| SALES |
| Billy Bell |
| MANAGING DIRECTOR |
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| Neil Renton |
| Sales Director, Sales East EDINBURGH & LOTHIANS |
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| Graeme Broom |
| Wine Development Manager, Central Region: EDINBURGH, STIRLING, FIFE, PERTHSHIRE |
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| Malcolm Ogilvie |
| Sales Account Manager, North ABERDEEN, INVERNESS, THE HIGHLANDS |
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| Ian Macphail |
| Sales Account Manager, Borders THE BORDERS, NORTHUMBERLAND & AYRSHIRE |
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| Darren Wilson |
| Sales Account Manager: GLASGOW AND THE WEST |
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| John G Harris |
| Sales Account Manager SPECIALIST ACCOUNT MANAGER |
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| Heli Seymour |
| Sales Account Manager, EDINBURGH |
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| Tom Gilbey |
| FINE WINE SALES |
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| ADMINISTRATION |
| Gordon White |
| ADMINISTRATION DIRECTOR |
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| Daniel Thain |
| CUSTOMER SERVICES MANAGER |
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| Karen Lachlan |
| ORDER DEPARTMENT |
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| Megan Kelly |
| MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS SUPPORT |
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| Tracey Gill |
| STOCK CONTROLLER |
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| Billy Bell |
| MANAGING DIRECTOR |
t: 07730812153
e: billybell@wine-importers.net |
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Why did you join the wine trade?
I was born to be a wine man—I had a higly sensitive sense of smell (large nose) as a child and spent my holidays helping in my Aunt’s private hotel where I got to learn about the finer things of life including wine. My school –The Edinburgh Academy- added to this interest through science experiments in fermentation and afterwards on Joining Scottish and Newcastle Breweries I was assigned to their wine department-job done!
What is the best thing about being in the wine trade?
While working in the 80’s for the great old wine Company of Sichel I was lucky enough to do the master of Wine and was the first Scottish based Scot to pass the tasting. I met a lot of wine people then and enjoyed great tastings. I can remember an essay title ‘How to make a small fortune in the wine trade is to start with a large one’, but I can tell you along the way you will enjoy a great life and friendships.
Favourite Region / Grape Variety / Wine and Why?
All right I do the buying for the Company and can’t favour one supplier over another, but I can be neutral and enjoy Cockburns Vintage Reserve Claret which boxes above its weight for under £7.00
Random Fact?
In 2011 I went up Kilimanjaro in my kilt with the HIT Scotland charity and played my bagpipes on the summit, as part of staging the highest ever Burns group supper.
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| Neil Renton |
| Sales Director, Sales East EDINBURGH & LOTHIANS |
t: 07730812151
e: neil@wine-importers.net |
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Why did you join the wine trade?
An early interest in wines from Chile and Argentina coupled with my fondness of the Carmenere grape variety led me to pursue a career in an industry that has always been and continues to be interesting, challenging and rewarding.
What is the best thing about being in the wine trade?
Meeting with the exciting and diverse range of people that make up Wine Importers customer base is naturally the most interesting and enjoyable aspect of the job.
I am very privileged to have been involved in the strategic development of the company, especially over the past few years when I have overseen operational changes within our business, which in turn have allowed my own role as Sales Director to develop. After many years of effort and challenges along the way, it is immensely satisfying and indeed a great reward to now be regarded as Scotland’s best and most reliable family owned wine business.
Favourite Region / Grape Variety / Wine and Why?
Chardonnay – but it must come from Burgundy!
Burgundian chard’s are so refined and elegant. They have a fine purity and minerality that I adore. At their best they can but need not break the bank. Just ask for my entry level, mid level and top quality tips for drinking now!
Random Fact?
Believe it or I have run a marathon in under three hours.
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| Graeme Broom |
| Wine Development Manager, Central Region: EDINBURGH, STIRLING, FIFE, PERTHSHIRE |
t: 07950160198
e: graeme@wine-importers.net |
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Why did you join the wine trade?
Whisky! My first passion was the grain, and I started out I working in an independent specialist. When I moved to a shop that also sold wine I had to learn about this too. I struggled at first, the lower alcohol in wine compared to whisky meant it all tasted wishy-washy for a while! I joined TM Robertson which was later to merge with Wine Importers.
