Hong Kong International Wine & Spirits Fair Set to Open Next Month
Hong Kong International Wine & Spirits Fair Set to Open Next Month
Next month, Hong Kong will play host to the highly anticipated International Wine & Spirits Fair, a global showcase aimed at leveraging the city’s newly reduced liquor duty rates. This initiative, announced in last week’s Policy Address, is designed to invigorate the liquor trade and bolster the growth of high-value industries.
Sophia Chong, Deputy Executive Director of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), expressed enthusiasm for this year’s event, stating, “As consumers’ appreciation for wines becomes increasingly sophisticated and diverse, this year’s fair will present an expansive selection of wines and spirits from around the world. We aim to enhance the tasting experience while promoting wine knowledge through a series of special events.” With a thriving market for Chinese baijiu and wine, the fair will see participation from over 600 exhibitors, marking a 60% increase in representation from Mainland China compared to last year.
A Global Gathering of Exhibitors
The fair will bring together exhibitors from 20 countries and regions, including local representatives from Hong Kong and Mainland China, as well as international participants from Belarus, the Czech Republic, France, Germany, and beyond. Notably, South Africa will make its debut at the fair, adding to the diverse array of global offerings.
Among the featured beverages, attendees can expect a rich selection including old-world and new-world wines, Japanese sake, and a variety of spirits such as Chinese baijiu and Japanese shochu. Highlights will include:
- Azienda Agricola Sciara 760 Metri Etna Rosso: A debut wine from Stef Yim, Hong Kong’s first winemaker on Mount Etna, known for its unique volcanic attributes.
- Zhenjiu: A premium Chinese baijiu from Guizhou, celebrated for its complex spice layers.
- Clonakilty Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey: An award-winning whiskey with notes of vanilla and dark chocolate.
- Wabi Sabi Gin: Crafted by pioneering female entrepreneur Wakae, featuring a blend of 13 botanicals.
- Additionally, the fair will include a “Friends of Wine” zone, spotlighting gourmet foods curated to complement the showcased beverages, along with educational initiatives from organizations like the Asia Wine Service & Education Centre.
Exploring Market Trends and Innovations
The fair promises a series of conferences, tasting sessions, and seminars led by distinguished Masters of Wine and sommeliers. Notable events will feature the inaugural Sommelier's Picks, showcasing selections from renowned sommeliers, and a conference addressing trends among Generation Z and millennials, hosted by Master of Wine Debra Meiburg.
Participants can also look forward to the Cathay Hong Kong International Wine and Spirit Competition and the Washu Awards. On the final day, the Wine Fiesta Zone will open to the public, offering opportunities to sample and purchase a variety of wines and spirits.
Tickets for the fair are priced at HK$200, with discounted tickets available at HK$99 starting October 23. The event welcomes both industry buyers and the general public aged 18 and above.
In addition to tastings, the Public Day will feature a seminar on sparkling wines and insights from Stef Yim on his remarkable winemaking journey. Attendees can also enjoy a special cocktail crafted by representatives from Lan Kwai Fong, titled “HK & Suit,” blending passion fruit with Japanese Akori Gin.
As Hong Kong positions itself as a regional hub for wine and spirits, the International Wine & Spirits Fair stands as a testament to the city’s vibrant and evolving beverage landscape.
HKTDC Hong Kong International Wine & Spirits Fair - Physical Fair
- Thu, 07 Nov 2024 - Sat, 09 Nov 2024
- Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre
1 Expo Drive, Wan Chai, Hong Kong (Harbour Road Entrance
HKTDC Hong Kong International Wine & Spirits Fair - Click2Match (Online)
- Thu, 31 Oct 2024 - Sat, 16 Nov 2024