Ep #24 | Sparkling State of Mind: A Sommelier’s Playbook with Yeo Xi Yang

Welcome to the first featurette of our Sommelier Mini-Series—where we spotlight the people shaping how Asia drinks today. In this episode, I sit down with Yeo Xi Yang, the mind behind Convivial, Singapore’s sparkling-wine-forward bar built around one simple idea: bubbles should feel welcoming, not intimidating.

We talk about Yang’s philosophy on hospitality and what it really means to curate a drinks program that balances fun, precision, and accessibility—without losing its soul. From how he thinks about pairing sparkling wines with real-world dining habits, to how trends and supply shifts have changed what ends up in our glasses, this is a conversation about sparkling wine as a culture, not just a category.

Whether you’re a Champagne die-hard, a pet-nat curious drinker, or someone who just wants to learn how sommeliers choose bottles that work for guests—this episode sets the tone for the mini-series: human stories, practical insights, and better drinking.

If you enjoyed this episode, hit Follow / Subscribe on the podcast so you don’t miss the next drop. And tell me what you’re drinking while listening—comment or DM me on Instagram: @so.thirsty.traveler.