[QLD] Charlie Richards DipWSET – Agnes

Originally from Birmingham, Charlie initially set his sights on becoming a neurosurgeon. However, after taking a part-time role in a Michelin-starred restaurant, he discovered a passion for wine and hospitality that set him on a very different path. At 18, he moved to London to study Biochemistry, later tailoring his studies towards genetics to explore its connection to wine production wherever possible.

Alongside his studies, Charlie worked at Claridge’s, where he further developed his expertise in fine wine and service. During this time, he completed the WSET Diploma, ASI Diploma, and undertook Court of Master Sommeliers studies.

Now based in Brisbane, Charlie is the Head Sommelier at Agnes, where he champions charismatic, detail-oriented and highly personalised beverage service. An accomplished competitor, he has twice contested the UK Sommelier of the Year competition, was a finalist in the 2026 Sommelier Challenge: Finding Australia’s Best Sommelier of the Year, and has represented both the UK and Australia in the Chaîne des Rôtisseurs Young Sommelier Competition.

Charlie has always credited the support and mentorship of others as instrumental to his growth in the wine world, and is now passionate about providing the same guidance to the next generation of sommeliers and beverage professionals in Australia.