2025 - VINEXPO Asia Daily - Day 2 edition

#2
WEDNESDAY,
28 TH MAY 2025
B2 | STAND J 073
VINEXPO ASIA 2025 IN SINGAPORE
Strategies for
staying ahead
Expert
perspectives and
fresh ideas from
the heart of the
industry
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW #9
What it really takes Richard
to go premium in Hemming,
the luxury sector Master of Wine
#6
CONFERENCES
China’s wine
market shifts with
savvier consumers
#10
SPECIAL FEATURE
The Iconic collection:
The essence of Canard-Duchêne's
Champagne philosophy

HALL PLAN
B2 | STAND C 099 B2 | STAND C 055 B2 | STAND C 055
B2 | STAND C 055
B2 | STAND C 143 B2 | STAND C 055
B2 | STAND C 055
B2 | STAND D 133 B2 | STAND C 055
LEVEL L 1
HALL A
VINEXPO
ACADEMY
CONFERENCES
VINEXPO
ACADEMY
MASTERCLASSES
B2 | STAND H 123 B2 | STAND C 055
VINEXPO
ACADEMY
TASTING HALL
REGISTRATION AREA
ROOM
4
ROOM
1
ROOM
2
TO
LEVEL
B2
ENTRANCE
EXIT
LEVEL B2
HALLS D, E, F
STREET
Skyline
Restaurant
WOW!
THE LOUNGE
WINES
UNEARTHED
SPIRITS, SAKE,
SOJU, RTD
TO
LEVEL
L1
Opening
Ceremony
Exhibitors Reception
MAIN ENTRANCE
TO
LEVEL L1
FROM
LEVEL L1

Wednesday 28 May 2025
“Vinexpo Academy, at the heart of Vinexpo
Asia, reflects our commitment to support the
wine and spirits trade beyond business. At
Vinexposium, we engage directly with the
market — tracking its movements, decoding
its signals, and helping professionals navigate
with clarity and perspective. Our role is to act
as an ally to the industry: offering structure,
visibility, and long-term direction in a time
shaped by economic and geopolitical shifts.”
Rodolphe Lameyse, CEO of Vinexposium
Today's Highlights:
TASTINGS
Tre Bicchieri Tasting
The Gambero Rosso Tre Bicchieri World Tour
is back in Singapore with a premium tasting
of award-winning wines featured in the Vini
d'Italia guidebook. Come and try a wide
selection of traditional and classic labels,
along with a vibrant group of emerging and
up-and-coming wineries selected by the wine
experts of Gambero Rosso.
11:00a.m. - 6:00p.m.
Tasting Hall
CONFERENCE SESSIONS
China’s Wine Market in Transition: What
You Need to Know
The panel discussion will explore the latest
wine trends and identify growth opportunities
that are driving China's wine market recovery
after years of decline.
Drawing on the expertise and firsthand
experiences of leading industry figures, the
session will offer actionable strategies for
navigating challenges, capturing emerging
consumer demands, and positioning brands
for long-term success in an increasingly
competitive landscape.
10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. The Academy -
Conferences - Room 1
The Diversity of Chinese Wines-from
Northwest Desert to Eastern Coast
As the world's most promising New World
wine country, China has delivered consistent
quality improvements over the past decade. Its
award-winning wines deserve global attention
and international distribution, and this panel
discussion forum will give you insights on how
and why.
Come learn about the diversity of Chinese
wine regions spanning vast landscapes, from
Xinjiang's sun-drenched vineyards, Yunnan's
high-altitude slopes, Ningxia's award-winning
reds, Gansu's mineral-rich valleys, Shandong
Peninsula's coastal whites, Shanxi's emerging
blends, Hebei's sparkling wines, and to
Northeast China's ice wine capabilities; each
region has their distinct and unique styles that
suits all wine lovers.
04:30 p.m. - 05:30 p.m.
The Academy - Conferences - Room 1
PANEL DISCUSSIONS
The Role of Bartenders as Brand
Influencers
In Asia’s rapidly evolving drinkscape,
bartenders are no longer just drink makers—
they’re storytellers, educators, and key
influencers shaping consumer preferences.
They are the front line sales team for brands.
