On Thursday, 28 May 2026, selected professionals in the Hong Kong seafood and wine trade community will be invited to an afternoon of unparalleled gastronomic refinement. Held at the breathtaking SKYE Rooftop & Brasserie, the Franciacorta and Marennes Oléron Masterclass promises an exclusive exploration of two of Europe’s most storied culinary treasures.
As part of the "European Elegance" campaign - an initiative supported by the European Union to celebrate the prestigious Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) and Protected Geographic Indication (PGI) labels - this event serves as a testament to the continent's enduring commitment to quality and tradition.
An Unprecedented Cross - Cultural Pairing
The masterclass centers on a core philosophy: “When the Italian wine of Franciacorta PDO meets the French oysters of Marennes Oléron PGI, quality and tradition from Europe are paired at their best.”
This event marks a celebration of cross-cultural refinement, bridging the gap between the sun-drenched Atlantic coast of France and the sophisticated, effervescent hills of Lombardy. Attendees will witness the harmonious dialogue between two icons of European gastronomy:
- Franciacorta PDO: The standard-bearer for Italian excellence, representing a pinnacle of elegance and rigorous production artistry.
- Marennes Oléron PGI: An iconic staple of French cuisine, celebrated for its traditional refinement methods that produce oysters of unparalleled quality and depth of character.
Guided by a Master of Wine
The tasting experience will be expertly curated and led by Jennifer Docherty MW (Master of Wine). With 16 years of global expertise in wine education and industry leadership, Docherty brings an authoritative voice to this immersive journey.
Following an immersive study trip to the Franciacorta region in 2025, Docherty is uniquely positioned to bridge the technical nuances of terroir with the sensory joy of the tasting experience. Her guidance will ensure that guests not only enjoy these exceptional products but also understand the "why" and "how" behind each deliberate pairing.
A Sensory Degustation
The event is designed as an intimate, seated masterclass - a format that fosters learning, discussion, and sensory discovery. The curriculum for the afternoon includes:
- Freshly-shucked Excellence: A comparative tasting of two classic varieties - the delicate Fine de Claire and the robust, flavorful Spéciale de Claire.
- Innovative Gastronomy: Guests will explore two creative, cooked oyster dishes featuring the Spéciale de Claire, demonstrating the versatility of these PGI products.
- The Perfect Pour: Each dish and oyster variety will be paired with a carefully selected flight of 5 distinct Franciacorta wines, showcasing the depth and structural complexity of the Italian PDO wines.
Invitation for Trade Professionals
This event is strictly reserved for professionals within the wine and seafood trade, offering a rare opportunity to delve deep into the European quality labels that continue to define the luxury lifestyle market.
By fostering a deeper understanding of these products, the Franciacorta and Marennes-Oléron Masterclass aims to strengthen the presence of these authentic European labels within the Hong Kong market, celebrating the spirit of European savoir-faire.
Event Details at a Glance
- Date: Thursday, 28 May 2026
- Time: 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM
- Venue: SKYE Rooftop & Brasserie, 27/F, The Park Lane Hong Kong, 310 Gloucester Road, Causeway Bay
We look forward to welcoming the trade community to this sophisticated celebration of European excellence.