The China Wine Competition (CWC) continues to spotlight the realities of Asia’s most influential dining rooms, where sommeliers and beverage directors act as true gatekeepers to consumer success. Wines here are not only judged on technical merit but also on their ability to deliver immediate value, guest satisfaction, and commercial viability.

Hong Kong remains a powerhouse market where global and regional influences converge. At the heart of this landscape is Danny Ng, Assistant Director of Food & Beverage at The American Club, Hong Kong. With over a decade of experience and credentials as a certified sommelier, Danny has curated wine programs across multiple outlets and led teams of sommeliers and wine specialists. His perspective provides producers with a direct lens into what it takes to succeed in the city’s highly competitive on-premise market.

What makes a wine “list-ready” for your venue?

A: “A wine is ‘list-ready’ when it offers exceptional quality, unique character, and value.”

For Danny, a wine must do more than taste good; it must deliver a balance of distinction and approachability, ensuring members and guests feel rewarded in every glass.

Top three evaluation factors in blind tasting

A: Balance, Structure, Drinkability.

The essentials remain clear: wines must be balanced, built with structure, and inviting enough to ensure repeat enjoyment.

How do you discover new wines for your venue in 2025?

A: “Trade tastings.”

Despite digital disruption, traditional tastings remain the decisive gateway for new listings. Presence and engagement at these events continue to be a brand’s ticket to consideration.

For a new import, which 750ml price range usually gets listed?

A: “¥150–199” (~USD $20–28 per 750ml).

Just as with other top venues in China, this price band remains the prime zone for quality-driven, listable wines that balance guest affordability with strong margins.

What do you look for before agreeing to meet a supplier?

A: “Award and pricing.”

Recognition through medals and competitions provides credibility, but clear, competitive pricing is what secures time on the calendar.

Which profiles are showing the best performance with customers right now?

A: “Elegant style.”

Subtlety and refinement are resonating with Hong Kong’s diners in 2024–25. The market is leaning toward wines that are expressive yet approachable, stylish without being overwhelming.

Three wines you’ve loved lately

- 2014 Abreu Vineyard, Rothwell Hyde, St. Helena

- 2019 Paul Hobbs, Cabernet Sauvignon, Coombsville

- 2018 Egly-Ouriet Grand Cru Brut Millésimé

Image: 2014 Abreu Vineyard, Rothwell Hyde, St. Helena.

From Napa prestige to Champagne finesse, Danny’s recent favourites reveal his appreciation for wines with pedigree, elegance, and balance.

One “surprise” style moving in your venues

A: “Alpha Omega Napa 2016.”

California’s boldness, when framed with elegance, is capturing guest attention in new ways.

Which importers do you think are executing especially well?

A: myicellar.

Lean, professional execution is a marker of importer credibility in Hong Kong’s high-pressure trade.

What are the non-negotiables you expect from an importer?

A: “On time and support.”

Reliability and after-sales service matter more than anything else — delayed shipments or poor follow-up simply won’t pass.

What do you look forward to at the China Wine Competition 2025?

A: “Style and regions preference in the China wine market.”

For Danny, CWC is a chance to benchmark how styles and regions are resonating in real-world dining rooms, providing producers with actionable intelligence.

Danny Ng’s insights underscore the Hong Kong market’s refined balance: wines must be elegant yet approachable, competitively priced yet distinctive, and backed by reliable importer support. For entrants, the China Wine Competition isn’t only about winning medals, it’s about proving your wine is ready to meet the expectations of one of Asia’s most discerning audiences.

Also Read:
China On-Premise, Through Our Judges’ Lens: 2025 Market Insights
Hong Kong On-Premise, Through Our Judges’ Lens: 2025 Market Insights
Meet the Master: Insights from Dirk Chen, Director of Wine & China Wine Competition Judge