Tell us about the moment you first became interested in wine
I started working in a wine shop when I was 19. It wasn’t until I came to London after my studies in Lithuania that I understood wine was my passion. When I was introduced to London’s wine scene, I lost my mind. I’m over 16 years in the wine business and every day it’s another adventure. Wine lets me be closer to nature, people and community.
Describe your wine list at Morchella
Morchella offers wine from all over Europe. Alongside the usual categories of red, white, orange, rose and the like we have decided to classify according to location and profile with sub categories including coastal, classic and funky.
Over the course of your career, have you had any wine-related disasters?
I’ve worked in the industry for 16 years - if you can imagine it, I’ve done it.
Name your top three restaurant wine lists
The 10 Cases, Hector’s London and Planque (all in London).
Who do you most respect in the wine world?
Jancis Robinson. I met her at The 10 Cases. She was incredibly knowledgeable and lovely.
What’s the most interesting wine you’ve come across recently?
Tameran Vijariego Blanc from Gran Canaria.
What’s the best value wine on your list at the moment?
Amoterra Montepulciano.
What is your ultimate food and drink match?
Vin Jaune and Comte, still haven’t tried anything better…
Old World or New World?
Old World, we have so many incredible and interesting indigenous grapes. It seems crazy to ship wine across the world.
What is your pet hate when it comes to wine service in other restaurants?
Dirty glasses. Unbearable….
Who is your favourite producer right now?
Francois Nicolay (from Burgundy).
As a group head sommelier, what question do you most get asked by customers?
I get asked to explain our classic and coastal influenced wines.
Which wine producing region or country is underrated at the moment?
Moravia (in the Czech Republic).
It’s your last meal and you can have a bottle of any wine in the world. What is it and why?
I love my Burgundy so I’d go for a Domaine Roulot Meursault.
