Instructors & Leadership
Vence Sie, Ph.D.
BJCP Master Judge • Certified Cicerone®
B.S. NTU; Ph.D., The University of Texas at Austin
Merging the chemical engineering of fluid dynamics with obsessive zymurgy, Vence calibrates palates with surgical precision—ensuring every hop ester, malt phenolic, and off-flavor profile is diagnosed down to the parts-per-billion.
Helen Liang
WSET Level 3 Award in Wines, Distinction
B.A. NTU; PG Cert, Goldsmiths, University of London
Unlocking the soul of ancient soils and single-vineyard microclimates, Helen decodes the intricate poetry of fine wine terroir, guiding tasters through the subtle nuances of vintage, structure, and elegant gastronomic alignment.
Dunkel
Black Maine CoonChief Audit & Stare-Down Officer
Named after the rich, dark Bavarian lager, Dunkel operates entirely in the shadows. Armed with an impenetrable coat of midnight fur and an expression of profound disappointment, he is our ultimate judge of gravity readings and dark malt extractions. If a beer lacks proper head retention, you will receive a slow, unblinking glare from across the room.
Saison
Mackerel Silver Maine CoonDirector of Wild Fermentations & Chaos
Named after the untamed, spicy farmhouse ale, Saison embodies wild yeast in feline form. High-energy, unpredictable, and fiercely independent, she specializes in chasing phantom bubble streams across hardwood floors and supervising wine decanting with unauthorized paw taps. Approach with caution and treats.