Walker feted as mainland's first Master of Wine

The country's wine industry and media gathered in Beijing last week to celebrate with Fongyee Walker, who has become the Chinese mainland's first Master of Wine resident. Walker is co-founder and managing director of Dragon Phoenix Wine Consulting.

The Master of Wine qualification is set and assessed by the UK-based Institute of Masters of Wine, established in 1955. Candidates must pass rigorous theory and practical tastings examinations as well as do a research paper.

While studying for the certification, Walker has worked across China as a high-profile wine educator, presenter and consultant. She spearheads teaching for the Wine & Spirit Education Trust, especially the WSET's flagship diploma qualification, and is a well-known Mandarin-speaking opinion leader in the Chinese wine scene.