ABOUT ME

I'm a writer and trainer specialising in drinks. I've been blogging about booze since 2009 and started working in drinks full time in 2011. Since then I've been writing, presenting and training people about drinks around the world.

I work at The Whisky Exchange during the day, writing words and teaching people about all kinds of alcoholic drinks. I write more words at night for fun and profit, as well as running tastings and training sessions, and doing a bit of drinks consulting and competition judging.

Before shifting to being a writer, I was a computer programmer and IT trainer, and I use these skills to advise people on the web and social media, as well as occasionally writing a bit of code for fun.

Specialities

Whisky – especially from Scotland and non-traditional countries

Beer – from traditional European to modern new-world styles

Rum – including technical classification and history

Japanese drinks – with a focus on awamori and shochu

Other spirits – especially Asian spirits, gin, absinthe and Tequila

Online

MY WORK

  • All
  • Writing and Media
  • Books
  • Training
  • Events
  • Judging
  • Professional Organisations
  • Awards & Achievements
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The Whisky Exchange
Ambassador and Content Manager

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The Whisky Exchange Blog
Editor

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Spirited Matters
Owner and lead writer

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1001 whiskies you must try before you die

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The Philosophy of Whisky

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Village of the Drammed
Podcast host and editor

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Speciality Drinks Group
Training Manager

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Wine and Spirits Educational Trust
Spirits Educator

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Irish Whiskey and Spirits Institute
Nominated Educator

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Awamori Jinbner
Drinks Ambassador

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Whisky Squad
Organiser

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Whisky Show
Writer and Presenter

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The Whisky Lounge
Presenter and Host

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Maltstock
Regular Presenter

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Crafdi Distilling Conference 2022
Speaker

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New Scientist Tours
Whisky Cruise Host

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International Wine and Spirits Competition
Judge

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World Drinks Awards:
Beer & Whisky
Judge

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Independent Bottlers Challenge
Judge

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Global Spirits Masters
Panel Chair

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Great Taste Awards 2023
Judge

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Worshipful Company of Distillers
Liveryman

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Circle of Wine Writers
Committee Member

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Wine and Spirits Educational Trust
Spirits Level 2

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Wine and Spirits Educational Trust
Spirits Level 3

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Wine and Spirits Educational Trust
Wines Level 2

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Communicator of the Year
Highly Commended

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Communicator of the Year
Winner

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Spirits Communicator of the Year 2020
Shortlisted

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Spirits Communicator of the Year 2021-2022
Shortlisted

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Spirits Communicator of the Year 2023
Shortlisted

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Fortnum & Mason Food and Drink Awards
Shortlisted