Bourgogne wines ‘naturally at home’ in Hong Kong

The Bureau Interprofessionnel des Vins de Bourgogne (BIVB) presented a plethora of newly released wine for the Hong Kong market at the “One Day for Bourgogne Wines” tasting this week.

Members of the Hong Kong drinks trade and avid Bourgogne wine enthusiasts assembled at The Park Lane to explore 100 wines from the 2012/2013 vintages that have just hit the Hong Kong market.

Traditionally, Hong Kong has focused on premium Bourgogne, but regional appellations such as Bourgogne Pinot Noir or Bourgogne Haute Côte de Beaune have recently become as much in demand by consumers who are looking for more everyday wines.

François Labet, chairman of BIVB’s marketing and communication commission commented: “Bourgogne’s diversity of appellations and celebrated varietals of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir invite a wealth of food and wine pairings in a country where gastronomy is infinitely varied. Bourgogne wines, with their infinite nuances and delicacy, are naturally at home in Hong Kong.”

Although French wine imports to Hong Kong have slowed and overall revenue from Burgundy has dipped for the first time in 10 years, according to the BIVB, regional appellations and white Mâcon have bucked the trend and increased by 23 and 10.5% respectively.

BIVB said: “This seems linked to the emergence of a new social class of well-off young consumers looking for more accessible, less complex wines in tune with the establishments they frequent: trendy restaurants, pubs, bars etc.”