Wine list writer and sommelier Jay Bessell holding several wine-related books. The titles include "Wine Folly," "Australia," "Hugh Johnson's Wine Companion," "Atlas of Wine," "The Global Encyclopedia of Wine," and "The Oxford Companion to Wine."

Award-winning wine lists

I’ve curated some of Victoria’s most impressive wine lists, helping to put venues on the map and bring memorable wine experiences to customers.

My career includes formerly co-owning the Carlton Wine Room where I won Gourmet Traveller Wine List of the Year, and you can currently find me serving as Head Sommelier at The European in Melbourne.

Writing wine lists is an intensive, thoroughly researched process — I design lists that respect a venue’s identity, empower staff, and give guests something they’ll want to remember and share.

Jay Bessell, Glass Half Full Wine Consulting
Request a Consultation