This panel will explore how brands and the
F&B industry can collaborate/partner with
bartenders to drive engagement, innovation,
and growth.
1:30p.m. - 2:30p.m. Conferences - Room 1
Discover Vin De France: Creative Wines to
Expand Your Portfolio
Masterclasses - Room 2
Anivin de France (Anivin de France Wine Trade
Organization) invites you to its first-ever wine
tasting event in Singapore.
This exclusive tasting will bring together
various importers showcasing a wide selection
of Vin De France wines in one place. It’s a
unique opportunity to explore the diversity
and innovation of Vin De France wines and
understand the key values that define their
DNA: freedom, quality, and creativity. Vin De
France (VDF) is the France's official national
wine designation, complementing PDO (AOC)
and PGI (IGP) wines.
The Daily VinexpoAsia is a CLEVERDIS Publication - 439 route de la Seds, 13127 Vitrolles, France
SARL capitalised at €155,750 - VAT FR 95413604471 - RCS Marseille 413 604 471
info@cleverdis.com - https://www.cleverdis.com
Scan here
for the full
programme
• Publisher: Jean-François Pieri • Project Manager: Benjamin Klene • Editor-in-Chief: Monica Hutchings
• Senior Editor: Sharon Dupeyron • Sales : Anouchka Bernard • Editorial Coordinator: Zineb Elhabiri
• Art Director: Hélène Beunat • Designer & Webmaster: Guillaume Vinrich • With the participation of: Alexandra
Babikian, Camille Hedjam, Dylan Jori, Emiliana Van Der Eng, Veronika Verzhak, Bettina Badon
> To contact them: first name.last name@cleverdis.com
• Cover: © Richard Hemming MW • Printing: Oxford Graphic Printers Pte Ltd, Singaporev
© CLEVERDIS 2025 - Registration of Copyright May 2025. Information presented in
this publication is purely indicative in order to illustrate subjects contained therein. No
guarantee can be given as to the accuracy of data or content at time of printing and
thus the latter should not be used for professional or commercial ends. While all efforts
have been made as to accuracy and pertinence of content and data contained in this
publication, CLEVERDIS may in no case be held responsible for the consequences,
whatever their nature may be, that may result from the interpretation of this data
or content, or any eventual errors therein. Any reproduction of the content of this
publication, even partial, by any means whatsoever, is strictly prohibited without the
prior autorisation of the publisher. Any copy, whether by photography, photography film,
magnetic tape, disc or other means constitutes a forgery, liable to punishment under
French law according to the legislation of 11 th March 1957 covering copyright. All brands
cited in this publication are registered trade marks and/or belong to companies which are
their respective proprietors. The publishers and editorial staff decline all responsibility
as to opinions formulated in this publication by those interviewed or cited therein.
Their opinions are entirely their own, and are included with the understanding that they
contain, to our knowledge, no malicious intent. The inclusion of all texts, photographs
and other documents supplied by those included in this publication imply the acceptance
by their authors of their free publication therein. Documents and photographs will not
be returned. It should be understood that this publication contains forward-looking
statements that involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions. All statements other than
statements of historical fact are statements that could be deemed forward-looking
statements. Risks, uncertainties and assumptions include assumptions relating to the
timing of the recorded date. If any of these risks or uncertainties materialises or any
of these assumptions proves incorrect, actual results could differ materially from the
expectations outlined in these statements. Cleverdis assumes no obligation and does
not intend to update these forward-looking statements during the period of publication.
Photo Credits and Copyright: All Rights Reserved.
VINEXPO ASIA • WEDNESDAY 28 TH MAY 2025 3

NEWS
Vinexpo Asia 2025 Opening
"Where the market meets and
Amid global change, Vinexpo Asia 2025 openned three days of global
trade, setting the stage for growth and collaboration in the Asian
wine and spirits market
The opening ceremony marked the return of Asia's
premier wine and spirits trade show to Singapore,
drawing around 1,000 exhibitors from around the globe.
younger generations are redefining
their relationship with alcohol and
how the sector is adapting to new
realities..
with the region’s key markets and
praised Southeast Asia’s energy and
potential as a key growth engine for
the industry.
Yesterday, Vinexpo Asia 2025
officially opened its doors at Marina
Bay Sands with a burst of colour
and rhythm, as a traditional lion
dance welcomed guests and visitors
to the show and set a festive tone.
