Edward Hendricks, a prolific wine collector with thousands of bottles stored in a temperature-controlled warehouse, finds that the allure of wine extends beyond the anticipation of a well-aged vintage. For him, wine is a living, breathing testament to the artistry of time.
What factors do you prioritise when you’re building your collection?
I collect wines that I’m confident will age well, typically acquiring a minimum of three bottles of the same wine and vintage. The first bottle is shared with friends to gather opinions, while the second is opened a few years later to observe short-term evolution. The last bottle is intentionally hidden for a surprise discovery many years down the line.
In wine circles, there’s a saying that no matter where you begin your wine journey, you’ll eventually find yourself in Burgundy. Reflecting on my own experience, I started with bold, over-the-top, full-bodied wines, and it didn’t take long for me to tire of them. Soon, I discovered well-made Bordeaux wines with beautiful balance and excellent ageing potential, making up about 95 percent of my collection. This shift towards more balanced and complex wines eventually led me to appreciate the subtle yet highly intricate wines of Burgundy. My current inclination is towards those from the latter and well-made Pinot Noir from the USA.
Wine collecting often involves a combination of emotional connection and investment potential. How do you strike that balance?
If you’re considering buying to invest, I’d advise purchasing and storing your bottles with reputable wine merchants in London (where I maintain a small collection) or Bordeaux who offer excellent storage facilities and rates.
In Singapore, my collection is driven by personal enjoyment rather than investment. I also curate wines from significant vintages for special family occasions, such as the 2016 vintage for my older daughter’s wedding and the 2023 vintage for my first granddaughter’s birth year.
A Selection Of Rare Wines
1908 Guedes Vintage Port and 1932 Gonzales Byas Vintage Port. 
1994 Château Pichon Longueville Comtesse
de Lalande.
2002 Daniel Moine-Hudelot Chambolle-Musigny 1er Cru Les Amoureuses and 2003 Château Mouton Rothschild
The concept of “natural” or minimal-intervention winemaking has gained popularity. What are your thoughts?
Natural wines, focusing on avoiding chemicals and additives, are increasingly accessible. However, the trade-off for these wines lies in typicity, where the absence of preservatives can alter the expected taste of a varietal. Due to the lack of preservatives, natural wines are best consumed immediately and may vary between batches due to oxidation. For those sensitive to sulphites or fining agents like egg whites, natural wines may appeal. Otherwise, the expansive world of wines awaits exploration.
What is one myth about wine you wish to dispel?
That expensive wines are the best. In blind tastings with friends, cheaper wines often fare well, emphasising the importance of personal preference over labels. Don’t be influenced by labels; drink what genuinely appeals to your taste.
What is your one hot tip for a novice collector?
Figure out how you are going to store your wine collection as storage costs can be quite expensive in Singapore. Explore options from overseas wine merchants who not only provide competitive storage rates but can also assist in selling your wines should you choose to do so.
If you could only keep one bottle, which would it be?
The 2006 Château Mouton Rothschild. My wife is fond of that wine.
