F1 party now offers twice the fun

FOLLOWING last year's rip-roaring success, this year's F1-inspired Amber Lounge party promises to be bigger and better with two nights of fun over the weekend.

In addition to the mainstay Sunday night after-race party, leading premium cognac brand Hennessey will present another party on Saturday for revelers to soak up the glitz and glamour of the Grand Prix weekend to be held at the JW Marriott in Shanghai.

The grape-based spirit house is a firm favorite among connoisseurs and, as a superb base for mixed drinks and cocktails, should prove to be an exceptional lubricant for one of this year's top social events. A bevy of celebrities is expected to make an appearance, including the "Bossy" UK hip-hop artist, Kelis.

Driving around the technically challenging Shanghai International Circuit is thirsty work, and the elite men behind the wheels of those multi-million-dollar vehicles will no doubt be looking for refreshment. They will not have to look very far, as Sunday night's main event is sponsored by premium lager brand Kronenbourg 1664.

The Alsatian brewery is looking to launch its award-winning thirst quencher in China's mainland this year and sees Amber Lounge as the perfect launch platform.

This is the second Amber Lounge to take place in the city. The brainchild of Sonia Irvine, the original event was first staged in Monaco in 2003. The sister of former Ferrari driver Eddie Irvine was looking to establish an exclusive party where drivers and celebrities could unwind and be themselves.

Last year's soiree saw 800 punters rub shoulders with 18 drivers, including Kimi Raikkonen, Rubens Barrichello, David Coulthard and Mark Webber. Outgoing speed legend Michael Schumacher was also present at the bash, and was said to be among the last to leave, while his teammate Felipe Massa made a podium finish on the dance floor.

If Amber Lounge 2006 was anything to go by, the lucky partygoers who will attend either Saturday or Sunday's event are in for a treat. More than 1,000 bottles of champagne, 400 bottles of vodka and 300 bottles of whisky are polished off during such an event, and passes enable guests to sink into a free flow of these drinks from 10:30pm to 5am.

With such illustrious company, the alcohol is only one of the reasons to look forward to the party. The cool sounds of legendary St Tropez DJ Jack-E will keep the dance floor grooving till the sun comes up, while US rapper Big Ali, who is known for his collaborations with Bob Sinclair, will also be performing.

Should all this excitement get merrymakers hot under the collar, the outside terrace offers candle-lit lounge beds to enjoy the cool night as Shanghai slips into the season of mist and mellow fruitfulness.

"We are all really excited about the party this year as we have some fabulous partners working with us," said Amber Lounge Shanghai's Chief Representative Claire Moffoot.

"Undoubtedly, this will help to further enhance the parties' glamorous image and ultimately the overall party experience."

The party is basically a party for the jet-setting rich and famous, so tickets do not come cheap. Passes start at 5,000 yuan (US$670) which allows access to all areas and drinks throughout the night.

The drivers are unlikely to be standing around all evening, and a limited number of tables will be made available. A Moet & Chandon Classic table for eight is 40,000 yuan, while the best locations in the club will be at the Dom Perignon VVIP tables costing 76,000 yuan which serves the much sought after vintage champagne.

Booking a table ensures direct access to the venue, and a personal hostess to attend to guests all evening.

Anyone looking to get in on the action can contact Claire Moffoot at 13761089205.

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