Kate Goodman

Biography:

Sensational straight-talking drinks expert Kate Goodman joined BBC Food & Drink with a pledge to demystify the world of fine wines, beers and good quality spirits.

Kate, who set up her own award-winning wine company 10 years ago, vows to prove that marrying the right drink with the right food can be the making of a meal – whatever your budget.

Kate says: “Matching great food with great drinks, particularly wines, can be quite an overwhelming subject but it shouldn’t be – we should just have fun with it and enjoy it. If i could encourage people to try just one thing they have never tried before I would be over the moon!”

In 2003 Kate set up her company selling, distributing and consulting on a range of wines, beers and spirits in a bid to encourage people to experiment with different grape varieties and drink combinations.

Kate says: “I have spent a lot of time talking to people about drink - what they like and why, and also what works well for certain occasions or with certain foods. One recent discovery was pairing sparkling wine with parmesan crisps - a great appetiser.”

Kate joined legendary chef Michel Roux Jr, plus a host of guest chefs, to share her views on wines, spirits and beers as well as new approaches to soft drinks. Each Food & Drink episode will feature a range of enticing recipes cooked by Michel, and complimented by Kate’s own choice of alcoholic and non-alcoholic accompaniments.

“Working alongside people who are some of the top names in the cooking world was an absolute treat. When I met Michel, the first question he asked me was: ‘are you a red or a blue?’ – as in Manchester United or Manchester City - it really broke the ice!”