DUTY ZERO by cdf Presents：Pairing Wines with Hairy Crabs
The hairy crab production season runs from October to December every year, which is a good time to taste hairy crabs. As a lover of hairy crabs, you must be familiar with the saying "Round belly in September, sharp belly in October." This means that in the September, one should savour female crabs with round bellies; while in October, it's time to enjoy the most flavourful and rich roe of male crabs with sharp bellies. DUTY ZERO by cdf has carefully selected a range of classic Shaoxing wine, champagne, and whisky to pair with hairy crabs, bringing you a delectable culinary experience. This crab season, why not try a mix of Chinese and Western pairings?
- Gu Yue Long Shan Shaoxing wine Jiulongzhizun (750ml)
Hairy crabs paired with Shaoxing wine is a classic pairing that everyone knows, we recommend Gu Yue Long Shan Shaoxing wine Jiulongzhizun to everyone. Hairy crab boasts a delicious flavour but belongs to the "cooling" category of food. Shaoxing wine has the effect of promoting blood circulation and warming the stomach. It can be reconciled with the cold hairy crabs to drive away the cold and warm the stomach. In addition, Shaoxing wine is also rich in amino acids and lipids, which can remove the fishy smell of hairy crabs and make the crab meat taste more delicious. It is undoubtedly a perfect match!
This is a premium selection among Shaoxing wines. It is made from top-quality glutinous rice, fine wheat, and Jianhu spring water, fermented through unique traditional craftsmanship to create an authentic yellow wine. After years of aging, this yellow wine develops a rich and aromatic body.
The smooth and refreshing texture of champagne makes it an excellent pairing for hairy crabs, we recommend Bollinger Special Cuvée and Dom Perignon Rose Vintage to everyone. Its acidity can accentuate the sweetness of the crab meat and neutralize the greasiness of crab roe. In addition, the delicate mineral notes and floral aromas of champagne blend harmoniously with the luscious aroma of golden crab roe, creating an exquisite flavour profile. This combination is sure to leave a lasting impression and provide a memorable dining experience!
- Bollinger Special Cuvée (750ml)
This special cuvée champagne is a typical representation of non-vintage champagne. It undergoes a minimum of three years of aging in the cellar before being bottled. It exudes subtle aromas of almond nougat, fennel seeds, and unique honey malt. On the palate, it reveals captivating flavors of toasted bread, baked apple, and ginger candy. The wine has a refined and smooth body, with a lingering and endless finish that leaves a lasting impression.
- Dom Perignon Rose Vintage (750ml)
This champagne is a tribute to Pinot Noir. It exudes aromas of guava, citrus fruits, dried flowers and nuts. It is fragrant, with a crisp and refreshing acidity that balances its flavors. The palate is fresh and invigorating, with fine and delicate bubbles. It leaves a fragrant and lingering aftertaste that is highly enticing.
The other alternative is to pair it with whisky. You can try Ballantine's 15YO Miltonduff Single Malt Whisky from the Scottish island or Talisker Dark Storm Single Malt Whisky from Islay. They embody the distinct island style that has developed over the years, infused with the briny sea breeze. Some even incorporate peat for malt drying, resulting in flavours of peat and smoke. These whiskies are well-suited to complement the richness of crab roe, as their salty and smoky notes enhance the fresh flavor of the crab and add layers of complexity, providing a unique taste and gustatory experience.
- Ballantine's 15YO Miltonduff Single Malt Whisky (700ml)
As the basic flavour of Ballantine's top series, it has been matured for a remarkable 15 years in American oak barrels, resulting in a rich and bold floral aroma. The whisky is accompanied by gentle notes of cinnamon spice, offering a harmonious combination. With a full-bodied and luscious texture, it carries a subtle hint of liquorice and delivers a warm and lingering finish.
- Talisker Dark Storm Single Malt Whisky (1000ml)
This whisky is the most heavily peated expression in the Talisker series, boasting strong maritime characteristics. Matured in heavily charred casks, it exudes pronounced smoky notes, distinctive chocolate aromas, and complex spices. On the palate, it offers a combination of citrus, fresh honey, and smoky toasted flavours, with a long finish.
If you're a fan of tasting high-quality wines and spirits, you can now pre-order and pick up your favourite liquors before departing or after arriving at Hong Kong International Airport. Before you make your purchase, don’t forget to check the policies about restricted or prohibited items of your destination to avoid any inconvenience during your travel. In case you're a local resident, don't worry—you don't have to be traveling to take advantage of this great offering. You can still make use of HKairportShop.com and enjoy local delivery of high-quality wine.
Visit DUTY ZERO by cdf airport stores or HKairportShop.com now to choose from a selection of over 500 premium wines, whiskies, champagnes, cognacs, and other liquors. Whether you're a wine aficionado or a fan of fine spirits, there's something for everyone. It’s a wonderful opportunity to enjoy them with friends and family, or to purchase as gifts for loved ones.
We hope you enjoy your time in Hong Kong and take advantage of this fantastic opportunity to explore the world of wines and the culinary delights that accompany them! It's always a good idea to experiment and discover your own favourite combinations.