HKIWSC Opens 2015 Competition
Asia’s original and premier wine and spirit competition, the Cathay Pacific Hong Kong International Wine and Spirit Competition (HKIWSC), has now begun receiving wine and spirit entries. Founded in 2008, the competition was created specifically for the Asian market ensuring winning products cater for Asian taste preferences.
Allen Gibbons, Group Chief Executive of the IWSC Group remarked about the 2015 competition opening:
“Now celebrating our 8th year, the competition continues to go from strength to strength. Drawing on entries from all over the globe, the HKIWSC reflects the importance of Asia to all producers through its gateway, Hong Kong, and showcases some of the finest wines and spirits selected especially for the Asian market.”
The competition boasts an enviable line up of media partners and is delighted to announce two new official media partnerships for 2015: Australian Wine Showcase and Italy's Wine Meridian. Australian Wine Showcase is dedicated to featuring Australian wines for buyers in Asia, Europe, North America, and Australia itself. Key players in the promotion of Italian wines abroad; experts, and top journalists collaborate in Wine Meridian to provide a commentary on wine consumer culture from all around the world.
Each year the competition appoints two International Guest Judges. This year's International Guest Wine Judge is one of the biggest and most influential names in the industry: Neil McGuigan, CEO of Australian Vintage and this year's International Guest Spirit Judge is Richard Paterson, Master Blender at Whyte & Mackay.
Appointed CEO of Australian Vintage in 2010, Neil McGuigan is one of Australia’s foremost winemakers and brings over 30 years’ experience in the wine industry to Australian Vintage and McGuigan Wines.
The consolidated shipping option which launched last year with our partner Hellmann Beverage Logistics is back by popular demand and in place for 2015. Producers from selected countries can take advantage of the opportunity to ship their products to the competition’s cellars at a special discounted rate.
Debra Meiburg MW, HKIWSC Director, commented on the launch of the 2015 competition:
“We received more entries from more countries than ever before in 2014 and I’m delighted that this year’s HKIWSC is now open for entries. I’m especially pleased that Neil McGuigan is on board as International Guest Wine Judge as the depth of knowledge and experience he will bring is invaluable.”