Nation

Discover the Hidden Gems: How Hong Kong is Elevating Obscure Wineries

2025-06-12

Author: Yan

In a world where the wine scene is dominated by well-known names, Hong Kong is becoming a vibrant stage for lesser-known wineries and regions, thanks to inventive food pairings and a welcoming community, asserts Rebecca Lo.

Hong Kong, often considered a dynamic test market, thrives at the intersection of East and West. Its diverse dining establishments and sophisticated consumers create an ideal setting for emerging vineyards to introduce their top-notch offerings to curious palates.

On a delightful Wednesday afternoon, Jeremy Evrard, chef and owner of Roucou Cheese Omakase & Bar, was bustling about as he prepared for back-to-back dinners featuring prominent influencers. Evrard launched Roucou in March 2025 after honing his skills in culinary hotspots like Tokyo and Macau. He collaborates closely with beverage supplier Vinosophy, led by Pierre Legrandois, whose deep knowledge of wines enriches their menu.

Legrandois has a remarkable connection to France's small wineries, having spent significant time there to meet the next generation of winemakers. He passionately curates a wine list bursting with family-owned, artisanal selections. I’m drawn to wineries producing fewer than 20,000 bottles a year. Many are led by the next generation, eager to innovate while honoring tradition, he explains.

These small French estates are increasingly delivering smooth, easily drinkable wines, which pair beautifully with Evrard's creative cheese-centric dishes. A good bottle is one that’s enjoyed, said Legrandois, who champions the philosophy that all wines on the Roucou list should be ready to drink now.

Highlighting a standout option, Evrard recommends the Agnes Paquet Bourgogne Aligoté 2023, priced at HK$108 (3.25). Unlike other Aligotés that can be too sharp, this one strikes a perfect balance—full of energy and pleasure, he notes, emphasizing that his pairing approach is all about enjoyment rather than strict rules.

Roucou isn’t the only contender amplifying hidden wineries in the Hong Kong landscape. Across town, Crushed Wine Bar bustles with energy as co-founder Leigh-Ann Luckett ensures every customer finds their perfect sip. Hailing from South Africa, Luckett developed her passion for wine through the Cape Town tasting rooms and has made it her mission to spotlight small vineyards upon her arrival in Hong Kong.

Starting as an online retailer during the pandemic, Crushed Wine Bar evolved into a beloved two-story neighborhood hangout in Sai Ying Pun by August 2023. Luckett sees her role more as a storyteller than a traditional sommelier, curating a wine list devoid of pretentious jargon. Instead, she embraces a whimsical approach, featuring unique labels like Ltd. + Old Vine Pinot Gris.

Crushed’s menu is designed for exploration, anchoring nostalgia with comfort food classics like Roquefort mac and cheese. We don’t label our wines by vintage or region to make guests feel at ease, she explains. This strategy resonates well in a culture where lighter wines have become increasingly popular.

Both Evrard and Luckett emphasize the importance of community and value, striving to present premium wines and cuisine that their customers can trust. We want to offer the best of what we craft, fostering a sense of reliability in both wine and food, Evrard concludes, showcasing their commitment to introducing Hong Kong’s next wave of wine enthusiasts to unexpected treasures.

As Hong Kong continues to unveil these hidden gems, wine lovers can expect a journey filled with delightful surprises and rich stories, redefining their taste in vino.