11.06.07

Wine world: Taste of Nations event

Posted in Tastings, Torres at 3:45 pm by admin

I would have given two thumbs up to Torres for last weekend’s Taste of the Nations, an event in Trader’s Hotel that featured some 150 of the distributor’s wines, but my hands were attached to a glass that brought unlimited refills. Instead, I’ll provide written praise.

I would guess well over 200 people attended and, at 188 kuai per person, received good value for their money. I sampled many of the Italian and Australian brands but, being more of a swallower than a spitter, decided not to try the full range. The crowd included some Torres competitors and regulars from Sequoia’s Friday night wine tasting group.

A few suggestions to those putting on major wine events:
- If a wine is done, why display the bottle? I wanted to try Grace Vineyard’s Chairman’s Reserve but it had run out when I arrived at 2:45 PM (the event ran until 6 PM). The same held for the Champagne. Why taunt me with the bottles when the bubbly is gone?
- Live bands are okay, but they tend to interrupt the conversations of wine lovers who are focused on the vino going in their mouths rather than the music going in their ears.

Anyway, enough whining about the wining. A good event this was and let’s hope the Taste of Nations becomes an annual one.

09.28.07

Wine-a-thon: 11 countries, 150 wines, 188 kuai

Posted in Torres, Traders Hotel, Uncategorized at 12:29 pm by admin

Torres China is organizing “Taste of the Nations” at Traders Hotel Beijing on November 3. The 188-kuai entry fee gets you more than 150 wines from 11 nations, not to mention free appetizers and live performances. Space is limited, so reserve yours by contacting Sophie (5165-5519, extension 208 / sophie@torres.com.cn).

Note: Get more info on the Chinese wine scene - go to Facebook, search “China Wine” and join the group.

07.02.07

Baron Rothschild takes major sip of Torres China

Posted in Torres at 10:23 pm by admin

Wine Industry Reports, er, reports that Baron Philippe Rothschild has taken a 10-percent chug of Torres China, which is marking its tenth anniversary. According to the site, Torres China has, since 2004, been in the black (that’d be hints of renminbi they’re smelling).

The site cites Torres China’s stellar growth over the past few years and expectations for more of the same. The company distributes wines from dozens of producers, in addition to Torres (Spain, Chile, California), including Joseph Drouhin (France), Zonin (Italy) and Grace (China). Oh, and now 2002 Oregon Pinot Noir (Domaine Drouhin)…