Stories of the nominees

Masterclasses with Fongyee Walker MW: A Journey into the World of Tenuta Santa Maria Fine Wines

China

Two exclusive Tenuta Santa Maria masterclasses were successfully held in mainland China, led by Fongyee Walker MW, the first Master of Wine in mainland China. These events marked a remarkable collaboration between two Wine Travel Awards nominees – Fongyee Walker MW and Tenuta Santa Maria (Villa Mosconi Bertani) – bringing together excellence in wine education and Italian winemaking heritage.

Fongyee Walker MW was honored with the Wine Travel Awards 2024-2025 a special Judge’s Choice Award in the category “Education in Enotourism / Unique Program”, while Tenuta Santa Maria won the public vote in the category “The Visiting Card of the Country / Brand – the Visiting Card of the Country.”

During the sessions, participants explored the winery’s rich heritage and tasted its outstanding wines.

  • Soave Lepiga 2023
  • Chardonnay Torre Pieve 2022
  • Pràgal IGT Red Verona 2022
  • Valpolicella Classico Superiore 2022
  • Valpolicella Classico Ripasso 2020
  • Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico Riserva 2018
  • Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico Riserva Brolo Dei Poeti 2007
  • Decima Aurea Merlot Verona 2019
  • Recioto Classico Della Valpolicella 2021

Special attention was given to Acinaticum 1928, a rare family wine and a true historical treasure of the estate. Under Fongyee Walker’s guidance, attendees delved into the nuances of Italian winemaking – from distinctive terroirs and indigenous clones to family traditions passed down through generations. These masterclasses offered a rare opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of Italian viticulture and the history of Valpolicella.

With over 20 years of experience in wine education, Fongyee Walker MW – founder of Dragon Phoenix Wine Consulting in Beijing and contributor to Decanter and Tatler Asia – shared her insights on the interplay between Eastern and Western wine cultures.

Both Wine Travel Awards laureates remain our valued partners, and we look forward to continuing our collaboration on future projects.

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Source: tenutasantamaria.wine/masterclasses-with-fongyee-walker-mw