The St. Regis Chengdu has announced the appointment of Tong Zhu as the hotel’s Head Sommelier. An experienced sommelier having graduated from the highly prestigious Le Cordon Blue Paris Institute, Mr. Zhu’s in-depth knowledge of wine varietals, management skills, previous positions and customer relations make him the ideal sommelier to oversee all wine and spirit operations at The St. Regis Chengdu.
With an emphasis on Decanter, as the new “wine authority” for fine dining experience in Chengdu, Mr. Zhu will oversee wine selections and pairings, and communicate his recommendations and tasting notes to diners.
“We are delighted to welcome Mr. Zhu to his prestigious role as Head Sommelier in Chengdu’s most prestigious address”said Richard Deutl, General Manager of The St. Regis Chengdu. “Mr. Zhu’s extensive knowledge and expertise of wine coupled with his uncompromising standard of excellence will serve as an invaluable asset to our wine and spirits program and will most certainly elevate the appreciation of fine wines in Chengdu.”
Situated in the First Asian City of Gastronomy recognized by UNESCO, The St. Regis Chengdu offers an array of epicurean, wine and spirits experiences to its esteemed guests including Decanter – Chengdu’s only dedicated wine bar, curated by Mr. Zhu and offering an extensive selection of fine labels of wine and liquors; Vantage XXVII – a sky bar offering special mixes with views of the spectacular city skyline; The Drawing Room – offering the signature St. Regis afternoon tea and Chuan Mary, a spicier version of the world famous St. Regis Bloody Mary, re-imagined for Chengdu with Sichuan peppercorn oil and pickled chili; Social – an all-day dining restaurant offering pass-around cold and hot dishes and a wide selection of international food and beverage options; Yan Ting – The St. Regis specialty Chinese restaurant offering Cantonese and Sichuan cuisine; and Yun Fu – four distinct private dining rooms on Level 27 that offers tailored dining experiences to suit guest preferences.
“It is a true honor to lead the wine and spirits program at The St. Regis Chengdu,” said Zhu. “I am very much looking forward to introducing wine aficionados and sophisticated enthusiasts alike to the distinct beverage experiences afforded to each and every one of our guests.”
Prior to The St. Regis Chengdu, Mr. Zhu held two positions at Jinyue French Restaurant, by Christophe Dufosse in Chengdu. He started as Sommelier and was quickly promoted to Chef Sommelier. At the fine dining French restaurant, Mr. Zhu managed the wine cellar, wine buying for the restaurant, and introduced patrons to new and innovative wines.
Before leaving France after his Le Cordon Bleu training, Mr. Zhu held an internship position in Paris to further his wine knowledge, get more experience and fully understand the art of being a sommelier. He worked under the Chef Sommelier at Drouant, a famous Michelin-starred restaurant, to select wines, interact with guests and help refine the wine menu.
Mr. Zhu’s hobbies include basketball and photography. He is fluent in Mandarin and French.
