About Ngonista
Ngonista is Vietnam’s first media channel dedicated to premium wine and fine dining experiences.
Our mission is to amplify the voices of people shaping the world of food and wine — from sommeliers, chefs, and bartenders to winemakers and hospitality professionals.
We also cover the latest trends, events, and movements in Vietnam’s wine scene, offering a comprehensive perspective on wine and culinary culture.
Beyond media, Ngonista organises wine experiences and events that connect communities — from industry experts to enthusiasts eager to explore wine and fine dining.
Our Team
Phuong Maxy
Founder & Storyteller
Phuong Maxy is a pioneering Vietnamese storyteller — telling the untold stories of the people behind the world of wine and food. Named Writer of the Year at the Women in Wine & Spirits Award 2025 and recognised among the Top 50 Most Influential Women.
Đức Phạm
Video editor & photographer
Mads Singers
Business & SEO Consultant
Sen Đoàn
Finance Consultant
Our Experts & Contributors
Ngonista’s stories are shaped by a diverse community — sommeliers, chefs, bartenders, winemakers and passionate experts who share their journeys and expertise with our readers.
Lê Hoàng Khánh Vi
Sommelier
Sommelier with a Master’s in Wine Tourism Innovation, WSET Level 4 Diploma and Certified Sommelier (CMS). Vietnam’s representative at ASI Best Sommelier of the World 2023. Currently Beverage Director at Nén Restaurant (Vietnam & Tokyo).
Lê Thu Hương
Sommelier
Over 15 years of experience in wine and spirits. Executive Board Member of the Vietnam Sommelier Association and Business Development Manager at Penfolds Vietnam. Vietnamese translator of Wine Folly and 24 Hours Wine Expert.
Gia Lĩnh
Bartender
Bartender and storyteller of the spirits, cocktail and bar culture world. For him, every cocktail is not just a recipe — it is the crystallisation of culture, memory and values preserved through time.
Nguyễn Thái Bình
F&B Expert
F&B operations expert with over 10 years of restaurant management experience in Vietnam. Co-founder of the Điểm Chạm F&B community (FBVI) and author of hundreds of in-depth articles on the hospitality industry.
Thảo Võ
Sommelier, Bordeaux
Based in Bordeaux, France. Assistant manager at a fine dining restaurant, actively involved in the local wine community. She shares an authentic insider perspective on French wine culture with Vietnamese readers.
Nguyễn Thanh Dung
Sommelier
One of Vietnam’s pioneering sommeliers and the first Vietnamese female sommelier to achieve outstanding results on the national and regional stage. Champion of Best Sommelier of Vietnam in French Wines 2016, Third Place Best Sommelier of Asia in French Wines 2016. Director of Marketing & Head of Sommelier at WINECELLAR.vn.
Nguyễn Bảo Anh
Wine Marketing Specialist
Wine marketing specialist and founder of Ăn Ta Uống Tây. Spent 7 years living and studying in France, holds a WSET Level 3 certification, and currently serves as Marketing Director at Thien Linh Wine.
Đỗ Duy Thanh
F&B Strategist
F&B Strategist, Managing Director of FnB Director and Founder of Horeca Business School. Held senior management positions at Mandarine, Hoi An Sense, Opus Saigon, San Fu Lou, Sorae and Di Mai.