db Asia: June in pictures

June brought with it a range of events showcasing the best wines from regions from China to Chile, plus a new menu launch featuring, of all things, a 3D-printed baseball.

The ‘Wonder with ASC’ Roadshow

The revival of China’s on-premise and the corporate and private consumption market has paved the way for a series of events by ASC Fine Wines. Recently, the wine importer and distributor in China hosted the ‘Wonder with ASC’ on-premise and direct sales roadshow in Beijing, Guangzhou, and Shanghai.

ASC presented over 150 exceptional wines from renowned regions across the globe. This included an impressive range of Chinese wines brands, such as Kanaan Winery and Longyu from Ningxia, and Domaine Muxin from Shangri-la, Yunnan Province. Newly relaunched Australian brands were also on show following the recent lifting of the punitive import tariff. Each event drew over 300 guests.

“The wine selection in this roadshow is very much on-premise and direct sales driven and has been market-tested, forming powerful brand influence,” said Makoto Nagae, CEO of ASC Fine Wines. “It is our desire that with our brilliant wine products that embody our focus on quality and diversity, we will create rich experiences for people and inspire delightful moments with our wines.”

Viña Concha y Toro launches Jewels of the New World

Chilean wine producer Concha y Toro has launched its new concept which will define the future of its fine wine strategy in Asia and the Middle East through an immersive experience held in Singapore in May. In June, the producer introduced its Jewels of the New World to other markets across Asia with an event in Japan.

Tokyo Confidential launches its Second Base Menu

Tokyo Confidential has launched its new cocktail menu: Second Base, an ode to the team’s love of baseball and its community spirit complete with collectable cards, special edition jersey-style uniforms and baseball puns for days. While most people may think of baseball as a traditional American pastime, the sport is a big part of culture in Asia, especially Japan, and one of Tokyo Confidential’s bartenders Kouki Taguchi even played semi-professionally before pursuing a career in bars.

Each of the drinks is a nod to baseball terminology or traditions. Highlights include the highball-style Katsuo Isono, with gin, myoga, bonito, ume, lychee, agricole rum and ponzu.Served in a 3D printed baseball carried to the table in a baseball glove, the Sayonara Mr. Spalding features Bourbon, sweet vermouth, strawberry mistelle, Campari and habanero. The savory Glizztini recreates the quintessential game day hot dog in drink form, with gin, mugi shochu, tomato, mezcal, onion brine and MSG. Garnished with red and yellow cacao butter to mimic the typical ketchup and mustard accoutrements, the martini-style drink is pure nostalgia in a glass served in true TC style.