When one mentions Cheese, Thailand is not the first country that comes to mind, but VIVIN Grocery is about to change that with a nationwide tour that will pop up at 6 key tourist destinations in collaboration with 5 Star Hotels and beloved Michelin-star rated restaurants, bringing an all-Thai cheese experience to cheese lovers across the nation.
Currently ongoing until September 2024, guests can anticipate surprise side tours, adding an extra layer of excitement and discovery to the culinary journey. Cheese and Wine also go hand in hand, and VIVIN Grocery has partnered with GranMonte Vineyard and Winery for this tour.
Gastronomer Lifestyle speaks to some of the participating hotels and brands to get the down low on the tour:
How will this initiative be beneficial to your specific brand?
A: Chin Pitak Norathepkitti, General Manager of Anantara Chiang Mai Resort
“Hosting an innovative Thai artisanal cheese tasting event aligns with Anantara’s ethos of showcasing authentic local culinary experiences using the finest ingredients to discerning guest.”
When it comes to wine, why have you decided to join this Cheese tour?
A: Mimi Lohitnavy, Director of PR and Marketing of GranMonte Vineyard and Winery.
“There’s a unique joy in finding friends who share our passion and vision, particularly in expressing the essence of Thai terroir through our crafts. Whether it’s crafting food, cheese, or wine, the journey becomes richer when we’re united in purpose. It’s no secret that wine and cheese are timeless, transcending borders and eras. Pairing GranMonte’s 100% Thai wines with VIVIN’s all-Thai-made cheeses, and sharing these creations as they journey across the country, feels like a natural extension of our dedication to bringing the best of Thailand’s flavors to those who appreciate the finer things in life.”
What does the local partnerships of VIVIN Grocery’s and GranMonte Vineyard and Winery mean to you?
A: Bjorn Courage, General Manager of InterContinental Phuket
“underscores our commitment to elevating the culinary experience for our esteemed guests by providing a sophisticated and flavorful journey, showcasing the richness of Thai cheeses and creating a harmonious blend that promises to delight connoisseurs and enthusiasts alike. This collaboration adds a distinctive touch to our culinary landscape, ensuring our guests enjoy an exclusive and delightful experience, further enhancing their stay at Intercontinental Phuket Resort.”
The event just happened at your location in Hua Hin, how did the Thai Cheese Tour perform?
A: Pipat Pattananusorn, General Manager of Dusit Thani Hua Hin.
“The Thai Cheese Tour at Nómada Beach Club – Dusit Thani Hua Hin, was a culinary delight! Artisanal Thai cheeses paired with GranMonte Thai Wine, alongside Chef Andre’s expert grilling techniques, created a sensational experience. Fresh ingredients sourced from Dusit Thani Hua Hin’s organic farm and local fishermen made every bite memorable. With seamless collaboration, it was a truly distinguished gastronomic affair presented by VIVIN Grocery. Don’t miss their next stop!”
How did the Thai Cheese Buffet and Tour come about?
A: Nicolas Vivin, founder of VIVIN Grocery.
“The Thai Cheese Buffet began in 2020 as a response to the financial strains of the COVID-19 pandemic, aiming to support Thai cheese makers while offering a unique culinary experience. What started as a solution to alleviate excess cheese surplus and generate revenue quickly evolved into a monthly event introducing over 20 varieties of Thai cheese to an initially hesitant public. This initiative not only supported local cheese producers but also promoted sustainable food practices. Building on sharing this love for local produce, we are excited to take the Thai Cheese Tour on the road, bringing the best of Thai cheese to different parts of the country and awareness to sustainable, local, natural, organic, and artisanal products.”
Anantara Chiang Mai Resort – Friday, 3rd May 2024
communications.achm@anantara.com
Intercontinental Phuket – Saturday, 27th July 2024
https://www.facebook.com/intercontinentalphuket
+66 (0)76 629 999
GranMonte Vineyard and Winery Khao Yai – Sunday, 11th August 2024
reservation@granmonte.com
+66 (0)94-831-0909
VIVIN Grocery – Bistro & Bar Thonglor – Friday, 20th September 2024
VIVIN Grocery contact: contact@vivinmaison.com