Tell us about the moment you first became interested in wine?
At a beautiful restaurant in Sheffield called Tonco. I’d liked wine before then but that is the place where my passion for what wine could be with and without food ignited.
Describe your wine list at Dongnae
Our wine list is a grower focused array of new exciting mavericks and classic renowned stalwarts. With something (we hope!) for everyone.
Over the course of your career, have you had any wine-related disasters?
Red wine. White dress. Enough said!
Name your top three restaurant wine lists
Where The Light Gets In in Stockport, Upstairs at Landrace in Bath and Planque in London.
Who do you most respect in the wine world?
So many people. I’m continually impressed by the young Sophie Evans, championing English wine, growing over in Kent. Her Pinot Noir was my favourite wine of last year. An amazing, hardworking, humble and talented woman of the industry.
What’s the most interesting wine you’ve come across recently?
Richard Leroy Les Noëls De Montbenault 2018. I’d never tried anything like it before, pure bottled energy and excitement.
What’s the best value wine on your list at the moment?
Michel Autran Vouvray Ciel Rouge 2021. Absolute magic!
What is your ultimate food and drink match?
Korean fried chicken and Champagne.
What is your pet hate when it comes to wine service in other restaurants?
Stemless wine glasses or dirty glassware.
Who is your favourite producer right now?
My favourite producer at the moment is Cyril Fhal. I love the playfulness of his wines and each one has individuality and complexity which is brilliant with our vibrant Korean flavours.
At Dongnae, what question do you most get asked by customers?
Does wine go with Korean food? The most common and equally my favourite question, because the answer is yes. Korean food has layers of complexity that lends itself to wines from all over Europe and helping the guest find their match and see their delighted surprise and enjoyment with our list is continually rewarding.
It’s your last meal and you can have a bottle of any wine in the world. What is it and why?
Probably Domaine Labet Savagnin at home with my family. Maybe I’d even let them have a sip.