Robin’s induction into the wine trade commenced in 1957, when we began working in the cellars of Brown, Gore and Welch, adjacent to Tower Hill. To continue his apprenticeship, he decided to visit the vineyards in France, and with a fellow student, travelled to well-known wine regions. They began by picking the grapes of the 1957 Bordeaux vintage, which was known to be a poor year for harvest.

Having gained some experience in France, Robin returned home to Norfolk, where he was introduced to Graham Cawdron, who was Managing Director of Peatling & Cawdron, a reputable wine merchant in East Anglia. Soon, Robin was offered the position of personal assistant to Graham.

In 1962, Robin moved to Bury St Edmunds to join Greene King, an established brewer in Suffolk, as wine buyer for all their 25 shops and 900 pubs. In the mid-70s, he was appointed Senior Manager for their new bonded warehouse, whilst continuing as wine buyer.

After many years of lecturing to the staff at Greene King, Robin decided it was time for him to enter the MW study programme, which he passed in 1972. Having passed the exam, he made sure to contribute time to the Institute, by volunteering as an examiner for many years. During this time, he enjoyed attending many high-profile tastings at home and abroad.

Robin retired from the trade in 1998 after 41 years with Greene King and continued to be a panel judge for the International Wine Challenge. During his long and varied career, Robin professes to have appreciated the enjoyment and advantages of becoming a Master of Wine.