Four stars of the wine industry have been chosen to go forward to the shortlist of the prestigious Julian Brind Award.
Catherine Monahan, Robert Malin, Clara Rubin and Ruth Spivey were selected by a panel of judges which included Waitrose Category Manager (Wines, Beers & Spirits) Anne Jones, The Wine Show presenter Amelia Singer, The Wine Gang’s Joanna Simon and past winner Nik Darlington.
The winner will be announced at the IWSC Awards Banquet on 14 November 2018 at the Guildhall in London; in the meantime, stay tuned for profiles of the four shortlisted nominees.
The late Julian Brind MW was a leading light in the wine trade and an integral part of the Waitrose wine team for over forty years. The award was created by Waitrose – in association with the IWSC, where he was a long-standing judge – to honour his contribution and service to the trade that he loved. He was a trusted and committed mentor to many aspiring young wine professionals, as well as being a dedicated family man - full of energy both for his work and his leisure activities.
The prestigious title will be awarded to the person who demonstrates they have the courage of their convictions, dedication to the industry and passion for real wine. The recipient will have established an early track record in their field, and will already be taking part in the wider aspects of the wine trade, showing commitment and determination in everything they do.
The 2018 winner will follow in the footsteps of the 2017 winner Nik Darlington.
Photos clockwise from top left: Ruth Spivey, Robert Malin, Catherine Monahan, Clara Rubin.