![[PR] PR_Ascott and Vimut Hospital_2024](https://www.traveldailynews.asia/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/PR-PR_Ascott-and-Vimut-Hospital_2024-400x265.jpg)
At Blue Elephant’s Cooking School & Restaurant, meet Khun Tong, the passionate sommelier who artfully pairs wines with dishes, creating a culinary journey through terroirs and traditions.
For episode 20 of Trends, David Barrett headed over to the Blue Elephant Cooking School & Restaurant on Sathorn Road and met with a maestro who orchestrated the perfect pairing of drinks with dishes. His name is Jirakit Oonjit, but most know him as Khun Tong—the man with a passion for wines.
It all started with an encounter between cheese and wine that ignited Khun Tong’s love affair with the world of wines. Fast forward, and today he holds the coveted position of Manager and Sommelier at Blue Elephant, curating an extensive wine list that resembles a thick novel, each page telling a different tale of terroirs and traditions.
At Blue Elephant, Khun Tong’s commitment to openness of trying new wines transcends borders. French and Italian classics seamlessly coexist with Chinese and Thai wine on his meticulously crafted list. International guests, enticed by the extensive selection, turn to Khun Tong for guidance, as he effortlessly navigates them through the diverse offering of wines.
Khun Tong’s philosophy is simple but profound: understand the guest’s culinary desires, and then curate the perfect wine pairing. Delicate wines dance with subtle dishes, while bold reds stand shoulder to shoulder with robust curries such as the restaurant’s famous signature dish – Massaman Lamb curry. The sommelier’s skill shines particularly bright when it comes to Thai desserts, where he masterfully matches sweet elixirs with the richness of mango and sticky rice.
Surprisingly, the effervescence of Champagne finds a perfect companion in Thai cuisine, complementing stir-fried dishes, seafood, and delicately flavoured Thai creations. For Khun Tong, the art lies not just in pairing, but in creating an experience—a journey through the nuances of taste and culture.
What sets Khun Tong apart is his unwavering dedication to the craft. For him, wine is not just a beverage; it’s a reflection of nature, culture, traditions and the intricate dance between the Earth’s generosity and human endeavour. Tasting wine is akin to delving into the soul of a region, each label a postcard inviting exploration.
Yet, Khun Tong acknowledges a common misstep among patrons—sticking to familiar labels, missing out on the rich tapestry of undiscovered flavours. With a nod to the rise of Chinese wines, he urges guests to broaden their horizons, embracing the evolving landscape of the wine world.
In a world where trends shift like the wind, Khun Tong remains steadfast in his belief in classic and regional pairings. While personal preferences may vary, he emphasizes the enduring allure of tried-and-tested combinations that transcend fleeting fads.
For Khun Tong, the mark of a great sommelier involves three qualities: curiosity, humility, and a deep-seated passion for customer satisfaction. In his eyes, a sommelier is an ambassador bridging the gap between winegrowers and consumers, with the customer’s preferences taking precedence.
As our conversation with Khun Tong unfolds, it’s revealed that his personal favourites are Alsace and Piedmont wines—his go-to choices for special occasions. He notes with satisfaction that wine is becoming a lifestyle statement for the younger generation of Thais, a trend that has found resonance in the vibrant spirit of Bangkok.
In the enigmatic world of wine, Khun Tong stands as well informed sommelier, guiding patrons at Blue Elephant through an odyssey of taste, tradition, and discovery. In his words, “There is no most exquisite pairing; there is only what speaks to you at a particular time.” And, in the realm of Blue Elephant, that conversation is one of elegance, sophistication, and an ever-evolving journey through the kaleidoscope of wine.
David Barrett is a MICE Consultant, Marketing Strategist and digital video advocate. Founder of DBC Group, Member of Institute of Place Management (MIMP) his motto is “Everybody has a story to tell. Let me tell yours.”
David is a long-term resident of Bangkok having lived and worked in the Thai capital for more than 32 years. He is recognised in the Thai tourism and hospitality industry for his passion for promoting Thailand, his love of Thai food, and his creative approach to marketing.
64 years young, David is a Brit in Bangkok. Born in St Helier, UK, he returned to the UK and set up home in Cornwall during the COVID pandemic. With business back as usual, David has returned to Thailand. He’s a man on a mission to interview leaders and trend-setters in business, sustainability, the arts and entertainment. You can watch his weekly conversations on Trends YouTube channel.
