As the sun dipped below the horizon, bathing Victoria Harbour in golden light, the private club Penthouse atop Nanhai No. 1 restaurant in Hong Kong’s Tsim Sha Tsui district hummed with laughter between friends new and old.
A month ago right before the Christmas holidays, CC Collective welcomed esteemed journalists from the food and wine media alongside members of the prestigious Hong Kong Wine Society to an exclusive wine pairing dinner, thoughtfully curated to celebrate the debut of ShunYi Cellars in Hong Kong.
At CC Collective, we have always understood that ShunYi Cellars is something extraordinary. Under the vision of its founder, George Zhang, ShunYi blends winemaking tradition with contemporary innovation, creating varietals that balance Old World elegance with the vibrancy of a modern palate. The time was ripe to debut this disruptive Californian label in Hong Kong, showcasing its distinctive Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Cabernet Sauvignon wines for discerning gourmands to savor alongside their favorite Asian dishes. With the holiday season fast approaching, ShunYi Cellars’ elegant 2021 collection was the highlight at this exclusive wine dinner curated for influential local oenophiles and prominent media personalities.
Our long time friend, culture journalist and popular SCMP dining columnist, Andrew Sun, acted as impresario to an eclectic group of food media and wine aficionados. ShunYi Cellars’ vintages found an ideal platform within Penthouse’s opulent setting where panoramic views of Victoria Harbour paired seamlessly with contemporary interpretations of classic Cantonese flavors.
The thoughtfully crafted multi-course menu demonstrated how ShunYi Cellars’ wines are designed to elevate exquisite Asian cuisine. Penthouse wine director Raphael Sarri was on hand to guide guests through each pairing, sharing his graceful expertise. The floral notes and lingering minerality of the Santa Lucia Highlands Chardonnay from Monterey Coast complemented the delicate simplicity of Fresh Abalone with Seaweed. The cherry nuances and earthy undertones of the Santa Lucia Highlands Pinot Noir beautifully balanced the rich, intense flavors of Squab Two Ways. And the structured boldness of the ShunYi Napa Cabernet Sauvignon perfectly harmonized with the richness of Sanuki Udon with Australian Lobster.
The evening unfolded with lively conversation as guests connected with the CC Collective team to explore the versatility and craftsmanship behind ShunYi Cellars’ wines. Sharing the compelling stories of the creators we represent is at the heart of what we do, and it was a joy to see these narratives resonate with our wine-curious friends around the table. This is the essence of CC Collective—fostering connection through shared experiences that inspire deeper, more meaningful living.
This evening at the Penthouse is just the beginning. At CC Collective, we are dedicated to crafting unforgettable experiences that go beyond the ordinary—bringing visionary creators together with those who appreciate the art of craftsmanship and the power of innovation. The journey continues, and we look forward to sharing more moments that inspire, connect, and elevate.
