CultureFrom Drug Research to Wine Tasting: Oxford-Cambridge Scholar’s Seven-Year Journey to Master of Wine

In 2025, Dr. Hong Ri-han, who holds a doctorate in medical sciences from Oxford University and a master’s degree in pharmacology from the University of Cambridge, earned the Master of Wine qualification. Since its creation in 1953, only about 420 people worldwide have achieved the distinction, with a pass rate of roughly 15%. Hong spent seven years and about S$70,000 completing the demanding process. He hopes more Singaporeans will see wine as more than prestigious estates and status, and appreciate its wider culture and terroir.