The author received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Queen’s University, Kingston, and doctorate from the University of Toronto. His time in Vineland, Ontario, and subsequent sabbatical at Cornell University redirected his interest in Botrytis toward viticulture and enology. As part of his teaching duties at Brandon University, he developed the first wine technology course in Canada. For many years, he was a technical advisor to the Manitoba Liquor Control Commission, developing sensory tests to assess candidates for its Sensory Panel, and was a member of its External Tasting Panel. In addition, he is author of Wine Tasting: A Professional Handbook, Conserve Water Drink Wine, as well as numerous chapters and technical reviews. He is retired in Oakville, Ontario, but remains active in writing, hiking, cycling, swimming, etc.