A Voice for Wine & Dining in Vietnam
About Ngonista
Ngonista is the first media platform in Vietnam dedicated to wine and gastronomy experiences.
Our mission is to share the voices of the people who shape the world of food and wine – from sommeliers, chefs, bartenders, and winemakers to the many professionals working across the hospitality industry.
Ngonista also provides updates on trends, events, and developments in Vietnam’s wine scene, offering insights into the evolving culture of wine and gastronomy in the country.
More than a media platform, Ngonista curates wine and gastronomy experiences, bringing wine culture from around the world to Vietnam while celebrating refined dining and meaningful connections around the table. Through stories, events, and experiences, Ngonista aims to connect the community – from industry professionals and hospitality insiders to curious wine lovers and explorers of great food.
Our Team
Phuong Maxy
Phuong Maxy began her journey as a storyteller, sharing untold stories about people in the wine industry on her personal blog. She also contributes to international publications, bringing perspectives from Vietnam’s emerging wine culture to a global audience.
With over 10 years of experience in wine marketing and communications, Phuong is passionate about connecting people, culture, and knowledge through the world of food and wine.
Her work has been recognized as one of the Top 50 Influential Women and awarded Writer of the Year by Women in Wine & Spirits Award 2025.
Through Ngonista, she hopes to bring the stories of the wine and hospitality community to a wider audience while contributing to the growth of wine culture in Vietnam.
Know more about Phuong Maxy here
Our Experts & Contributors
Ngonista’s stories are shaped by a diverse community of voices behind wine and gastronomy – from sommeliers, chefs, bartenders, and service professionals to winemakers and passionate individuals eager to share their journeys.
Lê Hoàng Khánh Vi
Khánh Vi is a highly accomplished sommelier with a strong academic foundation and extensive international experience. She holds a Master’s degree in Wine Tourism Innovation (France – Portugal – Spain), WSET Level 4 Diploma, and is a Certified Sommelier (CMS).
She previously represented Vietnam at the ASI Best Sommelier of the World 2023, ranked Top 10 at the Japan Sommelier Competition 2023, and was Runner-up of Sommelier in French Wine 2016. Khánh Vi has also served as an international judge at the Cathay Global Wine & Spirits Awards Asia.
Currently, she is Beverage Director / Head Sommelier at Nén Restaurant (Vietnam & Tokyo), Representative of New York Wines, and a Lecturer at UEF University and Hoa Sen University.
Lê Thu Hương
Lê Thu Hương is a seasoned wine professional with over 15 years of experience in wine and spirits. She is a Board Member of the Vietnam Sommelier Association (VSA) and currently serves as Business Development Manager at Penfolds Vietnam.
Ms Huong was the runner-up of the Best French Wine Sommelier in Vietnam 2017 and is the Vietnamese translator of “24 Hours Wine Expert” by Jancis Robinson and “Wine Folly” by Madeline Puckette & Justin Hammack. Her qualifications include WSET Level 3, Certified Wine Specialist, and a Sake Making Certificate from Gekkeikan Sake School, Kyoto.