A HAMPSHIRE businesswoman has won a major international award for her wine education and training courses.

The owner of Hamble-based Enjoy Discovering Wine, Erica Dent was awarded the individual Riedel Trophy by the Wine and Spirit Education Trust (WSET) in recognition of her teaching skills.

Erica – who had also been short-listed for the trophy in 2012 – received her award from wine expert Jancis Robinson at the Guildhall in London last week.

She said: “As a provider of staff training in Hampshire, this is an unprecedented honour for my team and me, but also a nod to businesses, such as Lime Wood, and many more premium hospitality establishments, for their commitment to providing their customers with the best possible experience.”

Chief executive of WSET Ian Harris praised Erica for using “innovative” techniques to teach those with learning difficulties.

He said: “I was delighted that the judges selected Erica for an award.

“Since she started teaching WSET courses, I have received many positive comments from students she has taught, and the feedback from students is always complimentary.”