For our latest Q&A with leading trade figures we turn to the one and only Joe Wadsack who continues to lead the way when talking about wine in a way the average consumer can both understand, but enjoy. The winning combination…
The wine trade’s very own Cat in the Hat: Joe Wadsack
We are well and truly in to the second half of the year so how has 2017 gone for you so far?
It has been ever harder to find work, especially in the wake of the sad demise of the Tesco Wine Fairs, a road show that I have hosted for 13 years. On the flip side, I have enjoyed being back on live consumer TV, now I am a part of the This Morning family.
Best moments of the year so far – business wise and personally?
Wadsack was blown away by Yamanashi district of Japan
I suppose that they were combined into one experience at the beginning of the year. I had the opportunity of visiting Japan for the first time in my life, and ended up going twice! Meeting the wonderful wine makers in Yamanashi, and actually seeing what the Koshu variety is capable of was unforgettable, if a trifle cold!
Then returning to experience Sake in is many marvellous forms and to travel the length of Japan was also incredible.
Most challenging moments of the year?
There are always challenges. You have to embrace that and make it a reason to get up in the morning.
What are you big goals for the business for the rest of the year?
To get to more non-wine drinkers and explain to them it’s not all total nonsense. To lose a bit of weight, and to feel fitter going into 2018.
What do you see as being the big trend and influences on your part of the industry?
Finally people are questioning the huge, blatantly necessary use of glass as legitimate packaging for a product the we consume within hours of purchase. I can can see the opportunities that alternative packaging materials will bring.
What are your plans for your summer holiday?
Forget the beach…head to the mountains of Austria for the most perfect summer backdrop
Just been. Three incredible weeks in the most beautiful place on earth, the Austrian Tyrol.
Did you get time for any reading?
I read books about Schnapps, Albrecht Duhrer and read the entire scripts of Blackadder and Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy.
What did you eat and drink?
Stiegl Beer, Hämmerle Schnapps, and Goulash soup.
Favourite place for sunset drink?
A bar with a view…
The aDLER art hotel in Innsbruck. The views from the terrace are breathtaking. Mountains, up both sides pink skies, and the planes fly right overhead onto the airport runway towards the setting sun. Very very cool.
What are drinking when you’re there?
Andreas Alt Roter Veltliner 2016 Wagram, Austria.
What’s your ultimate summer movie?
Cocktail.
Best summer song?
Party in the USA by Miley Cyrus.
