Did you know that your seafood platter could taste even better when paired with water that contains natural salts? That surprising idea set the tone for an insightful session at SP Jain Global, where both MGLuxM and HBL students explored the hidden world of water tasting at a workshop held with VEEN Waters.
Did you know that your seafood platter could taste even better when paired with water that contains natural salts? That surprising idea set the tone for an insightful session at SP Jain Global, where both MGLuxM and HBL students explored the hidden world of water tasting at a workshop held with VEEN Waters.
The masterclass was led by Ganesh Iyer, India’s only certified Water Sommelier, who showed students that water can be experienced much like wine, with its own taste, texture, and personality.
Water is more than just water
Mr. Iyer explained that water has a “terroir,” meaning its taste is shaped by where it comes from and how it travels through the earth. As water flows through natural rocks and minerals, it picks up unique characteristics that affect its flavour and mouthfeel.
For students, this was a big shift in thinking. Something so familiar suddenly felt complex, layered, and full of possibility.
Pairing food with the right water
One of the most engaging parts of the session was learning about food and water pairings. If wine and cheese are a natural match, Mr. Iyer asked, why shouldn’t water be paired just as thoughtfully with food?
He shared how certain mineral-rich waters can enhance the taste of seafood, while others work better with heavier dishes. Choosing the right water, he explained, can quietly elevate a meal without overpowering it.
Understanding TDS and taste
Students were also introduced to Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), a measure of the minerals present in water. Different TDS levels influence how water tastes, feels, and complements food.
This helped MGLuxM and HBL students see how science and sensory experience come together, especially in luxury dining and hospitality settings.
A lesson in luxury and experience design
For both student groups, the session went beyond tasting water. It highlighted how luxury is often about small details, smart choices, and thoughtful storytelling. Even an everyday product like water can become a premium experience when positioned the right way.
By the end of the masterclass, students walked away with a fresh perspective — proof that in hospitality and luxury, it’s often the simplest elements that leave the strongest impression.
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