Debra Meiburg MW: Pioneering Wine & Spirits Competitions in Hong Kong
Hong Kong’s journey to becoming a global wine hub owes much to the efforts of industry leaders like Debra Meiburg MW. As one of the most influential figures in the wine world, Debra has been instrumental in bringing international wine competitions to the city. We sat down with her to discuss how she got involved in wine competitions, the challenges she faced, and her expectations for the latest competition.
Q: How did you first get involved with organizing wine competitions in Hong Kong?
Debra Meiburg MW: Back in 2008, when Hong Kong began phasing out wine duties, I saw a unique opportunity to elevate the city’s status in the global wine industry. The government was eager to turn Hong Kong into an international wine hub, and the industry was buzzing with excitement. I thought, “What can we do to bring in more quality wines and really put Hong Kong on the map?” That’s when the idea of hosting international wine competitions came to me.
With the help of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), I was able to launch these competitions. It was a way not only to attract the best wines from around the world but also to showcase Hong Kong’s potential as a leading wine center.
Q: What challenges did you face in organizing these competitions?
Debra: Oh, there were plenty! (laughs) One of the biggest challenges was convincing people that Hong Kong could truly be an international wine hub. At that time, the city’s wine culture was still relatively young, and there was some skepticism about whether we could host world-class competitions.
Logistically, it was also a massive undertaking. We had to bring in top judges from around the world, ensure a diverse selection of wines, and also spirits and sake, and manage all the behind-the-scenes details to make everything run smoothly. But I’ve always believed that the best way to overcome challenges is to stay focused on the vision—and for me, that vision was clear: to create an event that would put Hong Kong on the global wine map.
Q: What do you hope to achieve with the new competition?
Debra: This new competition is all about raising the bar. Over the years, wine & spirits competitions have evolved, and I want to ensure that we stay at the forefront. One of my main goals is to make the competition not just a platform for judging wines but also an educational experience.
I want consumers to learn about the drinks, to get excited about discovering new regions and styles, and to feel confident in their choices. Beyond that, I hope this competition will continue to solidify Hong Kong’s reputation as a global wine & spirits hub and inspire other cities in the region to follow suit.
Q: How do you see wine competitions influencing Hong Kong’s wine culture?
Debra: They’ve already had such a huge impact! When we first started, many people in Hong Kong were still new to wine or whisky appreciation. These competitions have helped to elevate the conversation around wine and beyond, both among consumers and industry professionals.
They’ve also brought a sense of excitement and prestige to the local wine scene. When you have world-class judges tasting and awarding wines right here in Hong Kong, it sends a strong message that we’re serious about wine. I think this has encouraged retailers, importers, and sommeliers to raise their game too.
Q: What’s your long-term vision for wine & spirits competitions in Hong Kong?
Debra: My hope is that these competitions continue to grow and evolve alongside Hong Kong’s drinks industry. I’d love to see even more participation from emerging wine regions and greater engagement from the local community.
Ultimately, it’s about fostering a deeper appreciation for the products and creating opportunities for learning, networking, and collaboration. Hong Kong has come a long way in the past 15 years, and I’m excited to see what the future holds.
Closing Thoughts
Debra’s journey in championing wine & spirits competitions has not only transformed Hong Kong’s drinks culture but also cemented its position on the global stage. Her passion for wine and her dedication to excellence continue to inspire both industry professionals and enthusiasts alike. With her latest competition on the horizon, there’s no doubt that Hong Kong is set to reach new heights in the world of beverage.
