Bibendum opens doors on new wine academy scheme

By Rob Brown

Published: 27 June, 2018

Drinks merchant Bibendum has kicked off a new academy scheme to give newcomers to the industry the chance to gain hands on experience in the wine trade.

The Wine Minds Academy is the latest phase of a scheme launched earlier this year to foster up and coming talent through a network of industry players and a series of events, masterclasses and tastings.

The six-month academy scheme will give two aspiring individuals the chance to undergo WSET level two or three training and take part in an internship at a leading producer. They will also be able to attend a programme of masterclasses and winery visits across the world.

“There are lots of talented and passionate individuals who don’t always get exposure or invitations to tastings and events so we wanted to create a programme that gets them involved and creates a community,” said Bibendum head of marketing Elona Hesseling.

“Wine is a vocation, not simply a job, and we are working with an amazing group of up and coming stars to help grow their careers.”

In coming months the programme will include masterclasses on topics including biodynamics in France, the art of blending, fortified wines and mental health in the drinks industry.

“The programme endeavours to bring vast amounts of knowledge that top sommeliers vintners and other wine people possess to other sectors of the alcohol industry,” said current Wine Minds programme member and bartender at Bar Swift Sam Ameye.

“I’ve already learned a tremendous amount. It’s amazing how much can be learned from knowledgeable speakers in just a few in depth masterclasses.”

The programme is open to all hospitality workers who have a good basic knowledge of wine. Applicants are invited to apply to Bibendum online. The two candidates for the Wine Minds Academy will be announced later this year.

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