Up, up and away?

Many of you have probably read the news of food prices rising at the fastest pace in over a decade. According to a UN index, food prices in May were 4.8% higher than April – the biggest monthly jump since October 2010 – and almost 40% higher than May 2020. It is partly a result from the disruption of production supply chain during the pandemic. But there is also renewed demand as economic activities are recovering with the retail side refilling inventory now that COVID-19 is more under control in a lot of countries. That will likely lead to inflation and hardship for the poor and needy. Surely many issues to ponder…

What about wine prices? Let’s take a look at the Liv-ex Fine Wine 100 Index. This tracks fine Bordeaux which has risen by about 10% over the last 12 months after a consolidation period of 3 years. It is a similar story for Champagne, Burgundy and to a smaller extent for other wine regions. We folks in Hong Kong are facing even a bigger increase because of the weak US$ (and HK$) in the last few months. There is a theory that after a prolonged consolidation, strong interests will begin to develop in the market in anticipation of an uptrend. Usually in come a new group of buyers too, be that for genuine interest in wine or purely for financial speculation, all making the price hike a self-fulfilled prophecy.

So when you see some of our prices going up, it is not us being greedy. Rather, it is more a reflection of market reality as our costs have become higher. Be assured we will always try our utmost to offer you the best value.

Now turning to a few of our latest additions that might interest you:

2017 Guigal Condrieu la Doriane (WA96 at HK$750) – Our favourite Rhone white is back, with this one being slightly more forward and flamboyant than some of its predecessors. The body, strong scent of flowers, notes of melon and apricots are all there. One would notice oak and a restrained flavour of toasted almond too, all with its silky texture to make it such a great treat during the heat of Summer.

2015 Domaine de Chevalier Blanc (WA95 at HK$700) – Bordeaux white from this estate is probably the best deal from the region, not much short from First Growth quality but without the crazy prices. This vintage is a 75/25 Sauvignon Blanc/Semillon blend that opens with a lovely lemon tart, fresh grapefruit and pineapple and a waft of honeysuckle. The medium bodied palate is very tightly knit with a wonderful crispy and citrusy finish.

2015 Jacques Prieur Montrachet Grand Cru (WA93 at HK$4,700/bottle) – OK…this is not rated 95 points (or higher) like most of what we carry. But then where can one get a Montrachet Grand Cru of that kind of rating without breaking the bank? This one is indeed quite an attractive proposition with a powerful, viscous texture, but the fine thread of acidity making it well balanced and with a convincing finish.

2012 Haut-Bailly (RP96 at HK$620/bottle) – Robert Parker opined this to be a staggering great wine. There is a stunning bouquet of dark berries, spring flowers and lead pencil shavings, followed by a medium to full bodied palate with an almost seamless integration of wood, alcohol and tannin. It is a supple, pure and total hedonistic turn on!!!

2007 La Ferme du Mont CNDP Cote Capelan (RP96 at HK$420/bottle) – This full-bodied wine is outrageously rich, complex and exhibiting beautiful aromas of creme de cassis, kirsch, licorice and spring flowers. It is voluptuous and opulent in the mouth, but the acidity and vibrancy give it an exceptional precision and a refreshing style.

2019 Raymond Usseglio Vin de France le Peche Originel (WA96 at HK $260) – From a good producer out of the historic but now much less popular grape varietal Cinsault, this one is from 60-year old vines planted in the south of France, boasting intricate aromas of roses, black tea, orange zest and stone fruit. Expansive on the palate but never heavy, it gently pulses with vitality and offers a lengthy finish.

2013 Paolo Conterno Ginestra Barolo (WA95 at HK$380/bottle) – This wine from Piedmont of north-west Italy shows grace, purity and significant power. The texture is compact, detailed and the flavour a tight knitting, all now having evolved and softened over the years in the bottle.

2015 San Felice Chianti Classico 'Il Grigio' Gran Selezione (JS96 at HK$300) – From the Tuscany region of Italy, this is a beautifully polished and elegant wine at a reasonable price. It offers a supple and silky expression that delivers ripe fruits, framed by mineral tones with mild spices and fragrant red roses.

2018 Castro Ventosa Valtuille Rapolao (WA96 at HK$380/bottle) – Small production (under 2,000 bottles) from Bierzo, with some referring wines from this region as the Burgundy of Spain. The wine exhibits good floral notes with a body that is layered with depth and complexity. The palate is refined and never heavy.

Thank you for reading as we would also encourage you to browse our website www.vinopolis.com.hk to view our full wine list. Purchases can be made through the website or by sending us an e-mail or simply WhatsApp 9195-7383. Your support is really appreciated.