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INTERNATIONAL. The Moodie Report presents the latest edition of My Wine Journey, a column in association with Treasury Wine Estates. Over the past year My Wine Journey has featured leading travel retail executives discussing their love of wine and its presentation and prospects in the channel. This time we meet Andrew Brodie, General Manager Airline and Retail Management at Brisbane Airport Corporation, which recently unveiled the A$45million redevelopment of its International Terminal.
How did you first become interested in wine?
When I was at the University of Queensland in 1985. It was at a university-hosted wine tasting evening.
Do you remember the first bottle to truly make an impression on you?
“˜Hill of Grace’ Henschke wine from South Australia.
What is your most memorable wine experience?
The previous duty free operator at Brisbane Airport hosted the “˜First Family of Wines’ dinner a few years ago at the Sydney Opera House. A truly memorable experience; being able to speak directly to the owners and winemakers, and sample many great Australian classics, was a bucket-list experience.
If you had the chance to visit a wine-producing country or region, where would it be?
Stellenbosch, South Africa is on the wish list.
What is your favourite wine, and why?
I really enjoy Leeuwin Estate Art Series Chardonnay, because it’s fresh and light. The winery is also wonderful for lunch!
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Brisbane Airport has completed the A$45million redevelopment of its International Terminal. How good is the wine offer?
JR/Duty Free have done an extraordinary job in developing a first-class premium wine selection within both the Departures and the Arrivals stores. They feature a huge range of classic Australian wines, at a great price, with first class customer service.
What is your opinion of the wine category in travel retail?
Traditionally wine takes second place to liquor/spirits. But I have definitely noticed a change in the Asia Pacific region over the past few years, with greater focus on the wine category.
What does the future of wine in travel retail look like?
The future of wine is positive, showcasing the very best wine of a particular region is a win-win for operator, supplier, winery and airport. Passengers want to buy products that they can’t buy anywhere else, and wine has the ability to deliver this experience to an airport.
You have a table for two reserved on the beach at an idyllic desert island resort. What wine, what food?
Leeuwin Art Series Chardonnay (below) with Moreton Bay Bugs, followed by a glass of Penfolds RWT Shiraz (right) and Queensland roasted lamb.
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Brodie favours the “fresh and light” Leeuwin Estate Art Series Chardonnay – a perfect wine for lunch |
