In the fast-paced world of finance and law, few would imagine a dramatic pivot into the nuanced, aromatic world of wine. Yet, for Tan Ying Hsien, that unlikely journey not only became a reality—it became a legacy. A former high-flying lawyer turned wine expert, Tan did more than just change careers; he broke barriers and redefined what’s possible by becoming the first Singaporean Master of Wine—a title held by fewer than 500 people worldwide.
His story isn’t just one of wine. It’s a tale of resilience, rediscovery, and the relentless pursuit of purpose. It is a masterclass in reinvention—a reminder that it’s never too late to follow your calling.
A Scholar’s Shift: From Physics to Law
Before he became synonymous with vintage notes and perfect pairings, Tan Ying Hsien was immersed in academic rigour. After completing his national service, he ventured to King’s College London to study physics. But soon, his path shifted. The world of law beckoned with its own form of structure, logic, and challenge, and Tan answered. He left physics behind, trained at Gray’s Inn, and embarked on a legal career that would span more than two decades.
His legal journey was anything but ordinary. Tan Ying Hsien climbed the corporate ladder with tenacity, eventually becoming the Group Head of Legal and Compliance at Standard Chartered Bank. He was also a respected member of the Competition Appeal Board under Singapore’s Ministry of Trade and Industry. His intellect, discipline, and strategic insight earned him a seat at the highest tables—yet, even in that success, something quietly stirred.
From Courtrooms to Corks: The Rise of a Wine Visionary
Tan Ying Hsien’s love affair with wine began in the 1980s, during his university days in the UK. Initially drawn to wine tastings as a budget-friendly indulgence, he found himself increasingly captivated—not just by the drink, but by its history, craftsmanship, and culture.
But the real turning point came in 2009. In a fateful encounter, Tan Ying Hsien met Lisa Perrotti-Brown, a newly minted Master of Wine. Her encouragement nudged him toward a decision that would change his life forever. With no formal wine education and only a deep personal passion, Tan enrolled in the Institute of Masters of Wine programme. It was an audacious leap—but great transformations always are.
By 2010, Tan Ying Hsien had left the legal world behind and opened his own wine bar. It became a springboard for his new life. He began teaching, hosting tastings, and sharing the art of wine with the world. After four grueling attempts and countless hours of study and tasting, he made history in 2015 as the first Singaporean Master of Wine.
The Master’s Path: Challenges and Triumphs
The Master of Wine qualification is one of the toughest titles to achieve in the wine world. With a pass rate of around 10%, the programme demands not just knowledge, but endurance. Candidates must master theoretical knowledge, blind tasting, and submit a research paper that would challenge even the most seasoned academic.
For Tan Ying Hsien, it wasn’t just an intellectual mountain—it was personal. Lacking formal wine industry experience and still juggling consultancy in banking regulation during his early wine studies, the odds were stacked high. But he leaned into his strengths: focus, resilience, and a voracious hunger to learn. His humility kept him grounded; his perseverance kept him climbing.
The fourth time was the charm. With guidance from mentors like John Hoskins MW and Annette Scarfe MW, he cracked the code and joined the ranks of global wine royalty.
Beyond the Title: A Legacy in the Making
Today, Tan Ying Hsien wears many hats. He is the founder of Taberna Wine Academy, where he educates, inspires, and mentors the next generation of wine professionals in Southeast Asia. He curates wine pairings for top-tier restaurants like St Pierre and Shoukouwa, both awarded two Michelin stars. As a judge for renowned wine competitions such as the Decanter Asia Wine Awards and the International Wine Challenge, his palate is trusted across the globe.
Tan Ying Hsien is also a writer, speaker, and a passionate ambassador for wine appreciation in Asia. His accolades include the IMW Champagne Trinity Scholarship, the AXA Millésime Scholarship, and a coveted spot in the Master Napa Programme. His expertise spans fine and rare wines, Champagne, fortified wines, and more, with deep knowledge of Bordeaux, Burgundy, and Champagne.
But Tan’s mission goes beyond awards and titles. His goal is cultural elevation—bringing the sophistication of wine to new audiences, particularly in Asia, where appreciation is growing rapidly.
A Life Beyond Wine
What makes Tan’s story even more poignant is his profound connection to his roots. He is the son of Dr. Nalla Tan, a trailblazing doctor and sexuality educator in Singapore. After her passing, Tan transformed their family home into an art exhibit—a moving tribute to the woman who shaped his values.
Despite the glamour often associated with wine, Tan Ying Hsien remains grounded. He is a vegetarian, a quiet intellectual, and a man who values meaning over material. Whether teaching a tasting class or judging at an international competition, he leads with depth and grace.
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