Düsseldorf played host to a select group of Asian exhibitors at ProWein 2025, reflecting the region’s increasing prominence in the global wine and spirits industry. db Asia engaged with several key participants to gauge their impact and reception at the event.
Ningxia Wine Region Makes a Strong Debut
One of the standout showcases this year was the Ningxia wine region, which introduced its dedicated pavilion in Hall 12. Though only 10 of the region’s estimated 200 wineries were present, the lineup featured some of Ningxia’s most recognized names, including Jade Vineyards, Silver Heights, Chateau HuaHao, and Kanaan Winery. The pavilion’s presence was marked by an opening ceremony and a series of masterclasses led by China’s newest Master of Wine, Xing Wei.
Among the exhibitors, Kanaan Winery’s owner and winemaker Wang Fang actively engaged visitors, offering tastings of her renowned wines, including Black Beauty, a selection served in Cathay Pacific’s first and business class. Reflecting on the evolving perception of Chinese wines, Wang noted that while European buyers previously viewed them with skepticism, the focus had now shifted to pricing. “For the first time, visitors tasted my wine and found the price acceptable,” she said. “I hope this signals a new change.”
Adjacent to the Ningxia pavilion, Chateau Changyu, China’s oldest and largest winery, presented its extensive portfolio, featuring all eight properties under the Chateau Changyu banner. Among them, Chateau Changyu Moser XV, a collaboration with Austrian winemaker Lenz Moser, attracted considerable attention. Moser, reflecting on the event, shared his enthusiasm: “I had a great show. I held 15 planned meetings with distributors and an additional 13 spontaneous meetings. I’m happy with the results and ready to head home.”
India’s Grover Zampa Sees Continued Growth in European Markets
Grover Zampa, a leading Indian winery, also made its mark at ProWein. Despite a noticeable decline in visitor footfall, Chief Operating Officer Sumit Jaiswal remained optimistic. A veteran of the fair since 2006, Jaiswal recalled the initial skepticism surrounding Indian wines in European markets. “They were once considered ‘different’ or ‘unique,’” he said. However, years of consistency have altered perceptions. Today, Grover Zampa wines are widely available in Norway, Sweden, Belgium, and Denmark. “Commitment to the fair has been instrumental in securing these distributions,” Jaiswal emphasized.
Brass Lion Gin Expands Singapore’s Presence in Global Spirits Market
In the spirits sector, Singapore-based Brass Lion Gin made its ProWein debut in ProSpirits Hall 7. The brand, which recently became the official gin for Raffles Hotel’s iconic Singapore Sling, attracted significant interest. Founder Jamie Koh reported strong engagement, both from scheduled meetings and impromptu visits, as attendees were drawn to the brand’s distinctive Asian-inspired flavors. “Visitors were impressed by the quality and variety of our gin,” Koh said. “We would definitely consider returning to ProWein to further expand our exposure and secure distribution in new markets.”
A Platform for Expanding Asian Influence
ProWein 2025 underscored the growing influence of Asian wineries and distilleries on the global stage. From China’s burgeoning wine industry to India’s steady market expansion and Singapore’s rise in spirits, the event highlighted the region’s increasing prominence. With positive receptions and new business opportunities, these exhibitors are poised for further success in the international marketplace.
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