| SALES |
| Billy Bell |
| MANAGING DIRECTOR |
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| Neil Renton |
| Sales Director, Sales East EDINBURGH & LOTHIANS |
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| Graeme Broom |
| Sales Account 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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| Andrew Clarke |
| Sales Account Manager: GLASGOW AND THE WEST |
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| John G Harris |
| Sales Account Manager SPECIALIST ACCOUNT MANAGER |
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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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| Lindsay O’Donnell |
| MARKETING & 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 |
| Sales Account 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?
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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| Andrew Clarke |
| Sales Account Manager: GLASGOW AND THE WEST |
t: 07825 564 089
e: andrew@wine-importers.net |
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Why did you join the wine trade?
I suppose it is in the blood, both my uncles owned vineyards in Australia and I can always remember large amounts of wine being around the table at Christmas. I also really enjoy wine which helps!
What is the best thing about being in the wine trade?
It would have to be the people. It is great to sit down and speak to people about wine, what they think, what would go well with it. Just being able to engage and interact with people about wine is brilliant.
Favourite Region / Grape Variety / Wine and Why?
For red I would have to stay true to where I am from and say a Shiraz from the Hunter valley. As for white I really enjoy Picpoul de Pinet as it goes so well with seafood, another favourite.
Random Fact?
I know a lot of people won’t know what I am talking about here but I won an award when I was a teenager for holding the best batting average for a season playing cricket of 105.25.
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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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| 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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| Lindsay O’Donnell |
| MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS SUPPORT |
t: 01506 468 903
e: lindsay@wine-importers.net |
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Why did you join the wine trade?
The location was close to home and I thought it would be an interesting company to work for as I knew nothing about wine (didn’t even like it when I first joined – oh how things can change!) and I now have 2 qualifications in wine. I can’t believe it – I am qualified in wine!
What is the best thing about being in the wine trade?
The opportunities. We do so many different things and have connections with so many different people that we are always developing and trying new things.
Favourite Region / Grape Variety / Wine and Why?
My favourite Region can’t be pinned to one. I think Italy’s wines are amazing! They always match a food dish and are so adaptable. My favourite Grape Variety and Wine are one in the same – New Zealand Unoaked/Unwooded Chardonnay – YUMMMMM!
Random Fact?
I do Krav Maga training.
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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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| 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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