WHITE GOLD: GIANDO AND GIA TRATTORIA OFFER WHITE TRUFFLE MENUS FEATURING TASTES OF BOTH INNOVATION AND TRADITION

Hong Kong’s preeminent Italian restaurants are now boasting tableside white truffle top-up options

HONG KONG, 14 October 2016- Giando, one of Hong Kong’s most acclaimed Italian eateries, and its sister restaurant, Già Trattoria are now featuring the echelon of one of the world’s most elusive ingredients- white truffles. Sourcing from the Piedmont region, and most famously, the countryside surrounding the city of Alba, the restaurants are offering a series of dishes that celebrate and highlight the intricacies of the finest white truffles on earth. Già Trattoria is offering a menu of traditional Italian favourites, while Giando is featuring innovative dishes and a modern take on Italian fare. New this year, both restaurants will provide diners with a table-side top up option that allows truffle-lovers to purchase their own truffle (whole or by the gram) to add an extra boost to dishes already laden with the earthy-delicacy. 

Every dish at Già Trattoria is crowned with 5 grams of white Alba truffle. Dishes include classics such as Insalata Di Patate, Asparagi Mozzarella e Tartufo Bianco (potato salad with asparagus, mozzarella, and white alba truffle, HK$458), Uova All’Occhio Di Bue e Tartufo (sunny side up egg with white Alba truffle, HK$458), Tagliatelle Al Burro E Tartufo Bianco (homemade egg tagliatelle, butter sauce, and white alba truffle, HK$488), Suprema Di Pollo Ricotta E Tartufo Bianco (roasted free range chicken supreme stuffed with ricotta cheese, sautéed spinach, parmesan sauce and white alba truffle, HK$598), Branzino Di Orbetello in Crosta Di Sale (sea salt baked whole sea bass with vegetables and white truffles HK$748). Additional tableside truffle top-ups may be added for only HK$88 per gram.

Giando, nestled on picturesque Start Street takes a more innovative approach to their truffle menu, with dishes such as: Uova Strapazzate, Crostino E Tartufo Bianco (scrambled Italian eggs, toasted bread with white truffles, HK$428), Tagliolini Al Tartufo Bianco (homemade tagliolini pasta with white truffle, HK528), and Costoletta Di Vitello, Zucca E Tartufo Bianco (roasted Italian Veal rack, grilled pumpkin, potato cream, and white truffle, HK$768).  Giando’s truffle menu will evolve as truffle season progresses.

Founder and chef Gianni Caprioli describes White Truffles as, “they are like the jewellery of food, they sparkle and elevate every dish they touch.” On sourcing, Caprioli goes on to say, “While we source directly from Piedmont, and especially Alba, we also explore other regions of Italy, depending on rain patterns and soil saturation, these factors change seasonally and play a big factor in determining where the best white truffles will come from.”

Giando, is located on quaint Star Street, and features a clean aesthetic and semi-private booths, while Già Trattoria, is nestled in Fenwick Pier and boasts expansive views of Hong Kong’s Victoria Harbour. Both restaurants are paramount for Italian cuisine in Hong Kong and are headed by Chef Gianni Caprioli who sources ingredients directly from Italy’s boutique farmers, artisans, and wineries. While Giando offers a modern take on Italian food, inspired by Gianni’s travels, Gia Trattoria plates up rustic traditional Italian cuisine. 

MAISON MUMM CHAMPAGNE UNVEILS REVOLUTIONARY NEW MUMM GRAND CORDON BOTTLE TO ASIA IN CELEBRATION OF THE HONG KONG’S FIRST FIA FORMULA E CHAMPIONSHIP: DESIGNED TO BECOME THE ULTIMATE ICON OF CELEBRATION

Mumm Grand Cordon unveiled in Asia for the first time

(Hong Kong, October 2016) Maison Mumm, the official Champagne partner of the FIA Formula E Championship, is marking the Hong Kong E Prix by unveiling Mumm Grand Cordon for the first time in Asia. The Mumm Grand Cordon is a revolutionary new Champagne bottle, destined to become the ultimate icon of celebration.

City-centre locations don’t come more exhilarating than Hong Kong’s Victoria Harbourfront. Hong Kong is a diverse and electric city, but the world’s top Formula E drivers had no time for sightseeing before they did battle on a challenging circuit which epitomized the spirit of daring shared by Formula E and Maison Mumm. After the race, the winner of the Hong Kong ePrix race Sebastien Buemi took to the podium to celebrate their win with an iconic spray moment featuring Mumm Grand Cordon. 

True to its motto “Dare. Win. Celebrate.” Maison Mumm has always been associated with audacious challenges and ground-breaking endeavours- right back to 1904, when it supported the explorer Jean-Baptise Charcot during the first French Artic expedition. Its partnership with Formula E is the latest in a series of high-profile sporting sponsorships, which include, in horse racing, the Melbourne Cup and the Kentucky Derby and, in sailing, the Jules Verne Trophy and the Admiral’s Cup.

Perhaps the most eye-catching feature of the Mumm Grand Cordon bottle is its reinterpretation of the famous Cordon Rouge red sash, which is celebrating its 140th anniversary this year. Indeed, this emblem of excellence dates back to 1876, when Mumm founder Georges Hermann Mumm had the idea of decorating selected champagnes with the red ribbon of the Légion d’Honneur, France’s highest civilian award. On Mumm Grand Cordon, the red sash is transformed into a genuine red ribbon, which – in a feat of technology – is actually indented in the glass.

The bottle of Mumm Grand Cordon was created by multi-award-winning designer Ross Lovegrove, with who Maison Mumm previously collaborated on a limited-edition sabre. A graduate of the Royal College of Art in London, Ross Lovegrove rose to international prominence with designs for Sony and Apple, and his work is exhibited in major museums throughout the world.

