Our Great Wines World Asia tour from Oct. 2 to 9 was an incredible journey, showcasing the vibrant energy and youthfulness of key wine markets across the region, including Seoul, Hong Kong, Tokyo and Bangkok. With close to 250 wineries pouring their best bottles for 7,300 attendees, it was an unforgettable experience. James said he was sad to see it end, but  he’s also excited for next year’s edition in those same cities – plus one more. We’re still considering which locale to add, with Singapore, Hanoi, Manila and Kuala Lumpur all in play.

The third James Suckling Great Wines World Seoul 2024 was held on Oct. 2 at the Grand InterContinental Seoul Parnas Hotel, with 130 wineries from 37 iconic wine regions showcasing 260 wines. A total of about 1,800 attendees, including industry professionals and passionate wine lovers, were eager to sample the latest releases of exceptional wines. Among the 260 wines were seven 100-point selections, including the Laurent-Perrier Champagne Grand Siècle Grand Cuvée N. 26 NV, which was our 2023 Wine of the Year, and the Seña Valle de Aconcagua 2021, our 2023 Wine of the Year for Chile. Seoul holds a special place in James’s heart – his wife, Marie, is from there – and James Suckling Great Wines World will continue to return to the Korean capital. It’s on the calendar for Nov. 5 of 2025.

The Hong Kong stop on Oct. 4 at the Four Seasons Hotel drew an enthusiastic crowd of 1,700 from across the city and featured 130 wineries from 33 wine regions, including Bordeaux, Tuscany, Rioja, and Napa Valley, providing a unique opportunity for wineries to connect with members of Hong Kong’s vibrant wine community. James finds returning to his city particularly meaningful, and he’s always elated to see familiar faces that have been attending the event for years. Next year’s event in Hong Kong will be on Halloween: Oct. 31.

This was also our inaugural year of James Suckling Great Wines World in Tokyo, and we were thrilled to finally connect with the Japanese wine market, bringing together 150 distinguished wine producers, with 2,000 wine enthusiasts, on Oct. 7. Among the featured wines were nine 100-point selections, with four poured exclusively in Tokyo, which made this event even more special. The four wines were El Enemigo Cabernet Franc Gualtallary Gran Enemigo Single Vineyard 2019, Damilano Barolo Cannubi Riserva 1752 2016, Marqués de Murrieta Rioja Castillo Ygay Gran Reserva Especial 2012, and Cantina Terlan Alto Adige Terlaner 1 2021. Tokyo also boasted the largest number of attendees on our tour, making our first event in the city a tremendous success that exceeded all expectations. Next year’s Tokyo gathering will be on Nov. 5.

Finally, our Bangkok Great Wines gathering on Oct. 9 at the Grand Hyatt Erawan also drew 150 wineries, presenting 180 of their best offerings to 1,800 guests. Bangkok was the first city to sell out among the four on our Asia tour, and the energy at the event reached an all-time high. We were thrilled to return to a place where so many fans have supported us over the years. The response and excitement among the attendees was palpable, and we can’t wait to come back next year on Nov. 7.  Mark your calendars for all the events, and we’ll definitely see all of you again in 2025!

 – Vince Morkri, Managing Editor