Vakkaru Maldives announced that the Wine Spectator magazine has once again recognized their wine cellar, Vakkaru Reserve, with the Best of Award of Excellence for 2023. This prestigious title has now been bestowed upon the island sanctuary’s cellar for the third time, firmly establishing it as a premier destination for wine enthusiasts.
The Wine Spectator’s Restaurant Awards aim to acknowledge restaurants with exceptional wine lists that perfectly complement their cuisine, appealing to a wide range of wine lovers. The “Two-Glass” distinction is granted to establishments offering a minimum of 350 wine selections, showcasing a diverse array of wine regions, styles, and vintages. Vakkaru Reserve’s extensive and sophisticated collection, combined with their unwavering commitment to providing exquisite guest experiences, played a pivotal role in securing this accolade. Among the 1,411 winners in 2023, only four establishments in the Maldives received this distinction.
Situated in an elegant wooden building just steps away from the ocean, Vakkaru Reserve wine cellar has been welcoming guests since its opening in 2018. The cellar offers an intimate dining experience for up to 10 guests, gathered around a communal table. Surrounded by swaying palm trees and bathed in the warm glow of candlelight, the outdoor dining table, which accommodates eight people, has become a popular spot for those seeking a special evening or wishing to sample the cellar’s impressive cigar collection. Alongside wine-tasting experiences, guests can indulge in private wine-pairing dinners, enjoying three- to five-course set menus expertly paired with wines curated by the resident sommelier.
With a meticulous selection of vintage and non-vintage wines from both the Old and New Worlds, the wine list at Vakkaru Reserve boasts 680 labels hailing from 15 different countries. It includes highly sought-after vintages such as the 1974 and 1985 Château Cheval Blanc, 2002 Louis Roederer Cristal Brut, 2002 Krug Clos du Mesnil, 2009 Louis Roederer Cristal Rosé, 1990 Tenuta San Guido Sassicaia Bolgheri, and Tiganello vintages ranging from 2006 to 2014.
Iain McCormack, General Manager of Vakkaru Maldives, expressed immense pride and delight at receiving the Wine Spectator’s Best of Award of Excellence for the third time. McCormack emphasized that this prestigious recognition not only acknowledges the cellar’s diverse and sophisticated wine collection but also highlights the team’s unwavering dedication to providing unparalleled guest experiences. He further emphasized that Vakkaru Reserve is not just a wine cellar but a destination for connoisseurs and enthusiasts seeking an exceptional wine journey. McCormack concluded by stating that they are inspired by this recognition to continue curating a world-class wine list and delivering the exceptional experiences that their guests have come to expect and enjoy.
Vakkaru Maldives is located in Baa Atoll, an acclaimed UNESCO Biosphere Reserve renowned for its stunning marine life. Recently honored as the Indian Ocean’s Leading Resort in the World Travel Awards, this timeless sanctuary offers a serene retreat. A breathtaking 30-minute seaplane ride from Velana International Airport transports guests to this secluded reef island, shaded by graceful coconut palms and blessed with picturesque ocean views and powdery white-sand beaches. The resort boasts 113 beautifully designed Overwater and Beach Villas that blend harmoniously with the natural surroundings. Six restaurants, two bars, and a wine cellar provide exceptional dining experiences and amenities. Noteworthy offerings include the overwater Merana Spa, featuring Ayurveda practices and frequent visits by renowned wellness practitioners. The Parrotfish Club and Coconut Club cater to children and teenagers, respectively, while guests of all ages can engage in world-class tennis coaching through a partnership with Tipsarevic Luxury Tennis or play on the newly opened padel tennis court. Splash offers thrilling water sports, ocean excursions, a private luxury yacht, and a coral adoption program. Unifying all these services and facilities is Vakkare, their distinctive hospitality concept that prioritizes sincere and proactive care at the heart of everything they do.