Uncorked: Alison Christ

Certified sommelier, Alison Christ is from New York and a staunch advocate for natural wines in Hong Kong. Last year she opened one of Hong Kong’s most popular bars, MyHouse with fellow natural wine enthusiast, Karim Hadjaj. Christ sits down with dbHK and speaks about being happiest on a junk in Hong Kong and having a dangerous addiction to Comté.

What vintage are you?

Unfortunately a terrible year for wine – no Port declared no Champagne so nothing good. However my sister was born in 1985 – which was epic so I enjoy collecting 85s and sharing them with her.

What bottle sparked your love of wine?

1985 William Hill Cabernet Sauvignon Napa (When William was the winemaker)

What would you be as a wine?

Nebbiolo. The king! Only gets better with age.

Where are you happiest?

On a junk in Hong Kong with a plastic cup of rosé

What’s your greatest vice?

Comté. Because a day without Comté isn’t worth living. 18, 24 or 40 months, I’m not picky.

Best advice you ever got?

Don’t be defensive. If someone offers you constructive criticism take it as knowledge to improve yourself.

Most overused word in the wine world?

Sweet when you really mean fruity.

Your cellar’s underwater, which bottle would you dive in and save?

2009 Cantina Del Piro Ovello Barbaresco Piedmont (I helped make this wine!)

What’s the best and worst thing about the wine business?

The best: too much wine. The worst: too much wine

What’s on your wine bucket list?

To get my hands on as much Barolo, Barbaresco, and Brunello from the late 90s as possible.

Who would you invite to your dream dinner party?

All my best friends and family, James Murphy from LCD Sound System and Daft Punk.

Personal satisfaction (Parker points – out of 100)

98 points, no one’s perfect!

Which wine would you like served at your funeral?

Magnums of Domaine Lucci – Pinot Noir “Noir de Florette” Basket Range from Adelaide Hills in Australia.