Of Mumm Grand Cordon he says: “Mumm wanted to break the champagne codes. To me, design should always push barriers and challenge tradition, and as a Welsh guy I wanted to shake up an icon of French luxury.”

During the day, Mumm welcomed hundreds of guests to the EMOTION Formula E Club where an exciting program of entertainment awaited. Highlights include race simulators, a Mumm mixology workshop and a victory photo call.

Mumm’s Global Brand Director, Louis De Fautereau said: “Hong Kong’s Formula E race was the perfect celebratory moment to unveil our new Mumm Grand Cordon bottle to Asia- Mumm is an icon of victory with a long history of celebration.”

The race revelry was continued into the night at a glittering celebration of the Mumm Grand Cordon held at the iconic Dragon-i nightclub where Mumm Grand Cordon was officially unveiled for the first time in Asia. The bottle was shown making its way towards its Hong Kong debut via a daring delivery in a video featuring local celebrity, Alex Fong and Mumm Cellarmaster, Mariotti Didier, before being officially presented in person by Formula E driver, Lucas di Grassi. A former professional athlete who pushed boundaries during his swimming career before daring to switch careers into the entertainment business, Fong perfectly embodies the avant-garde spirit of Mumm Champagne.

An estimated 600 invited-guests attended the illustrious event including Formula E CEO Alejandro Agag, and drivers Sebastien Buemi, Lucasi di Grassi, and Jerome d’Ambrosio.

Mumm Grand Cordon will be listed at Dragon-i, Kee Club, Play, and Drop.

Mumm Grand Cordon is also available at Watson’s Wine and Cuvees.com (HK$438).

$1 MILLION GLOBAL STARTUP COMPETITION LAUNCHES: HONG KONG RENEWS QUEST FOR ITS MOST DRIVEN CHANGE-MAKER

Research reveals generation looking to businesses to solve world’s problems

Hong Kong, 13 September 2016: Today Chivas Regal has launched the third year of The Venture, a global search to find and support the next generation of startups that want to succeed whilst making a positive impact on the lives of others. Since Chivas The Venture first launched (2014) over 3,500 social enterprises have applied for the chance to receive a share of the annual $1 million fund. This year, 32 countries across 6 continents are taking part; only the most promising from each country will be selected as a global finalist for the chance to take part in an Accelerator Week programme and travel to the USA for Chivas The Venture final event in July 2017. This is Hong Kong’s third year participating in The Venture, with last year seeing Xania Wong of Jobdoh to the top 12 of the global finals in NYC.

The launch of Chivas The Venture comes off the back of a global report that revealed 95% of young professionals are looking for businesses to take more responsibility in solving global problems*. These findings are further supported by a global survey that confirms people (77%) see big business as the number one driver of positive change for the future**. The survey – that questioned a total of 11,349 people across 10 countries around the world – also found that education (70%) was also considered an important sector when it came to changing the world for the better**.

Chivas The Venture is open to any for-profit-startup that creates both financial value and a positive impact on the lives of others. Last year’s competition saw five Grand Finalists pitch to a panel of judges that included, Eva Longoria, Sonal Shah, Joe Huff and Alexandre Ricard in New York City. Conceptos Plásticos, a Colombian social startup that transforms plastic waste into building materials for vulnerable communities was awarded the largest contribution from The Venture fund, receiving $300,000.

The application period in Hong Kong is open until 20 November. This year, the local judging panel includes: Patricia Dwyer (Founder + Director The Purpose Business), Ming Wong (Founder + CEO Asia Community Ventures + Giinseng), Leong Cheung (Co-founder + Chairman RunOurCity), Jennifer Liu (Founder + CEO Sir Hudson International [The Coffee Academics]), and Frantz Hotton (Managing Director Pernod Ricard Hong Kong and Macau).

At the 13 September Hong Kong launch event, Dan MacCombie, co-founder of, RUNA, spoke about his journey towards successful social entrepreneurship. Runa is a New York based social enterprise that has introduced the world to clean energy drinks, helped the people of the Amazon, and captured the attention of investors such as Channing Tatum and Leonardo DiCaprio. 

Managing Director, Pernod Ricard Hong Kong and Macau, Frantz Hotton commented on Hong Kong’s participation in The Venture:

"It’s been inspiring to see the evolution of the Social Enterprise scene in Hong Kong. The growth in quality and quantity of applicants is a true testament to the vibrant entrepreneurial spirit of our city. Last year we had 22 high quality applicants, striving to solve some of the city’s most pressing issues. This year we expect an even larger increase.”

Hong Kong’s 2016 The Venture Finalist and Founder of JobDoh, Xania Wong commented on her experience with The Venture:

"The Venture was an unforgettable and an incredible experience to propel both my personal and professional growth. I was honored and inspired to meet so many talented and socially conscious entrepreneurs passionate about building a better world! With the newly honed knowledge and network, I strive to build a bigger and better business that creates scalable social impact.”

Chivas The Venture inspires social entrepreneurs and those seeking positive change from around the world to pursue their ambitions and realise their potential. The recent global survey revealed over two-thirds of people (69%) would like to work for a business that has a social conscience**.

Founding Executive Director, Beeck Center For Social Impact & Innovation, Sonal Shah commented on the research:

"The results from the Chivas research highlight a number of trends that have surfaced in our work here at the Beeck Center. It shows that Millennials and Gen Z are hungry, motivated and inspired to positively impact the world. Second, young people believe that business also has a social responsibility not just government. As the world continues to become increasingly networked and collaborative, we have an opportunity to shape it - building cross-sector solutions to our most pressing social and environmental challenges."

