Q&A: Romain Bourger, The Vineyard

Gerard Basset travel scholarship still open for applicants

There is still time for UK-based sommeliers to send in their application for The Gerard Basset Travel Scholarship created in honour and memory of the late Gerard Basset OBE, MS, MW, MSc (OIV).

Ask A Somm: Maxim Kassir, 108 Brasserie, Marylebone

As well as working as a sommelier at the 108 Brasserie in The Marylebone Hotel, London, Maxim Kassir also oversees wine innovation for the site and its parent group The Doyle Collection. Here he shares his thoughts on low and no alcohol wine and how the on-trade can be more sustainable.

Jascots strengthens team with former Sommelier of the Year

On-trade distributor Jascots Wine Merchants has appointed former Galvin’s head sommelier and wine buyer Andrea Briccarello to its new business team.

Gymkhana star takes home Sud de France UK Sommelier gong

A new winner has been crowned the Sud de France UK Sommelier of the Year after finalists went head-to-head to put their skills and knowledge to the test under the eyes of the judges.

SITT hits stride in London and Manchester

This autumn’s Specialist Importers Trade Tasting (SITT) in London and Manchester were among the busiest and most focused events yet, with both off- and on-trade buyers feasting their senses at 45 supplier tables, plus a busy schedule of masterclasses.

Australia: On-trade viewpoints

Lucy Britner asked leading on-trade figures what turns them on about Australian wines – and how they ensure those wines work on their list. Here are their replies. 

WoSA reveals Sommelier Cup finalists

The 11 finalists due to compete in the Wines of South Africa Sommelier Cup competition have been unveiled.

Trade bids fond farewell to Gerard Basset

Winchester Cathedral provided a fitting setting on Friday for the memorial service of Gerard Basset OBE, MS, MW, MBA, MSc (OIV), as members of the wine and hospitality worlds turned out in force to commemorate the remarkable life of a much loved and admired man.

WoSA announces UK’s first South African Wine Festival

Wines of South Africa (WoSA) is set to run its first South African Wine Festival in the UK.

Chaîne des Rôtisseurs unveils top young somm, chef and winner of Gerard Basset Tasting Trophy

The Chaîne des Rôtisseurs has unveiled the winners of its Young Sommelier and Young Chef awards 2019, alongside the winner of the first Gerard Basset Tasting Trophy.

Baur au Lac’s Marc Almert awarded Best Sommelier in the World

Marc Almert, head sommelier at Baur au Lac, has been awarded Best Sommelier in the World at a ceremony held by the Association de la Sommellerie Internationale (ASI) in Antwerp.

UK Ruinart Sommelier Challenge winner announced

Jitka Auermüllerová from 67 Pall Mall has emerged top of the leader board in the UK Ruinart Sommelier Challenge 2019.

Where do we go from Grüner?

Food compatibility and top-quality wines have made Austria a secret weapon for sommeliers wanting to impress their guests. Jo Gilbert looks at which varieties, regions and styles head their lists.

Q&A: Matteo Montone, director of wine, Berners Tavern

Next month Jason Atherton’s Berners Tavern at The London Edition is launching a new series entitled An Introduction to Wine, hosted by director of wine Matteo Montone. On Monday nights 12 guests will be guided through the basics of wine in the restaurant’s private dining room, with each guest receiving 15% off of their bill if they dine in the restaurant afterwards.

Ruinart offers once in a lifetime trip to top UK sommelier

Time is running out to sign up for the Ruinart Sommelier Challenge 2019, which will result in one young UK-based sommelier heading on an all-expenses paid trip to Champagne.

Win a buyers’ trip to Franciacorta with Harpers

With the sparkling wine category continuing to grow, Harpers and Franciacorta have teamed up to offer a fantastic buyers’ trip to the beautiful Franciacorta region.

Gerard Basset passes away

Harpers is saddened to hear that Gerard Basset has lost his battle with cancer and passed away on 17 January.

Armit Wines makes another round of appointments

Armit Wines has announced three new hires to its sales and marketing teams.

Joe Fattorini: Is your wine list upside down?

Not only is your wine list upside down, but you haven’t dropped your anchor. Joe Fattorini shares more wacky wisdom on the psychology of sales