| SALES |
| Neil Renton |
| Managing Director/Sales Director |
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| Gordon Nicol |
| Director of Finance & Operations |
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| Graeme Broom |
| Wine Director/Sales: Fife |
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| Ian MacPhail |
| Regional Sales Manager: East Lothian, Borders, Northumberland |
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| Darren Wilson |
| Regional Sales Manager: Glasgow, Glasgow Environs, The West |
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| Elise Jabaud |
| Regional Sales Manager: Edinburgh & Surrounds |
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| Paul Graham |
| Regional Sales Manager: Aberdeen, Inverness & the Highlands |
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| Wojciech Pankiewicz |
| Regional Sales Manager: Fife, Perthshire, Stirlingshire, Angus |
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| Jonathan Simmonte |
| Digital Designer with Marketing |
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| ADMINISTRATION |
| Karen Lachlan |
| Customer Service Manager |
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| Gillian Davie |
| Finance Assistant |
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| Tracey Gill |
| Stock Control |
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| Neil Renton |
| Managing Director/Sales Director |
t: 0773 081 2151
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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| Gordon Nicol |
| Director of Finance & Operations |
t: 01506 468900
e: gordon.nicol@wine-importers.net |
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Why did you join the wine trade?
I have always had a passion for working in the drinks industry where I have spent almost 30 years in various guises. The vast choice of wines with tastes for all are what makes the wine trade so interesting.
What is the best thing about being in the wine trade?
For me it is all about the people. In my role heading up Finance & Operations I have interactions with colleagues, customers & suppliers alike and we are very all very fortunate to work in an industry where we are involved in selling products that are to be consumed and enjoyed in a relaxed environment.
Favourite Region / Grape Variety / Wine and Why?
South African Chenin for me. On a hot day, nothing better than a crisp, dry glass of Chenin with tropical fruit notes. I was very fortunate to enjoy a few glasses on a trip of a life-time to Cape Town a few years ago.
Random Fact?
Winter Sport – I am a keen curler, having played the sport for over 20 years.
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| Graeme Broom |
| Wine Director/Sales: Fife |
t: 0795 016 0198
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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| Ian MacPhail |
| Regional Sales Manager: East Lothian, Borders, Northumberland |
t: 0776 767 6559
e: imacphail-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 |
| Regional Sales Manager: Glasgow, Glasgow Environs, The West |
t: 0782 556 4089
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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| Elise Jabaud |
| Regional Sales Manager: Edinburgh & Surrounds |
t: 0782 543 7539
e: elise@wine-importers.net |
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Why did you join the wine trade?
I still cannot get over the amount of work that goes into making a bottle of quality wine. Having grown up in a French speaking household and spending every summer in the centre of France with my family, there was always a healthy amount of wine chat from family friends, some of which were producers of the local AOC Quincy. With the array of styles Anjou had to offer, I became increasingly interested in how they were produced and how one region was able to offer so many different styles. After a spell of work experience with a friend of my uncle’s who was in the French wine trade, I knew this was where I wanted to be. As soon as I got back to Edinburgh, I went straight to my local wine shop top ask for a job, and I haven’t looked back.
What is the best thing about being in the wine trade?
I get to meet a fantastic variety of people and no day is ever the same. I really enjoy working with skilled buyers and adore the challenge of finding them the best possible wines to suit their business.
Favourite Region / Grape Variety / Wine and Why?
I am obviously biased, but I love the variety of styles of wine that the Loire has to offer, from high acid, expressive whites and off-dry fantastically fresh rosés, to lusciously sweet botrytis Chenin Blanc and punchy herbaceous Cabernet Franc, there really is something to suit everyone. I do also have a penchant for Champagne and all that it entails. The setting, the cellars, I find it all stunning and Champagne as a wine is just so decadent and satisfying. I have a huge amount of appreciation for those who produce such a labour-intensive product.
Random Fact?
I have three cats and I adore them.
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| Paul Graham |
| Regional Sales Manager: Aberdeen, Inverness & the Highlands |
t: 0773 499 3609
e: paul@wine-importers.net |
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Why did you join the wine trade?