Richard Black, Chivas Regal Global Brand Director, commented:

“Promoting business as a force for good is a priority for Chivas Regal. There is a clear and growing desire around the world for change; people want to support and associate themselves with companies that are doing more than just making money. Since its launch in 2014, The Venture has already given $2m of funding to aspiring businesses from Chile to Japan, and impacted over 200,000 lives. We are excited to be able to pledge another $1m this year to help the next generation of global entrepreneurs make a difference.”

Chivas Regal is a global leading super premium whisky with a combination of entrepreneurial thinking and generosity at its heart. Chivas The Venture is inspired by the founding brothers, James and John Chivas, who realised early on that success is much richer when we share it with others. To apply for Chivas The Venture or find out about the impact the competition is already making across the world visit www.theventure.com.

DRIVING THE FUTURE: FORMULA E AND MUMM GRAND CORDON TO RACE INTO HONG KONG THIS OCTOBER

MUMM CHAMPAGNE CELEBRATES HONG KONG’S FIRST FIA FORMULA E CHAMPIONSHIP WITH AN EXHILARATING LINE-UP OF RACE THEMED BRUNCHES, PARTIES, AN LKF TAKEOVER, AND OPPORTUNITIES FOR VICTORY

(Hong Kong, 1 September 2016) FIA Formula E Championship, the world’s first all-electric racing series, is commencing their third season in Hong Kong this October 8-9 and Mumm Champagne is fuelling the celebration. Formula E represents a vision for the future of the motor industry, serves as a framework for R&D around the electric vehicle, and promotes clean energy and sustainability, making it a natural partner for Mumm, a brand that, throughout history, has consistently pushed boundaries in the pursuit of victory through dedication, a passion for innovation and a constant quest for excellence. Mumm, the official champagne partner of the FIA Formula E Championship is commemorating Hong Kong’s first ePrix with a series of race themed parties, brunches, an LKF takeover and chances to win tickets to the races. The adrenaline rush of the race weekend will culminate in an exclusive invite-only party that introduces Hong Kong to the revolutionary new Mumm Grand Cordon bottle.

Formula E offers a uniquely exciting and accessible experience for Hong Kong’s motorsport enthusiasts, such as unprecedented opportunities for audience participation and a circuit boasting iconic views of Victoria Harbour. Mirroring this city-centre track, Mumm, is hosting a series of race-themed brunches and after-brunch parties at Central locations such as the Conrad, Zuma, and Aberdeen Street Social and The Envoy. The race-themed revelry will commence 10 September and continue every weekend leading up to race weekend. In addition to remarkable food, Mumm cocktails, and live music, each venue will play home to interactive race-themed entertainment and plenty of victorious photo ops.  Event goers may even win an opportunity to witness all of the Formula E action live by entering the #RaceToCelebrate competition. Diners and revellers attending any Mumm race events are encouraged to post photos on Instagram tagged with #RaceToCelebrate and @GhMummHK for a chance to be awarded with a pair of 2016 FIA Formula E HKT Hong Kong ePrix Grand Stand tickets (valued at HK$4760) and an invitation to the exclusive unveiling of the Mumm Grand Cordon on October 9th 2016.

The Conrad is hosting Formula E After Brunch Oasis Hours, Saturday and Sundays that will feature a terrace BBQ platter, a glass of Mumm champagne, a sabrage demonstration and live music (HK$298) or for an additional HK$150, two hours of free-flow. Brunch-goers at Aberdeen Street Social will enjoy Formula Social (16, 17 + 18 Sept.) where they’ll add Formula E photo-ops, and 2-hours of free-flow Mumm (HK$220) to their a la carte brunch. Zuma’s legendary sushi and sashimi filled-brunch (24 + 25 Sept.) will receive a celebratory injection of Mumm when diners add on free-flow Mumm Champagne (HK$150) while enjoying live music, ring toss games and sabrage demonstrations. Additionally, every Saturday from 24 September, Zuma’s DJ fuelled after brunch party, Saturday Sessions, will feature two hours of free-flow Mumm for an additional HK$150. The Envoy (beginning 10 September) is hosting a Formula E on the Terrace party every Saturday from 5 pm that offers live music, sabrage demonstrations, a mumm tasting booth, and Formula E photo booth in addition to special prices on Mumm bottles and champagne cocktails.

Launching 30 September, and running four consecutive weekends, Mumm and the #RaceToCelebrate will takeover LKF. Every weekend night, the Mumm team will be holding court over LKF and Wyndham with very special prices for Mumm bottles and glasses. Over 15 bars and clubs, such as Tonic, Quinary, Rummin’ Tings, and Linq, will participate in this interactive promotion.

The month of champagne-soaked partying will conclude with the unveiling of the Mumm Grand Cordon bottle at Dragon-i. This breath-taking bottle is the most innovative design in the 189-year history of Maison Mumm. The bottle’s revolutionary shape, in particular its long, slender neck, necessitated a whole series of innovations to the traditional champagne production process. Uniquely for premium champagne, the bottle has no front label – instead, the G.H. Mumm signature and eagle emblem are screened in gold directly on the glass. 

HONG KONG CHEF RALLIES TO HELP ITALY EARTHQUAKE VICTIMS: GIANDO AND GIA TRATTORIA OFFER AMATRICIANA WITH ALL PROCEEDS GOING TO BENEFIT ITALY EARTHQUAKE VICTIMS IN AMATRICE

Until 30 September, 100% of proceeds from orders of Amatriciana at Giando and Gia Trattoria will be donated directly to those most affected by the Italy earthquake

HONG KONG, 29 AUGUST 2016- Giando, one of Hong Kong’s most acclaimed Italian eateries, and its sister restaurant, Già Trattoria are joining 600 restaurants in Italy and across the world to fundraise for the Italy earthquake response effort in Amatrice by cooking its signature dish. The town, amongst the worst hit in the 24 August quake, is known for its spaghetti all’Amatriciana: a pasta dish with a tomato-based sauce flavoured with guanciale. In response to the disaster, and in solidarity with Italy, Giando and Già Trattoria have put variations of the dish on their menus and pledge to donate 100% of each sale (HK$158), from now until 30 September directly to local charities in Italy.

