Tatler+
Expert sommelier Reeze Choi joined HKJC Wine Circle members for an unforgettable evening of stimulating wine pairings
On November 16, The Hong Kong Jockey Club’s Wine Circle and Tatler Dining joined forces for a night of fine wines and excellent company at Happy Valley Old Clubhouse’s The Derby Bar—representing a unique chance for wine enthusiasts to connect with like-minded members, explore and celebrate the vibrant world of wine appreciation.
Known as By The Glass: A Vino Affair, this sophisticated event was one of the Wine Circle’s social events and saw members of the community enjoy a delectable range of wine-canapé pairings, alongside a relaxed fireside chat with renowned sommelier Reeze Choi.
Hongkonger Choi has quickly established himself as a name to watch in the wine world, having won second runner-up at 2023’s ASI Best Sommelier of the World contest, marking the very first time that Hong Kong and China have entered the finals, with Choi becoming one of only three Asian people to achieve a podium finish in the competition’s history. He runs his own wine and sommelier services consultancy, Somm’s Philosophy, which has partnered with acclaimed names like Cartier and Gaggenau.
Choi was on hand to introduce the evening’s six meticulously selected wines to guests, giving them a chance to experience incredible bottles from unusual and intriguing grapes and wine regions, complete with detailed, evocative tasting notes. His concept behind the pairings: to create a complete tasting experience for each dish.
The Derby Bar is Happy Valley Old Clubhouse’s signature bar, popular for its cosy, charming atmosphere. The bar’s chef de cuisine Francky Semblat, who has more than two decades of experience working in some of Asia’s top Michelin-starred European restaurants, worked closely with Choi to ensure each wine was expertly paired with a delicious canapé. Take the Brittany lobster spaghetti, for example, which Choi paired with a glass of Sauska Furmint Tokaj 2020. Harvested from premium vineyards in Hungary, this medium-bodied white brought notes of green tea, lemon zest and ripe figs to the palate, delivering a refreshing mouthfeel when partnered with the lobster and crustacean emulsion.
This inaugural By The Glass evening was the perfect distillation of Wine Circle’s raison d’etre—to provide exceptional, exclusive experiences where wine lovers can discover new, thrilling wines, meet industry experts, connect with fellow wine afficionados and, most importantly, sip and savour great food and great wine together.
Even more good times, good wine and good company will be on offer at the next By The Glass evening on December 8, this time with a festive feel. Sarah Heller, master of wine, will lead an evening featuring her top tips for selecting champagne.