John founds Northern Wine School

A local entrepreneur from Hollins, Bury, Greater Manchester with a passion for wine is to launch his new wine school with a fundraiser for Bury Hospice.

John Callow, aged 28, has set up The Northern Wine School determined to share his love of the subject and to take the snobbery out of wine tasting. The school will run friendly informal events open to everyone who enjoys wine and wants to learn more. The first event takes place at The Elizabethan Suite, Bury on September 18th.with all proceeds going to support Bury Hospice.JohnPressRel

The ex Castlebrook High School and Holy Cross student studied Ecology at Leeds University gaining an MSc in Biodiversity. However his interest in wine led him to a career with a national wine merchant chain obtaining Wine and Spirit Education Trust qualifications along the way. He is currently studying for The Wine Diploma with the Trust, which is their flagship qualification, recognised throughout the world.

“What I loved most about the job was advising customers about their wine choices and running sessions for clients wanting to hold special tasting evenings. Opening my own Wine School enables me to devote all my time to this most rewarding aspect of the trade.”

The business will serve customers in Bury, Bolton and Manchester initially, with plans to expand across the north of England. Suitable venues in other areas are being assessed. Good transport links are essential of course, as is a pleasant welcoming atmosphere. The school does not sell wine, so is able to recommend impartially, carefully selecting wines which are readily available and good value. All courses and tastings focus on enjoying wine and learning more, in a relaxed atmosphere with like-minded people.

It is important to John that the school demystifies the world of wine. Current advice is often stuffy and confusing, with intimidating experts telling you what you should drink. He feels that people should drink what they like, rather than what others tell them they should enjoy.

“Our website has been the most difficult part of setting up the company. We wanted to be sure that all our booking and payment systems worked perfectly before going live.”

John jokes “Mine must be the only school starting in September where pupils are looking forward to their first day.”