Singapore, February 2013 - Spend two minutes with Massimo Zaretti and there is no doubt that this man not only knows his wine, but loves it too.  Hailing from Rome, Italy, Massimo Zaretti already has his fair share of fans and regular guests, many of whom enjoy good banter with him over topics ranging from food and soccer to, of course, wine.  His charming and affable personality stands him in good stead as the new operations manager at mezza9.

Massimo's passion for F&B began when he started working at his father's restaurant at the age of 13, where he developed an appreciation of fine Italian cuisine and the rich wine culture.  At the University of Nevada Las Vegas, his interest in wine soared and he took various wine appreciation courses at institutions such as the Court of Master Sommeliers.  The intensive course saw stints in various parts of the US in which candidates were tested on their knowledge of wine through theory tests and blind-tasting sessions.  At 21, Massimo was accepted into the Court of Master Sommeliers.

Before joining Grand Hyatt Singapore, he had a stint of two years in Bangkok, where he oversaw the day-to-day operations of JOJO, the upscale Italian restaurant and bar.  His expertise was also demonstrated as he created the wine menu to match the fine cuisine showcased.  In the course of his tenure he was able to introduce a range of Italian wine varietals that were new to the local scene and gained popularity with the diners.

"I also see potential for the wine scene in Singapore to further develop, much like in Bangkok and the United States. For instance, French and Australian wines appeal to Singaporeans largely due to their rich history, flavour and characteristics. It would be interesting to introduce wines from other regions such as Italy and South America, which are equally robust and perfect for pairing with a wide variety of cuisine, such as that in mezza9, which promises nine different dining experiences in a single venue. At mezza9, we have an excellent wine selection that incorporates fine Italian wines, such as Tenuta Di Renieri, Mega, Toscan, I.G.T., Italy and Tenuta Dell Ornellaia, Masseto Toscan, Italy." he says.

Of the choice selection of mezza9's signature dishes available, Massimo heartily recommends the 300-day grain-fed prime rib paired with Allegrini, Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico, Veneto, Italy, 2008.

In his leisure time, Massimo enjoys playing soccer, having played in Italy and the United States before finding stronger passion for F&B.  He also sees hope in the local soccer scene here and hopes to see greater investment in the local league through the introduction of better-known international players.

About Grand Hyatt Singapore

Grand Hyatt Singapore, a 662-room hotel, is located on Scotts Road near the start of Orchard Road, the city's commercial and entertainment district. It features warm timber-interior guestrooms and suites, five unique dining concepts and a bar, Damai Spa & Fitness Centre and The Gallery - a dynamic meetings and exhibition space, a first of its kind concept in Singapore. For more information, call (65) 6732-1234 or visit singapore.grand.hyatt.com.

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Contact:

Patricia Yong                                                               

Marketing Communications Manager                           

+65 6416 7016                                                             

patricia.yong@hyatt.com