‘6 MW vintage reflections: Jürgen von der Mark MW and Phil Reedman MW, 1996 vintage
In 1996, a new generation of Masters of Wine joined an IMW that was starting to look increasingly different from the one that had existed a decade earlier. Thirty years on, Jürgen von der Mark MW and Phil Reedman MW reflect on what the MW meant to them then and now, the professionalisation of the wine industry, and the value of being part of a diverse and intellectually stimulating community.
What does being an MW mean to you?
Jürgen
Becoming an MW was very much about opening doors and securing a position in the professional wine world. Being an MW now, rather toward the end of a professional career is different. I am now far more interested in the values of the Institute and the challenges of keeping them, or defining new values, in a rapidly changing MW community.
Phil
Membership of a great, diverse, intellectually stimulating community of MWs and students.
What are the biggest changes that you have observed in the wine industry since you became an MW? Any surprises?
Jürgen
In 1996, ties were still very much in fashion and you were obliged to wear them at “official” events. I am happy that this has changed.
We have seen a very radical professionalisation of the wine industry and one is tempted to romanticise the old days. It was very much about boys and guys in 1996 and, as we all know, this has changed. I am very happy to see women playing an increasingly prominent role in the wine industry and the Institute. The membership has become far more heterogeneous, which is positive but makes it even more important and challenging to create and maintain a strong bond of shared values.
Phil Reedman MW
The virtual eradication of faulty wine, albeit with its re-birth under the guise of “low intervention” grape-based drinks.
Where do you see the next ten years in wine going?
Jürgen von der Mark MW
The commercial world and, within this, the wine world, is rapidly changing and I have no idea what it will look like in 10 or 20 years. But we are a board of professionals and have to maintain the highest professional standards—So, no regrets that the time for lunch bottles is over or that the speed of communication has accelerated.
Phil Reedman MW
Switch to screwcaps: yeah!
And where do you see the Institute’s role in this changing wine world?
Jürgen von der Mark MW
To me, the Institute was a driving force in the last 30 years in the professionalisation of the industry. To me, the Institute should be an ambassador of established values, especially as the membership continues to grow.
Is there any guidance, words of wisdom, or tips that you would like to give this year’s incoming vintage, the 2026 MWs that will soon be joining our family?
Jürgen von der Mark MW
Enjoy becoming an MW, make the most of your talents, be confident but also be humble, share your knowledge.
Phil Reedman MW
Two things. First, please thank those around you who made it possible for you to become an MW. Partners, children, employers, family all give up something so that you could succeed. Second, please get involved with the education side of being an MW. Mentoring and supporting seminars are the best way to stay as up to date as possible on key areas, and it is incredibly rewarding.