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If CQ French Brasserie feels familiar, that’s because… it is. And that’s very much a good thing. The much-loved French bistro has just opened a new location in Barsha Heights at the Grand Millennium Hotel, bringing with it all the things that made its JLT outpost such a favourite — comforting French food, a buzzing atmosphere, great-value deals, and a wine list that doesn’t make you wince when the bill arrives. You might also recognise CQ as the evolution of Couqley, a brand

Life in the UAE moves fast. One week we’re in a far-off city for work, the next we’re barefoot somewhere tropical, and before we know it we’re back home. We’re used to movement here — and we thrive on it. But fine wine does not. One of the things we teach at tastings is that great bottles are alive. They grow older. They evolve while resting. Over time, they develop the complex, layered characters that can only be achieved with patience. They mature beautifully in the right e

St. Patrick’s Day is one of the few celebrations of a single nation that truly transcends borders. On March 17, everywhere in the world that the Irish diaspora has touched turns green — and it’s also the perfect moment to raise a glass to Ireland’s remarkable drinks culture. At Dubai Duty Free, travellers can explore an impressive range of over 50 Irish products available across whiskey, gin, liqueurs, and beer. While the culture of enjoying a drink or two is deeply ingrained

The Tasting Class has had a front row seat to how the alcohol industry in the UAE operates for over a decade. However, we only recently got a front-row seat to see its first “port of call” in the UAE—pun intended. I’ve spent years explaining to guests at tastings why provenance and storage in restaurants — and how to care for your wines at home — matter. But this was the first time I was properly stepping behind the scenes to see how transportation, importation, and warehouse

Love cheese? Enjoy wine? Even better—love both? Join us for an indulgent evening where delicious meets educational. In this Wine & Cheese pairing Masterclass, we’ll uncover why some pairings sing in harmony while others fall flat. It’s a flavour-packed crash course designed to help you get more joy from every bite and sip. Why Pair Wine and Cheese? Every taste transforms your palate—just think of the magic of cookies and milk… or the horror of orange juice after toothpaste. P

As we cheer on our current WSET Level 3 students heading into their exams, it’s the perfect time to share some of our top tips for success in this challenging and rewarding qualification. It’s also the perfect moment to announce that enrolment is now open for our next WSET Level 3 course , running on the following Sundays: 11, 18 & 25 January, 8, 15 & 22 February 2026 This six-day advanced course is ideal for anyone serious about their wine journey, whether you’re in the

This November, Dubai Duty Free delivers a little taste of France — just in time for Beaujolais Day, that joyful celebration marking the end of the grape harvest in France. We’re talking about three delicious wines that capture the spirit of French winemaking: two from Burgundy’s iconic Maison Louis Jadot, and a beautifully refreshing rosé from Provence. Whether you’re a frequent traveller or simply love discovering new wines, this month’s selection has something to make you