Get ready for a thrilling tale of spirits, speed, and Shanghai’s unique charm! Richard Hammond, the beloved British TV personality, has touched down in the bustling city, and his presence has sparked an exciting fusion of automotive passion and premium spirits.
But here’s where it gets intriguing: Hammond, known for his high-octane adventures on shows like Top Gear and The Grand Tour, isn’t just here to rev engines. He’s embarked on a new journey, introducing his very own spirits brand, Hawkridge, to the Chinese market. And this is the part most people miss – it’s not just a celebrity-backed label. Hammond, with his trademark enthusiasm, assures us it’s a labor of love, crafted with meticulous attention to detail.
The British Chamber of Commerce Shanghai hosted the grand unveiling on Nanjing Rd W., attracting a diverse crowd of business leaders, media enthusiasts, and car aficionados eager to explore Hammond’s latest endeavor beyond the world of automobiles.
A Spirits Brand with a Story
Hawkridge, as Hammond narrates, originated in his Lake District garden, offering a picturesque view of a ridge. It’s a far cry from the typical celebrity vanity project. “I wanted to create something truly exceptional, not just slap my name on a bottle,” he shares. And Shanghai got the exclusive first taste of these small-batch wonders, with the verdict being a unanimous thumbs-up for their refined, British character and exceptional sip-ability.
The Car Talk Continues
I had the pleasure of catching up with Hammond post-showcase, and as expected, our conversation quickly veered into the world of automobiles. When it comes to China’s automotive scene, Hammond is direct: “It’s an evolving landscape, one that we in the UK are still catching up on. But I believe we’ll be hearing a lot more about it in the coming years.”
And true to his word, Hammond is here to test-drive some of China’s finest, including the BYD Wangyang U9 Extreme – currently holding the title of the world’s fastest production car. For a man whose profession involves driving at breakneck speeds, it’s like catnip.
“I’ve got three cars lined up for tomorrow, and I’m excited to meet some local car enthusiasts. It’s going to be an incredible experience,” he enthuses.
A Night to Remember
The product launch in Shanghai was an event like no other. With the whiskies and gins flowing, the British Chamber of Commerce ensured an unforgettable evening. And the photos speak for themselves – from the stunning bottles of Hawkridge to the vibrant atmosphere, it was a night of celebration and discovery.
Meet the Faces
Stuart Dunn, Executive Director of the British Chamber of Commerce, Shanghai, was a key figure in organizing this event. And who could forget the legendary Ned Kelly, a Shanghai fixture for decades, adding his unique charm to the occasion.
Jack Harrison, Co-Founder of ArcOn Brands, was also in attendance, representing the recently covered luxury chocolatier Charbonnel et Walker. And of course, the author of this piece, pictured alongside the man of the hour, Richard Hammond, capturing the excitement of the evening.
A Warm Welcome
Shanghai residents turned out in full force, eager to meet the iconic Hammond. Fan service was abundant, with Mr. Hammond graciously signing autographs throughout the evening. It was a true testament to his global appeal and the warm reception he received in Shanghai.
So, what do you think? Is Hammond’s foray into the spirits world a clever move, or does it distract from his automotive expertise? Share your thoughts in the comments – we’d love to hear your take on this unique crossover!