Message from the Chairman:
Dear Members, Partners, and Friends of HKWJA,
It is my honour and privilege to address you as Chairman of the Hong Kong Wine Judges Association for the 2026 term. As we step into another dynamic year for the wine and spirits industry in Asia, I am pleased to report that our Association continues to grow in both influence and capability — driven by the collective dedication of our executive committee, the professionalism of our judge panels, and the trust of our trade partners.
Our Strategic Focus for 2026
In my capacity as Chairman, I place special emphasis on three core areas that directly support our members and the broader wine community:
1. Client Engagement & Event Development
Building and nurturing relationships with corporate clients, distributors, and trade buyers is essential to our mission. This year, I will personally lead efforts to cultivate event participation — from exclusive wine dinners to large-scale judging competitions. Every invitation we extend is an opportunity to showcase HKWJA’s integrity and expertise.
2. Venue Partnerships
Together with our President, Executive Vice President, and F&B Service Vice Chairman, I am committed to securing prestigious and functional venues — including hotels and private clubhouses — that elevate the experience of our tastings, judging panels, and industry gatherings. A well-chosen venue reinforces the professionalism of our Association.
3. Sales & Commercial Activities
As a non-profit dedicated to wine education and judging excellence, we must also maintain financial sustainability. I oversee sales initiatives — from sponsorship development to ticketed masterclasses and trade tables — ensuring that every commercial activity aligns with our values of transparency and quality.
Collaboration Across the Executive Committee
HKWJA’s strength lies in its team. I work closely with:
- President Calvin Choi, who manages judge panel affairs and also secures venues, ensuring that our judging standards remain rigorous and impartial.
- Executive Vice President Osiris Lau, who leads overall event coordination, oversees spirit import matters, and shares venue responsibilities.
- Vice Chairman (Academic) Leo Yau, who manages the judge panel’s academic affairs — the very backbone of our credibility.
- Vice Chairman (F&B Service) Sam Hui, who actively calls on clients, secures venues, and drives sales alongside me.
- Secretary General Patsy Chan, whose backup support in coordination, spirit import, and documentation keeps our operations seamless.
This is a leadership team built for action, not just titles. We meet regularly, we divide responsibilities clearly, and we report transparently to our members.
A Year of Renewal and Opportunity
The Hong Kong wine market in 2026 is defined by sophistication and selectivity. Premium wines now account for over half of total sales, and the demand for expert-led judging, certified education, and curated experiences has never been higher. As Chairman, I see this as our moment to expand our footprint — both in Greater China and across APEC economies.
Our upcoming signature events include:
Market Place Wine Awards 2026 – a blind-tasting competition that brings together leading judges from around the world.
Wine to Asia 2026 (Shenzhen) – where HKWJA will again serve as a strategic partner, facilitating cross-border business.
Vinexpo Asia 2026 (Hong Kong, May 26–28) – a cornerstone event where our presence will include client receptions, panel discussions, and curated walk-around tastings.
A Personal Invitation
To our existing members: thank you for your continued trust. To prospective partners and wine professionals: I invite you to reach out to me directly. Whether you wish to sponsor an event, host a private judging, or simply learn more about what we do — my door (and my calendar) is open. Together, let us raise the standard of wine judging in Hong Kong and beyond.
Warm regards,
Michael Au
Chairman Hong Kong Wine Judges Association (HKWJA)
Hong Kong, 2026