Founder and chef Gianni Caprioli is personally traveling to central Italy and meeting with the officials of Amatrice to determine the best organizations and ways that Italians abroad can be of service to their mother country during this devastating time.  Gianni Caprioli says, “I live in Hong Kong, but Italy will always be my home. I was deeply concerned for my country after seeing the devastation from the 24 August quake, and knew that we needed to take immediate action to help.”

Giando, located on picturesque Star Street, will be serving Rigatoni all’Amatriciana, while Gia Trattoria, nestled in Fenwick Pier and boasting expansive views of Hong Kong’s Victoria Harbour, will dish up Bucatini all’Amatriciana. Both restaurants are paramount for Italian cuisine in Hong Kong and are headed by Chef Gianni Caprioli who sources ingredients directly from Italy’s boutique farmers, artisans, and wineries. While Giando offers a modern take on Italian food, inspired by Gianni’s travels, Gia Trattoria plates up rustic traditional Italian cuisine.

GIANDO TAKES UP RESIDENCE ON STAR STEET AND INTRODUCES A NEW ERA OF FRESH MODERN ITALIAN CUISINE TO THE HONG KONG DINING SCENE

GIANDO TAKES UP RESIDENCE ON STAR STEET AND INTRODUCES A NEW ERA OF FRESH MODERN ITALIAN CUISINE TO THE HONG KONG DINING SCENE

Giando Italian Restaurant and Bar offers a new weekend brunch focused on fine fresh cheese

Giando, one of Hong Kong’s most acclaimed Italian eateries, has now taken up residence at Starcrest on Wanchai’s trendy Star Street. The restaurant’s original home inside the historic Fenwick Pier still offers fresh Italian fare and infamous thin crust pizzas, but under the more casual concept of, Già Trattoria. Founder and culinary virtuoso Gianni Caprioli has enlisted Michelin-Starred Chef David Tamburini to spearhead Giando’s new chapter.  The new ground floor location boasts modern takes on Italian classic dishes, and offers set-lunch, dinner, and a new weekend semi-buffet brunch with a focus on fresh Italian cheeses.

Giando’s new location nestled at the end of stylish Star Street is a testament to modern authentic aesthetics. The floor to ceiling windows and lightly coloured interior offers the ideal canvas for Chef David Tamburini’s expertly plated dishes. The new menus include a wide selection of tantalizing options including, fresh salads, signature homemade pastas, vegetarian choices, ethically sourced meats and seafood, and homemade desserts. The a la carte menu includes innovative options such as a Carpaccio of Scallops, Red Shrimp, Yellow Tail, marinated in Thousand Flavors of the Mediterranean (HK$238), Baked Scamorza Cheese (Cow’s Milk) with Grilled Radicchio Trevigiano and Saba Dressing (HK$198), a sharing portion of Stockyard Australian Natural Grain-Fed Grilled Prime Rib (HK$988), and a Giando classic of Spaghetti Mancini “Aglio Olio” Style with Fresh Sea Urchin and Bottarga (HK$298). Not to be missed on the desserts menu is the tableside make your own sundae bar featuring five fresh toppings and homemade milk gelato (4-6pax, HK$398). The weekday set lunch menu offers three-courses, including dishes such as Eggplant Rolls with Ricotta Cheese & Sundried Tomatoes, Prime Beef Sirloin with Arugula Salad & Roasted Potatoes, and Hazelnut Parfait with Chocolate Shavings & Vanilla Sauceand is available starting at HK$268. Giando has always been passionate about high quality fresh ingredients, and remains committed to sourcing from Italy’s boutique farms, wineries, and artisans who share their belief that GMOs and antibiotics have no place on your plate.

Gianni Caprioli says, “This was our original dream location, but due to various circumstances it wasn’t possible when we opened Giando three years ago. Fortunately, Fenwick Pier provided an excellent home for Giando and allowed the restaurant to grow and evolve into what it is today. Our new Star Street location represents the evolution of Giando and offers the type of fresh modern Italian cuisine that we know the Hong Kong dining scene has long been hungry for.”

Further cementing Giando’s long held belief that quantity shouldn’t need to be sacrificed for quality, the restaurant now offers a top quality semi-buffet brunch with a strong focus on fresh cheese.  Brunch starts at HK$288 and includes the buffet counter or choice of appetizer, a choice of main including dishes such as Burrata cream mozzarella with marinated eggplant and mixed fresh Italian tomatoes, a lobster and lettuce salad, and Gnocchi with octopus ragout, and a homemade dessert. Those looking to add additional sparkle to their weekend can upgrade to two hours of free-flow Conntadi Castaldi (sparkling wine) for an additional HK$208 or Bianca Vigna (Prosecco) for HK$158. Giando’s brunch is available on both Saturday and Sunday from 12n to 3pm.

Giando on Star Street, with its modern ambiance, expansive boutique wine list, and contemporary cuisine offers the ideal setting to share a meal, conversation, and exceptional food for your next meeting, get-together, or date. 

MEDIA X MUMM HARBOUR PARTY

MEDIA X MUMM HARBOUR PARTY

MUMM CHAMPAGNE USHERS IN HONG KONG ART-WEEK WITH THE FIRST HIGH-VOLTAGE PARTY TO HIT CENTRAL’S HARBOURFRONT

(Hong Kong, 23 March 2016) Hong Kong Art Week commenced last night with the exclusive invitation-only MEDIA X MUMM Harbour Party, hosted at Art Central by Mumm Champagne. The first ever high-voltage party on Central’s iconic harbourfront powered a night of champagne popping revelry, high-flying VIPs, and live performances from cutting edge artists.

