Education: University of London, at RHBNC, Surrey, where I studied Geography BSc Hons and specialised in Quaternary climate change. Then my wine education really began by winning an Ambassadorial Scholarship for 1 year at the University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, where I studied Wine Marketing and learnt to drink beer like an Aussie.
I can’t resist scouring Southwold beach for fossils and anything remotely interesting, or exploring the tangents (creative, bizarre, hilarious, idiosyncratic) that are presented every day through Adnams’ fantastic Twitter followers.
Back in the UK: WSET Diploma (Hons) from which I was fortunate enough to win a scholarship courtesy of BRL Hardy to Australia. I've worked at wineries in England and Australia, and spent some brilliant, informative years with Oddbins in Wimbledon. Outside the world of wine, I love being outside in all weathers enjoying our natural environment, and doing my best to try and capture the beauty of it with my camera. I also love hitting tennis balls at Southwold Tennis Club..
We have two delicious new South African wine arrivals, Phambili Chenin and Pinotage / Viognier, with Fairtrade accreditation. In response to Government initiatives to democratise the South African wine industry, eighteen formerly disadvantaged workers at the Wamakersvallei Winery in Wellington established the 'Inkquebela Phambili Empowerment Trust'. In total, 87 people, including dependents, stand to benefit... 
January's Artist of the Month has been selected by Kevin West, Gardener at The Swan Hotel in Southwold. In his interview with Peter Clitheroe, Kevin explained how he's been surrounded by nature from a young age and, since becoming Gardener in 2004, has been working to create a wildlife oasis in the heart of Southwold.... 
Head Chef Tyler Torrance talks about some of the seasonal ingredients he's using at The Crown in February. These include winter greens sourced from Wangford Farm Shop, just 4 miles up the road from the Hotel, as well as some more exotic seasonal imports of pomegranates and blood oranges. All ingredients are at their best... 
Alastair and Rob meet over lunch at The Crown to discuss Alastair's recent trip to Argentina. Alastair recounts his time driving for miles across the dusty Patagonian desert to find the vinous oasis of Domaine Noemia. From here, he has brought back two wines that will find their way into the next set of Seasonal... 
Sneaky peek – The Crown refurbishment