Decanter Small Independent Wine Retailer of the Year 2015

9 Sep 2015

Decanter Small Independent Wine Retailer of the Year 2015Cocktails, The Connaught and Decanter

A winning combination

After our triumph last year, we were convinced that this year's trip to The Connaught for the Decanter Retailer Awards would be merely to spectate. Determined to enjoy ourselves nonetheless, we headed first to the hotel's magnificent bar, where Colin shrewdly ordered Negronis. Suitably fortified, we proceeded downstairs, hot on the clunky heels of a renowned oligarch Mayfair retailer whose interpretation of "office attire" is a breath of fresh air.

Once again, I'm surprised to discover how few people in the room I recognise, and make yet another mental note to get out and about more. Apart from Yevgeny, there's Steven Spurrier looking as dapper as ever, Charles Lea, James Handford, David Gleave, Matt Walls of the very handy London Wine Guide and, of course, the team from Decanter. But the vast majority are unfamiliar faces and one is reminded of what a vibrant wine scene we enjoy in the UK. With so many newcomers, so much fresh talent, and such depth of resources, there's little hope for us, we fear.

And so on to the awards. First up are the sectional winners. Despite our best efforts we don't even garner a mention but instead applaud in magnanimity the achievements of Handford (South Africa Specialist winner), Highbury Vintners (Spain & Portugal winner), Lea & Sandeman (Italy runner-up) and even a rejuvenated Oddbins (National retailer runner-up). The competition is fierce, and many worthy entrants are set to leave empty-handed.

Finally, the big prizes. There are (if I recall correctly) no fewer than six finalists for the hotly contested Small Independent of the Year. Host Peter Richards MW rattles through them so fast that it's difficult to take stock. But wait, before I've finished digesting the first five, I could swear he just said our name. Yep, he did. Uncorked is one of the finalists! The winner, Peter teases us, is a proper independent. Well established, with a good value, wide range of quality stock, an extensive tasting programme and with long-serving, dedicated staff offering excellent customer service. Sounds a bit like us, I muse immodestly. And they've done all this on limited resources, he claims. Gosh, that is just like us, I think. It could be us! Hang on, it is us! We've won!

Needless to say, we are delighted to have walked away with the Small Independent - for us, perhaps the biggest prize in the game. We are very grateful to the Decanter judges for recognising our efforts. We are even more grateful to you for choosing us to buy your wine and for indulging our enthusiasms and sharing our love of all things vinous. Thank you. AR/CW