WINE EDUCATION

The only qualification you need is to like wine. Whilst the depth and breadth of the industry can seem intimidating at first, it is very friendly and those who love wine also love to talk about and share wine with like-minded friends. 

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Your best resource is undoubtedly your local independent wine merchants, who are a goldmine of knowledge and usually stock a variety of wines you won’t find anywhere else. Don’t be intimidated by the endless rows of posh-looking bottles on display- wine merchants are hugely passionate about their love for wine and can (and will!) chat all day to you. They will cater for a variety of budgets and are always eager to hear your thoughts on your last purchase from them, whether it was a £5 or £200 bottle. Visit regularly and your local merchant will figure out your palate preferences in no time, often keeping aside bottles of new or limited stock especially for your next visit. 

A list of your local wine schools is available from the Wine and Spirit Education Trust or localwineschool.com. Courses vary from introductory to advanced

Visit your local wine fairs or wine tasting events in your local town. Large stores (e.g. Majestic wine warehourse) run regular and free tasting sessions.