Meet the Friend

Alan Aboud is the creative director of Fine and Rare's new FONDATA publication (which features Member Jancis Robinson MW on the cover in its first edition). In this Meet the Friend interview, Amanda Barnes finds out how the fine wine market has changed during the pandemic, the concept of a 'journal of adjacencies' and why moving from Black Tower to Meursault has been great for his palate but not h...

Julia Trustram Eve is at the forefront of the British wine scene as Head of Marketing for Wine GB, but it was actually bottles of Burgundy and Claret that first brought her into the wine world. Amanda Barnes interviews Julia on her pathway into wine, what excites her most about the world of British wine today and the establishment of the Great British Classic Method.   How did you get int...

Patrick Rea found his way into the world of wine through a fortunate acquirement by one of his clients. In this Meet the Friend interview, Amanda Barnes learns why he went from marketing medical services to marketing English Pinotage and why he's hoping to be able to invite members over for a round of golf at Mannings Heath one day soon.   Tell us how you got into the world of wine and ...

Tanya Schmitt is keen for the world to know the beautiful wines and destinations of Croatia through her company Croatia Unpacked. Amanda Barnes interviews her about how she got into the wine world, why she thinks Istria is a hidden gem (especially in Autumn and truffle season) and how Grk has finally reached the shores of Ontario, Canada.   What sparked your interest in wine?  I’ve always enjoy...

Kate Sweet has been 'wine curious' ever since she can remember and today is one of the leading PRs in the drinks industry, working at Limm Communications with a range of brands and clients from vintage Cognac to grower Champagne. In this interview, we discover why she's desperate to enjoy a glass of rosé overlooking the Med very soon, but will take a pass on the Gewürztraminer.   What bro...

As Senior Marketing Advisor for Business France, Pandora Mistry is at the forefront of the French wine scene in the UK. Amanda Barnes interviews her on the top trends today and learns how she got into the world of wine.   How were you first introduced to wine and what sparked your interest in the industry? I started to do wine tours with Arblaster and Clarke in the early 2000’s, mostly i...

Su-Lin Ong is an independent wines and spirits consultant specialising in research and development, marketing and PR. For over 25 years she has worked with both long-established brands and helped launch new entrepreneurial brands, working also on cocktails, beers and tea infusions! Amanda Barnes interviews her about her parents' cocktail trolley, fast cars and slow wine, and why she'll be looking ...