Conversations With Khun Nuch, Anantara Siam Bangkok’s First Female Head Sommelier

For the past decade, Nutawan Jumpanak or Khun Nuch, has been finessing her knowledge and skills in the world of wine. Thailand is not historically renowned as a nation of oenophiles, but over the past few years, this has begun to change as a growing trend and appreciation for wine has seeped into the culture and several award-winning vineyards have sprung up across the country. The rolling hills that surround Bangkok in regions such as Hua Hin and Khao Yai are proven to offer fantastic grape-growing climates, sheltered against much of the tropical heat that Thailand is famed for.

Khun Nuch has been part of this growing movement and is now one of the leading female sommeliers in Thailand. She organises high-profile events to celebrate women in wine in Thailand, uniting female sommeliers from across Bangkok at wine-paring dining events hosted at Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel.

Q: When did you become interested in wine?

Khun Nuch: Since 2008, I was keen to improve my beverage knowledge and language skills and I came to realize that wine and its endless conversation topics allowed me to delve much deeper and learn more than other beverages ever could.

Q: When and where did you train to become a sommelier?

Khun Nuch: From 2014, I travelled to the United States and began the Court of Master Sommelier (CMS) introductory certificate, once I completed that, my wine education has intensified, and I am currently studying for the advanced certificate.

Q: Why you are passionate about wine?

Khun Nuch: In its own unique way, wine has more personality than any other drink, there is wine at every occasion and celebration, wine can also enhance every dining experience and conversation. For me, there is always happiness when wine is involved.

Q: What is your favourite part of being a sommelier at Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel?

Khun Nuch: I am proud to be representing Thailand in the heart of Bangkok at Anantara’s flagship hotel, it inspires me to be a great Thai sommelier with a modern mindset and to prove that Thailand and wine can go hand in hand together.

Khun Nuch has undertaken her sommelier training around the world and at some of Thailand’s most prestigious hotels. In addition, she boasts many awards and accolades celebrating her passion and skill for wine:

• Thailand's Best Sommelier 2019
• Chilean Wine Trophy 2019
• Certified Sommelier Certificate – Court of Master Sommelier 2017
• Introductory Certificate – Court of Master Sommelier 2014

Guests can meet Khun Nuch and learn about her extensive wine knowledge at Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel’s al fresco, Aqua. Located in the verdant green courtyard of Parichart Court, the bar is the established late-night hangout for many of Bangkok’s high society. Relax with an artisan cocktail or, a glass of wine of course, and enjoy the Safari Dining concept by ordering from any of the five high-quality restaurants.