While Beatrix Bazala, wine trainer from Austria, kept the proceedings lively as she introduced and described each wine, Asgarally matched the attributes of the wines with his creations. Contributing to the success of the evening were delicious appetisers prepared by Le Royce chefs to accompany the wines served, making it a unique pairing of food, wine and fashion, writes Brinda Gill

The first sequence of light, diaphanous mull-mull kameezes and tunics that blended elegance with freshness, reflected the fresh crispness of the Chardonnay that was served with Murgh zafarani tikka, Lamb con polenta and Acadean fish. “Just as Chardonnay goes well with a light afternoon meal, so the clothes from this collection are ideal to wear for a luncheon or semi-formal evening event,” said Asgarally.

As we were served Zinfandel paired with Capsicum and Cottage cheese baskets, Funghi al forno and Saunfiya paneer, Beatrix explained the colour of rosé wines ranges from onion to salmon to sherry red and intense red depending on the length of the contact of grape juice with skin. The second sequence of trapeze dresses and kameezes, lightly embellished with metallic embroidery, inspired by these wines followed. Asgarally said the collection had the flirtatiousness of rosé, which was evocative of romance with its blush colour. “The feel of these creations is feminine. They are for a woman who knows her mind, much like the lady who loves her rosé!”

Next came Merlot, described by Beatrix as smooth and silky, along with vegetarian Quesilladas, roasted red pepper, hummus canapés, and Las Vegas fried chicken with a lemon and garlic dip. Asgarally complemented the fruity Merlot red wine with a couture collection of formal, heavy, hand-embroidered brocade bridal lahengas and sarees. “Again, like the Merlot, the line has a heavier tone and it’s for those who truly appreciate the nuances of fine living,” said Asgarally.

A fitting finalé to the fashion, food and wine show was Marquise de Pompadour that Beatrix described as one of the best sparkling wines she had ever had!