Positive response in HK to wines
A VISIT to one of the wine-growing regions of South Africa, such as Stellenbosch, would prove a real education for anyone who has never tried the country's wines.
South Africa produces some excellent red and white wines, and new names and labels appear constantly.
However, to think that South Africa is a new wine producer would definitely be a mistake.
The first grapevine cuttings were imported in the 1650s by Jan van Riebeeck, the Dutch East India Co's first commander at Cape Town.
By the end of the 18th century, the wine-growing areas had achieved a prosperity which allowed many of those associated with it to build themselves sumptuous mansions and live the good life.
One of the main problems in recent years was, of course, the trade embargo, which made the export of South African wines impossible for many markets.
However, with the embargo lifted, the wines are now finding their way into totally new countries, where, in many cases, they are a completely unknown quantity.
''It's a matter of educating people,'' said Mr Ferdi Stolzenberg, of local importer Larkon Ltd, which began bringing a range of the wines to Hongkong last October.
''No one really knows what to expect. This is why we are conducting a series of promotions and tastings for the trade.
''We are having a positive response, but it is very much a matter of establishing an image.'' Among the range being brought in by Larkon are wines from Meerlust Estate, a historic vineyard which has been in the hands of the same family for eight generations and which is often regarded as being the nearest to a Bordeaux chateau on the Cape.
Meerlust is especially noted for its red wines, although it is gradually moving into whites, with an extensive planting of Chardonnay grapes.
Another label handled by Larkon is Klein Constania, also from the Cape, which has become famed for its white wine - notably the Sauvignon Blanc.
Remy China and Hongkong Ltd has had previous experience in dealing with South African wines, but now handles only one label - Hamilton Russell- which is one of the best known of all.
''We only began bringing this into Hongkong in December,'' said Remy's Suzan Salnikow.
''So far, it has been received very well, and we have had tremendous support from the South African Consulate-General in promoting it.'' Remy is importing the Pinot Noir - regarded as the Cape's best for many years now - and the Chardonnay.
In terms of prices, South African wines can be most competitive.
Hamilton Russell, placed next to a comparable wine from France, California and Australia, would be priced around the same as the Australian wine - the least expensive of the three.
One wine which the South Africans themselves see as having potentially a good market in Hongkong is the Pinotage.
This is made from a locally developed grape, a cross between Pinot Noir and Cinsaut. It is a light and fruity red, and is popular with younger people.
