Boutinot Wines, based in Gatley, Stockport, is delighted to have been awarded the ‘Merchant of the Year’ title in 2013 by the Sommelier Wine Awards – for the 5th consecutive year.
The competition is dedicated to the on trade, and judged by prominent sommeliers, restaurateurs, and hoteliers. With all submissions tasted blind, the wines making it through to the final rounds of the competition are awarded Gold, Silver and Bronze medals. The ‘Merchant of the Year’ title is given to the agent or importer achieving the best performance in the competition. Additional awards are also given for Critics Choice, Food Match, By the Glass and Perfect Pub Quartets.
Chris Losh, Sommelier Wine Awards Director, commented:
“Without wishing to go over the top, this was a staggering performance from the Mancunian powerhouse. Boutinot have taken ownership of the Merchant of the Year Award since we started handing it out five years ago, but even by their standards, this was something else.”
He went on to add:
“Last year, they picked up 79 Golds and Silvers combined; this year it was 106. And they more than doubled their ‘extra awards’ tally, too, from six in 2012 to 13 this year. It’s proof, if any were needed, that the quality of wines coming in from this importer is exceptionally good.”
Established over 30 years ago Boutinot has a portfolio of over 1000 wines and is the exclusive UK agent to 150 producers from around the world. In addition to representing a portfolio of producers, the company owns vineyards and produces wines from production sites in both the northern and southern hemispheres.
Danny Spencer, Restaurant Sales Director, commented:
“It is a tribute to our buyers, our winemakers and of course our producers and the work they put in. If you will excuse the pun we reap what we sow…. As ever we are immensely proud.”
For more background on Boutinot visit: www.boutinot.com