Wine News

Martin Hudson has been awarded the wine world’s top honor joining four of his colleagues at Berry Bros. & Rudd and 278 MWs globally, The Institute of Masters of Wine announced on Friday 5th September.

Martin’s achievement brings Berrys’ MW total to five, resulting in the UK’s leading independent wine merchant boasting more Masters of Wine than any other company.

Martin, who works as a Wine Advisor for Berrys’ Factory Outlet in Basingstoke and lecturer for Berrys’ Wine School, says: “This is the culmination of four years of hard work which I didn’t ever expect to result in me becoming an MW. I am delighted and wish to thank Berrys for giving me so much support without which this wouldn’t be possible.”

“This week has seen a double dose of good news - not only did I hear from the Institute, but on Sunday 31st August I won the Belgian 350cc Classic Motorcycle championship,” adds Martin.

A long time avid consumer of wine, Martin passed the WSET Diploma whilst working as a Technical Director designing computer cables. In 2002 he joined Oddbins as a Wine Advisor, becoming a Manager within six months, before leaving in August 2003 to join Berry Bros. & Rudd.

Alun Griffiths MW, Berrys’ Wine Director, adds: “Martin passed both the written and practical papers at the first attempt, a rare achievement, and this year completed his dissertation to achieve the coveted MW recognition. Given that Martin’s available time for study had to be fitted in between his work and race-riding in the upper echelons of competitive motorcycling, his success is all the more commendable.”

Martin will receive his certificate at the Institute’s Annual Reception and Awards Ceremony at Vintner’s Hall in London on November 5th 2008.

Fifteen candidates became MWs this year including Jeannie Cho Lee, Head of The Fine Wine School, in partnership with Berry Bros. & Rudd, in Hong Kong. Read More.