The event underscores Singapore's
pivotal role as a bridge to the
dynamic Asia-Pacific bevferage
market.
Mr Rodolphe Lameyse, CEO of
Vinexposium, opened the ceremony
by extending a warm welcome to
Ms Gan Siow Huang, Singapore’s
Minister of State for Foreign Affairs
and Trade and Industry, as well as
to the many ambassadors, partners
and industry leaders present. He
acknowledged the rapid evolution of
the wine and spirits industry, shaped
by shifting consumption habits,
climate disruption, and global trade
tensions. “The world is changing
fast, and so is our industry,”
Rodolphe Lameyse said, noting how
“In moments like this, clarity
matters,” he added. “And this is
where Vinexposium can step in—
helping businesses adapt, stay
focused, and find the right partners
to move forward.” He underlined the
sucess of Vinexpo America, which
united the wine and spirits industry,
bringing purpose, resilience and
results. He went on to highlight
Vinexpo Asia's alternating presence
between Hong Kong and Singapore
as a strategic way to strengthen ties
Following his remarks, Minister
Huang took the stage with
a message of optimism and
collaboration. “The lion dance
is a good omen,” she smiled.
“It symbolises success and
prosperity—wishes that Singapore
extends to all our partners here
today.”
Minister Huang highlighted the
promise of Southeast Asia, home
to a rising middle class and a
projected 10% growth in alcohol
4 VINEXPO ASIA • WEDNESDAY 28 TH MAY 2025 vinexpoasia.com

NEWS
Ceremony:
strategies are shaped"
© Photo : ODEUM - Vinexposium
beverage revenue by 2027. She also
underscored the importance of
open trade in a sector so dependent
on international logistics. She
acknowledged current geopolitical
and economic challenges but
reaffirmed Singapore’s commitment
to international collaboration,
continued dialogue and bi-national
and regional partnerships. "In a
business that is as international as
this, the ability to move products
across borders quickly is absolutely
critical," she said.
Before the official ribbon cutting
to open the show, Minister
Huang encouraged Vinexpo Asia
participants to keep their spirits high
and extended a clear message that
collaboration in a changing industry
is the key to success
© Photo : ODEUM - Vinexposium
© Photo : ODEUM - Vinexposium
SINGAPORE: A STRATEGIC HUB FOR THE WINE AND SPIRITS TRADE IN ASIA
As the host city of Vinexpo Asia
2025, Singapore has become a
leading distribution hub for wine
and spirits in Asia, driven by its
favourable trade environment and
strategic presence in the dutyfree
market. Its dynamic growth
is supported by a cosmopolitan
population, affluent expatriates,
and a thriving scene of upscale
bars and restaurants. According
to Singapore’s Minister of State
for Foreign Affairs and Trade and
Industry, the city state is also the
world's third-largest importer and
fourth-largest exporter of wines
and spirits despite not producing
them domestically. "Singapore's
strategic location and strong
logistical infrastructure continue to
be a strength and make this place
an ideal place for wine and spirits
importation and distribution," said
Minister Huang at the Vinexpo
Asia 2025 opening ceremony.
With Singapore's latest trade
agreement, the Pacific Alliance-
Singapore Free Trade Agreement, it
now has a comprehensive network
of 28 free trade agreements.
E-commerce and duty-free sales
remain strong growth engines,
while the rise of mixology and a
booming cocktail bar scene are
fuelling demand for gin, tequila,
and premium spirits. Singapore
continues to serve as a strategic
launchpad for brands aiming to
enter the Asian market. More
than just a meeting point, its
position as a central trade hub
makes it a gateway where market
opportunities are transformed into
tangible success
VINEXPO ASIA • WEDNESDAY 28 TH MAY 2025 5

CONFERENCES
China's wine market
shifts with savvier
consumers
"Never forget to hear
the story and enjoy
the wine"
Reeze Choi is an Advanced Sommelier of The Count
of Master Sommeliers and the founder Somm's
Philosophy, a sommelier services and wine consultancy
company. He'll be sharing tasting techniques at the ASI x
Vinexposium Blind Tasting Challenge tomorrow. The Daily
caught up with him ahead of the session..
