Raise your glass: Hong Kong’s 16th International Wine & Spirits Fair beckons connoisseurs

From 7 to 9 November 2024, the Hong Kong International Wine & Spirits Fair makes its much-anticipated return. Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre will once again transform into a playground for the world’s wine and spirits enthusiasts, as the fair promises an exceptional showcase with more than 600 exhibitors from over 20 countries and regions.

This year’s Wine & Spirits Fair comes as Hong Kong strengthens its position as a key trading hub in Asia. With spirits exports surging by over 48% in value in 2023 and steady growth into 2024, the reduced liquor duty rate, announced as part of the city’s economic revitalisation efforts, is poised to create further momentum and reaffirm Hong Kong’s role as a trading hub for fine wines and spirits.

A diverse global tasting experience

Expect a global medley of old world and new world wines, artisanal spirits, and emerging trends in the beverage sphere. Highlights include the debut of Azienda Agricola Sciara’s 760 Metri Etna Rosso, a wine nurtured from Sicily’s volcanic soils by Hong Kong’s pioneering winemaker, Stef Yim. Chinese spirits, too, take centre stage: Guizhou’s revered Zhenjiu, known for its layered spice and fermented bean profile, will be showcased alongside Shanxi’s light-aroma Fenjiu, embodying centuries of baijiu craftsmanship.

For the spirits enthusiast, varieties of vodka, brandy, and whiskey will be showcased, with standout contributions from the Ireland and Japan pavilions. Expect award-winning entrants like Clonakilty Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey, with its delicate notes of salted caramel and dark chocolate, and Japan’s Ukishiro Sakitama Kodaishu, a 20-year aged sake that has earned 22 gold accolades to date. From vibrant Wabi Sabi Gin, boasting 13 Japanese botanicals, to Vinette Premium Canned Wines’ innovative twist on premium wines, there is no shortage of novel and refined options.

First time in Wine & Spirits Fair: Sommelier’s Picks

Debuting this year is the Sommelier’s Picks — a curation by three esteemed sommeliers: Arnaud Bardary MS, Carlito Chiu, and Reeze Choi, who was recently honoured as second runner-up in the ASI Best Sommelier of the World Contest 2023. Their expert selections, shared through guided tastings and discussions, are expected to draw both industry insiders and wine lovers eager for these insights into top-tier selections.

In addition, Master of Wine Debra Meiburg will host a conference delving into Gen Z and millennial drinking challenges and trends—a must-attend for beverage businesses keen on understanding market trajectories. Jennifer Docherty, an expert in blind tasting and the first ethnically Chinese Master of Wine to speak Mandarin fluently, will lead a session on deciphering fine wines.

Comprehensive industry activations

More than just an exhibition, the fair is packed with opportunities to learn and network. Seminars, tasting workshops, and live demos hosted by globally acclaimed wine critics and educators will cover emerging trends in the wine and spirits industry. The Cathay Hong Kong International Wine and Spirit Competition, Washu Awards 2024, and Hong Kong Best Spirits Awards will highlight excellence and innovation within the field, while attendees will also enjoy the energetic atmosphere of the Hong Kong International Mixology Showdown 2024. The Friends of Wine section will merge the worlds of fine food and beverages, with exhibitors like the Asia Wine Service & Education Centre (AWSEC) showcasing their commitment to holistic industry development.

9 Nov: Public Day, a taster’s paradise

Public ticket holders are in for a treat on 9 November, which invites enthusiasts to sample exclusive wines and spirits at the Wine Fiesta Zone. Seminars and activities, including an illuminating session on sparkling wines by Debra Meiburg and the unique narrative of Stef Yim’s winemaking journey, will add layers of intrigue to the tasting experience. Cocktail aficionados will relish the HKTDC x LKF Cocktail Festival, spotlighting bespoke creations like the “HK & Suit,” crafted with Akori Gin and tropical passion fruit.

For more information on Hong Kong International Wine & Spirits Fair, visit: https://www.hktdc.com/event/hkwinefair/en

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Text by: Stephanie Zheng