After leaving the University of Reading with a degree in Food Technology, Mike, originally from South Wales, lived in Portugal for four years where he discovered his passion for wine. After studying a number of wine courses in Portugal he returned to the UK to work in the wine trade and continue his studies at the WSET and subsequently the IMW. After a stint with a Portuguese importer Mike worked for PLB Group as Beers, Wines and Spirits Technologist for seven years before becoming BWS Category Buyer for House of Fraser and later Wine Development Director for Diageo. Mike's current position is European Sourcing Manager for the San Francisco based company Winery Exchange.