About Joelle...

Wine writer and author

Welcome to my website, which is all about wine and the things that go with it... 

I am a journalist and have been writing wine since 1994 in newspapers, news stand magazines, books, as a wine judge, tutor and in wine retail. I have the Wine & Spirit Education Trust’s highest qualification, the Level 4 Diploma. I currently write independently about wine for Good magazine, Drinksbiz, NZ Winegrower magazine, the Martinborough Star and my own website, among others.

I have worked in wine education extensively teaching WSET and NZQA wine qualifications as well as hosting and organising fine wine and in store tastings in wine retail. My writing awards include, among others, winning the Gourmand World Cookbook Award for her 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. 

Pinot Noir in three different styles from Akitu

October 21, 2025

New trio of Akitu Pinot Noirs

The name Akitu originates from the Sumerian festival Zagmuk and is deeply tied to agricultural cycles. It is also Te Reo Māori for success or summit and that's something Central Otago has plenty of - summits and peaks in its majestic landscape - and great success with its wines. The ...
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