What do you hope visitors will
learn from the ASI x Vinexposium
Blind Tasting Challenge
masterclass?
I will be sharing how to improve
tasting skills and what we need
to pay attention to when blind
tasting a wine. But the most
important message I would like to
communicate is not to forget to
enjoy the wine. We should never
forget to hear the story and enjoy
the wine.
What distinguishes a great
sommelier from a good one?
To become a good sommelier, you
need to have very good knowledge
about all kinds of beverages,
excellent service skills, and a
good palate. You need to keep
polishing your skills and maintain
your curiosity. Living in the age of
AI, you need to do things that AI
cannot offer. For instance, creativity
to design a better wine list, wine
events and promotions. You need
to be flexible and a good listener to
maintain strong relationships with
customers. You also need to stay
humble. Without this, no matter
how much you know, how precise
you are, you cannot and will not be
successful.
Are there any specific wines you
are looking forward to tasting at
Vinexpo Asia this year?
As an Asian, and an Asian wine
producer, I would love to taste more
wine from Asia, such as the biggest
wine producing countries, China
and Japan, as well as from Bali,
Thailand, and Korea at Vinexpo
Asia
THURSDAY,
29 MAY 2025
ASI x Vinexposium
Blind Tasting
Challenge
11:45am-12:45 pm
The Academy -
Masterclasses - Room 2
Wine journalist and founder of Vino Joy News, Natalie
Wang, shares her insights ahead of the Vinexpo Asia
2025 panel discussion, "China’s Wine Market in
Transition: What You Need to Know."
What can visitors expect from
today's panel discussion?
Global markets are facing
unprecedented uncertainty—and
China is no exception. One of the
key reasons I proposed this panel
discussion is to bring together
leading trade experts from China
and Hong Kong to share timely
insights into market trends, shifts
in consumer behaviour, evolving
sentiment, and emerging growth
opportunities.
What are the key dynamics
currently shaping China’s wine
market?
Some critics claim that China’s
wine market has bottomed out and
isn’t worth investing in anymore.
That couldn’t be further from the
truth. The era of easy wins—when
buyers flush with cash snapped up
wines with little scrutiny—is over.
But for those willing to invest in
understanding local consumers
and building long-term value, the
opportunities in China are still very
real.
The landscape has shifted.
With business banquets scaled
back and gifting curtailed,
success now hinges on sharp
business strategies, meaningful
relationships, and genuine
consumer engagement. Importers
who once relied on moving large
volumes without much effort now
need to understand and serve real
consumers.
Economic uncertainty tied up with
the trade tariffs and consumer
confidence are key challenges.
Value has become important
for consumers, especially when
wine is not a necessity for most
Chinese. Consumers are becoming
increasingly savvy. You can no
longer pass off a cheap wine as
a luxury bottle priced at €200
(S$290). The rise in white wine
consumption further signals a shift
toward genuine wine appreciation.
With the drastic reduction in ontrade
sales, growing prowess with
membership stores like Sam’s
Club and the rise of instant retail,
traditional wine importers and
merchants are under pressure to
adapt
TODAY
China’s Wine Market
in Transition: What
You Need to Know*
10:30a.m. - 11:30a.m.
Conferences
- Room 1
*Registration required
6 VINEXPO ASIA • WEDNESDAY 28 TH MAY 2025 vinexpoasia.com

CONFERENCES
Singapore’s Michelinstarred
restaurants
reveal fine wine trends
Coinciding with Vinexpo Asia 2025, market intelligence
agency, Wine Services, has released a new study
spotlighting fine wines in Michelin-starred restaurants
across Singapore. Part of a broader global survey
spanning 1,500 establishments, this local analysis
is based on wine listings from 41 of the city’s most
prestigious dining venues.
Singapore ranks fourth globally
for Michelin-starred restaurants
per capita, making it a culinary
powerhouse where wine selections
are equally refined. Institutions like
Les Amis, Odette and JAAN lead
the way with meticulously curated
cellars that reflect both tradition
and innovation—pairing Old World
legends with New World rising stars.
Bordeaux estates such as Château
Margaux and Latour, along with
Burgundy icons like Domaine
de la Romanée-Conti, remain
benchmarks. Champagne’s flagship
cuvées—Dom Pérignon, Krug
Grande Cuvée—are omnipresent.
