About Us
Three years
Hundreds of passionate conversations
Countless glasses of wine
At first, it was just an idea of a Wine Club but the more we talked, the more it became clear we were chasing something bigger, a brand rooted in wine, tasting, conversation, and creativity. We started to imagine a space where people could taste, talk, and truly connect where friendships can be built. A place where a bottle isn’t just shared, but sparks stories, ideas, and dialogue evolving naturally into podcasts, collaborations, and, in time, our own wines. What began as a simple wine club is growing into something far more ambitious a brand built on tasting, talking, storytelling, and, ultimately, crafting our own wines here in England.
MAKE
Our ambition is to one day produce our own English wine something that reflects not just a place, but a philosophy. With Sarah’s knowledge and our shared passion, we’re on a journey to learn, experiment, and ultimately create a wine that tells a story of craft, patience, and provenance.
The heart of what we do today lies in our wine club. It’s more than just a selection of bottles it’s a space for discovery. Our members are able to explore different regions, styles, and producers. his encouraging curiosity and confidence in every glass. Whether you’re new to wine or deepening your knowledge, it’s about finding wines you genuinely love with like minded people.
TASTE
TALK
Wine has always been about connection. In time our podcast and growing community, we share the stories behind the bottles the people, places, and ideas that make wine so compelling. Conversation is where wine truly comes alive, and we want to create a space where we can have conversations with some of the most fascinating and interesting people in the wine industry.
Together, Make Taste Talk is our way of expressing everything we believe wine should be something to create, to experience, and to share.
Upcoming Events
26 days to the event- 54 days to the event
If you ask anyone who knows us, they’ll tell you that conversations between Sarah and Jess almost always return to wine… with the occasional mention of our dogs.
Our connection was born from a shared passion for wine one that continues to shape everything we do. From exploring what we’re currently drinking to discovering what’s next, our discussions span grape varieties, winemakers, and the intricacies of viticulture. There is always something new to learn, and more often than not, another exam on the horizon.
With Jess curating thoughtful and expressive wine lists, and Sarah planting and managing vineyards, we each bring a distinct perspective to the same craft. Together, we exchange ideas, refine our knowledge, and deepen our understanding of wine always guided by curiosity, and, naturally, a glass close at hand.
Sarah Purkis
My journey into the world of wine began at just 16 years old, when a passionate Italian wine professional took the time to teach me about it. Why? Because I was endlessly curious about why people loved this liquid in a bottle so much. That curiosity quickly turned into fascination, and what started as a simple question became the foundation of my path into wine. And today I am a viticulturist and sommelier with a deep-rooted passion for the world of wine, from vineyard to glass. After many years working in the wine and hospitality industry, I developed a growing fascination with what happens before the bottle the land, the vines, and the decisions that shape a wine’s identity. This passion led me back to university to formally study viticulture and winemaking, strengthening both my practical and technical understanding of the craft. Day I manage and work across vineyards in Essex and Suffolk, where I focus on sustainable vineyard practices, vine health, and producing high-quality fruit that reflects its terroir. My hands-on experience in both the vineyard and hospitality sector allows me to bridge the gap between production and presentation understanding not only how wine is made, but how it is experienced. My work is driven by a curiosity for place. Wherever I am in the world, I am drawn to local vineyards exploring their soils, climate, history, and the people behind them. I believe these elements are what give wine its true character and sense of identity.
Jess Counsell
My journey into wine began in hospitality, where I was always the one introducing and recommending wines to guests. At 21, I tasted my first vintage Bordeaux Château Talbot 2005. It wasn’t that I instantly loved it, but it completely hooked me. I wanted to understand it the story, the structure, the why behind the taste. That curiosity led me straight into my WSET Level 2. Since then, wine has become both my career and my passion. In 2020, I stepped into the role of wine buyer for the Milsom Hotels & Restaurants group, where I’ve had the opportunity to shape wine lists, visit vineyards, and build relationships with producers, suppliers, and makers. These experiences have been invaluable in deepening my knowledge and appreciation of the craft. I completed my WSET Level 3 in 2024 and graduated from the Champagne Academy in 2025, with my sights now firmly set on WSET Level 4. Along the way, I’ve developed a real love for guiding people helping them discover wines that complement food, surprise their expectations, and feel approachable rather than overwhelming. As General Manager across the three Milsom hotels and restaurants in Dedham, I stay closely connected to guests, trends, and evolving tastes. I’m particularly passionate about championing English wines and showcasing local producers wherever possible. While I don’t believe in having just one favourite wine, sparkling wines will always have a special place for me not only for their complexity and craftsmanship, but for the joy they bring.
Special Events
Keep up to date with all the events we have on this year
WineGB East Awards and Wine Festival.
Saturday 18th July 2026
Tickets available from Suffolk Food Hall website. Link to follow
Summer BBQ
Sunday 9th August 2026
Enjoy walking the vines followed by BBQ and wine pairings.
Testimonials
"I absolutely love being part of this wine club, it’s a brilliant way to discover new wines I’d never have picked myself, and what Jess and Sarah know about wines and vineyards is truly amazing. If you enjoy great wine, good value, and a little surprise each month, you really should join it makes Monday nights feel like a treat!"
Sparkling Wine Drinker
Mary Counsell
"As someone who didn’t have a lot of wine knowledge, MTT has been the perfect way to build my confidence in identifying which wines I know I will love and the many others that I would love to try!
It has been fascinating to learn how each wine is made and the many factors that influence the taste of the wine from climate and site setting to the food you pair it with and even your mood on the day!
I would definitely recommend MTT to anyone with a passion for wine and to those who enjoy an evening with great people and fantastic hosts!"
Off-Dry Wine Drinker
Ellie Hale
Get In Touch
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