Interview With A Sommelier – Melody Wong

The World of Wine is beautifully showcased by an army of talented Sommeliers, who help the consumer discover their next favourite bottle, understand the different regions and pair a delicious meal with the right Glass of Bubbly.

In this feature, I speak with a woman from, Hong Kong, who has helped many people to discover the vast world of Wines and Sparkling Wines, her name is Melody Wong, she’s the Director of Wine at The Peninsula London, let’s find out about her life as a Sommelier.

Tell Us About Yourself & What Inspired You To Become a Sommelier?

“I was born and raised in Hong Kong, where my early fascination with wine began. My interests developed while I was studying at university in Switzerland, and eventually, I decided to pursue a career in the industry after graduating.

In 2013, I moved to London, where I got my first job as a sommelier. The wine scene here is fast-paced, but that’s one of the things I love the most about it; each day brings new challenges. I joined The Peninsula London in 2022 as Director of Wine, where I’m responsible for curating the wine programme across the hotel.

Becoming a sommelier was a natural path for me, influenced by my family’s simple joy in sharing a meal with a good bottle of wine. These moments around the dinner table sparked my curiosity, and eventually led me to pursue a career in the industry.”

Do You Remember Your First Experience With Sparkling Wine? When It Was And What Kind Of Wine It Was?

“My first memory of sparkling wine was at a family wedding when I was younger. I distinctly remember the clinking of glasses and the warmth of the atmosphere. My first sip encapsulated that moment perfectly.”

During Your Time As A Sommelier, What’s The Most Surprising & Interesting Thing You’ve Learnt?

“I’ve worked in the industry for over ten years, but I’m still fascinated by the transformative power of food and wine pairings. Playing witness to how these combinations can unlock new flavours and elevate the dining experiences of guests is without a doubt one of the most joyous and interesting parts of my job.”

What Sparkling Wine Producing Countries or Regions Hold A Special Place In Your Heart?

“My first visit to the Champagne region of France was a special moment for me. Being able to explore the historic wine cellars and try Champagne from Côte des Blancs really deepened my understanding and appreciation for the care and craftsmanship that goes into producing each bottle.”

What Advice Would You Give Inspiring Sommeliers?

“Immerse yourself in as many different wine varieties, regions and winemaking techniques as possible, as this will help you to develop a genuine interest and passion for wine. Involve yourself in hands-on experience, but also try to visit vineyards, meet producers, and engage with the vibrant wine community. Lastly, it’s important to develop strong communication skills, so that you can share your passion and expertise with your guests.”

Where’s One Of The Most Memorable Places You’ve Enjoyed A Glass of Bubbly?

“A few years ago, I was reunited with a close friend who was visiting Hong Kong on vacation. We decided to meet at the Victoria Harbour, known for its iconic views, and we popped a bottle of Champagne to mark the occasion. Our clinking glasses drew attention, and soon we found ourselves amidst cheers and applause from tourists who thought we were toasting to our proposal! A memorable experience, indeed.”

Thank you, Melody, for sharing your words, knowledge and experiences with us and we at Glass of Bubbly wish you the very best for the future!

Images credit belong to Eleonora Boscarelli. Glass of Bubbly was granted permission, to use them.