However, the landscape is evolving:
top Italian wines like Sassicaia and
Californian staples such as Opus
One are gaining traction.
A standout trend is the increasing
use of wine by the glass—an
strategic tool for restaurants like
Cut, Saint Pierre, and Odette to offer
flexibility, elevate pairings and grant
access to premium labels without
requiring full bottle commitments.
For producers at Vinexpo Asia
2025, this study offers key
strategic insights into visibility and
positioning in one of Asia’s most
discerning markets. From by-theglass
initiatives to terroir-driven
selections, Singapore’s Michelinstarred
tables serve not just
exceptional food and wine—but also
influence and aspiration.
This afternoon, Vinexpo Asia
2025 visitors can join Caroline
Meesemaecker, CEO of Wine
Services, along with other industry
experts at the session "Icons of
TODAY
Icons of Michelin
Wine Lists
3:00p.m. - 4:00p.m.
Conferences - Room 1
Michelin Wine Lists" to discover the
wine selections of Michelin-starred
restaurants through Wine Services'
analysis of 1,539 wine lists. They
will explore how sommeliers around
the world are building wine lists
that reflect excellence, heritage and
innovation
Level B2 / Stand E 177
VINEXPO ASIA • WEDNESDAY 28 TH MAY 2025 7

TRADE TALK
Cheval des Andes:
A "Grand Cru" with dual
origins in France and
Argentina
Vinexpo Asia 2025 visitors
can discover Cheval des Andes,
the fruit of two cultures
The Daily Vinexpo Asia spoke with Gérarld
Gabillet, the CEO and Head Winemaker at Cheval
des Andes in Mendoza, ahead of his masterclass
this afternoon. The Cheval des Andes, "The Grand
Cru of the Andes" will give attendees a taste of
Argentinian and French winemaking expertise.
What can visitors expect from your
masterclass?
It's a wonderful opportunity for us to
showcase all the work we've put in
over the last few years, with the aim
of making a great wine that can be
defined as the Argentine Expression
of Château Cheval Blanc.
We are expecting a varied audience
of distributors, sommeliers and
other professionals interested in
discovering the history, philosphy and
practices that go into our "Grand Cru
of the Andes".
Our goal is to share and introduce
Asian consumers to the essence of a
truly iconic South American fine wine.
As a winemaker trained in France,
what differences have you noticed
in winemaking in Argentina?
Of course, you have to adapt to a
different frame of reference. The
expression of grape varieties, the
terroirs, the culture and the macroeconomy
of the country are all
different, so we've had to adapt and
understand how to best interpret
the grapes in order to achieve our
production objectives. This involves
essential work in the vineyard that
reflects our Bordeaux values.
One striking difference is that wine
production is essentially based on
single-varietal products, and blending
is still very much in the minority,
unlike in Bordeaux.
Cheval des Andes is often
described as the 'Grand Cru of
the Andes,' blending Bordeaux
tradition with Argentine terroir.
How do these influences shape the
identity of the wine?
Ultimately, this project created by
Pierre Lurton and Roberto de La
Mota is a testament to the strong
historical link between Bordeaux and
Mendoza. This duality is reflected in
the Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon
grape varieties we use, which were
the dominant varieties in Bordeaux
before the phylloxera crisis. It's also
seen in the teams in Mendoza and in
Bordeaux at Château Cheval Blanc,
who work together hand in hand.
Finally, our two complementary
terroirs of Las Compuertas and
Altamira are essential to the identity
given to our wine.
Cheval des Andes has implemented
a number of agroecological
practices, including cover cropping.
Can you tell us more about these
efforts?
We launched this project a few years
ago, and today we are able to show
concrete results.
We have planted over 2,300 trees
(50% fruit trees and 50% forest
trees) over four years around and
within our plots.
Now, 100% of our vineyard is covered
with plant cover, which seems
unthinkable here in Mendoza, as
many agronomists believe it goes
against sustainable development due
to water consumption. But we know
the opposite is true.
We have many other projects aimed
at establishing a form of polyculture
that promotes biodiversity
Level B2 / Stand J 025
"GRAND CRU" IN THE NEW WORLD
In the traditional sense,
"Grand Cru" refers to a wine
of exceptional quality, often
tied to a specific vineyard with
a long-standing reputation.
