I recently paid a visit to a petit French bistro. Despite the relatively smaller shop area, it feels cosy and chill! Probably because of the high ceiling, the overall style is simple and comfortable, and my immediate feeling is as though I am transported to one of the bistros on the streets of Paris. The owner is a French Eurasian. He is very friendly, and he will take the initiative to talk to the guests. I found out that he has been living in Hong Kong for a period of time. He used to work in the arts, and when he decided to change to a different career, he felt that since he really enjoys drinking, he could import some wine from independent and boutique French wine farmers. He also likes the vibes aroundthe Hollywood Road in the Sheung Wan neighbourhood. And he just opened a bar to mix his interests with work and pleasure!
In addition to the bar, this is also a wine cellar, which offers fine French wines at various prices ranging from $1xx to $4xx. To me, it's the first time i pick some lesser known grower champagnes!
I picked a rośe champagne (Champagne -Monmarthe Rose De Ludes). She comes from a place called Ludes, located in the center of "Montaigne de Reims", where the production area belongs to the Premier Cru. She has the three grapes of Champagne (Pinot noir 35% Chardonnay 20%/Pinot Meunière 35%) and most especially she adds 10% red wine from a Champagne region called Coteaux Champenois. In Chinese it means the hills of Champagne, that is, the wines produced in the Champagne region) This champagne house is also referred to as VIF by the French Independent Winery Association. Members of the association must respect the following five points:-
- Respect the Terroir
- Farm and harvest in your own vineyard
- Make your own wine
- Fill it yourself
-Maintain the tradition of viticulture
The champagne made according to the above directions has its own unique characteristics. I believe that each batch would have its own amazing style. With each farmer’s own background and story, one can taste the uniqueness it brings and to me, this is truly the meaning of wine tasting!
This feeling is strong, and it really resonates with my own brand. I hope my friends and clientele like it not only because of our high standards on quality and dedication to our products, but also to cherish and support each and every boutique store, which is filled with dreams of the founder and the staff, all blood, sweat, tears and untiring determination!
