The grand opening of Project Vino Reserve was a perfect blend of fine wine and gourmet dining that cultivated a deeper appreciation for local wine culture.
Project Vino Reserve (PVR) celebrated its grand opening at its striking new venue at the Proscenium Retail Row in Rockwell, Makati City. Organized by PVR owners Steven Ticzon and Rob Martin with Monique Madsen and event host Ferdie Salvador, the event drew a crowd of hundreds who relished in delectable wine pairings and appetizers, all set to the backdrop of a live DJ and vibrant music.
It was a beautiful opening as an event like this will play a crucial role in reigniting enthusiasm for wine culture in restaurant environments, tailored to the preferences of a diverse audience. It is an effort to cultivate a deeper appreciation for wine in the local scene.
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PVR was born out of Ticzon and Martin’s vision to cater to their discerning friends within the upscale community. They actually started a wine delivery business during the pandemic which grew bigger and bigger until they opened Project Vino in Poblacion and then Alabang. PVR is their first that will be serving meals to pair with their wines. Upon entering, guests are greeted by a beautifully crafted, glass-enclosed wine room that is temperature-controlled. The place has high ceilings and a mezzanine lined with additional shelving for an impressive selection of wines. The architectural elegance of the space, enhanced by rich wooden tones, complements the ambience projected by their assortment of fine wines. The mezzanine, aside from providing additional storage, also housed the DJ setup for the evening’s entertainment.
“Our collection mirrors our personal preferences,” Ticzon shared, underscoring the care with which each bottle was selected from renowned wine expos worldwide. The assortment proudly includes a range of both old-world and new-world wines, spanning reds, whites, and sparkling, ensuring an exceptional variety for their guests. They even have “lockers” for regular guests to keep their bottles of wine.
Food plays an instrumental role in the PVR experience. Ticzon, originally from the Philippines, embarked on his wine journey as a college student in the United States, gradually refining his palate through encounters with top-tier winemakers globally. “At first, I believed serving wine was sufficient,” he reminisced. Understanding the Filipino drinking culture’s profound connection to food, he brought chefs RJ Ramos and Alphonse Sotero on board to craft a continental menu that perfectly complements their wine offerings. “It’s about getting the classics right,” Ticzon asserts. Ramos and Sotero are also behind the kitchens of Lampara and Papillon.
As more Filipinos seek out dining experiences that linger on the palate and in memory, Project Vino Reserve stands as a testament to the harmonious blend of fine wines and fine cuisine, ensuring that every visit is not just a night out, but also a memorable journey into the world of wine and gastronomy.
Project Vino Reserve is located on the Ground Floor of The Proscenium Retail Row, Rockwell Drive, Makati City. Call (0936) 9042652 for inquiries or reservations.
Photos courtesy of Project Vino Reserve.
