Ethan Perk of ASC Wines Shares Five Best Bottles Under RMB 100

When Ethan Perk came to China as a student in 1992, “white wine” meant little more than baijiu. But today’s generation of wine-savvy consumers prefers Merlot or Malbec to Moutai – and as general manager at ASC’s Wine Gallery, Perk sees China’s wine boom from the frontline. Here are his insights and tips on enjoying wine in Beijing.

On tips for newcomers

“For someone new to wine, I’d recommend simple fruit-forward varietals like Shiraz or Shiraz-Cabernet from southeast Australia. Don’t start out on wines that are too tannic or heavy in body.”

“Buy three or four bottles of the same grape variety from different regions to compare geographical differences. Also, buy wines from two different price levels – spend a little more to get a much better wine. And use good glasses.

“What vocabulary can an amateur deploy to sound more knowledgeable than they actually are? Try ‘tannin,’ ‘palate,’ ‘mouth-feel’ and ‘residual sugar.’”

On wine likes and dislikes

“My favorite wine available in Beijing is E. Guigal Côte-Rôtie La Landonne. The flavor, finesse and style are incredible.”

“One wine I do avoid is White Zinfandel. Easy-drinking, but too sickly sweet.”

On Beijing’s wine scene

“It’s amazing how many restaurants now have great wine lists. Some of the top lists are those at Aria, Sureño, Maison Boulud, China World Summit Wing, Capital M and the Westin Chaoyang’s Grange.”

“I’m constantly impressed by the ever growing number of Chinese people who are interested in wine. I’m routinely attending private, casual dinners with wine lovers who are experimenting as a group – it’s so refreshing to see this.”

On counterfeiting

“As any product becomes more popular, you’ll see more counterfeits. In China, our Penfolds and recently acquired DBR Lafite brands are two of the most popular wines that are counterfeited.”

“We guarantee that ASC wines come direct from the chateau cellar to China. Our customers are willing to pay more for this sense of security.”

On The Wine Gallery

“It’s an avenue allowing top wine connoisseurs and private collectors to gather, and a center for wine culture promotion, education and events. This project allows us to put all of ASC’s strengths on a platform.”

“The name ‘Gallery’ is very deliberate. One would go to an art gallery to experience, learn, and appreciate – we’re offering the same for wines.”

On unusual pairings

“Three unusual wine and food pairings: Maojia hongshao rou with Chateau Ste. Michelle Merlot, gongbao jiding with Peter Lehmann Barossa Chardonnay or Trimbach Gewurztraminer, and Beijing duck with La Crema Pinot Noir.”

Ethan’s Top 5 wines under RMB 100

Grace Vineyard (China)
Two Oceans Cabernet-Merlot (South Africa)
Doña Paula Malbec (Argentina)
Wolf Blass Red Label Shiraz-Cabernet Sauvignon (Australia)
Santa Rita Cabernet Sauvignon (Chile)