In the New World, Cheval
des Andes is bringing its
own flavour to the concept.
Differing from the model
typically found locally in
Argentina, where grape
producers sell their produce
to bodegas, Cheval des Andes
is very much in favour of the
notion "We pride ourselves
on our ‘winemaker’ approach,
which is crucial in the making
of a Grand Cru," says Gérard
Gabillet."We know very well
that you can't make a great
wine without great raw
materials!"
TODAY
When it comes to winning
over traditional enthusiasts
of Bordeaux wines, Mr
Gabillet is confident: "They
quickly understand our
wines because we are the
Argentinian expression of
our Bordeaux brother. In
fact, our pillars of identity are
still linked to Cheval Blanc,
where freshness and elegance
remain fundamental." Wine
drinkers can also recognise
how the Malbec and Cabernet
Sauvignon mirror the roles of
Merlot and Cabernet Franc in
classic Bordeaux blends.
In this cross-continental
project, "Grand Cru" is a
commitment to place,
craft and shared
excellence
Cheval des Andes, "The
Grand Cru of the Andes"
3:15p.m. - 4:15pm
Masterclasses – Room 2
8 VINEXPO ASIA • WEDNESDAY 28 TH MAY 2025 vinexpoasia.com

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW
What it really takes to go premium in
the luxury sector
Visitors to Vinexpo Asia 2025 won't
want to miss the panel discussion
"Luxury & Premiumisation in
Southeast Asia" with British wine
writer Richard Hemming MW
During this thought-provoking session, Mr Hemming
and other experts will discuss what makes drinks
successful in the luxury sector, from production and
packaging to marketing and sales channels. The
Daily spoke with Mr Hemming to get his thoughts on
premiumisation ahead of today's event.
How would you define
“premiumisation” in the context
of the Southeast Asian drinks
market?
For wine, you could argue that
premiumisation includes any tiered
range of products. Sometimes
it’s very clear, as in the prestige
cuvées of Champagne producers
or vintage ports. Other times, it’s
less immediately obvious. Luxury
products are also strongly reliant
on marketing, whether that’s
simply the labelling or a full-blown
advertising campaign. Most wine
brands don’t have resources for
this, which means that conveying
a premium message relies on
the distribution chain – retailers,
sommeliers, influencers and
critics. That makes the medium
as important as the message:
premium brands need to reach their
audiences in controlled, targeted
ways.
How do younger consumers
(Millennials and Gen Z) in
Southeast Asia differ in their
attitudes toward premium
products compared to older
generations?
Empirical evidence indicates
that younger consumers look for
authenticity and sustainability
credentials in their products. It’s
becoming less acceptable to show
off the ‘bling’ style of conspicuous
consumption. Where alcohol is
concerned, younger consumers
are more conscious of health
implications as well, so premium
brands might need to consider lono
options.
What can New World wine and
spirits producers learn from
Old World regions in building
premium reputations?
Old World regions have a heritage
and reputation that has developed
over many centuries. So you could
argue that New World producers
are better off looking for original
inspiration that is authentic to
them instead of imitating Old World
models. An alternative view could
be to look at what the Old World
has always done well: formalised
structure, whether that is the 1855
classification or the grand cru
appellations of Burgundy. Imposing
such systems on a new-world
region would be almost impossible,
Richard
Hemming MW
British wine writer
but some equivalent systems have
been established, such as the
Langton’s Classification or Tim
Atkin’s ranking of producers and
wines in Chile.
Do you think e-commerce has
affected the sense of exclusivity
around premium wines?
For fine wine, e-commerce has
certainly influenced price, which
is now much more transparent
internationally. This has eroded
margins for the trade, but it hasn’t
necessarily compromised exclusivity
from a consumer perspective. If
anything, it gives wine lovers access
to the information they need to
reinforce the luxury status of certain
brands. Having said that, portraying
luxury through online platforms is
much harder than through in-person
experiences, whether that’s in shops
or at events
The medium is
as important as
the message:
premium brands
need to reach
their audiences in
controlled, targeted
ways
TODAY
Luxury &
Premiumization in
Southeast Asia
12:00p.m. - 1:00p.m.