To be expected from a brand synonymous with pushing boundaries, the iconoclastic bash broke the tradition of sedate art parties typically flanked with sleepy guests slowly sipping bubbles whilst debating the merits of classical art. Over 400 of the artworld’s most progressive VIPs and champagne-lovers converged on the Harbour Party to celebrate Hong Kong Art Week with Art Central’s official Champagne partner, MUMM. The guest list boasted names such as Joey Ma, Adeline Chan, Caroline Fok, Kayla Wong, and Veronica Lam.

Throughout the night, New Media artist Jack Mclean presented by The Container [Tokyo], engaged partygoers with his Sad Clown performance piece. Mclean is also represented in MEDIA X MUMM, the fair’s first exhibition of avant-garde digital, new media and performance art. His Sad Clown performance character allowed the artist freedom to collaborate and experiment over the course of the night, and dared onlookers to push beyond the standard boundaries of their expectations. Also performing during the night was artist Latai Taumoepea. This avant-garde performance artist explored the concept of racial identity with a discreet piece that found her stripped down in the middle of the crowd while she covered her body with zinc oxide sunscreen under the Hong Kong skyline in complete darkness.

To close out the night, in a previously unannounced performance, British multivocalist, and musician, Beardyman, regaled the crowd with a display of his renowned beat-boxing skills. Beardyman is an international phenomenon known for pushing the boundaries of what people expect from a human beatbox with his innovative skills.  His latest track, Death of EDM with David Guetta and Showtek, has sent the public into overdrive. With millions of online views and listens, his creative impact to the music world captures the ground-breaking essence of G.H.MUMM and proved the perfect pairing to a night fueled by two exclusive Mumm limited edition bottles of Cordon Rouge.

Symbols of energy and innovation, both the No1 Silver and the reflective David Guetta bottles will now be on offer in Hong Kong. Those looking for a taste of this invite-only celebration may enjoy the Mumm No1 Silver bottle at Cabana, Drop, and The W Hotel, while the reflective David Guetta bottle is available exclusively at Dragon-i.

James Ostrer: ‘Guru Jimmy's Absolut Ashram of Spirituality’ Art Central & ZUMA 2016, Hong Kong

Absolut is pleased to present a new collaboration with the prominent Guru Jimmy – artist James Ostrer’s spiritual guide – on two site-specific Art Bars in Hong Kong. Both titled ‘Guru Jimmy’s Absolut Ashram of Spirituality’, the Art Bars will premiere at Art Central and ZUMA Hong Kong in March 2016.

Art Central, Hong Kong’s newest contemporary art fair on Hong Kong’s Central Harbour front, will host the Art Bar daily from 21-26 March. The ZUMA edition of the Art Bar will be open from 12pm daily on 21-28 March, making ZUMA the perfect place to relax after visiting the fair.

Following his celebrated appearance at the 2015 Venice Biennale, Guru Jimmy has been given carte blanche to fully conceptualise and create his Art Bar, from drinks to décor, and entertainment to ambience. Inspired by his own outlook that the future is not a given, and that all people should have the right to create their own, Guru Jimmy has imagined an Art Bar that gives way to a type of spiritual transcendence that he feels should be available to the masses. Art Central’s installation clearly demonstrates this, and consists of a technicolour dream-state complete with beanbag chairs, ‘material wealth’ rugs, and other spiritual endeavours, making it the ideal location for replenishment, relaxation and reflection. 

Guru Jimmy has collaborated with some of Hong Kong’s top mixologists from both Maximal Concepts and ZUMA, resulting in seven brightly coloured cocktails that each resemble a colour of the rainbow. The Art Bar at Art Central will serve the blue, violet and yellow coloured cocktails. It’s All About Me is a violet hued cocktail comprised of violet blossom liqueur, lemon, and ginger, which reflects imagination and spirituality, whilst the blue concoction, Absolut Clarity, using blended orange, lime, and a homemade citrus cordial, symbolises the qualities of creativity and intelligence. The three vibrant cocktails will be available through April at Limewood.

ZUMA represents the energy of the colour red with, the Happy Inner Selfie, a cocktail infused with pomegranate, cinnamon and yuzu, whilst the balance and harmony of the colour green is characterised in, Liquid Assets, a kiwi and pandan-based cocktail. The four cocktails on offer at ZUMA are sweetened only by the fruits’ natural sugars, paying tribute to Ostrer’s battle with sugar addiction as represented in his body of work Wotsit All About. ZUMA, recently named one of Asia’s Top 50 Bars, also promises to enlighten visitors through the various meanings of colour with an extensive food-pairing menu featuring colourful maki, sushi, and interpretative fruit platters. The bar and lounge will feature a live DJ from 7pm throughout the week and a special Art Session on Saturday, 26 March from 2.30pm.

Guru Jimmy will journey between the two venues, offering visitors a glimpse into his colourful world as well as presenting opportunities for ‘happy inner selfies’ for those looking to attain the ultimate happiness. To enhance his vibe of chilled tranquillity, Guru Jimmy will also travel between venues with his specially curated playlist of electro, funk and pop music.

The artist’s Art Bars are reminiscent of Absolut’s newest limited edition bottle design, Absolut Mix, which builds on the six colours of pride in a unique way, allowing the colours to mix together when the bottle is moved while still maintaining their individuality. The new bottle reflects Absolut and Guru Jimmy’s shared beliefs in an inclusive world that allows people to connect without labels. Absolut Mix will be available in Hong Kong this summer.

