The Master of Wine qualification is widely regarded as the most rigorous and prestigious credential in the world of wine. Nancy is proud to be among the small global cohort of just 420 individuals who currently hold this title. Her long and deeply rewarding career as a freelance wine educator has included directing the highly successful Christie’s Wine Education Programme, teaching regularly at the esteemed Leiths School of Food & Wine—where she became a recognised authority on the interaction between food and wine—and lecturing extensively throughout the UK on specialist regions including South Africa, Alto Adige/Südtirol, Sicily, and Champagne, for which she was appointed a UK ambassador.
Nancy has since redirected her focus and expertise towards what Homer famously described as ‘liquid gold’. This world of olive oil—particularly Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO)—shares many of the same qualities as fine wine: the subtle influence of terroir, the wonderful diversity of cultivars, and the fascinating difference in style and quality produced by individual artisans. It is also one of the most dynamic and rapidly evolving natural products in today’s global food landscape.
A certified Olive Oil Sommelier, Nancy has undertaken extensive field research in the world’s most important olive oil regions, meeting producers and tasting hundreds of exceptional EVOOs. She now leads bespoke olive oil tasting classes designed to deepen understanding and enjoyment of Extra Virgin Olive Oil, alongside its increasingly recognised health benefits. These benefits are largely attributed to EVOO’s anti-inflammatory polyphenols, which are associated with a reduced risk of heart disease and certain cancers, and may also play a positive role in conditions such as type 2 diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, and arthritis. This is unquestionably a remarkable range of achievements for something that is also so profoundly delicious.
Whether you are a professional seeking to expand your expertise or a passionate enthusiast wishing to widen your explorations, join Nancy to discover how Matters of Taste can enrich your understanding and appreciation of exceptional artisan olive oils.
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