Passion for Cheese and Wine
Jessica’s love affair with cheese and wine combinations began long ago during wine and cheese nights with family and friends. The joy of curating mouthwatering cheese boards and exploring the wine bars of London ignited a passion that would shape her future.
A Journey of Discovery
Over the last decade, Jessica embarked on diverse professional journeys in hospitality, PR, and property. However, amidst life’s twists and turns, she always knew her true calling was in the realm of fermented luxury goods! Losing her job in the property industry during the pandemic turned out to be a blessing in disguise, providing her with the opportunity to pursue her dreams.
The Start of Mouse & Grape
In July 2020, Jessica began the @mouseandgrape Instagram account, dedicated to her love of cheese and wine. As her social media presence grew, so did the realisation that there was a gap in the market for a place that celebrated cheese and wine as equal partners, emphasising their unique flavour combinations.
Qualifications and Expertise
Armed with passion and determination, Jessica dove headfirst into expanding her knowledge and expertise. Over the last three years, she’s worked in a wine shop, as a cheesemonger, achieved her Level 3 The Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) qualification with merit, completed her WSET wine educator training and obtained her Academy of Cheese Level 2 certification. Additionally, she completed her food safety Level 3 training and secured essential licences, all with the valuable support of The Prince’s Trust Enterprise program.
The Inception of Mouse & Grape
In December 2021, Mouse & Grape was officially launched. A luxury online cheese and wine business specialising in paired hampers and tasting events. Jessica carefully curates the finest wines and artisanal cheeses, combining and enhancing their heavenly flavours to create an indulgent experience for all.
Recognition and Acclaim
Jessica’s dedication to her craft has not gone unnoticed. She has been featured in prominent media outlets such as Metro, Express Online, Telegraph, and Express. In 2022, she was one of six finalists at the Young Cheesemonger of the Year Awards at the World Cheese Awards. Adding to her accolades, Jessica was shortlisted for Harpers Drinks 30 Under 30 in 2023 and recognised as a finalist for IWSC Emerging Talent in Wine in 2024. Most recently, she won the Drinks Business Social Media Campaign of the Year 2024 for her creative April Fools Campaign.
A Judge and an Advocate
With expertise in both cheese and wine, Jessica has had the pleasure of being a judge at esteemed events like the British Cheese Awards in 2022, People’s Choice Drinks Awards 2022, the Independent English Wine Competition in 2023 and The British Cheese Awards 2024.
Sharing Her Knowledge
Jessica is passionate about sharing her love for cheese and wine with the world. She is a writer for Ben Franks Wine Online, the Mouse & Grape Blog and contributes to Express Online and Speciality Food Magazine. Having expertise in both cheese and wine, Jessica also works with brands and regions to create unique social media content that showcases their unique pairing abilities. She enjoys crafting engaging content that brings people closer to the delectable universe of cheese and wine. Her insights and experiences have also led her to appear on Saturday Kitchen, GB News and BBC Radio London as well as industry podcasts such as Bring a Bottle Podcast, Maker and The Merchant, Wine Flight, and Eat, Sleep, Wine, Repeat.
Let’s Connect
Jessica looks forward to engaging with fellow cheese and wine enthusiasts, as well as brands and regions that share her passion. Jessica creates unique social media content that showcases the exceptional pairing abilities of this iconic duo. Don’t hesitate to reach out and become part of the Mouse & Grape community.
Interested in booking Jessica or her team for a cheese and wine event, or have questions about our hampers? Perhaps you’d like to create a completely bespoke hamper? Then get in touch! We’re here to cater to your cheese and wine desires and ensure the best culinary experience for you.
Phone:
02045018492
Email:
info@mouseandgrape.com
