Wolf Blass cricket ambassador Stuart MacGill and celebrated chef Luke Mangan launched the Wolf Blass cricket program today in Sydney with an Aussie v India BBQ ‘Cook Off’.
Stuart MacGill, representing the Aussies and Luke Mangan, representing the tourists cooked up a storm on the barbie, while MacGill’s Australian team mates Mitchell Johnson, Nathan Bracken and Phil Jaques provided special comments and had the final say on whose meal deserved the man of the match honours.
Luke Mangan won the toss and served up a classic Indian dish Garam Marsala Chicken, a perfect match with a glass of Wolf Blass Gold Label Riesling. MacGill put his own spin on throwing another a shrimp on the barbie dressing up Yamba prawns with simple, fresh flavours and expertly pairing them with a glass of Wolf Blass Gold Label Sauvignon Blanc.
While agreeing that it is hard to beat a traditional Aussie BBQ, the consensus from the players was that the cook off had inspired them to spice up their cooking this summer with some culinary influences from their rivals.
MacGill, well known for his appreciation of a fine drop, provided some tips on selecting a wine to enjoy with Indian food.
“White wines, particularly aromatic varieties, such as Riesling and Sauvignon Blanc, are a great match with Indian food. Their freshness and high acid levels provide a good contrast and balance to the spiciness of Indian cuisine,” said MacGill.
Wolf Blass also previewed its new release 2007 white wines at the event. Guests were able to taste a selection of 2007 Wolf Blass Gold and Yellow Label whites, including the latest addition to the team, the Yellow Label Moscato.
This is the second year of the successful partnership between MacGill and Wolf Blass and comes as MacGill is on the verge of becoming only the 13th Australian bowler to reach the significant 200 wicket milestone (he is currently on 198). With a strike rate of 51.57, MacGill has the greatest strike rate of any modern leg spin bowler. This achievement secures his place as one of Australia’s greatest bowlers of any era.
As part of their 2007/08 cricket program Wolf Blass is running a “First Class” national promotion in over 3000 liquor retailers. A series of 30 second promotional TVCs featuring Stuart MacGill and team mates Mike Hussey and Brad Hodge will go to air from 4 November. The ads feature the trio dressed in tuxedos reminiscing about their own ‘First Class’ cricket moments over a glass of Wolf Blass. The “First Class” promotion offers consumers the chance to win a range of “First Class cricket and lifestyle” experiences.
Wolf Blass is the official wine of the Australian Cricket Team and has sponsored the team since 2001.
Media Release - Tuesday 30th October 2007
