Tell us about yourself?
As with most I am a huge fan of travel and I have been lucky enough to have been to some quite remarkable places whether that be sunk in the ocean and locked in cage meeting the Great White Sharks off the Western Cape or being deep in the cellars at Taittinger to the top of the Burj Khalifa in Dubai. The love for travel means that I enjoy driving, and I always enjoy travelling down roads that I have yet ventured. Although as time passes these are getting fewer and fewer.
How long have you worked in industry?
I think my first interaction with the industry was attending a wine expo in Belgium and assisting my Dad exhibiting there at the age of 15, however my time legally employed in the industry is now panning over two decades, and has seen my skill set develop through working alongside outstanding suppliers and supporting the UK on-trade. I have also been a director of a wine & spirits operation in the retail sector and consulted on opportunity and marketing strategies for UK producers.
What’s your favourite part of your job?
I love to see the end result where our customers and their customers alike love the offering available and develop their passion for the wine category. It’s great to see people venture into the category in greater depth and pursue new trends and I of course enjoy tasting and showcasing our portfolio!
What’s your favourite wine?
My favourites do change usually depending on season and the temperature outside, in the winter months then I think a South Eastern Aussie Shiraz is always a good pick. For the warmer weather I love a Chenin Blanc or an Albarino however it is important despite the UK’s obsession with straight varietals not to forget blends a great choice would be the Esk Valley Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon & Malbec blend from the Gimblett Gravels growing area in NZ.