The first person to be both a Master of Wine and Sommelier World Champion. Originally from Baden, he runs a consultancy service, tasteTainment GmbH, in Essen, Germany. He is author of many books and a regular contributor to magazines worldwide.

Current employer: tasteTainment GmbH

Primary area(s) of work: Communication

Industry sector(s): Project management, Events, PR, Journalism, Author, Educator, Consultant, Wine judge, Wine tourism

Wine styles: Fine and rare wines, Sparkling wine, Champagne, Cremant, Prosecco, Sekt, Sweet wines, Fortified wines, Port, VDN, Still white, Still red, Still rosé

Wine region expertise: Austria, Baden, Germany, Hungary Tokaj, Mosel, Pfalz, Rheingau, South Africa, France, Alsace, Bordeaux, Burgundy, Rhone, Languedoc, Roussillon, Champagne, South-West France, Rioja, Ribera del Duero, Penedes, Priorat, Italy, Piedmont, Tuscany

Market expertise: Germany

Specialisms: Blending, HORECA, Events, Food and wine pairing, Restaurant wines, Wine tourism, History of wine, Wine judging