It attracted rather a lot of media attention, but much of the feeling in Europe prior to the Hong Kong V&S de Vinexpo show between June 16-18 was to try to call the whole thing off after the downturn of several Asian economies. But, having signed the deals to participate before the region’s economic malaise, the 600 exhibitors from 29 countries turned up on time for what was to become a huge event. I have spoken to a number of people after the event for their impressions of whether or not it was worthwhile. A waste of time, according to most Europeans I have spoken to, a view which correlates with that of some of Australia’s larger wine companies. Mildara Blass attended the event and came away with the positive impression that as a first effort it was well attended, given the prevailing economic conditions.