Nowadays I am as passionate about both whisky and wine (and beer). I spent 2 years in Australia making wine which gave me great insight and further ignited my desire to be part of the trade.
What is the best thing about being in the wine trade?
People. The reason I am in the role I am now is the enjoyment in working with different customers. The feeling of satisfaction when you make a real difference to your customers business is a real buzz. Wine is a product but equally important is the people who sell it.
Favourite Region / Grape Variety / Wine and Why?
There is not a wine type or style that I do not like. That said, sherry has to be top of my list. There are not many wines you could serve all through a meal, from crisp dry aperitif to sweet unctuous styles to go with dessert.
My favourite style of sherry is Palo Cortado, a great drink at anytime and I love the unpredictable nature of its production.
Random Fact?
I play in a band, the Black Sheep Music Society.
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| Malcolm Ogilvie |
| Sales Account Manager, North ABERDEEN, INVERNESS, THE HIGHLANDS |
t: 07734993609
e: malcolm@wine-importers.net |
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Why did you join the wine trade?
I joined the wine trade by accident in 1975. I was ambitious to be a cartographer however the lure of discounted beverage proved to be too great to an Aberdonian student. However my background in geography has allowed me to understand wine, where it comes from and the influence of terroir and climate.
What is the best thing about being in the wine trade?
I enjoy being in the wine trade especially in the highlands of Scotland. Not only do I travel in the rugged grandeur of this great country I meet and interact with some of the finest people in the Scottish hospitality industry. This allows me to share my passion for wine through The Scottish Academy of Wines and Spirits that I am in the process of establishing.
Favourite Region / Grape Variety / Wine and Why?
My favourite region is the Western Cape - here I have tasted some of the most rugged and rich wines in the world to some of the subtlest and sublime nectars. I'm talking pretty powerful pinotage to the cheeky caress of carefully oaked chenin.
To offer a top pick from Wine Importers portfolio is like "Sophie's Choice". I'm going for an emotional one - Masi's Campofiorin. Best described as a turbo charged Valpolicella. I was first introduced to it in my first week in the trade and it has been consistently good ever since. Solid and reliable just like Wine Importers!
Random Fact?
My WSET Diploma result was telegrammed to my wedding reception. i.e. Before fax or e-mail.
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| Ian Macphail |
| Sales Account Manager, Borders THE BORDERS, NORTHUMBERLAND & AYRSHIRE |
t: 07767676559
e: imcphail-cockburns@wine-importers.net |
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Why did you join the wine trade?
My father was in the industry, although this wasn’t the main reason I joined the wine trade. I was offered a job with Cockburn’s of Leith straight from school and wasn’t totally sure what I wanted to do. I enjoyed drinking wine and thought I would give it a go.
What is the best thing about being in the wine trade?
Meeting some very interesting people and having an interest in something nearly everybody has an opinion on. Being able to share the knowledge I have gained over the years with people who want to know more, whether it be through wine tasting or just a conversation.
Favourite Region / Grape Variety / Wine and Why?
I enjoy wines from all over the world. But my first love is Bordeaux for red and Burgundy for white. I love the sheer complexity of flavours both these regions offer. I am very attached to Riesling and love the clean aromatic styles from both Germany and Alsace.
My top pick from the Wine Importers portfolio is Cockburns of Leith Reserve Vintage Claret. I think it offers the classic flavours of Bordeaux and is truly fantastic value for money.
Random Fact?
I am a great family man and am very proud of my children’s achievements to date. I still enjoy playing rugby and football as much as watching it. Long may that continue.
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| Darren Wilson |
| Sales Account Manager: GLASGOW AND THE WEST |
t: 07825 564 089
e: darren@wine-importers.net |
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Why did you join the wine trade?
I love quality wine! Seriously, having spent over 25 years in the hospitality sector, I have had the opportunity to sample a wide range of wines from many regions. Fortunately, it’s a very sociable trade! It was this passion that saw me elected to President of the 49 Wine and Spirit Club of Scotland. My previous roles gave me a unique insight into the challenges faced by the hospitality trade when purchasing and retailing fine wines and I see my role with Wine Importers as giving me the chance to share my love of good wines with our customers.
