5 world-class experts in wine production and wine business will be available in January 2012 to help UK wine producers. The experts all have roles as WineSkills mentors, meaning they provide expertise, advice and guidance through the WineSkills programme at only 10% of the cost. Anyone involved in UK wine production can apply for a visit from one or more of the mentors to benefit from their help.
Mentoring in all aspects of vinegrowing, vineyard management, still and/or sparkling wine production, sustainable wine production, business management and marketing will be available from:

• Peter Hayes – Vinegrowing & vineyard management
• Dr Richard Smart – Sustainable wine production
• Mike Paul – Wine business & marketing
• David Cowderoy – Still wine production
• Jean-Manuel Jacquinot – Sparkling wine production

The average cost of a subsidised mentor visit is £62, only 10% of the full cost! The visits can be to a vineyard, winery, business premises or other location of choice. They last at least 3 hours and are followed-up with a confidential report identifying strengths & opportunities and making recommendations for producers. The mentors also produce bi-annual reports for the UK wine production sector as a whole, available on the WineSkills website.
To apply for mentor visits complete and return an application form by the 18th November 2012. See here for details on how to apply.
To find out more about the mentoring programme or speak to someone who has had a previous visit please contact Alistair Nesbitt.