Star Wine List launches in Vietnam with ambassador Trân Thi Dung Trâm

As Star Wine List launches its first-ever guides to Vietnam, the platform proudly introduces Trân Thi Dung Trâm as its newest ambassador.

Trân Thi Dung Trâm, Vietnam's first-ever Star Wine List ambassador (credit: FPDB Studio)

Meet Vietnam’s First-ever Star Wine List Ambassador

Trâm, a highly respected sommelier and wine educator, has honed her skills in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, where she currently serves as a sommelier and restaurant manager. With an impressive list of achievements, including being named Best Sommelier in Vietnam 2024, WSET Level 3 certifications in both wine and sake and an ASI Certification 2, she is recognized as a leading figure in Vietnam’s wine industry.

Born in the central city of Hue, Trâm credits her hometown’s rich culinary heritage as the source of her passion for food and beverage. Since becoming a sommelier in 2016, she has embraced the role wholeheartedly. Utilizing her connections within the sommelier community, Trâm has awarded Red Stars to 10 restaurants and wine bars frequented by top wine professionals.

Vietnam Wine Expo 2024 (credit: Lotus Viet)

The Rise of Vietnam’s Wine Culture

Trâm has witnessed firsthand the remarkable transformation of Vietnam’s wine culture. Reflecting on the past five years, she observes, “Vietnam is not traditionally a wine-drinking country. However, with the development of modern F&B concepts, the rise of a younger, more adventurous generation, and significant investments in tourism, wine consumption has grown considerably.

This shift has fueled the emergence of more wine bars, restaurants, and wine-focused events, providing richer experiences for wine enthusiasts.” Trâm also highlights the growing interest in wine education among Vietnamese consumers. “People are now more willing to invest in wine courses and training to deepen their understanding. Importers, too, are expanding their portfolios, bringing in a wider range of wines to meet the increasing demand.”

Michelin Vietnam 2024 (credit: RGB.vn)

Additionally, Trâm points to Vietnam’s unique food culture as a perfect complement to the evolving wine scene. “The diversity of Vietnamese cuisine makes it an exciting destination for wine and food pairings, and with Michelin and World’s 50 Best now established in Vietnam, the country is set to attract even more food and wine aficionados.”

Discussing the launch of Star Wine List’s guide to Vietnam, Trâm says, “It’s like the Michelin Guide for wine lovers. It recognizes the hard work of sommeliers, restaurant, and bar owners in bringing exceptional wine and dining experiences to the public. Having Star Wine List in Vietnam not only elevates the local wine scene but also signals the growing quality of F&B services in the country.”

An outdoor courtyard party in Saigon that also features a wine launch and tasting event

When comparing Vietnam’s two main cities, Trâm notes distinct cultural differences. “In Hanoi, customers are more traditional and loyal, particularly the older generation, while the younger crowd is more open to trying new things. Ho Chi Minh City, on the other hand, is far more modern and trend-driven, with a vibrant social scene.”

Trâm has also observed key trends in the wine industry, including the rise of organic, biodynamic, and natural wines, as well as the increasing popularity of zero-alcohol wines due to government regulations on alcohol consumption.

For Trâm, the secret to a great wine list comes down to balance and diversity. “It’s essential to offer a variety of wines—red, white, rosé, and sparkling—featuring both well-known and lesser-known producers. A well-structured list should also reflect the sommelier’s personal touch, taking into account seasonal menus and distributor availability.”

With Star Wine List’s arrival in Vietnam, Trâm is optimistic about the future of the country’s wine scene, noting, “Vietnam’s F&B industry is growing, and with this guide, it’s becoming even more accessible and appealing to wine lovers from around the world.”

• Read the original from Star Wine List’s official website: https://starwinelist.com/wine-story/star-wine-list-launches-in-vietnam-with-new-ambassador-tran-thi-dung-tram

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