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Published on August 5, 2007

A couple of weeks ago I was invited to a wine tasting in Chiang Mai where I was surprised to learn that an old acquaintance was co-hosting the event.

Phairoj Phatsoripinyosakul is the founder and president of a truly impressive four-store chain of gourmet supermarkets called Rimping. Entering his newest store near Chiang Mai airport, I flashed back to a small chain of upscale supermarkets in the Los Angeles area known as Bristol Farms.

A rainbow of brilliantly coloured and beautifully displayed produce, much of it from His Majesty's special projects, reflected the quality of everything in Rimping stores. The wine sections are meticulously arranged by country of origin, with each of 1,200 different selections correctly situated. More expensive wines are held in a separate temperature controlled room, each with prices prominently marked and coded for inventory control.

Phairoj was justifiably proud, noting how a few fairly simple technological improvements had reduced energy consumption in his stores by 30 per cent. A type of power modulator reduced electricity use in the store's neon lighting by turning down power once the neon tubes are started. All refrigeration is heavily insulated and operates on sensitive thermostats to avoid over or under cooling.

Even the roof of the building has been designed to take advantage of prevailing winds to vent warm air.

"We can truly say we have a commitment to go green," exclaimed Phairoj.

Rimping joined local architect and wine enthusiast Tanit Choomsang to conduct the tasting at his modern-design Maze Café in the downtown area. Fifty-two wines from importer-distributor Bangkok Beer & Beverages were presented at four stations inside the hi-tech restaurant with case goods set up outside for purchase.

Popular sellers were South Africa's Springfield Estates '06 sauvignon blanc and '04 red blend of merlot and cabernet, both under the label Firefinch at about Bt700 each.

Penfold's Bin 8 shiraz and Lindemans Bin 45 cabernet at Bt1,400 and Bt800 respectively, were also favourite choices.

Next time you're in Chiang Mai treat yourself to some shopping fun at one of Rimping's impressive stores then enjoy a relaxing dinner at Maze.

Back in Bangkok, here's a fact that may interest party- goers. Party House One in the trendy new Siam@Siam hotel claims to have the largest selection of drink options in the city — 310 at last count. Regular wine promotions are part of the action along with their "platters of snacks".

There's also a small wine shop tucked into a corner next to the entrance, where you can buy your favourite bottle and have it with dinner for a modest corkage charge.

For more sedate relaxing, try Bar 11 on the 11th floor overlooking the National Stadium. 

Check out Rimping Supermarket locations in Chiang Mai at www.rimping.com. Maze Cafe is at 12/2 Boonruangrit Road. Siam@Siam hotel is at 865 Rama 1 Road, Bangkok, call (02) 217 3000.