Thomas Ling is Malaysia’s first Certified Sommelier (CMS,UK), an accredited International Bordeaux Educator with the CIVB, France, since 2009 and is both a Certified Specialist of Wine and Spirits (CSW, CSS) with the Society of Wine Educators, USA. Thomas is also a Certified Saké Educator & Specialist (SSA,UK & SEC,Japan), Master of Saké (International Kikisake-shi, SSI Japan) and a Certified Whisky Ambassador / Educator (UK). He is a regularly invited speaker for industry trade seminars, and judges in established global wine & spirits competitions. He has worked in various wine regions during his 20 years journey in the industry. His first Bordeaux vendage experience was in St Emilion during the scorching 2003 vintage.

Bordeaux has been close to my heart since my very first vendange harvest in 2003 in Fronsac–Saint-Émilion. Experiencing the vineyards and the people behind the wines at such an early stage of my journey left a lasting impression and shaped my deep respect for the region’s heritage, craft, and diversity.

Being part of the #BordeauxCrew allows me to continue sharing that passion. As an official educator for the Bordeaux Wine Council (CIVB), it is both a privilege and responsibility to connect wine professionals and enthusiasts to the stories, people, and evolving spirit of Bordeaux across Asia and beyond.