A party of members of the Bailliage of United Arab Emirates (UAE) embarked on an extraordinary culinary and wine adventure by participating in the Ordre Mondial des Gourmets Dégustateurs (OMGD) International event in Türkiye.

This gastronomic extravaganza was a memorable experience, filled with wine tastings, gourmet dining, and cultural exploration. Here's a glimpse of the remarkable journey:

Day 1 - “A Grand Welcome”: UAE members arrived in Türkiye straight into an exquisite wine tasting event featuring Türkiye wineries. Sophisticated business dress proudly adorned with Chaîne and OMGD ribbons was the code for the welcome dinner at the elegant Swissôtel Grand Efes.

Day 2 - “Exploring Turkish Wine Culture”: the Urla Wine Route to explore best of Türkiye vineyards and tasting wines with a unique street food lunch. Wine tastings continued through the afternoon. Dinner at OD Urla with ribbons symbolizing our passion for culinary excellence.

Day 3 - “A Day of Wine and Innovation”: Pendore Winery for tastings: Mey Alasehir Premises, known as the 1st Raki Innovation Center for lunch; Nif Winery then concluding at Isabey with a cocktail and a wine makers' dinner with Chaîne and OMGD spirit maintained.

Day 4 - “Culture and Indulgence”: a blend of culture and leisure with an olive oil tasting at Kostem Museum, a unique opportunity to appreciate the art of olive oil production.

In the evening, the Induction Ceremony was in the Celsus Library in Ephesus and culminated in a lavish Gala Dinner at the Ephesus Arcadia Street, where the dress code was elegantly formal - black tie for the gentlemen and evening dresses for the ladies, all adorned with Chaîne and OMGD ribbons.

Day 5 - “A Flavourful Farewell”: brunch featured a Turkish cheese tasting. Everyone’s Chaîne and OMGD ribbons served as a reminder of the unforgettable experiences shared during this culinary adventure.

The Bailliage of UAE's participation in this OMGD International event in Türkiye was a true celebration of gastronomy and culture, fostering a spirit of camaraderie and culinary excellence. As we bade farewell to Türkiye, memories created during this exceptional journey will continue to inspire our passion for the culinary arts.

Frederik Haentjens
Chargé de Presse
Bailliage of United Arab Emirates