Maldives Promotion House – Waldorf Astoria Maldives has introduced “Cantinetta”, a new and exclusive wine degustation program at its underground Wine Cellar. Designed to offer guests the best selection of wines from Spain, France, Australia and South Africa, the program will be available from January at USD 140 per person.

Lead by its Island Sommelier, Kamal Malik, and supported by a team of eight Wine and Spirit Education Trust (WSET), the program features a premium selection of exquisite wines which are carefully paired with delectable food prepared by the resort’s chefs.

“Cantinetta” is an Italian experience which consists of fun and informal dining with specially designed menus which are then paired with vibrant wines.  It is derived from the Italian word cantina which means cellar or small dining area.

The evening starts with sparkling and white wines which are paired with exotic cheeses and cold cuts of meat served with the freshest of home baked breads, pickles and chutneys.  A simple yet mouth-watering main course is then served, following the practice of cantina style cookery which is based on traditional home cooking methods.  The main course is paired with red wine.  Dessert is a baker’s special paired with a delicious sweet dessert wine.  Through the course of the meal, Malik will explain the history of individual wines served and how it is paired perfectly with the food.

“Cantinetta” features an exploration of the wonderful location, exceptional wines and delicious mouth watering food.  Malik takes you on an expedition through a myriad of colors and hues of exquisite wines from various parts of the globe; Spain, France, Australia and South Africa.

The Wine Cellar is situated in the centre of the island set amid the tropical vegetation.  A hidden treasure located two and a half meters below sea level, it houses an extensive collection of over 3500 bottles of fine vintages from boutique wineries around the world.