Additionally, Art Central hosts Ostrer’s latest body of work, Ego Systems, an amalgamation of celebrity icons who seduce their onlookers through traditional and social media with their promises of success, beauty and glamour. ZUMA concurrently hosts Ostrer's critically acclaimed body of work Wotsit All About, a photo series referencing icons of contemporary sugar worship, the artist’s imagined result of a corrupted globalisation and increasingly dangerous methods of food production.

‘Guru Jimmy’s Absolut Ashram of Spirituality’ is the latest in a series of collaborations between Absolut and leading contemporary artists to create Art Bar installations – ambitious sculptural environments which double as fully operational pop-up nightspots. This installation follows critically-acclaimed installations by SANGREE at Material Art Fair in Mexico City (2016); John Kørner at Chart Art Fair, Copenhagen, Denmark; Yazan Khalili at Art Dubai (2015); and Nadim Abbas at Art Basel (2014) in Hong Kong.

“It is Guru Jimmy’s greatest delight to help, support and empower people to mix up the emotions of absolute fun, friendship, music and art,” said James Ostrer.

“We are excited to be working with both Guru Jimmy and James Ostrer on ‘Guru Jimmy’s Absolut Ashram of Spirituality’. The Art Bars will be unique spaces where people can come together and relax, and we look forward to bringing both Art Bars to life in Hong Kong,” says Saskia Neuman, Global Art Manager, Absolut.

Cocktails

All of the below cocktails are crafted with Absolut Vodka:

RED: Guru Jimmy’s Happy Inner Selfie

Pomegranate, cinnamon, and yuzu

ORANGE: Guru Jimmy’s Happy Ending

Kumquat

YELLOW: Guru Jimmy’s Inevitable Joy

Pineapple, passion fruit, spice syrup, black pepper, mint

GREEN: Guru Jimmy’s Liquid Asset

Kiwi, pandan leaf

BLUE Guru Jimmy’s Absolut Clarity

Blended orange & peel liquer, lime, homemade citrus cordial

INDIGO: Guru Jimmy’s Absolut Spirituality

Infused flower, blueberry, cardamom

VIOLET: Guru Jimmy’s It’s All About Me

Violet blossom liqueur, lemon, ginger beer

JOBDOH IS ANNOUNCED AS A GLOBAL FINALIST OF CHIVAS REGAL’S THE VENTURE

A SEARCH FOR THE WORLD’S MOST PROMISING SOCIAL ENTREPRENEURS

JOBDOH has been selected as one of 28 startups from across the world to be a finalist for The Venture, Chivas Regal’s global search to find and support the most promising social entrepreneurs who aim to succeed in business, whilst having a positive impact on the lives of others.

JOBDOH has been chosen to represent Hong Kong in the upcoming final of The Venture. Xania Wong, co-founder of JOBDOH will travel to New York City in July to compete for a share of The Venture’s US$1 million fund. The 28 global finalists will have a chance to pitch in front of an expert panel of judges who are looking for businesses that can offer scalable and sustainable solutions to real world issues.

JOBDOH, a smart data-driven booking platform for temporary workers, connects and matches employers to temp staff anytime, anywhere. With a location based and smart screening mechanism, JOBDOH's record in getting the right candidate from job posting to the work premise is under 1.5 hours. While employers can enjoy both speed and quality, workers benefit from flexibility to earn an income quickly and an improved upward mobility by recording and showcasing their track record directly in the app.

Frantz Hotton, Managing Director of Pernod Ricard Hong Kong and Macau said: “This year we had 22 applicants for The Venture in Hong Kong. The competition was tough as there are so many industrious local social entrepreneurs making great changes. In the end, we chose JOBDOH to represent Hong Kong at the global finals because of their potential to make a positive global impact on underemployment.”

Xania Wong said: “I am so excited to move on to the next stage of Chivas Regal’s The Venture. This platform and support will help me to expand JOBDOH and better improve the livelihood of others.”

A notable mention was given to short listed venture, LaLa Curio and founder Laura Cheung,  for the impact she is making on the lives of traditional Chinese artisans, by bringing their crafts to a global stage. LaLa Curio Generations is a curated digital platform for Chinese traditional crafts. Through artisan discovery, education, quality curation, and marketing, LaLa Curio plans to preserve Chinese cultural heritage for future generations.

JOBDOH was selected at a live pitch event held at Duddell’s in Central Hong Kong on 14 January. At the event, five shortlisted local entrepreneurs pitched their ideas for change in front of an audience made up of fellow social entrepreneurs, investors, and a panel of judges. Guests enjoyed a specially curated ‘Start-up’ Chivas Regal cocktail series, featuring “The Hacker”, “The Hustler”, and “The Hipster”. Created by Hong Kong’s local Chivas Master, Dave Lam, “The Hipster” is, a blend of Chivas 12, Luxardo maraschino, Fernet branca, and orange bitters. “The Hipster” will now be available at Quinary, for those looking to experience their own taste of The Venture.

Ahead of the global finals, the competitors will take part in The Venture’s Accelerator Week hosted at University of Oxford by The Skoll Centre for Social Entrepreneurship. Embedded within the world-renowned Saïd Business School at the University of Oxford, The Skoll Centre has created an inspirational and transformative programme featuring opportunities for the finalists to develop leadership skills, take part in practical workshops and be inspired by global experts on critical topics that affect social enterprises.

With over US$1 million in funding and resources, The Venture enables social entrepreneurs from around the world to realize their potential and gain exposure for their business. For more information about JobDOH and Chivas Regal’s ongoing support for social enterprise visit https://www.theventure.com.

Chivas Regal introduces the gift of the century: Chivas Regal The Icon

The premium Scotch whisky brand releases an ultra-prestigious blend to the Hong Kong market, crafted with some of the oldest and rarest whiskies available

Hong Kong, 26 October 2015- It has been more than a century since Chivas Regal established itself as the world’s first luxury whisky, and today Chivas Regal introduces a symbol of luxury for a new era - Chivas Regal The Icon.

