James Halliday is an extraordinary blend of a man: a witty raconteur and a prolific writer, with one of the world's most well-regarded palates, especially when it comes to wine from Australia and New Zealand. While in Hong Kong recently, with an array of top Australian wine producers, Halliday filled room after room with journalists, wine enthusiasts and trade professionals eager to soak up his insights.
The author of more than 60 books - including the authoritative Australian Wine Companion - Halliday challenged Hong Kong wine lovers to reconsider their long-held assumptions, most notably the 'misguided belief' that 'French wine is superior over all others regardless of price, region and style'.
Halliday also refutes the theory that red wine is superior to white, and that the former is suitable for all occasions and all Chinese cuisines.
'This belief is, quite simply, wrong,' he said, as we tucked into a selection of China Club favourites, perfectly matched with the wines below.
O'Leary Walker Adelaide Hills sauvignon blanc 2010
Incredibly vibrant, zingy and tangy, with intense grapefruit and the sharp, refreshing twist of grape- fruit pith; has an excellent finish.