What is the best thing about being in the wine trade?
The people. From the growers, to the pickers, to the winemakers and ultimately the consumers, everyone has a different story to tell and the common love and pride in fine wines often gets these characters sharing their anecdotes and stories. Many life long friendships have been made over a glass of quality wine.
Favourite Region / Grape Variety / Wine and Why?
Wines can come and go out of fashion but for me, I am pleased that it is becoming acceptable to profess a love of the Old World wines without fear of appearing pretentious. Burgundy is one of my all time favourites and my Partner and I regularly enjoy a relaxed glass over an evening. Her favourites are the Chardonnays (Chablis and Meursault) whilst I prefer the classic Pinot Noirs from further North (Nuits St George and Aloxe-Corton). It’s all about the Terroir - I would always encourage an individual to step out of their comfort zone with wines and try something different.
Random Fact?
I have been a dedicated member of the travelling Tartan Army for over many years. It has been a brilliant excuse to try different wines from around the world. We are never far from adventure and always try to fit in a visit to passing vineyards, distilleries and breweries. You might even have seen me on television a few times during my travels too!
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| John G Harris |
| Sales Account Manager SPECIALIST ACCOUNT MANAGER |
t: 07974750670
e: jh@wine-importers.net |
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Why did you join the wine trade?
I have always been in the licensed trade, I’ve worked in all areas beers/spirits/and wines. But my first love is wine.
What is the best thing about being in the wine trade?
Visiting suppliers and tasting some of the finest wines in the world.
It’s a tough job but someone has to do it!
Favourite Region / Grape Variety / Wine and Why?
Too difficult to pin down a single region, probably Rheingau Germany/Bordeaux/Burgundy.
Grape variety Riesling for the whites and Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinot Noir for the reds. Favourite wine and why. This is like asking a chef what’s his favourite food. It depends on the moment. Aged German Rieslings/Cru Classe Bordeaux/Burgundy. These wines can last for decades and are continually changing and developing.
Random Fact?
I’m a Clyde F.C. supporter. An endangered species!
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| Heli Seymour |
| Sales Account Manager, EDINBURGH |
t: 0782 543 7539
e: Heli@wine-importers.net |
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Why did you join the wine trade?
My love for wine begun whilst working for a small bespoke wine merchant in the Lake District. I was introduced to wines from all around the world and being a big foodie, learning about wine complimented my interests in cooking and my love for eating out. Joining the wine trade seemed like a wonderful choice as it allowed me to pursue my interest in wine and get involved with some really interesting new restaurants and bars in Edinburgh.
What is the best thing about being in the wine trade?
The wine trade allows me to be fully immersed in a topic that I love. I am constantly learning and there is a very social element to the job – which suits me. I get to meet a lot of interesting people and visit a lot of fantastic venues. It is so refreshing to be in a trade that you have a real passion for, it makes the days very enjoyable.
Favourite Region / Grape Variety / Wine and Why?
Southern Rhone. France seems to do everything right from the beautiful landscapes, fantastic food and markets, to the rolling vineyards that greet you at every turn. I find the jammy fruits and silky smooth red wines produced from Southern Rhone very agreeable.
Random Fact?
I spent a summer working in Greece and fell in love with the Greek culture, they have some interesting local wines and many family owned, traditional restaurants. I also managed a week out sailing on the Ionian Sea visiting a handful of the Greek islands. It’s a hard life!
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| Tom Gilbey |
| FINE WINE SALES |
t: 07734993607
e: tomgilbey@whiterocks.fsnet.co.uk |
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Why did you join the wine trade?
As a member of the Gilbey family I was steeped in the Wine & Spirit Trade from my earliest memories and joined the family firm.
What is the best thing about being in the wine trade?
Agriculture. Wine is all about growing and grapes are a marvellous crop long associated with civilization.
Favourite Region / Grape Variety / Wine and Why?
Loire valley. It is varied, beautiful and the longest river in France. The original home of Sauvignon where it produces wonderful flinty dry white wines.
Random Fact?
My wife has an Antique shop in St Andrews and we have recently become Grandparents!
