The Clan

With more than 30 years of experience in the food and beverage industry, Daisuke Kawai is an undisputed authority in wine service and beverage program development. Renowned for his meticulous eye for detail and deep passion for wine, he has managed world-class wine lists, trained service teams to the highest standards, and created award-winning dining experiences.

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Born in Niigata, Japan, Daisuke began his career at the prestigious Eureka in Tokyo’s Imperial Hotel, where he absorbed the discipline, refinement, and tradition that still shape his approach today. His career highlights include curating the wine program for the three-Michelin-starred Les Amis in Singapore and leading La Terre to become one of the finest wine bars in the region. He is a decorated competitor and an honoured judge for sommelier competitions and wine exhibitions across Asia, as well as for Decanter in London.

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▸Wine List Curation & Beverage Program Development – Designing distinctive, profitable, and balanced wine lists that align with a restaurant’s concept, clientele, and culinary identity.

▸Service Excellence Training – Elevating front-of-house teams with sommelier-level wine knowledge, impeccable service etiquette, and storytelling that enhances guest experience.

▸Wine Education & Events – Hosting engaging masterclasses, wine pairing dinners, and tasting events tailored to both novice and seasoned wine lovers.

▸Competition & Industry Insight – Bringing first-hand expertise from the highest levels of the sommelier world, ensuring clients benefit from global trends and best practices.

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A traveller to 46 countries and counting, Daisuke believes wine is more than a beverage—it is a cultural journey. His global exposure, competitive spirit, and refined palate ensure he brings unmatched expertise, creativity, and prestige to every project.

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Selected Accolades:

▸Winner, 2025 – First-Ever Italian Sommelier Competition, Singapore

▸Semi-Finalist, 2023 – Singapore National Sommelier Competition

▸The Best in Theory Award, 2023 – Singapore National Sommelier Competition

▸Best Sommelier of the Year, 2019 – World Gourmet Awards, Singapore

▸Winner, 2017 – Asia Best Sommelier Competition in French Wines SOPEXA