OCTOBER 2023 ASI MAGAZINE
The Rise of Sommeliers as Influencers Rex Leung has come a long way in a short amount of time. Leung is now the Head Sommelier of ZS Hospitality which includes the prestigious Hansik Goo and Whey. However, a little more than a decade ago he took his first steps in the hospitality world as a food runner. With a little more than decade in the food and beverage industry and just seven years as a sommelier, he’s worked in various prestigious restaurants in Hong Kong including Amber and COBO House. Rex’s passion for wine drives his commitment to continuous learning. His vision encompasses both classic fine wines and vibrant low-intervention, natural wines.
The Rise of Sommeliers as Influencers
André Mack is one of the world’s most recognisable and likeable sommeliers. Mack’s transition from the life of desk job working as an investment services profession to the world of Sommellerie. He began as a sommelier in San Antonio, where he delighted in introducing guests to lesser-known regions and wines. His journey led to recognition as the Best Young Sommelier in America, and he eventually became the Head Sommelier at Thomas Keller’s renowned French Laundry. In 2007, his dream of winemaking came true with Mouton Noir Wines. Today, he continues to craft exceptional wines and curate for Club W. Mack also established Get Fraiche Cru, a design firm, and is married to author Phoebe Damrosch. His achievements have been celebrated in top publications, and he’s known for his wine education initiatives at prestigious food and wine events, but most of all for his accessible, welcoming persona.
FEATURE ARTICLE
With André Mack and Rex Leung
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