked Scallop, Burnt Lemon Pie, Lemon Finger 
• Leeks, Onion and Lemon Salad – Confit of Leeks, Slow Roasted Onions, Poached Lemon, Radishes 

 Paired with Ca’del Bosco, Cuvée Prestige, Lombardy, Italy

• Risotto – Classically Made, Morels, Chestnut Mushrooms Crispy Oats, Porcini 

Paired with Santa Margherita, Valdadige DOC, Pinot Grigio, 2022, Trentino, Italy

• Asparagus and Lobster – White Ones, Butter and Miso Poached Lobster, Green One’s Film, Hollandaise 
• Asparagus – Salt Baked White Ones, Barbecued Green Ones, Crème 

Paired with Kettmeir Müller Thurgau, Alto Adige DOC, 2022, Alto Adige, Italy

• Carrot – Brochette and Rissoles, Rosemary Dust, Potato Layers
• Wagyu – Cooked on Coal, Simmered Shallot, Oscietra Caviar, Potato Layers, Pepper Jus

Paired with Sassoregale Maremma Toscana DOC, Sangiovese, 2019, Tuscany, Italy

• Cherries

Paired with Torresella Prosecco Rosé, DOC, 2021, Veneto, Italy

The indulgent five-course menu, and the alluring raw beauty of Mediterraneo is a stellar combination, one that is sure to charm the connoisseurs of flavours and fine wines alike. Esteemed guests are invited to relish every moment of this grand gourmet experience on June 14 from 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm.