Matthew Hansen trained as an apprentice chef in Melbourne and graduated from William Angliss College in 1980. It was while working as a chef at London's Dorchester Hotel in 1982 that Matthew developed a deep interest in wine and the importance of wine as part of a menu. On return to Australia in 1983 and after much study both formal and informal, Matthew formed the "Tasting Circle" at the Victorian Arts Centre in 1990. A small informal group that met weekly to look and examine fine, old and rare wines. After further study at La Trobe University and a Diploma of Education. Matthew formed "Fine Wine Appreciation" in April 2000. Fine Wine Appreciation is now promoted through some of Melbourne's most respected establishments and has strong links with Australia's Leading Winemakers.