Does It Make Sense For Malaysians Who Don T Drink To Be A Wine Collector Connoisseur

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THIS seems to be a valid question for intellectual debate in the Malaysian context at least after the recent discovery of a luxury wine cellar in the residence of a “Klang Valley expressway concessionaire Tan Sri” by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has set tongues wagging.
The cellar boasting wine collection estimated at RM3 mil was found on the ground floor of a luxury condominium which also has a private alcohol bar.
More broadly, the wine cellar and a horse were discovered in a posh condominium following the raid at one of six properties belonging to the said Tan Sri who is being investigated in connection with a case of false claims and misuse of sukuk bond funds for a highway construction project in the Klang Valley.

This is where one commenter in the know further exposed that the Tan Sri “has a bar and Musolla in the same premises” with another confirming that claim as he had “previously worked with the firm that built his and his children’s houses in BTS (Bandar Tasik Selatan)”.

Interestingly. reputable wine information site, Wine Enthusiast, did reveal that it is possible for one to be a wine connoisseur who does not consumer alcohol.
While the traditional stereotype of a sommelier (experts in wine, including its production, tasting, history, and the art of food and wine pairing) involves tasting and enjoying wine, there are individuals who excel in wine knowledge and appreciation without having to drink wine.
This is given that a wine connoisseur’s expertise lies in understanding the nuances of different wines, their production, flavours and aromas – not just the pleasure of drinking them.
To be doubly sure of the said Tan Sri’s identity, one commenter approached Grok (@grok) – the AI chatbot developed by Elon Musk’s AI outfit xAI – for assistance,
However, @grok was unable to reveal the identity pending an on-going investigation.

“The MACC has seized assets worth RM32 mil, including a RM3 mil liquor collection, luxury watches, handbags, jewellery, luxury vehicles and a luxury residential unit,” shared the AI chatbot.
“The legal process is still on-going with no formal charges having been laid so far.”
Even as the authorities or even @grok are tight-lipped about the said Tan Sri’s identity, it seems that most netizens are already aware of his identity judging from the numerous clues and hunches that are being strewn around the comment section.
Suffice to say, these two comments struck the chord with regard to the question posed on the headline.

 - Focus Malaysia

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