Rebecca Leung AIWS Announced as the Cathay Pacific HKIWSC's Young Communicator of the Year Award Winner

(6 November 2014) Asia’s original and premier wine and spirit competition, the Cathay Pacific Hong Kong International Wine and Spirit Competition (HKIWSC), announces the 2014 Young Communicator of the Year as Rebecca Leung AIWS.

Rebecca is the founder of the renowned “Wine is Beautiful” blog and writes regularly for publications including: the Hong Kong Economic Journal, Wine Now Magazine, Hong Kong Economic Times, Cru Magazine, and Vino Vogue (China).

In addition to her work as a wine writer, Leung is also a host on radio shows and sits on the judging panel of international wine competitions, as well as working as an independent wine educator and consultant.

The award was created in 2013 to recognise and reward an Asian-based individual who has made a marked impact in the communication of wines and/or spirits in their country in the preceding 12 months.

Judges were impressed with the breadth of Rebecca’s wine-related activities and her flair and commitment to promoting a culture of wine appreciation across Hong Kong and China. “Rebecca actively promotes wine culture via a range of Greater China media, including her popular blog, video posts, social media following, radio show, newspaper and magazine contributions”, commented the judges.

Now celebrating its sixth year, the Cathay Pacific HKIWSC remains the original and most well-respected wine and spirit competition in Asia. Founded by the IWSC Group, Debra Meiburg MW and Simon Tam, the competition is regarded as the Asian guide to the world’s finest wine and spirits. With its panel of Asian judges, the HKIWSC ensures that not only are the best wines selected from all across the globe, but that they are suited to Asian taste preferences too.

Upon receiving the award Rebecca commented: "I am greatly humbled and honored to be receiving this award. I would like to offer my sincerest gratitude to the judges who have selected me for this honor. I love wine, I always enjoy tasting it, but what I enjoy the most is the wonderful pleasure of communicating it with people. Through writing, broadcasting and hosting talks about wine, I can share the joy and interesting experiences with my readers and audiences, and most important of all, I am able to learn more from others when hearing their feedback, as I believe everyone has a special palate for wine and food. I will continue to work hard in wine journalism and wine culture promotion. Thank you very, very much."

Debra Meiburg MW, HKIWSC Director, commented on the results:
“It was fantastic to see more countries participating than ever before, with products entered from over 35 countries. The judges were impressed with the quality of products submitted and especially delighted to see the addition of the Sake category this year. The Trophy winner, Kowa Inc with their Futaributai Junmai Daiginjo, I know will be delighted.”