| Name: Michael McIntosh, Fine Wine Brand Ambassador for Accolade Wines. |
| How long have you been in the wine industry? 10 years in the wine industry per se, but 20 years total working with wine including my previous hospitality and sommelier roles. |
| What was your ‘watershed’ wine moment? At 19 years old I was lucky enough to be one of twelve to attend the NZ vintage release luncheon of Clarendon Hills, at one of the country’s top restaurants. This was my first wine event and experience of food and wine matching, and it set me on a career path devoted to great food and wine. |
| How would you describe your wine collection? My wine collection is predominantly benchmarks from Australia, New Zealand an Italy. |
| If you could only take two things to a desert island (that has a fridge), what would they be? A magnum (or larger) of JJ Prum Kabinett wouldn’t go astray on a desert island to go with all the fresh seafood. A bottle of Girolamo Russo Etna Rosso would also see me right. |
| What is the one piece of advice you would give to someone wanting to start their career in wine? Never be afraid to ask a question or voice your opinion on a wine, even around those with more experience. Also study, travel and drink all types of wine. It’s the grounding that comes from a balance of experience and learning that will set you in good stead. Lastly do a vintage as a cellar hand, it’s invaluable. |
| Accolade Wines is the proud sponsor of Loic Avril in the Best Sommelier of Australia 2020. |
