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A WINE expert who sold some of the most expensive bottles around to wealthy London customers has left the big city to work in North Yorkshire.

Mark Chapman, 34, graduated from the University of Wine in the Rhne Valley and sold bottles worth hundreds of pounds each to customers in Knightsbridge and Mayfair.

He worked in London for six years, working first for Harvey Nichols in Knightsbridge and then Jeroboams in Mayfair.

But Mr Chapman has left it all behind for a position at Thirsk wine merchant Playford Ros as a private salesman.

And he believes that people in the area are among the world's most savvy when it comes to their knowledge of wine.

"It may not have the traditions of Bordeaux or the climate of Napa Valley, but the North-East boasts many passionate wine aficionados, he said.

"Not only that, but they will tell you straight out what they think there is no insincerity or snobbishness about wine. People think this is beer country, but they know their wine here and what it's worth."

Mr Chapman, was previously a fine art photographer who took pictures of fine wines up for auction. Now, he tastes up to 40 bottles a week, having undergone six years of intense training.

But he admits he has still got a lot to learn: "There are so many regions, so many different wines to try. You are always learning, you are always trying something different. There's nothing better than being surprised by something you try.

"And there's that thrill of expectation when you are opening a bottle and you know it's going to be a special wine.

"People like wines with a good story, with more quality, produced in smaller quantities by people who offer something a bit different. And that's what the Playford Ros list is all about.

"Some of the wines on the list are very affordable, but they are produced in a limited quantity by people who are passionate about what they do."

Private customers can contact Mr Chapman for advice on wines and order bottles to be delivered to their door. Call 01845-526777 or visit www.playfordros.com for more details.

12:44pm Tuesday 13th May 2008

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