Wine Society crowned National Retailer of the Year

The Wine Society has been crowned National Retailer of the Year at the ViniPortugal Portuguese Annual Wine Awards, pipping Majestic to the post.

The Stevenage-based retailer, which held its first Portuguese tasting in London in December, was singled out for having significantly increased its Portuguese range over the past year.

Corks of Cotham and The Bottle Apostle were the winner and runner up of the Independent Retailer of the Year award, and Eyre Bros (winners) and Ransome’s Dock (runners up) were both recognised in the Restaurant of the Year category for their efforts towards promoting Portuguese wines over the last 12 months.

Julia Harding MW scooped the Journalist of the Year award, and has been tasked to find her 50 Great Portuguese Wines for the 2012 ceremony.

Hamish Anderson from the Tate was also recognised for his contribution to writing about Portuguese wines in the on-trade.

“These awards are Portugal’s Oscars,” said Tania Oliveira, ViniPortugal’s UK manager.

“Being able to hold them in the glamorous setting of the Portuguese Ambassador’s Residence made them even more special for us.

“We congratulate all our winners on the fantastic support they’ve shown the wines of Portugal over the last year, and look forward to an exciting year for Portugal in 2011," Oliveira added.

ViniPortugal is the interprofessional body that promotes Portuguese wines throughout the world. It represents the growers of Portugal from all regions.

Lucy Shaw, 14.03.2011