Conferences – Room 1
CRACKING THE CODE OF PREMIUM BRANDING
For ambitious wine and spirits
brands, premiumisation is no longer
just a trend — it’s a compelling
opportunity. As the global market
matures, consumers are seeking
more than just quality; they’re
looking for meaning, story and real
value. The path forward is paved
with more than focus groups and
traditional formulas. “Market
research will only tell you what
everyone else already knows,” says
Richard Hemming. By encouraging
originality and creativity and
making sure that products have
real, intrinsic value, the rewards
can be lasting. “Finding a truly
personal story is usually much more
authentic and engaging,” he adds.
Social media has also provided
new channels. At the same
time, in-person experiences and
networking continue to be key for
busines. "Sharing a glass together
is a time-honoured way to build
relationships," underlines Mr
Hemming.
The journey towards premium
positioning is demanding—it
requires patience, persistence
and deep pockets. It involves
targeting a small group of
discerning consumers who are
already bombarded with similar
offers. “It’s a very crowded market
and it costs a lot to sustain the
marketing needed to stay visible,”
says Mr Hemming. But with
the right balance of long-term
vision, consistency and financial
endurance, brands can break
through.
VINEXPO ASIA • WEDNESDAY 28 TH MAY 2025 9

SPECIAL FEATURE: CHAMPAGNE
The Iconic collection: The essence
of Canard-Duchêne's Champagne
philosophy
Each cuvée within the Iconic range tells a story rooted in longstanding
dedication to crafting exceptional Champagne
Canard-Duchêne is
showcasing its Iconic
collection at Vinexpo Asia
2025. This range is more
than a portfolio of fine
champagnes; it is a narrative
of the house’s enduring
approach.
Nestled in the heart of the
Montagne de Reims, in the historic
village of Ludes, Champagne
Canard-Duchêne has been crafting
exceptional wines since 1868.
With over 150 years of heritage,
the house masterfully blends
tradition with a deep respect for
nature and the unique terroir of
Champagne. Among its most
celebrated expressions lies The
Iconic range—a collection that
captures the essence of Canard-
Duchêne’s savoir-faire, elegance,
and authenticity.
From vineyard to cellar, every
step of the process is handled
with precision and reverence,
resulting in Champagnes that are
both expressive and impeccably
balanced.
The freshly bold and elegant
Léonie Iconic is a tribute to Maison
Canard-Duchêne's co-founder.
Crafted from a precise blend of at
least 40% Pinot Noir, it is aromatic
and generous, with delicate layers
of exotic fruit and subtle spices.
To mark the company's hundredth
anniversary in 1968, the winery
created Champagnes dedicated
to gastronomy. Its Blanc de
Blancs is an ode to Chardonnay,
combining Premiers and Grands
Crus Chardonnays from the Côte
des Blanc and Vitryat to add spring
lightness.
This gastronomic Champagne
is pure, round and bright, with
notes of lychee and pear.`Canard-
Duchêne's Blanc de Noirs stands
apart for its subtle, elegant
character. Made exclusively Pinot
Noir grapes, it embodies the pure
expression of this grape variety.
With notes of blood orange and
cherry, candied fruit aromas bloom
on the palate, delivering elegance
and finesse.
The fourth jewel in the Iconic range
is Rosé Iconic, which distinguishes
itself for being a Rosé de Saignée,
gaining its colour from the natural
tint of Pinot Noir grape skin during
vinification. With its blend of
Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Pinot
Meunier grapes, Rosé Iconic offers
a unique crisp flavour with notes of
red and black currant, and aromas
of cherry.
The Canard-Duchêne Iconic
collection is not simply a
selection of champagnes—it
is a window into the soul of
a historic house. Each cuvée
reflects a careful orchestration of
terroir, grape variety, and timehonored
technique, inviting both
connoisseurs and newcomers to
experience the enduring legacy
and artistry of Champagne Canard-
Duchêne.
