Derek Li joins Duddell’s as chief sommelier

Hong Kong-born sommelier Derek Li has recently left Swire Group’s Mr. & Mrs. Fox to join two Michelin-starred Cantonese restaurant Duddell’s as its chief sommelier, dbHK has learned.

The talented and passionate wine professional is expected to bring “a deep understanding of global wine trends, professional knowledge, and over ten years of hospitality experience with him” to the award-winning restaurant.

“Expect gems from Greece, Hungry and China, which will go surprisingly well with Cantonese cuisine. Skin contact wines and natural wines will also be served,” said the sommelier, who has obtained a WSET diploma and the advanced level of Court of Master Sommelier.

A talented and passionate wine prefessional, Li was recognised as the ‘Best Sommelier in Greater China’ in 2015 by Sopexa Hong Kong. Having worked for Michelin-starred L’Altro where his team was awarded ‘Best Listing of Italian Wines’ by China’s Wine List of The Year Awards 2015, Li later joined Mr. & Mrs. Fox as its sommelier.

Li’s appointment came at a time when the two Michelin-starred restaurant went through a new round of changes including its personnel and menu.

Chef Fung Man-Ip was appointed as its new executive Chinese chef earlier and has revamped its menu with a “classic-meets-contemporary” approach, as shown in a few of his signature dishes including the shrimp dumpling, almond cream with white egg, sautéed lobster with salted egg yolk and his traditional Cantonese broth.

“Hong Kong is a fast-paced city where people favour the latest trend and forget traditions,” said chef Fung. “While I will always honour these traditions, I try to elevate classic Cantonese dishes with modern touches to introduce a sense of refinement. At Duddell’s, we want to celebrate Hong Kong’s traditional flavours while also evoking the modern, sophisticated spirit that defines our city.”

The restaurant on Duddell’s Street in Central was given two Michelin stars in 2017 Michelin Guide Hong Kong Macau. The restaurant guide publisher also recently purchased a 40% stake in Robert Parker’s The Wine Advocate.