Uncorked: Darius Allyn MS

Seattleite, Darius Allyn MS, became a Master Sommelier in 2005 after studying for his advanced oenology diploma at UC Davis in 2004. Allyn has over 30 years in hospitality and over the last 10 years, has led CMS courses in Asia as well as continuing to be an examiner for MS level candidates. Allyn recently joined the Hong Kong Jockey Club as its head sommelier and speaks to dbHK about his love of Mexican taquitos and a memorable bottle of 1882 Madeira.

What vintage are you?

1971.

What bottle sparked your love of wine?

1882 d’Oliveiras Verdehlo Madeira.

What would you be as a wine?

Resveratrol.

Where are you happiest?

Anywhere with my spouse, Anty & playing music.

What’s your greatest vice?

That’s difficult to answer, so I’ll go with traditional Mexican taquitos.

Best advice you ever received?

There’s no substitution for time and experience. Carpe Diem and live within, enjoy each moment as much as possible.

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

Wines that are cellared underwater are actually becoming reality and a quality alternative of some lately. However in attempt to answer, I’ll just say whichever one is at the top.

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

One of the best is meeting the top winemakers and the environments that they produce the grapes, moments shared, etc. One of the worst is too many opportunists who complicate the enjoyment of wine through various schemes, nonsensical information and scoring systems.

What’s on your wine bucket list?

One is to go to Madeira – I still have not been.

Who would you invite to your dream dinner party?

Personal favourite musicians who have had a profound positive impact upon my life, and Anty, of course.

Personal satisfaction (Parker points – out of 100)?

Sorry, I cannot condone Parker points so I’ll leave that response unanswered!