Among the 35 awards from the local family brewery were 18 Dorset charities and community groups who will receive vital funds
The Drinks Retailing Awards were held last month at London’s Dorchester Hotel. Vineyards fought off strong competition from fellow finalists The Good Wine Shop and Reserve Wines, but won the coveted accolade after impressing judges with their product range, customer service, and community engagement.
The rigorous judging process is known as the toughest on the awards circuit, and it included a mystery visit and an interview with head judge Nigel Huddleston. Vineyards, owned by Hannah Wilkins and her wife Sadie, offers an extensive wine portfolio and a personalised service, and they have worked hard to make their new premises a real community hub, where locals regularly enjoy tasting evenings and workshops. Hannah says: ‘It feels absolutely surreal that our little wine shop in rural Dorset has been recognised at such a level. I started Vineyards in 2005, when I was just 24. I’ve been in the trade 25 years, and I can honestly say that this is a career high. I love great wine, I want everyone to enjoy quality wine, I’m passionate about being independent – and to get this award in 2023, all these years later, with such fantastic national competitors, reassures me that we’re obviously doing something right. I’m not sure when it’s going to start to sink in!’
