Rising Star, sponsored by Amorim
Winner
Melody Wong (Yopo)
Shortlist
Melody Wong (Yopo)
Lorenzo Abussi (Rüya)
Emma Underwood (Darby’s)
Lucy Ward (Gridiron)
The Rising Star award recognises the brightest and freshest talent working the floors of London’s top restaurants, bringing their fresh outlook to wine lists and their personal touch to the customers they serve. This year’s winner, Melody Wong, has been credited with revamping the list at Yopo to include standout wines from the southern hemisphere, with South American and South Africa getting equal billing.
Speaking to Wine List Confidential author Douglas Blyde about her aims, Wong said: “I want to offer amazing value and bring energy into modern dining.”
During her tenure, she has been busy amassing a selection of 250 bins with South American favourites including the “fantastic, approachable” Intipalka Syrah from a Peruvian oasis (Vinas Queirolo) which she likens to a St. Joseph, “but more fruity”.
To read the full review and interview with Wong, please click here.
