fafaba ferment bar and bottle shop is the latest to join REX KL’s eclectic collection of F&B establishments, serving all things gut-friendly. The bar occupies the lot where Phil’s Pizza used to be (which has since moved to another spot on the same floor), where it beckons with its semi-open layout, framed by orange metalwork fitted with glass.

We’ve heard of white and red wine before, but not orange wine, which is one of the varieties that fafaba offers. N being a wine lover, we had to try it for ourselves.

Orange wine has actually been around for hundreds of years and is technically a form of white wine. The difference is that the white grape skins are not removed and stays in contact with the juice for prolonged periods of time (a process called maceration). This is why it is also called ‘skin contact wine’, and it’s what gives the liquid its beautiful amber hue.

Since we were new to orange wine, our friendly mixologist recommended a few from the large selection on display after asking about our preferences. The wines here have been carefully curated and come from small, independent growers from various regions, where they make the wines in small batches.

We chose two wines to try:

• L’analepse – produced by Les Terres Promises, an independent winery in Provence, France that emphasises organic farming.
• Marc Barriot Clot De L’Origine ‘Le Trouble Fait’ – another French wine, made in the Roussilon region of France. from blending muscat and syrah varietals.

Now, I’m not a wine connoisseur – but what I can say from the perspective of one who does not drink very often is that both have a refreshingly fruity taste – especially the former, where you get hints of something like citrus or apricot. The latter is slightly stronger, sweeter, and more full-bodied. I enjoyed both! I think they would work well paired with seafood, just like white wines. From my limited wine-drinking experience, I’d say orange wines are a great alternative to heavy reds and robust whites – perfect for someone who likes their alcohol ‘light’.

The bottles here are labeled with QR codes, so you can find out more about the different wineries if you’re interested! They also serve red and rose wines, as well as sake.

If you’re a teetotaler, fret not: fafaba has a selection of kombuchas in delicious flavours such as green tea, rose honey, and orange ginger, as well as more unique pairings like apple miso and camomile lime. Or if you prefer a bit of booze, go for the Kombucha cocktails that are infused with gin. There is a selection of desserts and pastries too.

Wines start from RM22 for half glass.

fafaba

REX KL, 80, Jalan Sultan, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. 

Opening hours: 1PM – 10PM (Wed- Fri), 11AM – 11PM (Sat-Sun). Closed Mon – Tues.

Website

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PS2:  All food expenses are out of my own pocket unless otherwise stated. Views here are my own and are based on my personal experience. They are not meant to endorse or disparage businesses in any way.