JOHN DOWNES
MASTER OF WINE
One of only 420 worldwide
As a Master of Wine, I’ve dedicated my life to demystifying wine for everyone, whether you’re a curious beginner, an enthusiastic drinker, or a seasoned professional.
ABOUT ME
I’ve spent my career making the world of wine more understandable, more enjoyable, and a lot more fun.
My approach is simple: great wine education should make you smile and make you think. I blend humour, storytelling, and deep expertise to show how our perception, expectations, and even biases shape the way we taste. It’s wine learning without the jargon, but with all the flavour.
Over the years, I’ve shared this passion across the globe as a speaker, educator, broadcaster, video animator, podcaster, consultant, and writer. From London to Sydney and countless stops in between, I’ve hosted events that combine laughter, insight, and exceptional wines, bringing thousands of people closer to understanding (and loving) what’s in their glass.
My work has appeared on major TV networks including BBC One’s Rip Off Britain, Countryfile, and Breakfast; BBC Two’s Working Lunch and Ready Steady Cook; plus BBC News 24, BBC World, CNBC, CNN, GMTV, and TalkTV. On radio, I’ve featured on BBC Radio 2, 4, and 5 Live, BBC Southern Counties, LBC, Talk Radio, and SAfm.
Whether I’m teaching, presenting, pouring, or animating, my goal is always the same: to bring wine to life, in one minute, in one tasting, or in one unforgettable moment.
John Downes
I’ m on a mission - to make wine simple.
WHAT I DO
A masterful blend of wine, storytelling, insight and entertainment.
From live events to animations and broadcasting, everything I do is designed to make wine simple, joyful and full of personality.
Dive into the FOUR pillars below to see how…
Exceptional wine experiences for clients, teams and private audiences.
John creates high-energy, story-driven tasting events that blend humour, expertise and unforgettable interaction. Perfect for corporate hospitality, team building or intimate celebrations.
Wine explained in one minute, sharp, witty and brilliantly simple.
John’s animated micro-videos cut through the jargon and get straight to what matters. Ideal for audiences who want to learn fast, laugh a little and finally “get” wine.
Clear, entertaining wine commentary for broadcast audiences worldwide.
John is a trusted voice on TV and radio, known for making wine accessible, engaging and fun. Available for expert commentary, features, live segments and on-air tastings.
Behavioural Wine Tasting: A Masterclass in Mindful Decision-Making.
Co-presented with Behavioural Economist Greg Davies, Ph.D, our unique, interactive event helps you make better business decisions by eliminating Decision Bias with the help of wine.
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“If you don’t know your Burgundy from your Beaujolais, John will give you an idiot’s guide to wine.”
— Lorraine Kelly TV Presenter
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"Thanks again for your four-event roadshow. First class, engaging, and always great feedback from the audience."
— Fitzpatricks Financial Group
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“What a superstar you are! Thank you for being so amazing with the masterclasses.”
— Deutsche Bank
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“Sensational evening! Entertaining, informative and fun presentation.”
— Moneywise Financial Solutions