Chivas Regal The Icon is the embodiment of craftsmanship and tradition married with the unparalleled expertise of Chivas Regal’s Master Blender, Colin Scott. This ultra-prestige Scotch whisky is an exceptionally smooth blend of much sought-after whiskies from more than 20 distilleries across Scotland, including some rare whiskies from distilleries now no longer in use.

Chivas Regal The Icon is the perfect balance of old and new, with each distillery imparting its own unique characteristics. At its heart lie the rarest malts from Strathisla, the spiritual home of Chivas Regal, and the oldest continuously operating distillery in the Scottish Highlands. Accented with hand-selected single malts from Longmorn and Glen Keith, Chivas Regal The Icon is a bold, balanced and unforgettable blend specifically developed with discerning whisky connoisseurs in mind.

Each year,  a limited number of bottles of Chivas RegalThe Icon will be available, making it a must-have product for whisky adorers and collectors alike.

Presented in an elegant bottle, each decanter of Chivas Regal The Icon has been hand-blown by dedicated master craftsmen at Dartington Crystal before being hand-filled with the luxury liquid. The glass is delicately etched and finished with precision crafted metalwork and presented in sublime green glassware in homage to the original green Chivas Regal bottle that captured the world’s attention in 1909. Adorned with a signature luckenbooth stopper, a traditional Celtic symbol of love, the distinctive bottle is certain to be adored by whisky enthusiasts around the world.

Tasting notes

A celebration of craftsmanship and excellence, Chivas Regal The Icon is the pinnacle of the Chivas Regal range. With exceptional character and an incredibly long and luscious finish, rich notes of honey, vanilla and dark chocolate are balanced by subtle hazelnut influences from the cask, delivering a long and luxurious finish in the smooth Chivas house style.

Colin Scott, Chivas Regal’s Master Blender, commented:

“Chivas Regal The Icon is a truly exquisite blend – perfectly smooth with an intense concentration of sumptuous flavours that develop into an exceptionally long, lingering finish. I am proud to present this luxurious expression of the Chivas Regal house style to you.”

The limited release of Chivas Regal The Icon is available by private order only at HK$28,800. 

To purchase Chivas Regal The Icon in Hong Kong please contact: Mr. Christopher Bin / Christopher.bin@pernod-ricard.com

ABSOLUT VODKA TURNS CLOCKENFLAP 2015 ELECTRIK

ABSOLUT ELECTRIK REVEALED FOR THE FIRST TIME IN HONG KONG AT THE CLOCKENFLAP MUSIC & ARTS FESTIVAL

Absolut Vodka is premiering their newest limited edition bottle, Absolut Electrik, at Hong Kong’s premier outdoor music and arts festival. The Absolut Electrik Bar will amplify the Clockenflap experience with a multi-sensory offering of flavours, colours, lights, and movement. In the lead up to the legendary three-day event, Absolut Vodka will offer festivalgoers various opportunities to gain complimentary access to Clockenflap.

The Absolut Electrik twin bottles feature two cutting edge hues, Electrik blue and silver that combine to create an aesthetic reminiscent of flashing lights and pumping beats. Absolut Electrik evokes feelings of energy with the potential to make any night an electrical one. The Clockenflap festival bursts with passion and ingenuity; generating the ideal backdrop for Absolut Electrik’s mission to infuse creativity and transform the night.

The Absolut Electrik Bar, conveniently situated across from Clockenflap’s Electric Stage, will feature a luminescent lounging area to sip Absolut Electrik cocktails that have been hand-crafted in celebration of Clockenflap. Cocktails will include the Absolut Electrik Blue Mule, a take on the traditional Moscow Mule. The Absolut Electrik Bar will be an innovative photo-worthy backdrop guaranteed to garner likes from all.

Absolut Vodka will deliver plentiful opportunities to score complimentary Clockenflap tickets. The first chance will be the Electrik Hong Kong Nights competition. Between 26 October and 20 November, hopeful festivalgoers can purchase any bottle of Absolut Vodka to stage a creative photo featuring an iconic site that illustrates an ‘Electrik’ night in Hong Kong. Photog aspirants can then message their shot to Absolut Vodka HK’s facebook or post to Instagram with #ElectrikNight and #AbsolutHK. The five most creative photos will be chosen and their submitters and a guest will head to Clockenflap for a truly Electrik night.

Absolut Vodka will also offer Clockenflap devotees a first sip of new Absolut Electrik cocktails. Red Bar at IFC, and various other nightspots, will offer an innovative secret menu, designed to build anticipation and boast the flavours of the festival.

Restaurant Delivery startup foodora launches in Hong Kong offering exclusive access to premium restaurants

Rocket Internet-backed foodora launches Hong Kong’s first 30-minute food delivery service

Hong Kong, 30 September 2015 – foodora, a Berlin-based premium-restaurant delivery service is expanding to Hong Kong. foodora offers a first-class alternative to traditional takeaway options and employs an advanced logistics algorithm to ensure that food maintains its high quality and arrives at the customer’s doorstep or office, on average, within 30-minutes.

 Founded less than one-year ago, the startup has set itself apart from traditional delivery services by working only with high-end and trendy restaurants, such as Dragon-i, Iberico, Check-In Taipei, The Boss and Le Port Parfume. Exclusive delivery contracts with no-reservation, restaurants such as Little Bao will offer hungry Hong Kongers an alternative to waiting in a queue for trendy eats.

Behind the scenes, foodora’s proprietary logistics system determines the optimal route between restaurants and customers to help drivers navigate the dense traffic of Hong Kong. The company's dedicated, uniformed and friendly delivery team ensures maximum food quality and transportation standards by not stacking orders and knowing their terrain extremely well. The newly launched foodora app offers customers peace of mind, by sending updates along the entire order process. This allows customers to relax while they look forward to enjoying their meal in the comfort of their home or the convenience of their office.

