My first role in the wine trade was one of the best you could hope for; buying Champagne and French wine for Tesco, one of the biggest purchasers of wine in the World.

I had earned the privilege after 10 years in different positions at the UK’s biggest retailer, making my way to Senior Buying Manager. I now manage retail partnerships for Provence brand, Mirabeau.

I quickly took to the industry, as I had a passion for wine before it became my career. My first memory of Champagne is at my Mum’s 40th birthday party, where a family friend from France attempted to sabrage a bottle of Lanson Black Label. I have now learned that Champagne does not just have to be reserved for big birthday parties and special occasions. So now I enjoy it at any opportunity and my ‘go to’ would be Charles Heidsieck Rosé Reserve or Pol Roger Pure Extra Brut.

The week of the Champagne Academy course is a lifetime highlight in itself, but a few that stand out; dancing after lunch at Krug, dinner with Taittinger followed by the light show at Reims Cathedral and of course, learning to sabrage (properly) in a vineyard with Heidsieck Monopole!!