When working in the hospitality industry, it’s vital that you’re both passionate and knowledgeable about food and drink delights. Two members of our team, Matthew Aston, Club Lounge Assistant Manager, and Themistoklis Chatzichristou, Bar Supervisor, have been extending their drinks knowledge by studying for their WSET level 2 course which has allowed them to explore wines and spirits. During the training, they explored the major grape varieties, important wine regions they are grown in, and an overview of spirits and liqueurs. It’s with great pleasure to announce that they’ve both passed; well done to both of you from all of #TeamMERE!

We caught up with Matthew to find out more about him and his passion for food and drink…

Matthew, tell us a bit about yourself…

With a passion for hospitality, I became part of the team a year ago, starting my journey as an assistant manager in the Conference and Banqueting department. However, with a natural love for the game of golf – and burning passion for food and beverage – it pointed me towards the Club Lounge & Bar, where I am the assistant manager.

Why do you feel the qualification is important for your role…

The WSET qualification is a great accolade to have when working in the hospitality industry, and something I’ve always wanted to achieve. The next natural progression for me now would be to try and obtain my level 3 which I would love to do however, I know that there is a lot more studying that needs to be done to achieve that!

How will it help the team?

Having wine knowledge is an important skill to have while working in this industry. We pride ourselves on creating those special Mere moments for all of our guests to provide them with a top service, and if we can offer them our knowledge or advice on which wines they’ll enjoy – or which wines are perfect for certain dishes, then we this is great. It’s also an opportunity for us to up sell and promote products that are on the bar too – and perhaps recommending new wines to our guests. Achieving this qualification will help not only me, but the team too, as I can pass down my knowledge to them so that they understand the products as well.

Most importantly, what’s your favourite wine?

Without doubt, it has to be the South African Chenin Blanc.

Come and join Matthew, Themistokli and the team at The Mere and sample some of our delicious wines. To book a table, please call us on 01565 830 155.