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| Gordon White |
| ADMINISTRATION DIRECTOR |
t: 07730812149
e: gordon@wine-importers.net |
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Why did you join the wine trade?
After 8 years of Quantity Surveying, I decided I was not cut out to measure concrete and bricks on cold, wet and muddy building sites. I opted for the more cerebral, challenging- and warm -Wine Trade!
What is the best thing about being in the wine trade?
The people
Favourite Region / Grape Variety / Wine and Why?
As I become older-but probably not wiser-I have grown to love and appreciate good red Burgundy. The delicacy of Pinot Noir with its beautiful balance of summer fruits, warmth, and clean acidity, is something I believe is not matched anywhere else in the world.
Random Fact?
My Wedding Day kilt still fits me 27 years on!
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| Daniel Thain |
| CUSTOMER SERVICES MANAGER |
t: 01506 468 900
e: daniel@wine-importers.net |
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Why did you join the wine trade?
I joined the wine trade after leaving school apart from a brief spell in the 5 star hotel business. I have spent all of my adult life selling wine!
What is the best thing about being in the wine trade?
You get a great overview of restaurants and get to know good places to eat out.
Favourite Region / Grape Variety / Wine and Why?
Joseph Perrier from Champagne is my favourite wine. It is very well balanced and amazing value for a Grande Marque. My favourite region for still wines is Medoc, particularly Pauillac in France.
Random Fact?
I spent a year selling wine in Bahrain in 2007.
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| Karen Lachlan |
| ORDER DEPARTMENT |
t: 01506 468 900
e: orders@wine-importers.net |
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Why did you join the wine trade?
It was close to home.
What is the best thing about being in the wine trade?
Having the opportunity to try new things.
Favourite Region / Grape Variety / Wine and Why?
I am not really keen on wine but I love the new Ales we supply.
Random Fact?
I once shared a Jacuzzi with the New Zealand All Blacks.
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| June Auld |
| ACCOUNTS |
t: 01506 468 900
e: june@wine-importers.net |
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Why did you join the wine trade?
I Left my previous bookkeeping Job in a Livestock Auctioneers, I much preferred the opportunity in 1987 to work the wine trade! No more red meat!
What is the best thing about being in the wine trade?
I Enjoy dealing with all the various wine producers, suppliers, and Customers.
Favourite Region / Grape Variety / Wine and Why?
My favourite wine is a Rosé wine from any region in France, Spain, and New World as they are fruity and mostly dry.
And lovely on a sunny Day or a night by the fire.
Random Fact?
Last year on holiday in Tenerife when I was in my local pub ‘the hole in the Wall’ speaking to Chris Kamara the ex Football player when who walked in; Cliff Richards and Daniel O’Donnell for a sing song.
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| Megan Kelly |
| MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS SUPPORT |
t: 01506468903
e: megan@wine-importers.net |
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Why did you join the wine trade?
I had a general interest in the food and drink sector from part-time work whilst studying at university. Once I graduated with a degree in International Business Management, I decided to focus on developing a career within the drinks industry and I gained a keen interest in the marketing of spirits, beer and especially wine!
What is the best thing about being in the wine trade?
There is always something new to learn and appreciate. It is interesting to be in a marketing position in a trade which you have a great passion for!
Favourite Region / Grape Variety / Wine and Why?
My favourite region is Marlborough in New Zealand, as the Sauvignon Blanc’s from this region are fantastic! One of the best things about working in the wine trade is the exposure to the variety of wines out there. Recent favourites have been Torrontés and Picpoul de Pinet!
Random Fact?
I lived abroad in Paris for a year and lived within 5 minutes walking distance to l’Arc de Triomphe! It was an amazing year!
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| Tracey Gill |
| STOCK CONTROLLER |
t: 01506 468 907
e: Tracy@wine-importers.net |
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Why did you join the wine trade?
I fancied a change from working in the Banking Industry so thought I would give it a go, I’m still here 4 years later!
What is the best thing about being in the wine trade?
There’s always something new to learn with so many styles and varieties of wine, every day’s a school day.
Random Fact?
Last year I ran a “Santa Dash” dressed as Mrs Claus!
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