A commitment to sustainability and
excellence
One of the distinguishing features
of Canard-Duchêne, including
its Iconic collection, is the
house’s dedication to sustainable
viticulture. The estate vineyards
in Ludes are certified for their
environmental practices, and the
winemaking process is guided
by principles that honor the land
and preserve biodiversity. The
estate's 2.5 hectare park is home to
century-old trees and rare species
and its 9-hectare plot is farmed
organically to remain in harmony
with nature. This commitment
adds an ethical dimension to the
enjoyment of their Champagnes,
aligning tradition with a forwardthinking
vision
Level B2 / Stand B 077
10 VINEXPO ASIA • WEDNESDAY 28 TH MAY 2025 vinexpoasia.com

SPECIAL FEATURE: CHAMPAGNE
ADVERTORIAL
Roger Barnier's 100%
Meunier: A singular
expression of champagne
Palmer & Co's Blanc de
Blancs 2018: Emblematic
and signature elegance
Crafted from 63 to 118 year-old
vines, this 100% Meunier cuvée
from Champagne Roger Barnier
is a tribute to generations of
winemaking tradition. Made
entirely from Meunier grapes, the
unique terroir allows this variety's
characteristics to flourish fully,
conveying delicacy, structure and
complexity. Only the finest
first pressings are selected,
then aged exclusively in
French oak barrels without
undergoing malolactic
fermentation. The nose
reveals notes of red and black
fruit, while the palate offers
a harmonious balance of acidity
and subtle sweetness. Pairings
include white meats, raw fish and
even chocolate
• 94/100 at the 2025
Gault & Millau awards
• 100% Meunier grapes
• Made from historic vines
• 100% Chardonnay from
Premiers Crus
• Elegant and balanced profile
• Signature Palmer and Co elegance
This year at Vinexpo 2025, Palmer
& Co is putting the spotlight on its
Blanc de Blancs 2018, a vintage
that captures the House’s hallmark
elegance and refinement.
Crafted from 100% Chardonnay, this
cuvée draws its character from the
Premiers Crus of Villers-Marmery
and Trépail, in the Montagne de
Reims. These terroirs lend finesse,
intensity, and freshness, while a
subtle addition of fruit-forward
Chardonnays from the Côte de
Sézanne adds harmony and
depth.
The result is a radiant and vibrant
cuvée, reflecting Palmer & Co’s
dedication to harmony, balance, and
the pursuit of excellence
Level B2 / Stand A 161
Level B2 / Stand C 099
Pere Ventura Gran
Vintage Paraje Calificado:
cava with a sense of place
PERE VENTURA Paraje Calificado
Can Bas is a signature cava crafted
from a singular vineyard plot in
Paraje Can Bas. With over 2,700
years of winegrowing tradition,
this vintage cava of outstanding
purity and depth is made entirely
from hand-harvested grapes
grown on the historic Can Bas
estate. With yields capped at just
3,500 kg/ha and aged on lees for
over 42 months, this Brut (4.5
g/L) cava reveals a bright gold
hue with amber flecks and fine,
persistent bubbles. The nose
offers clean citrus notes with
hints of almonds and walnuts. On
the palate, it is rich yet delicate,
combining freshness with vinosity.
Creamy and full, it evokes lemon
cream, tinned pear, and subtle
pastry notes, truly expressing
its terroir.
Level B2 / Stand F 051
• Extended ageing (42+ months)
• Low-yield, hand-harvested grapes
• Estate vinified
Villa Sandi’s
Valdobbiadene Prosecco
Superiore DOCG:
A sparkling example of
Italian finesse
• Elegant flavour profile
• Versatile pairing options
• DOCG Certification
Crafted in the heart of the
Conegliano-Valdobbiadene hills,
Villa Sandi’s Valdobbiadene
Prosecco Superiore DOCG Extra
Dry is a sparkling wine that
exemplifies the finesse of Italy’s
top Prosecco-producing region.
Made from carefully selected
Glera grapes and fermented
twice to enhance freshness and
aroma, this Prosecco reveals
a bright straw-yellow hue with
delicate, lingering bubbles.
Aromas of golden apple and
floral notes lead to a crisp, wellbalanced
palate, with just a touch
of sweetness and a clean, fruity
finish. With an alcohol content
of 11% and vibrant acidity, it is
perfect for aperitifs, fish marinated
with citrus or light vegetable-based
first courses
Level B2 / Stand D 143
VINEXPO ASIA • WEDNESDAY 28 TH MAY 2025 11