Sotheby’s to Launch Wine Shop and Lounge in Hong Kong Maison Following Record Auction Success

Sotheby’s Expands Its Horizons with a Dedicated Wine Shop and Lounge in Hong Kong

Sotheby’s, the renowned auction house, is set to enhance its presence in Hong Kong with the introduction of a dedicated wine shop and lounge at its newly established Maison in the Landmark Chater building. This strategic move follows the remarkable success of its inaugural live wine auction, "The Connoisseur’s Cellar," held on March 30 and 31. The auction took place in a transformed ground-floor area known as “the grotto,” which was designed to blend cutting-edge technology with an inviting atmosphere for wine tastings.

A Successful Debut: The Connoisseur’s Cellar

The recent auction exceeded all expectations, with the highlight being the sale of 12 bottles of Richebourg 2007 Domaine Leroy Côte de Nuits Grand Cru, which fetched an impressive HK$625,000—well above its low estimate. George Lacey, Sotheby’s director and head of wine for Asia, noted that this event marked the largest single-owner auction Sotheby’s has held in Asia to date. He described the Maison’s ambiance as “cathedral-like,” perfectly suited for showcasing fine wine, art, and collectibles.

The Maison: A New Era for Sotheby’s in Hong Kong

Opened in July 2024, the 24,000 square foot Maison occupies a space that was formerly home to Armani’s flagship store. It serves as Sotheby’s public face in Hong Kong, strategically located on a bustling pedestrian route in the financial district. This prime location has attracted a diverse array of visitors, many of whom may not have previously considered entering an auction house. Since its opening, the Maison has welcomed around half a million visitors, with many first-time clients making initial purchases of paintings or luxury goods before participating in auctions.

The Upcoming Wine Shop and Lounge

The new wine shop and lounge will take over a first-floor area previously occupied by Emporio Armani. Designed by the acclaimed architecture firm MVDRV, the space is set to open later this year and will feature a contemporary design that aligns seamlessly with Sotheby’s brand image. The lounge will provide a relaxed environment where visitors can enjoy wine after work or during shopping excursions. This marks Sotheby’s first permanent venue dedicated to wine appreciation in Hong Kong, a significant step up from its previous occasional pop-up events.

A Hub for Socializing and Learning

The lounge aims to serve as both a social hub and an educational platform, with plans to host tastings and masterclasses in an intimate setting. This initiative is particularly aimed at attracting younger consumers, a demographic that is increasingly interested in luxury categories. Lacey highlighted that 32% of Sotheby’s bidders in Hong Kong are under 40 years old, the highest percentage among all its global locations. By creating accessible retail spaces, Sotheby’s hopes to engage younger generations and cultivate their interest in fine wine and spirits.

Expanding the Maison Concept Internationally

Sotheby’s ambitions extend beyond Hong Kong, with plans to expand the Maison concept internationally. New locations are in the works for the Breuer Building on Madison Avenue in New York City and on Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré in Paris. In Hong Kong, Lacey is preparing for an exciting calendar of up to five live and 14 online wine auctions each year. He emphasized that Sotheby’s clientele often includes individuals with diverse interests across luxury categories, including wine, art, and jewelry.

Strengthening Sotheby’s Presence in Hong Kong

The addition of the wine shop and lounge is seen as the final piece of the Maison project in Hong Kong. This new venue is designed to solidify Sotheby’s presence in the city, offering a welcoming environment for both seasoned collectors and newcomers eager to explore the world of fine wine and spirits. With its innovative approach and commitment to engaging a broader audience, Sotheby’s is poised to redefine the luxury auction experience in Hong Kong and beyond.