Vinexpo Asia 2023 kicks off at the iconic Marina Bay Sands Expo and Convention Centre on Singapore's waterfront with a jam-packed line-up of masterclasses, conferences and tastings.
Day one highlights included a VIP Reception for this year's country of Honour, the USA, where Christopher Beros, Director for Greater China and Southeast Asia for California Wines, welcomed guests at the USA Pavillion and spoke about current trends and the importance of returning to in-person trade shows.
Among the sipping and swigging on day two of the three-event world-class sommeliers discussed the future of wine lists, Richard Hemming MW spoke on the path to becoming a Master of Wine, Gambero Rossi's Tre Bicchieri showcased the best of Italian wines, and the Margaret River River Wine Association presented a masterclass on the regions Cabernet Sauvignons.
Having been on hiatus for four years due to COVID-19, this year marks the first time the event has been held in Singapore, attracting an estimated 1,000 producers from 35 counties and an estimated 8,000 guests from around the world.
Temporarily leaving its base in Hong Kong, the annual expo will now alternate between the two Asian cities, which Vinexposium, Vinexpo's organisers, said is evidence of their commitment to Asia.
Rodolphe Lameyse, CEO of Vinexposium, described the event as a "truly unique business opportunity" allowing wine professionals to "connect, share and enjoy a mutually enriching experience."
With just shy of 80 exhibitors, a strong Australian showing this year was highlighted by an afternoon masterclass hosted by Paul McArdle, CEO of Overstory, and Jennifer Docherty MW, Head of Buying and Education at Summergate Fine Wines, Greater China, entitled Cabernet is King - Why this Red Reigns Supreme in Margaret River.
With an impressive representation in Australia's highest categorisation, the Margaret River region is a "small but premium wine region," said McArdle, which produces less than two per cent of Australia's wine crush, yet its unique flavour profile makes it a sought-after variety the world over.
Docherty said the real beauty of a Margaret River Cabernet Sauvignon is its consistency across the board, something she says is always impressive for connoisseurs and everyday wine drinkers alike.
McArdle said the unique Forest Grove ironstone soils play a critical role in the region's acclaimed and complex wine production, along with the temperate climate and strong maritime influence.
Summing up, McArdle said: "For me a cabernet is about elegance, finesse. It has a virtue of lightness and power and a tannin that is fine and a delivery… that has fluidness and fluency."
Photos: Odeum
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