CO-FOUNDER

Laura’s journey into wine began at Decanter Magazine, where she worked as Content Creator on Decanter.com, while also writing features for the magazine.

Besides writing travel guides, learning content, and news stories for Decanter, she has also contributed to Country Life and Food&Wine Magazine.

In 2019 Laura co-founded FirstPour, where uses her years of experience as a drinks industry journalist to create dynamic and informed digital content.

CO-FOUNDER

After eight years at the forefront of wine publishing, working with hundreds of the world’s leading wine brands, Richard saw the untapped potential in quality social media within the wine sector.

In 2019 Richard left his position as Head of Sales at Decanter Magazine and, together with Co-Founder Laura Seal, launched FirstPour – a social media marketing agency that is uniquely positioned to understand the inner workings of the wine market.

As an avid wine photographer Richard is often balancing wine glass with camera and can be found at: @rich.morley_ 

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Janine is passionate about all things wine, spirits and gastronomy. She is a fully qualified chef and is at an advanced stage of completing the Cape Wine Master qualification.

Having won a myriad of awards including 30 under 30 in the South African wine industry (Winelands Magazine), the Dame Prue Leith Alumni Award and the Ubuntu Sommelier competition, she regularly judges at food, wine, and spirit competitions. 



With over 14 years in the drinks and hospitality industry, Janine brings a wealth of experience to the team and her clients based in the Australia, South Africa, New Zealand and the USA.

OUTREACH MANAGER

Natalia, originally from Moldova, embarked on a journey across Europe to explore the finest wines, fueling her passion for all things wine.

With an impressive background in viticulture and wine analysis, Natalia holds a Ph.D. in Viticulture and a Master's in Viticulture, Winemaking, and Wine Management. Her academic foundation forms the bedrock of her expertise, spanning over 14 years of experience.

Fluent in multiple languages, she excels as a communicator and collaborator, connecting effortlessly with diverse individuals and forging meaningful partnerships.

OUTREACH SPECIALIST

Robin is an Ex Sommelier turned Winemaker. His hospitality career started working in multiple establishments across Cape Town. He then spread his wings and worked as a sommelier in Dubai which is where he had his "aha" wine moment serving (and tasting) a bottle of 1945 Petrus.

He has since competed his WSET level 3 and is currently studying his diploma while working as an assistant winemaker at Koelenhof winery and as an Outreach Specialist for FirstPour

His wine discovery of the year is the "Roagna Barbaresco Paje Vecchi Viti 2017" - once you taste it, it’ll be yours too!

CONTENT MANAGER

Natalie grew up in Stellenbosch, surrounded by some of the most beautiful vineyards in the world (in her humble opinion). After graduating with an Honours degree in Marketing she was introduced to the wine scene, working as a Marketing Assistant for an internationally recognised South African winery.

As a talented writer, designer and marketeer, Natalie diligently curates content plans, writes, designs and publishes content for FirstPour clients.

OUTREACH SPECIALIST

Having grown up in South Africa’s Cape Winelands, Heinrich has been surrounded by some of the worlds best wineries throughout his life.

His passion for wine developed while studying Chemical Engineering at Stellenbosch University. The chemistry behind wine and spirit making was fascinating to Heinrich and led him to take a Diploma in Distilling and join FirstPour as an Outreach Specialist.

Heinrich continues on his wine leaning journey constantly expanding his knowledge of regions and styles as well as tasting new producers whenever he gets the chance. Currently, you’ll find a medium-bodied, fruity Pinot Noir in his glass.

OUTREACH SPECIALIST

Pamela joined the FirstPour team in February 2021. She has a Cape Wine Academy Certification, WSET level 2 qualification and is studying level 1 of the California Wine Certification.

She lives by the philosophy, "Never say no to bubbly", as such, you are likely to find a blanc de blanc or a full bodied Bordeaux blend in her glass.

PAID MEDIA SPECIALIST

Born and raised in Porto, Francisco has been surrounded by the rich culture and history of wine through his life, something which has profoundly influenced his career.



Combining his love of wine and a keen eye for detail, Francisco began his career in digital marketing working in the wine tourism sector. His work was instrumental in increasing awareness and developing sales strategies that significantly boosted the number of wine enthusiasts visiting Portugal's wine regions.

Francisco applies this knowledge to his role at FirstPour where he oversees DTC sales campaigns, lead-generation strategies, and brand awareness campaigns for our clients.

OUTREACH SPECIALIST

Clint brings with him a wealth of wine knowledge to his work having obtained distinctions for both the South African Wine Certificate and the Diploma Wine Course.

As an avid bookworm with a passion for digital learning, Clint is currently completing the Champagne MOOC by The Comité Interprofessionel du Vin de Champagne, and the California Wine Capstone Certification.

What are you likely to find in his glass? Probably a lightly oaked Chardonnay or a Rhône-style blend!