Update: International Press Coverage of Vinexpo HK 2008

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Bordeaux elite dominate Hong Kong Vinexpo - DECANTER - June 4, 2008 Guy Woodward, and Adam Lechmere

Highlights:

"Among the 692 exhibitors from 32 countries were countless celebrated names, notably numerous Bordeaux grandees, all keen to tap into the expected growth spawned by China's emerging middle class. Bordeaux proprietors and senior executives present were Frederic Engerer of Chateau Latour, Olivier Bernard of Domaine de Chevalier, Christian Seely of AXA Millesimes, Hubert de Bouard of Chateau Angelus and Gildas d'Ollone of Pichon Lalande. They were joined by several big names from Burgundy, Italy and the Rhône.

By comparison, the New World was thin on the ground. While Chilean and Argentinian producers were prominent, the Australian, Californian and South African presence was notable by its absence.

A total of 7,879 visitors passed through Vinexpo's doors on the first two days of the show, with organisers expecting this to exceed 8,500 by the third day. The figure represents a 24% increase on 2006, the last time the show was held in Asia."

Vinexpo Draws Big Crowds in Hong Kong - Wine Spectator - June 05, 2008 European winemakers court the growing Asian demand for wine Jeannie Cho Lee

Highlights:

"If three days can give a hint of how big a continent's demand for wine is, Vinexpo proved that Asia is thirsty. This was a far cry from the deserted aisles of 10 years ago when Vinexpo Asia-Pacific debuted in Hong Kong. In 1998, the economic circumstances could not have been worse. Now, China’s and Hong Kong's gross domestic products continue to grow by double digits, while other Asian economies are close behind. Newly wealthy consumers are flocking to wine"

International Press Coverage of Vinexpo HK 2008

Vinexpo HK 2008 has been confirmed as the greatest success for Vinexpo Asia-Pacific - breaking all records in attendance and participation.

See the full press release here: Vinexpo Asia-Pacific Closing Results

While the International Herald Tribune has highlighted the excitement in their article published June 1st: Record smashed, Hong Kong wine auction proves a hit - focusing on an wine auction held in HK following the Vinexpo.

The Agence France-Presse reported in their article on the first day of the event "Asia's largest wine and spirits exhibition taps into region's thirst" : The third installment of the France-based show features 700 exhibitors from 32 countries, a large increase from its last visit in 2006, which organisers say proves the growing significance of Asia to global sellers.

"All the studies show that the Asian market represents the strongest potential for growth in wine and spirits over the next five years," said Dominique Heriard Dubreuil, president of Vinexpo Asia. She said the Asian market was expected to grow by eight percent annually over the next five years compared with a one percent average growth in the rest of the world. "The growth is everywhere. Consumption in the restaurants and bars is increasing. Luxury hotels are flourishing," she added.

More News to Come!