HELENA NICKLIN
Co-Founder, Wine Expert
Helena Nicklin is an award-winning wine and spirits journalist, broadcaster, wine consultant, drinks influencer and judge for various international wine and spirits awards. With twenty five years in the drinks industry, a stint at drama school and the WSET Diploma under her belt, she specialises in communicating with exploring consumers through TV and radio appearances, live events, written articles for various titles and engaging video content.
Helena writes regularly for major news brands The Daily Mail and The Sun both in print and online as well as for lifestyle titles such as BA's High Life, Ocado Life and Luxury Lifestyle Magazine.
You can see her action in the returning, global, drinks and food travel series, 'The Three Drinkers' on Amazon Prime, which she co-produced and co-presented.
Follow her on socials @HelenaSips and the Academy on @HSWineAcademy
HAMISH NICKLIN
Co-Founder, General Dogsbody
When Helena and I first started dating, she came to my flat for the first time and opened the fridge, all she found was a flagon of scrumpy—a true nod to my West Country roots and, let’s be honest, my total lack of wine knowledge. Her casual comment, “I see I have some work to do here,” turned out to be prophetic. Fast forward a few years, and I’ve taken a sabbatical from my 25-year career in media and advertising to help her create this Academy.
I’ve been fortunate to work at some incredible companies like Google and The Guardian and have had the chance to do some amazing things with them. But, without a doubt, this is the project of which I’m most excited and proud. Helena’s lessons will change the way we all think about wine—and I’m thrilled to be allowed to come along for the ride!
WHY WE FOUNDED THE ACADEMY
We don’t like drinking bad wine. Who does? And honestly, we don’t think anyone should have to. We also know that when food and wine are paired just right, something magical happens—it’s like the whole meal bursts into song! For us, sharing a great meal with friends is what life’s all about.
The thing is, choosing the right wine can feel intimidating, and most people have no idea where to start. That’s why we created HelenaSips Wine Academy—to give you the know-how and confidence to pick amazing wines at any price point.
So, what are you waiting for? Join us! We’re going to have so much fun learning and sipping together. Cheers to that!