Riddle me this… Richard Burton
Up close and personal with the head sommelier at the Atlantic Hotel on Jersey
If you knew then what you know now… would you still do it..?
Absolutely, I love my job: I wished I started working in wine at a younger age! Wine is a huge subject and what I love about this job is that it is evolving all the time. Wine as a subject has become more popular in restaurants, at home, on holidays, with wine tastings and education in wine. So many people want to know more about wine.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
When I was a child my father told me to work hard, be loyal and be kind. I lost my father five years ago, but he was a great man! If I can be half the person he was I will be happy.
What’s the weirdest rumour you’ve ever heard about yourself?
I don’t listen to gossip, if people can’t be honest to my face then I am not interested.
What was your biggest break?
Working at Midsummer House in Cambridge which has two Michelin stars and is one of the best restaurants in the UK. I found myself working in a great team with drive and ambition.
Do you consider yourself lucky?
I think I am very fortunate to do what I do, but I have worked hard to get to where I am. I don’t think it’s just luck, I believe in having the right attitude and maybe fate also has something to do with it.
What’s most important in your life?
At this moment in time, my partner Susanne. I am very excited about spending my future with her and starting a family together.
What brands do you admire?
Brands I love are: Taittinger (Champagne, France), Hartenberg (wine, South Africa), Klein Constantia (wine, South Africa), Isabel Estate (wine, New Zealand), Etienne Sauzet (wine, France), Occhipinti (wine, Sicily), Ten Minutes by Tractor (wine, Australia), Fever-Tree (mixers, UK) and Pappy Van Winkle (bourbon whiskey, USA).
Do you have a guilty pleasure – if so what is it?
My guilty pleasures are staying up late, eating chocolate and ice cream, watching Keith Lemon and James Corden.
Describe your own personal sense of style?
I think over time I have developed more of a sense of style. I wouldn’t say I spend a fortune on clothes but I like to look and feel good. I have a slim build and when I was younger I felt a bit self-conscious. As I grew older I became more confident and more comfortable with the way I look. 