Editor’s note:
UPDATE: STRATEGIC NEW DATES ANNOUNCED FOR HUA HIN WINE EXPO 2026
In a move to deliver an even more expansive and curated experience, organisers of the Hua Hin Wine Expo 2026 have announced a strategic shift in dates. Originally scheduled for January, this premier event will now take place on March 19th and 20th, 2026, at the Amari Hua Hin.
Working in close alignment with the hotel’s new leadership, this “New Chapter” provides a longer runway to scale the event’s production, ensuring a bigger and better showcase for the Royal Coast. All previously purchased tickets remain fully valid for the new March dates.
The Royal Coast is preparing to host its most prestigious wine event of the year as the Hua Hin Wine Expo 2026 returns on 19–20 January.
Moving to the elegant five-star setting of Amari Hua Hin, this year’s Expo marks a significant evolution, expanding into a comprehensive two-day journey of professional education, high-level commerce and social celebration.
Since its inception, the Expo has grown from a local gathering into a vital pillar of the region’s hospitality and tourism sectors. Under the continued leadership of event organiser John Murphy, the 2026 edition promises to be the most ambitious yet, bridging the gap between global expertise and the unique coastal charm of Hua Hin.
A new chapter in wine education
For the first time, the Expo will dedicate its opening day entirely to professional development. On Thursday, 15 January, the spotlight turns to the WSET Level 1 Award in Wines. This globally recognised certification, led by expert instructors from the ASEAN Professional Beverage Academy (APBA), offers local enthusiasts and industry professionals a rare opportunity to formalise their knowledge on the Royal Coast.
The intensive one-day course covers everything from grape characteristics to the Systematic Approach to Tasting (SAT), providing an essential foundation for anyone looking to advance their career in hospitality or refine their personal palate.
The business of wine: a nexus for the trade
As Friday, 16 January unfolds, the Expo shifts its focus towards the region’s thriving hospitality industry. The Exclusive Trade and Press Launch serves as a crucial B2B platform, connecting international suppliers with the decision-makers shaping wine lists in Hua Hin, Cha-am and beyond.
The morning session features a strong line-up of expertise, with keynote speakers including wine ambassador Bradley Mitton, industry veteran Wannakorn Watsrisawatt, Anthony Caradec of École Ducasse and Suppached Sasomsin, head winemaker at Siam Winery.
For industry professionals, the afternoon offers in-depth masterclasses, including Foundation of Sommelier Skills, a session designed to master the art of service and recommendation, and a “History of Australian Winemaking” masterclass curated by Club Vivanova.
Foundation of Sommelier Skills
Elevate your service expertise with this intensive four-hour masterclass led by Anthony Caradec, executive director of École Ducasse. Formerly a sommelier at the Michelin-starred Pétrus by Gordon Ramsay, Caradec provides expert guidance on technical precision, informed recommendations and proper storage. The session includes a curated tasting of five wines to build immediate professional confidence.
The history of Australian winemaking
Join an exclusive “journey through time” with renowned ambassador Bradley Mitton, founder of Club Vivanova. This session traces Australia’s evolution from its colonial roots to its status as a global wine powerhouse. Guests will enjoy a guided tasting of benchmark varietals, including Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay and Riesling, paired with historical insights into the pioneers who shaped two centuries of viticulture.
A world-class selection of labels
The 2026 Expo will present its most expansive collection to date, showcasing a curated journey through the world’s leading wine regions. Leading international importers and distributors have already confirmed their participation, including Italasia, BB&B, IWS, Harvest Creation and Vanichwathana. They will be joined by IHC, Wine-L’amo, Janhom Classic, iDeal Distribution, ITHAI Wine, JDSS Thailand and Noble Marketing, with further boutique labels expected to be confirmed in the coming weeks.
Central to the showcase is a celebration of Thailand’s own viticultural success. Monsoon Valley Vineyard, a flagship producer on the Royal Coast, will return with its award-winning local selections, highlighting the continued evolution of Thai winemaking for both local and international guests. Complementing the wine programme, the Expo has secured support from Lucaris, the premium crystal stemware brand by Ocean Glass Company, ensuring every vintage is enjoyed in world-class glassware.
The local artisan showcase
Enhancing the Grand Tasting experience, this year’s event places a dedicated spotlight on the region’s artisanal producers. Guests will be able to pair wines with premium local flavours, including gourmet cheeses from Village Vittles and expertly crafted charcuterie from Baan Fostier. This emphasis on local gastronomy reflects the Expo’s commitment to showcasing the Royal Coast’s culinary strengths alongside international wine producers.
The grand finale: a social highlight
While the daytime sessions focus on education and trade, the Expo comes alive for the public during the Grand Evening Tasting on Friday night. Long regarded as one of the premier social events on the Hua Hin calendar, the evening transforms Amari Hua Hin into a showcase of more than 150 labels from over 15 international importers.
In keeping with the Expo’s focus on local quality, the evening will once again feature a Local Artisan Showcase, pairing international wines with local cheeses and charcuterie. A backdrop of low-key live jazz will provide an inviting setting for guests to mingle, sample and purchase wines directly for their cellars.
Supporting the community
True to its roots, the Hua Hin Wine Expo remains an event with a strong community focus. The evening will conclude with a charity prize draw, with proceeds continuing the event’s tradition of supporting local educational initiatives.
“The Hua Hin Wine Expo is about more than just tasting wine,” organiser John Murphy said. “It is about fostering a culture of excellence, supporting our local hospitality partners and celebrating the lifestyle we enjoy here on the Royal Coast.”
With limited capacity for both the professional courses and the Grand Tasting, early booking is recommended for what is expected to be one of the first major social highlights of the 2026 season.
Tickets and information: www.huahinwineexpo.com
