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About Me

Where to Begin

About Me 

My love for hospitality started at 18 and, more than 23 years later, it’s still at the centre of everything I do.

Over the years, I’ve worked across restaurants, bars and venues throughout Essex, building my knowledge of food, wine and the people who make great hospitality what it is. Along the way, I completed my WSET Level 3 qualifications, hosted regular tastings and travelled through some of the world’s most iconic wine regions, experiences that completely shaped the way I talk about and share wine today.

What I enjoy most is bringing people together through wine in a way that feels approachable, engaging and enjoyable. Whether it’s a hosted dinner, festival, private tasting or collaboration with a local venue, I want people to leave having discovered something new, without feeling like wine has to be complicated or intimidating.

As an Ambassador for New Hall Wine Estate, I’m also passionate about championing English wine and showcasing just how exciting the Essex wine scene has become

Paul Laurie leaning against a tractor in a vineyard with a bottle of wine

"The best wine experiences aren’t about knowing everything. They’re about discovering something new, with good peopleand a glass in hand."

That belief has shaped the way I host every tasting, dinner and event - with plenty to learn, but never

at the expense of enjoying what’s in the glass. Whether it’s your first proper tasting or your fiftieth, the best part is always finding something that surprises you.

We’ve had the pleasure of working with Paul Laurie for our wine tasting events at Marmalade and he has been fantastic. His wine selection is perfectly curated, with a brilliant mix of quality, variety and crowd-pleasing choices. He’s incredibly knowledgeable and informative without ever making it feel too formal — his presentation is both engaging, entertaining. Our guests all left having learnt something new and thoroughly enjoyed themselves. Highly recommend!

Clare Smith - Marmalade, Essex

Events

Join me at my next wine event. From festivals and wine-themed dinners to tastings at local venues across Essex, these events are all about good wine, good food and discovering something new along the way.

Whether you’re looking for a different kind of night out, planning something for the summer, or just fancy coming along for a glass or two, take a look at what’s coming up.

Paul Laurie with winemaker holding wine
Rose wine pouring into glass

interested in booking?

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