Grand Officier Maître Sommelier, Bailliage of Great Britain
Brian is President of the Court of Master Sommeliers. He gained his Master Sommelier qualification in 1972 after which he proposed the formation of the Court which was ultimately established in 1977. An educational organisation offering four levels of examinations culminating in the highest that of Master Sommelier, the Court’s aim is to encourage improved standards of beverage service by sommeliers, particularly in wine and food pairing.

A professional consultant and educator, Brian has worked in all areas of the hospitality industry as well as being a chief examiner / judge for a multitude of food and beverage programmes and competitions. Author of three books (the latest is Sales and Service for the Wine Professional), his professional career concluded as a Government Inspector for Colleges and Universities until his retirement as Head of the Hospitality Management Degree programmes with the University of Plymouth ... plus 14 years as Cellar Master / Event Consultant for Lord and Lady Clifford of Chudleigh.

Brian now devotes much of his time to encouraging and assisting candidates preparing for the Court's Master Sommelier examinations by providing tutorials and tastings.