Welcome to joellethomson.com

Wine and words are close to my heart and this website is a blend of both.

I worked as the wine writer for the New Zealand Herald from 2000 to 2007 and wrote a weekly wine column for The Dominion Post for five years, which was syndicated to the Christchurch Press and Waikato Times. 

My first wine column was for Capital Times arts weekly in 1994, which led to writing for New Zealand's largest magazine company, Australian Consolidated Press (ACP) about wine, travel, food and the talented people who make all of these products and experiences so compelling. I have written 15 books about wine, all published by New Holland and HarperCollins.

My writing awards include winning the Gourmand World Cookbook Award for my book Joelle Thomson’s Under $20 Wine Guide and being shortlisted for the Montana Book Awards Best Lifestyle in 2005 for Celebrating New Zealand Wine, among other writing awards for books and feature stories in magazines. 

Qualifications

I have the WSET Diploma in Wines & Spirits - the Wine & Spirit Education Trust's (WSET) highest qualification. 

Tastings, writing, editing, wine judging and reviewing

I write independently about wine on this website as well as judging wine, hosting tastings and wine tours by private arrangement. I have taught the WSET qualifications in levels 1, 2 and 3 and also trained wine retail staff, along with vast tasting and event experience - hosting, organising and marketing. 

I also write independently about wine for Drinksbiz magazine, NZ Winegrower magazine and other publications, mostly magazines.

To find out more or contact me, get in touch by email: mailme@joellethomson.com