Tusar at work introducing the 8th Estate wines, a Hong Kong product, to visitors.

IN the short span of time following Hong Kong’s decision to enter the wine industry in 2008, it has made a name for itself and become the largest market for fine wine auction in the world.

That year, the Hong Kong Government removed all wine duties, despite foregoing US$72mil a year in income, to give this bustling corner of the world an edge as the first free wine port. Wine imports can also be brought into mainland China through the city under an enhanced customs facilitation that includes expedited customs clearance.

After becoming an experienced hub in wine trading, Hong Kong then decided to sign the Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement “Rules of Origin” agreement, which states that wines made locally would enjoy zero tariff importation into the mainland.

One company, 8th Estate, started by Lysanne Tusar has taken full advantage of the latter and is now known as the producer of the first Made-in-Hong Kong wine.

“The world is our vintage. We are able to make any kind of wine here because we have the option of working with any grapes we want from around the world,” Tusar said, adding that they import the fruit whole direct from the vineyards.

Located at Room 306, Harbour Industrial Centre, 10 Lee Hing Street, on a small island called Ap Lei Chau on the southwest corner of Hong Kong Island, the winery seems like a nice place where you can forget about the rest of the world for a bit while enjoying a glass of sauvignon blanc or merlot, or whatever your fancy may be.

For those who are looking for variety, Amo Eno at the IFC Mall on Harbour View Street, Central is a good start.

A swanky little establishment, it is where one can try many different types of wine as there are dozens of bottles on “tap” here and you only need pay according to how much you pour.

If you feel a little lost at where to start, fear not. There are the interactive touch screen tables that will help you to choose your poison according to grape varietal, region, wine characteristics and more.

The annual Hong Kong Wine & Dine Month, known for its wine-themed events with wines all around the world paired with the creations of the city’s culinary masters, runs from Nov 1-4, and will be a good opportunity for those who want to get a taste of the exciting F&B trend here.

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