Our new interview series, ‘A fresh pour’, sees us speak to the younger generation of the international fine wine industry, uncovering the stories, opinions, and preferences of these rising stars. Following our inaugural interview with Joshua Castle (recap here), we now speak to Katherine Fisher, Buyer at leading UK merchant, Bordeaux Index. Starting her career as a Sales Assistant at Majestic Wine, Katherine had stints at Parisian auction house, iDealwine, and Burgundian winery, Château de Pommard, before moving back to the UK and joining Goedhuis Waddesdon as a Buyer. She recently won The Champagne Academy’s annual Silver Bucket Champion award.

Katherine shares her thoughts on where new voices - and new technologies - can take the fine wine industry.

Wine Lister: What was the bottle that got you into wine?

Katherine Fisher: A bottle of 2014 Richard Leroy Anjou Blanc Les Rouliers that I had in my early 20s on a Tinder date in France.

WL: What is one misconception people have about the fine wine industry?

KF: While many still hold true, the industry is changing. Values are shifting; we’re seeing a more diverse demographic of both consumers and professionals entering the space, challenging some of the previous perceptions of the industry.

WL: A producer that you admire and why?

KF: Sam O’Keefe at Lismore Estate Vineyards. After a devastating wildfire destroyed her winery, home, and much of her 2019 vintage, she didn’t give up. The local wine community rallied behind her to help create a 2020 vintage, and she continues to produce exceptional wines and supports young winemakers. She’s ace.

WL: The fine wine trends you are most and least excited about?

KF: Sustainable and regenerative viticulture is gaining momentum and it’s amazing to see. Technology is reshaping the fine wine trade, making it so much easier to buy wine - the LiveTrade platform at Bordeaux Index is attracting a new cohort of buyers and sellers. Let’s not forget English wine, producers over here have been making huge strides and I can’t get enough of them.

WL: Your favourite wine list in London? 

KF: You can always count on The 10 Cases in Covent Garden. Their ever-changing list is fantastic, and the team makes you feel so welcome every time.

WL: What do you think young people can bring to the industry?

KF: Younger generations approach wine differently, with a fresh perspective - they don’t drink or buy in the same way that previous generations did. They bring a curiosity for uncovering new regions and producers, and they’re less tied to tradition or old reputations.

WL: Have you noticed any purchasing habits or stylistic preferences among the younger consumer group (ages 21–35)?

KF: Younger consumers can be more open-minded, and enthusiastic to discover both the new and established names. Stylistically, I’ve noticed we’re all drinking wines a bit younger these days - probably because buying and storing wine isn’t always practical for this group and well-made wines are becoming approachable much earlier.

WL: How can fine wine producers appeal to the younger generation?

KF: Storytelling is key. Whether it’s the people behind the wine, the vineyard’s history, or sustainable practices, younger consumers want to connect with the people, places, and philosophies behind the wines they drink. Transparency and values like environmental responsibility are important to us.

WL: The theme song to your career so far?

KF: Dutty Wine by Tony Matterhorn. A great song… attitude gal!

WL: If you weren't working in wine, what would you be doing?

KF: Honestly, I have no idea. I’d want to be in an industry with the same level of passion as the wine trade. It’s a field where everyone’s here because they truly love it, and that’s something I would be sad to give up.