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Published on December 2, 2007

That's the aim of supermarket chain Foodland's annual "thank you" party for regular customers. Their event kicking off the festive season last week at their new Sukhumvit Soi 16 location highlighted the options of single-site shopping and entertaining.

An estimated 250 guests wandered through the cornucopia of foods, wines and other beverages presented at this year's affair, made easier by abundant parking and ease of access at the new store. Roast turkey and other festive fare - ham, roast beef, smoked fish, cheese and homemade sausages - held the attention of crowds of people seeking ideas for organising parties at home or the office.

Wine from all major producing countries quenched the crowd's thirst throughout the evening.

It was provided by co-host Ambrose Wine, which also featured special discounts.

Low-alcohol fruit wines, most with added carbonation, could be tasted to heart's content. These can be a great alternative for guests who normally don't drink alcohol, but don't mind a pleasant "buzz" without the guilt or after effects. Most popular at the party seemed to be a German wine-based delight called Kir Royal, containing a mild 5 per cent alcohol and selling for a modest Bt235.

Another German choice for holiday entertaining is the bulk-produced sparkling wine branded Splendid. Medium-dry with mild spring-fruit flavours, it's a good choice for mixing with fresh orange juice and at Bt465 won't break the bank.

For more serious wine buffs, all Foodland stores feature a carefully selected boutique shelf providing options for the well-heeled: the hallowed '86 Petrus from Bordeaux at a mere Bt75,200, '99 Opus One from California at Bt 32,000, or a '98 Dom Perignon Champagne for Bt10,200.

Mouton Rothschild, an icon of Bordeaux, has become a major player in Chile over the past decade, where some of its most remarkable wines are being produced. Top of their line is the skilfully vinified and critically acclaimed Almaviva brand, the '01 registering Bt6,300 at Foodland.

For those of us less awash with cash, Ambrose supplies the ever reliable Taras brand of red and white from Australia at a favourable Bt399, and Hardy's Stamp collection blends at Bt485 for the holiday promotions.

Probably the most reliable "give the boss a gift" selection at Foodland are wines from Chile's largest producer, San Pedro. Under the brand Gato Negro at Bt630, the '06 cabernet and sauvignon blanc are without flaw, while the 35 South brand at Bt900 for '05 cabernet or '06 chardonnay provides enough complexity to please a critic's palate.

More modestly priced are the Amigo cabernet and sauvignon blanc, both respectable everyday wines at Bt465 each.

For holiday dinners prepared by Foodland call (02) 530 0220 (a three-day notice is required). For wines from Ambrose Wine call (02) 714 2531.