Award-winning wine writer, author and presenter

If you’re looking for a wine writer who brings experience, clarity and a love of wine to every project, you’re in the right place. There's plenty to enjoy on this website from reviews of new wines, old wines and historical line ups; profiles of wineries and the latest news in the world of wine, including how to contact me to give presentations on what makes wine the most delicious liquid on Earth.

My work in magazines, newspapers and communications spans 30 years and over that time, I have carved a niche in wine through my books (15 published books by New Holland NZ and HarperCollins), my wine presentations and my own wine education - I have the Wine & Spirit Trust's highest qualification; the Level 4 Diploma.

My work is independent, approachable and informed, turning ideas and knowledge into content that connects with people — and leaves a lasting impression.

Meet Joelle: Your guide to wine and words

Wine and words are both close to my heart and this website brings them together in a deep dive into wine and its compelling blend of geography, history and flavour.

I wrote my first wine column in 1994 and have since studied wine and have the Wine & Spirits Education Trust Diploma (WSET Dip). I am a trained journalist and author of 15 published books about wine (New Holland HarperCollins NZ).

Latest news in the world of wine

Champagne-inspired Remy launches for festive season

December 8th 2025Where were you 12 years ago? It's a question guaranteed to elicit a wide range of responses from good to not so good to indifferent but whichever memories spring to mind, we all know that a lot canRead more

A new Prosecco Superiore lands in Aotearoa - is it any good and why?

November 30th 2025Prosecco may be the darling of sparkling wine drinkers everywhere, but let’s be clear: there’s Prosecco, and then there’s Prosecco Superiore. The latter could be called Prosecco for grown-ups.Read more

Greywacke - an overnight success that's 43 years in the making

November 19th 2025It's often said that behind every overnight success, there's 20 years in the making but it's been a longer game for Kevin and Kimberley Judd, who were were given the Wine Marlborough LifetimeRead more

Three decades in the glass - Ata Rangi Pinot Noir

November 18th 2025Ata Rangi also has this column to its website - read and find out more here. Martinborough has forged a reputation for Pinot Noir but few wineries have as long a track record of making it as AtaRead more

Winning wine for summer

November 14th 2025If you love wine and drink it regularly, how would you describe Riesling? This wine of the week can be accurately described as a winner thanks to taking home the Antipodes Trophy for ChampionRead more

Is the gap closing in wine styles?

November 12th 2025If asked to name the best Sauvignon Blanc in Aotearoa New Zealand, which wine - or region - springs to mind first? It might be Marlborough but a new release from Hawke's Bay gave me pause forRead more

Spring preview tasting Big Sky Pinot Noirs

November 9th 2025This column was first published in the Martinborough Star, November 2025 Robin Williams once said that spring is nature’s way of saying ‘let’s party’, which is a nice idea until a spring likeRead more

Wild wines from Central Otago

November 9th 2025Wild Earth Wines puts Central Otago's dry white wine foot forward this week with two new releases, which are reviewed here. But first, what Central Otago does red and white wine production look likeRead more

Great Greek white and what's in my glass this week

November 9th 2025Clare Valley has become the first place in Australia to successful grow and make a great white wine from the Greek Assyrtiko grape and Jim Barry Wines has become the first producer to do so. This yeaRead more

Soho's second sparkling (and other releases) for festive season

November 8th 2025Soho Wine Co is based on the outrageously beautiful Waiheke Island - a tropical paradise in the Hauraki Gulf, about 40 minutes' boat ride from Auckland city where the temperature is warm, the beachesRead more

Ten of the best bubbles

November 6th 2025From featherlight fizz to vintage Champagne, sparkling wine is firmly on our radar at this time of year - "our" being you and I since I'm assuming you're a wine lover, if you're reading this column.Read more

Writing

Since 1994, I have shared my passion for writing, bringing stories of vineyards to your homes. I strive to make wine engaging and easy to understand, whether it’s your first glass or your hundredth. I aim to make the wine world accessible with humour and insight. As your guide, I craft stories that inform and entertain, celebrating the joy wine brings. Using clear language, I help readers explore wine’s depths with ease. Welcome to a world where words and wine unite.

Training

Education is key to understanding wine, guiding both beginners and experts through its complexities. Each sip is a lesson in geography, history, and the uniqueness of vintages. I simplify wine terms and make vineyard exploration fun. Discover the role of terroir and winemaking. Education boosts your appreciation and enjoyment of wine. My aim is to make learning about wine an enjoyable journey. Join me to deepen your wine knowledge and savour each moment.

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Presenter

As a presenter, I bring wine to life, sparking curiosity and connecting people with their taste buds. My events, whether intimate tastings or large gatherings, are engaging and insightful, focusing on both the taste and the story of each bottle. I aim to simplify wine with humour and passion, ensuring each session is informative and enjoyable. My goal is to make learning about wine as enjoyable as the wine itself, encouraging attendees to enjoy every sip and story.