Maldives, August 2, 2021 – Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas has introduced the country’s first certified wine education program. Awarded by globally recognized WSET – the Wine and Spirit Education Trust, this new guest experience will allow oenophiles to expand their wine knowledge during their vacation at Anantara’s island sanctuary, the only Approved Program Provider in the Maldives and the first resort in Asia certified to provide this experience. An ideal gift, the WSET program a wonderful way for honeymooners to connect over a new discovery or for couples to bond over a shared interest.
Guided by the resort’s Senior Wine Guru, a WSET Certified Educator, participants will undergo the WSET Level 1 coursework situated in some of the most stunning locales in the Maldives. The program includes three two-hour wine tasting sessions and a final theory examination. The tasting sessions will take place in the over water SKY bar, in the lagoon, and at SEA, the resort’s signature underwater restaurant and wine cellar. Upon successful completion of the course, an appreciation letter from the resort’s General Manager and an official certificate and lapel pin from WSET will be presented.
“The launch of this program is a fitting addition to the wine appreciation culture at our resort. Over the years, we have amassed a collection worth over USD $2 million, consisting of over 450 labels and vintage treasures. Some the rarest bottles to have graced our underwater wine vault include a 1795 Terrantez Madeira and an 1882 port, the Graham’s Ne Oublie, which is one of only 656 decanters in the world. “Our extensive and carefully crafted wine menu has been consistently awarded by the industry’s leading opinion leaders such as World of Fine Wines and Wine Spectator,” commented Ross Sanders, General Manager.
“Another initiative we started, is the aging of Champagne underwater. Working with the Champagne Dom Perignon 2008 vintage, these bottles were sunk in December 2020, and we intend to raise them to the surface in preparation for a special wine dinner during the festive season this year.”
WSET LEVEL 1 CERTIFICATION PROGRAM DETAILS
Intended for people who have little or no prior knowledge of wines, the WSET Level 1 Award in Wines is designed to provide a sound but simple introduction to wines. Upon successful course completion, participants will be able to understand the key stages in grape growing and winemaking, list the principal types and styles of wine, state the key characteristics of wines made from the principal grape varieties as well as other examples of wines, and know the key principles involved in the storage and service of wine.
- Minimum length of stay of four nights required
- Three two-hour tasting sessions
- Final theory examination
- Minimum of two guests per session
- USD $900 per couple
ANANTARA KIHAVAH MALDIVES VILLAS
Situated within the Baa Atoll in a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve teeming with rich marine life, discover an idyllic Indian Ocean retreat at Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas.
Nestled amongst lush vegetation, 80 spacious private pool sanctuaries and cool open spaces culminate in the ultimate tranquil paradise. Poised either over the water with sweeping ocean views or nestled along a pristine stretch of private beach, each hideaway boasts large infinity-edge pools, dining pavilions, expansive wooden sundecks, and ample lounging areas. To further enhance the experience, all villas and residences are serviced by a personal Villa Host 24 hours a day.
Whether on land or underwater, enjoy a diverse culinary journey with six restaurants and bars, each offering a distinctive setting, menu and ambiance that divulges a different view of paradise. Discover the wide array of land-based activities for fitness fanatics, foodies, and lovers of all things cultural. Passionate about bringing story collecting travellers closer to the natural, cultural, and historic allures of this fascinating island, the resort offers a diverse array of land-based, over water and underwater activities for fitness fanatics, foodies, spa and wellness aficionados, families, and couples alike.
For more information or to book, call +960 664 4111, visit us at Anantara.com/en/kihavah-maldives or email reservations.maldives@anantara.com.
