The Institute of Masters of Wine (IMW) has held its first Asian MW master class in Singapore.

The event, conducted by MW's Lynne Sherriff from the UK, Lisa Perrotti-Brown from Singapore, Dr. Patrick Farrell from California and Andrew Corrigan from Australia, attracted over thirty wine professionals and enthusiasts from Singapore and Hong Kong.

An approach to international wine tasting was presented and demonstrated through a tasting of four white and four red wines. Topics in the art, science and business of wine were discussed and debated by the Masters and the attendees.

Tommy Lam, well-known Singapore wine educator and president of the Singapore Sommeliers Association, said: "There have been courses on wine in Singapore for many years but not at the sophisticated level seen with these Masters".

Added Sherriff, vice-chairman of the IMW: "There has been a conscious effort of internationalising the Institute for some time - it is British in its roots and heritage but has become strong in countries such as America, Australia, New Zealand and Germany.

"I am originally South African! Wine is becoming more and more popular in Asia, not only as a food-accompanying beverage, but as a product. There are rapidly expanding vineyards in China.

"The Institute is delighted to be establishing a presence in Asia and we are grateful for the generous support of Tommy and the Wine Academy of Singapore in assisting us to achieve our goals."

The IMW, which has 277 members from 22 countries, is holding its first Asian course day on November 19 in Singapore, whereby current MW students will benefit from tasting and theory workshops.