Learning Whilst Tasting

As a teenager growing up in Singapore, I was fortunate to have found part time work experience as a waiter. In particular, I was a waiter serving wines at private wine tasting functions. The money was good but more importantly, I was exposed to the world of wines and I have been hooked ever since. I was able to learn on the job, drinking the wines I was serving. The Singaporeans hosting these events encouraged me to taste everything I poured and what I know of the world of wines had foundations there. They continue to be mentors. At the end of the first class, the first thing I did was to text them about taking the class. Despite their age, they continue to engage the wine world. Dr. NK Yong continues to contribute his wealth of wine experience via writing about wine in a weekly wine column in Singapore’s Business Times.

Taking the class just seems like a natural extension of my love for wine. I have never had any formal knowledge or training in the wine industry. I would love to explore the possibilities of being involved in the wine industry professionally. Possibilities always include some form of wine trading or at the least, continuing building a portfolio of wines that not only will I love to drink but may have some appreciation value in the future. Wine bars have been opening up in Asia and perhaps if I can find a niche, there might be a wine bar in the future. Having a working knowledge of the industry will help me evaluate opportunities as they come up.

The class is also a great way to just meet people who have the same passion for wine. The combination of learning new information, tasting wine because of class and with classmates with the same passion just makes this course too easy to want to be in.