FindWine seeks new wine writing talent

Online wine retailer FindWine has launched a consumer competition in a bid to unearth the next Jancis Robinson MW or Hugh Johnson.

Entrants will have to submit a tasting note and review of one of the wines in the FindWine range, and the writer of the winning review will be appointed the FindWine in-house wine critic for three months.

The winner will also receive samples of every new wine added to the FindWine list during their three-month tenure, and will be responsible for writing tasting notes for the FindWine website, along with a regular blog on the site.

A new writer will be appointed every three months to keep the format fresh.

“This is about the consumer writing for the consumer – reviewing our wines in a way that is simple, easy to understand and not too technical. The focus is on creating reviews that are engaging, original and atypical in comparison to ‘regular’ wine reviews”, said FindWine founder Mike Howes.

“It could be the start of a new career for one lucky consumer”, Howes added.

The initial competition will run in February, with the first FindWine critic appointed from March to May.

The first 25 FindWine customers to enter the competition will be sent a bottle of The Opportunist Shiraz for review.

All reviews will also be posted on the FindWine website.

Lucy Shaw, 24.01.2011