Global sips await at the Hong Kong International Wine & Spirits Fair
- The fair brings together global producers, showcasing innovative wines and spirits, fostering industry connections and solidifying Hong Kong’s role as a key hub for wine and spirits, boosted by reduced liquor duties
[The content of this article has been produced by our advertising partner.]
Hong Kong’s International Wine & Spirits Fair returns this November, bringing a world of flavours and craftsmanship to the city’s wine enthusiasts and trade professionals alike.
As the city’s government has recently announced a reduction in liquor duty, the fair arrives at an exciting moment for the industry, creating opportunities for growth and exploration.
With over 600 exhibitors from 20 countries and regions, the event will serve as a gathering point for wine lovers, industry insiders and curious visitors who want to delve into the latest trends and products from across the globe.
“The fair not only caters to a growing appreciation of wines in the region but also capitalises on the recent tax reductions to attract buyers and traders from across the world,” said Sophia Chong, Deputy Executive Director of the HKTDC.
“Mainland China’s participation, for instance, is up 60% compared to the previous year, highlighting the growing interest in the city’s wine trade,” she added.
Crafted by Stef Yim, a Hong Kong-born winemaker who set up a vineyard on the volcanic slopes of Mount Etna in Sicily, this wine benefits from the unique combination of volcanic soil and high-altitude conditions.
The result is a red wine with a rich, aromatic profile, showcasing the complexity of the terrain from which it originates. The balance of red fruit and herbaceous notes make it a compelling choice for those who appreciate wines with a deep connection to their environment.
Meanwhile, from the heart of Mainland China comes Zhenjiu Zhen 30 (booth: 3D-C15), a baijiu from Guizhou province that represents the height of traditional sauce aroma-style spirits.
Baijiu has been gaining attention globally, and Zhenjiu Zhen 30 is renowned for its intricate layers of flavour, with a rich fermented aroma and lingering spice that leaves a lasting impression. As the interest in Chinese spirits continues to grow, this is one to watch for those eager to explore new taste experiences.
Japan is also well-represented at the fair, with Wabi Sabi Gin (booth: 3D-A09A) offering a fresh take on craft gin. Created by Wakae, one of Japan’s pioneering female spirit entrepreneurs, this gin incorporates 13 botanicals, including citrus herbs and roses from Japan’s Shimane Prefecture.
The resulting flavours are delicate yet complex, with a long, refreshing finish that has already won it fans in the UK, where it was named Craft Gin of the Month earlier this year. For gin enthusiasts, this product is a beautiful example of Japan’s meticulous approach to flavour.
More than just a showcase for great drinks, the Hong Kong International Wine & Spirits Fair is a place where industry professionals gather to share insights, explore new markets and discuss the future of the industry.
A prime opportunity for professional networking is the newly introduced ‘Sommeliers’ Picks’, which will feature esteemed sommeliers such as Arnaud Bardary MS, Carlito Chiu, and Reeze Choi, the second runner-up of the ASI Best Sommelier of the World Contest 2023.
Each sommelier will share their favourite wines, offering visitors the chance to learn directly from experts about pairing and selecting wines that elevate the drinking experience.
Educational seminars will also be on offer, with Master of Wine Debra Meiburg leading discussions on the drinking preferences of Generation Z and millennials.
Jennifer Docherty, the first ethnically Chinese and Mandarin-speaking Master of Wine, will provide an expert’s view on blind tasting, while renowned wine critic Lau Chi Sun will tackle hot topics, such as the outlook for Hong Kong’s spirits market and how taxation impacts the industry.
These sessions offer invaluable insights for anyone working in the wine and spirits business, as well as consumers looking to deepen their understanding.
Public Day: a celebration of flavour
For members of the public, the final day of the fair provides an opportunity to experience all these offerings up close. The Wine Fiesta Zone will open to ticket holders, allowing them to sample and purchase a range of wines and spirits, with interactive activities to enhance their tasting experience.
Among the highlights of Public Day is a seminar on sparkling wines, hosted by Debra Meiburg, who will guide participants through the finer points of champagne and prosecco.
Stef Yim, the winemaker behind Azienda Agricola Sciara 760 Metri Etna Rosso, will also take to the stage to share the story of his journey from Hong Kong to Sicily and the unique challenges of making wine on a volcano. His talk offers a rare glimpse into the personal passion that fuels the global wine industry.
Cocktail lovers won’t be left out either. The Hong Kong International Mixology Showdown will see top bartenders from across the Greater Bay Area competing to create the ultimate cocktail.
For those eager to sample cutting-edge creations, the fair’s collaboration with Lan Kwai Fong will feature a special cocktail, the ‘HK & Suit’, blending passion fruit with Japanese Akori Gin. It’s a playful tribute to the city’s love for bold, inventive drinks.
The Wine Fiesta public ticket holders are also in for some exclusive perks, including a complimentary Lucaris crystal wine glass and discounts on Hong Kong Airlines tickets on a first-come, first-served basis. With specially-priced tickets priced at HK$99 via designated ticketing channels (Original price HK$200), it’s an accessible way for wine lovers to indulge in their passion while gaining insights from the industry’s best.
A broader perspective
As the Wine & Spirits Fair opens, it’s not just a showcase of fine drinks but a glimpse into the evolving world of wine. From the rise of Chinese spirits like baijiu to the innovative work of producers like Stef Yim, the fair highlights how tradition and innovation are blending.
This year’s event reinforces Hong Kong’s growing role in the global wine trade, buoyed by tax cuts and increased interest from Mainland China, positioning the city as a key regional hub.
Whether you're a connoisseur, industry insider or just curious, the 16th HKTDC Wine & Spirits Fair offers a unique chance to explore the world of wine.
Raise a glass to its vibrant future.
Hong Kong International Wine & Spirits Fair: https://www.hktdc.com/event/hkwinefair/en
Hong Kong Wine & Spirits Fair: https://bit.ly/48g25Qh
Wine Fiesta: https://www.hktdc.com/event/hkwinefair/en/public-day