DID the budget announcement raze your thirst? Before you go on the wagon or develop a taste for fancy beer, relax. Retailers and restaurateurs are still waiting for and processing information from their suppliers.
If you have cheap tastes, you're in luck. The affordable wines will become more affordable. The house wine at your favourite bar or restaurant may be upgraded or a few dollars knocked off the price.
The bad news, if you are in the habit of paying $250 or more for a bottle, is expect changes. Lovers of elegant champagne, cognac and fine vintages will see some dramatic increases.
The advice, get to know New World wines and don't snub your nose at anything from Australia, New Zealand or South America. Study the lower end of the French wine market because there are good ones at affordable prices.
If you want bubbly, stick with non-vintage French or check out fizz from the New World. You will see changes in the wine aisles and wine lists by April, although the suppliers will adjust their price lists over the next few days. Here are some expert reactions.
Philippe Favre, commissioner, French Trade Commission: ''It [the budget announcement] will lower the price of lower and medium-range wine and increase the price of expensive wine.
''The French companies selling wines in Hong Kong have always focused on expensive wines for this market because wine is status. Maybe now they will develop the market in the low and medium ranges.'' Eileen Ogle, food and wine buyer, Oliver's: ''It's a wait and see situation. I'm still selling my stock at the old prices. The fine French wines will go up a hell of a lot. XO cognac will go up but people will still buy. They will be angry at first, but they will get used of it.'' Diane Bolton, general manager, Pacific Wine Cellars: ''The best part [for us] is no tax on shipping and insurance. Overall, the impact will be positive. It will promote wine because more consumers will be able to buy it.'' Laurent Rigaud, manager, Margaux Restaurant, Kowloon Shangri-La: ''Everyone is a bit nervous. But we can't start selling cheap stuff.