 Mat Podesta, CEO of foodora Hong Kong, remarks: “Hong Kong is one of the world’s great global cities and as such should have access to world-class food delivery services. foodora wants to introduce a new benchmark of reliability, speed, and quality, bringing Hong Kongers what other markets already enjoy.”

With over 100 partner restaurants, foodora Hong Kong is shaking up the online food delivery scene. Through its online platform, partnering restaurants enjoy access to a large and engaged customer base, leading to increased revenues without the need to employ their own couriers, or increase their restaurant seating capacity. Currently delivering to Central and Sheung Wan, foodora plans to expand their delivery area to TST, Wan Chai, and Causeway Bay with an expanded list of 400 restaurants by the end of 2015.

 “Few realize Dragon-I has very talented chefs serving some of Hong Kong’s best Chinese and Japanese food. With foodora we can now extend the Dragon-I experience into homes and offices,” says Raymond Young, General Manager of Dragon-I.

The startup gained traction in its home market of Berlin and began making plans to scale the business with support from German Internet platform Rocket Internet. Plans to quickly expand the business globally.

 New customers can receive HK$50 off their first order with code: HELLOHONGKONG

 How does foodora work?

Through www.foodora.hk or via the foodora app, consumers can enter their location, view a list of quality-only restaurants serving their neighborhood, and place an order in the comfort of their home, office or even while on-the-go. The order is then carefully prepared by the restaurant, picked-up by the foodora logistics team, and delivered to the customer in only 30 minutes.

CHIVAS REGAL LAUNCHES THE VENTURE II WITH OVER US$1 MILLION OF SUPPORT AVAILABLE FOR HONG KONG’S MOST DRIVEN CHANGE-MAKERS

Scott Lawson of SOW Asia, Philo Alto of AVA, and Doris Leung of Diamond Cab

[September 22, Hong Kong]  – Chivas Regal, the world’s original luxury whisky, today announced the launch of The Venture II – a global search for social entrepreneurs whose businesses and ideas use enterprise and innovation to inspire positive social change. Locally, The Venture II represents a renewed quest for Hong Kong’s most driven change-makers. The Venture was first launched in 2014 and propelled Hong Kong’s Diamond Cab to the finals in San Francisco, USA. This year, Chivas Regal Hong Kong will host a series of inspiring events in the lead-up to the selection of a finalist who will represent Hong Kong’s best social enterprises globally.

The Venture II is an initiative with an international focus on providing aspiring social entrepreneurs with US$1 million of financial assistance, global exposure for their company or idea, and support from world-famous business mentors. Chivas Regal will provide mentorship and financial backing to those who aim to succeed in business whilst making a positive impact on the lives of others. Up to 20 of the most promising social entrepreneurs from around the world will be invited to the Accelerator Week in Silicon Valley, California – home to some of the world’s leading start-ups. These finalists will meet with leading tech companies, receive mentorship from experts, and then pitch for a portion of the US$1 million in funding to create and advance transformative and positive social change.

The inaugural year of The Venture saw more than a thousand social entrepreneurs apply for US$1million in funding and sent Hong Kong’s Doris Leung of Diamond cab to the Accelerator Week and The Final Pitch event in San Francisco. During Accelerator Week, the 16 global finalists polished their pitches and engaged in discussions, hosted by inspirational leaders such as Moving Brands, Google, and Duarte. The finalists pitched the potential of their start-up to an expert judging panel that included actor and social entrepreneur Adrian Grenier. Algramo from Chile was awarded the largest share of the fund, receiving US$300,000 to further develop the pioneering food distribution enterprise.

Registration for The Venture II is straightforward.  Hong Kong applicants need to complete the registration form at www.TheVenture.com. The Venture II is open to the public; it is not limited to those who own a company. The hopeful entrepreneur without a company can also pitch their idea by submitting a video (max. 2 min.) or a presentation deck introducing the business and describing how the business works. The business must aim to affect positive social change; such as a tangible contribution to the betterment of others, or our environment, etc. All applications must be submitted by November 20, 2015 (Friday).

On October 20th, Chivas Hong Kong will host a dynamic Town Hall discussion hosted by entrepreneur and philanthropist Yana Peel that will offer Hong Kong entrepreneurs the opportunity to gain specific and poignant advice from industry-leaders, and opportunities to meet like-minded peers and mentors. In January, five Hong Kong finalists will be invited to present their visions to a panel of judges, each of whom will evaluate the plan for its ability to create impactful social change through a financially viable business model that has potential to scale. The judging panel will consist of local leaders who have successfully navigated the business world. The business that demonstrates the most potential to remain successful while generating positive change will be showcased on www.TheVenture.com. Here, applicants will be able to view short documentaries about other social entrepreneurs from around the world, providing insights into their success, as well as articles with advice and features about the business of ‘doing good’. Starting on April 2016, TheVenture.com will offer the public a chance to judge the finalists through voting and crowd-sourced funding.

Richard Black, Global Brand Director, Chivas Regal, says: “Chivas Regal has continuously invested their profits into others like them; those who are committed to making a positive impact on society. The brand is not only committed to crafting their world-famous whisky, but also to inspiring profound and positive changes in global communities. Chivas Regal is dedicated to passing on their socially-responsible beliefs and values to the next generation, inspiring them, and educating them on the importance of pursuing business initiatives as a force for good.”

With over a million US dollars in funding and resources provided by Chivas Regal, The Venture II will enable promising and aspiring social entrepreneurs from around the world to realize their idea’s potential, gain exposure for their business, and begin making the positive impact our world needs.

To find out how to pitch your idea for social change, visit www.TheVenture.com.