Decanter talks exclusively to Champagne Bollinger president Jérôme Philipon about his involvement in the first Decanter Shanghai Fine Wine Encounter, which takes place at The Ritz Carlton in Shanghai on Saturday 29th November.
What are you most looking forward to at the Decanter Shanghai Fine Wine Encounter?
Meeting so many wine consumers at once and be able to talk to them directly.
How is Bollinger doing in Shanghai?
It is performing very well with listings at places like The Langham, Ritz Carlton and Mr. & Mrs Bund. The market is not easy, but our sales are growing year after year.
When did you first go to Shanghai?
Before I joined Bollinger in 2007, I worked for two large multinationals, and was based in Asia from 1994 to 2005. I visited Shanghai for the first time in 1995 and spent a lot of time there during my time with Coca-Cola. The products we launched from 2000 to 2002 have become enormous businesses in China and I have some very fond memories.
How has the city changed in that time?
To tell the truth, it changes almost every time I come. A big change came after the Universal Expo in 2010 when it became greener.
Where will you be staying in Shanghai for the Fine Wine Encounter?
I will be staying this time at the Ritz Carlton and I usually stay at the Langham Xintiandi. Both are very good outlets for Bollinger in China.
What will you be showing in Shanghai at the Decanter Fine Wine Encounter?
Bollinger Special Cuvee, Bollinger Rosé and La Grande Année 2004 because they’re the most representative of what the Chinese market consume from our portfolio so far. It’s important we to offer consumers the opportunity to taste and understand what makes Bollinger so special.
What is your favourite part of the city?
That’s a tough question because what I most like about Shanghai is its diversity. For instance in its architecture and people, and of course the beautiful contrast between modernity and tradition. I particularly love the Bund, the Huangpu river and the CBD of Shanghai which reminds me of New York a few years ago.
What is your most memorable Bollinger and food match enjoyed in Shanghai? And where did you experience it?
That’s easy. It was Guo Hai’s fried crab with a generous portion of crab roe paired with La Grande Année 2004. Sublime.
How would you describe Shanghai in three words?
Vibrant, dynamic, motivating.
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Jérôme Philipon will be appearing in person at the special Grand Tasting at the Decanter Shanghai Fine Wine Encounter on Saturday 29th of November.
For more information click here or to book tickets click here.
Written by Decanter
