Joshua Elias graduated from a bachelor of Law at Monash University in 2008. During his time as a student he worked at restaurants as a part-time waiter and he quickly ‘up-skilled’ and self-educated to become a sommelier.

Upon completion of his law studies he made the choice to continue his hospitality work in deference to taking articles and being approved to practice law. “Working at Bistro Vue and Vue de Monde I frequently served solicitors and barristers most of whom had a keen interest in wine. I figured I’d bypass the legal practice and end at the same destination — wine.” After Vue de Monde, Josh worked for just under two years at Attica restaurant during the formation of its current reputation; when it was awarded 53rd best restaurant in the world. Subsequently Josh worked on the floor at Grossi Florentino before his current role as a wine consultant and editorin- chief at Alquimie Publication.

As one of nine Australians to hold an advanced diploma from the Court of Master Sommeliers and Dux of Victoria’s first WSET diploma intake, Joshua is highly qualified in his wine pursuits. His final target being the illustrious company of the 5 people in world that have master degrees as both a master sommelier and master of wine. He is at the final stages of both degrees.

Travelling regularly for his wine education, Joshua is an alumni of the Sommeliers Australia National Scholarship amongst many other industry awards. Joshua’s current project, Alquimie, is an embodiment of his hopes and aspirations for selfeducation. “Alquimie is the path forwards. There is no limit to what can be learned from collaboration with journalists and enthusiasts from around the world. This is continuation of a journey that centres around drinking culture. Food, language and history all influence what we drink and of course the drinks themselves are nothing — if not for the company of the people we enjoy them with.