In our latest episode of the Kith & Kin Hospitality Podcast, we had the pleasure of speaking with Michael Godden, founder of The Wine Fan. Michael’s story is one that truly reflects the passion, resilience, and creativity found in the hospitality industry. His journey from being embarrassed by a wine selection at a dinner to becoming a passionate wine educator is inspiring. Here's a closer look at his story and some key takeaways for anyone looking to succeed in hospitality.
Turning Embarrassment into Passion
Michael’s wine journey began over 30 years ago when, as a young manager, he was tasked with selecting wine for a dinner and found himself embarrassed by his lack of knowledge. This experience sparked a curiosity in him, leading him to dive deep into learning about wine. What started as a desire to never be caught off-guard again turned into a passion. Michael eventually gained qualifications and realized that what people really needed was someone to make wine approachable and fun.
The Birth of The Wine Fan
During lockdown, Michael’s love for wine took center stage. Friends and colleagues would ask him to host wine tastings, and soon, his natural passion and knowledge began to shine through. Encouraged by those around him, he created The Wine Fan, offering wine-tasting experiences that are both educational and entertaining. His unique approach to making wine fun, rather than intimidating, sets him apart from traditional vineyards and wine sellers.
Lessons from the Wine Industry
One of Michael’s biggest insights came from the realization that people aren’t interested in supermarket wines at his tastings—they want something special. This is a key takeaway for anyone in hospitality: customers are seeking experiences that they can’t find anywhere else. Offering unique, high-quality products or services can make all the difference in standing out from the crowd.
Another lesson he shared is the importance of marketing. When he first started, he assumed that simply posting on social media would be enough to fill his events. Over time, he learned that marketing requires a consistent and multifaceted approach to truly reach the right audience.
Creating Memorable Experiences
Michael’s events aren't just about selling wine—they’re about creating experiences. He demystifies wine in a way that leaves attendees feeling confident and knowledgeable. His goal? To make sure that after one of his tastings, you’ll know exactly how to choose wine at a restaurant or confidently navigate the wine aisle at a store.
For hospitality professionals, this is a valuable lesson: it’s not just about the product, but the experience you create for your guests. Whether it’s a restaurant, a bar, or a hotel, finding ways to educate, entertain, and inspire your customers can leave a lasting impact.
Expanding into New Territories
As Michael looks toward the future, his goal is to expand The Wine Fan into new venues across Leicestershire and beyond. His dream is to take his passion full-time, leaving behind his IT role to focus solely on sharing his love of wine with others. His story is a reminder that even when hospitality isn’t your full-time job, the passion you pour into it can feel like a career in itself.
How to Find Michael and The Wine Fan
If you're interested in learning more about wine or hosting a tasting event, you can find Michael on Instagram at @the.winefan or visit his website, thewinefan.co.uk. Sign up for his monthly newsletter to stay informed about upcoming events and exclusive discounts. Whether you're a wine novice or enthusiast, Michael's passion and expertise are sure to make your experience unforgettable.
For anyone in hospitality, Michael’s story is a great example of how personal passion, hard work, and a focus on creating unique experiences can lead to success. Whether you’re starting your own business or looking to improve the guest experience in your current role, there’s plenty to learn from The Wine Fan. Cheers!
