Interview: Jemma Goodship, Le Clos

Jemma has been Le Clos’ Manager since 2012 – and has seen it emerge as the leading premium wine distributor in Dubai. Jemma is originally from the UK and has been working in the wine industry since 2009. When she isn’t working with or enjoying wine, she is training for distance running – two noble pursuits!

Why and how did you get into the wine industry?

Before going to University, I spent nine months travelling around Australia. I was fortunate to visit many wine regions including Margaret River, Barossa Valley, Swan Valley and Yarra Valley. We stayed with very wine savvy hosts and my passion for wine and food really developed. After I graduated I was recruited into a trainee management position with one of the leading national UK wine retailers where I was able to combine business and wine - it was the perfect choice for me.

Why and how did you get into the wine industry?

I've been very lucky to meet some incredible producers, attend some world class events and taste an array of fantastic wines, but when Michel Chapoutier came to Dubai to host a wine tasting - it was an incredible experience for me. Never have I met such a passionate producer who truly showed us how wines reflect their terroir. His wines are simply incredible.

What is your first memory of wine?

As a family we always went camping in the Dordonge region (just outside of Bordeaux) where we would often taste the local wines, and as I grew older, I learnt how to truly appreciate them.

What is the most unique bottle of wine you have ever tasted?

Chateau L'Evangile 1989 Pomerol from Lafite. The wine was still very much alive, and the aromas and flavours on the palate were simply incredible! I also tasted Lafite 2009 and 1996 at the same time, which were also stunning, but there was something about L'Evangile 1989 which really blew me away! I am also a big fan of Silex produced by Didier Dageneau, a unique Sauvignon Blanc, oozing in minerality – something I really enjoy.

What wine have you recently discovered?

Les Varonniers 2010 Crozes-Ermitage from Northern Rhone by Chapoutier. This Syrah is at a great everyday drinking price (well maybe not "everyday" but I have enjoyed pairing it with midweek meals or by itself!). A Chapoutier again, but the blend is pure and intense, with silky tannins and fruit beautifully balanced and integrated with oak. Parker recommends these wines not be opened for many years, but I disagree! I have a couple of cases in bond back in the UK!

How do you see the Dubai wine scene evolving over the next five years?

There is not a developed wine scene as such in Dubai, it is all about luxury and everything is for show. It is still rather closed with little understanding of the story behind the wine. However with more and more expats coming to Dubai and fine-dining options increasing, people are becoming more interested in what wines to pair with dishes. Labels and big names are important here, people want to impress but don't necessarily know what it is they are drinking.

However this is changing with time. Dubai certainly is an exciting place to be – the wine scene is starting to really develop here. While before a lot of the interest was in the big name producers, it is now becoming more refined. People are also going outside the traditional wine producing regions of Bordeaux, Burgundy, Super Tuscan and California. They are also more interested in the story behind the wine rather than just buying a wine for show. I think this trend will only further develop.

The presence of Le Clos in Dubai International Airport (Terminal 3) brings plentiful opportunities for expats of Dubai to access world class fine wines and build up a cellar here in the UAE. The portfolio is extensive, and starting from 28USD, there really is something for everyone here. Le Clos offers tasting samples in store as they have an Enomatic machine allowing eight wines to be sampled at any given time. Within Dubai itself the restaurants continue to build up impressive wine lists, and the vast amount of places to eat and drink in Dubai makes us spoilt for choice. Le Clos also brings world class wine producers to Dubai for our clients to meet at producer dinners and tastings –we hope that by word of mouth more wine enthusiasts in Dubai can enhance their fine wine experience.

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