I AM:
Matt Dunne, Group Wine Ambassador & Resident Sommelier at Joval Wine Group, Plumm Glassware Ambassador, WSET Educator, Wine Judge (NSW committee)
I BECAME A COMMITTEE MEMBER TO:
Give back and support the wine industry by empowering future talent through helping create and facilitate fun, educational events, as a vehicle to enhance knowledge and build relationships and networks. With my background as a sommelier (Solotel) and now being on the other side of the fence (Wholesaler) I feel I can bring a broad perspective to the Committee.
MY BACKGROUND IS:
I grew up in the Snowy Mountains (Cooma NSW). Father’s side is Irish and Mother’s side South African. Working abroad for 4 years (Chicago, London, Languedoc) defined my love for wine.I have over 20 years experience in the hospitality industry, was a Len Evans Scholar and previous to Joval was Group Sommelier for the Solotel Group, working with Matt Moran from the grass roots. My role now is heavily focused on education, sales and imports.
ONE THING PEOPLE MAY NOT KNOW ABOUT ME IS…
I signed up for my second Olympic distance triathlon for the end of April this year. Just a little bit addicted!
THE MOTTO I LIVE BY IS:
Get comfortable with being uncomfortable.
MY ROLE MODEL IS:
My mother taught me about resilience, humility and authenticity. Industry wise, Peter Sullivan (ex Aria) and Sue Fairlie-Cunningham (ex Vogue Entertaining) are two amazing mentors that have inspired me along my journey.
WHAT I ENJOY MOST ABOUT BEING A PART OF THE WINE INDUSTRY IS …
Connection is everything in the wine industry (and life). The story telling from vineyard through to what’s in the glass is captivating, it goes way beyond flavour.  Respecting others point of view but always having a voice yourself is important. I enjoy being part of a diverse community & being pushed by peers to do better each day.

 

 

Photo thanks to Willow Creative