I am passionate about customer service and hospitality, originally wanting to be a chef. However, given my limited abilities in the kitchen I soon decided that a career in the wine trade made much more sense and would allow me to work directly with two of life’s great pleasures – good food and good wine.
What is the best thing about being in the wine trade?
Where do I start…. Working with enthusiastic and passionate customers and suppliers in a sector where everyone recognises, they are privileged to be involved in such a great industry. No two days are ever the same because the hospitality industry is so diverse and constantly evolving.
Favourite Region / Grape Variety / Wine and Why?
My favourite grape is Chardonnay due to the sheer number of amazing wines and styles this grape can produce. From rich, buttery New World styles to the mineral food friendly wines of Northern France. However, my favourite region is anywhere in Italy due to the plethora of exciting indigenous grape varieties, not to mention the stunning terroir and history. I don’t have a favourite wine per se, as there is always something new to try!
Random Fact?
I once served Hilary Clinton (then First Lady) whilst working in a restaurant on Nantucket Island, Massachusetts.
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| Wojciech Pankiewicz |
| Regional Sales Manager: Fife, Perthshire, Stirlingshire, Angus |
t: 0773 081 2149
e: woj@wine-importers.net |
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Why did you join the wine trade?
My passion for wine ignited during my seven years in hospitality. An unforgettable experience tasting a Chablis against a Meursault, and discovering how one grape variety can taste so different, hooked me instantly. After working in restaurants and completing my WSET Level 1 and 2, I joined Majestic Wine. Over the next 11 years, I completed WSET Level 3 and honed my skills in recommending wines that customers would love. Managing several stores across Scotland provided me with invaluable experience in both retail and on-trade commercial environments. Additionally, I visited wineries in Mendoza, Argentina, and several in Rioja, Spain, among other places. However, my dream is to go to South Africa and experience one of my favourite wine regions in person.
What is the best thing about being in the wine trade?
If I had to pin it down to one thing, it would be the look of surprise followed by a big smile on someone's face when they taste a wine I recommended, especially if it's something they've never tried before. Working with passionate, like-minded individuals and engaging in lively discussions and debates about different wine styles makes the wine trade a fantastic place to work.
Favourite Region / Grape Variety / Wine and Why?
I don't have a single favourite, much like my eclectic Spotify playlist. My wine selection is varied: from big, full-bodied reds like Ripasso and Amarone to a delightful glass of Beaujolais Morgon. I love pairing Albariño with a seafood grill and enjoy Viognier from the south of France, especially a Condrieu. On a hot summer day, a glass of Pouilly-Fumé is my go-to for quenching thirst in the garden.
Random Fact?
I was a deep-water lifeguard at SeaWorld's Discovery Cove in Orlando.
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| Jonathan Simmonte |
| Digital Designer with Marketing |
t: 0783 724 4967
e: jonathan@wine-importers.net |
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Why did you join the wine trade?
It sounded like fun! Many moons ago I was offered the opportunity to pick up a few shifts at a little basement wine shop, where I developed an appreciation for all things wine and eventually became the shop manager. After a brief sojourn out of the trade doing something far too sensible for my liking, I had the opportunity to re-join the trade with Wine Importers where I put to use both my graphic design skills and wine knowledge on a daily basis.
What is the best thing about being in the wine trade?
The wine trade seems to attract people with a certain joie de vivre, and it is these people that make the wine trade such a pleasure to work in. Add to this the fact that the world of wine is constantly evolving, meaning there is always something new to learn.
Favourite Region / Grape Variety / Wine and Why?
If I had to pick one region it would be the Southern Rhône. Its rustic, village level reds were amongst the first wines I got into when I started in the trade, and its rich floral whites never fail to delight me. I am also a big Sherry fan and have had the pleasure of spending an afternoon in a Jerez tavern with my partner, watching live flamenco whilst drinking Amontillado poured straight from the barrel.
Random Fact?
At their request, I wrote a speech for a friend’s wedding from the perspective of their cat.
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| Karen Lachlan |
| Customer Service Manager |
t: 01506 468900
e: karen@wine-importers.net |
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Why did you join the wine trade?
I wanted to try something new!
In my specific role I love problem solving and my motto is ‘there’s always a way’.
Achieving high customer satisfaction is crucial as it can result in customer loyalty, positive word-of-mouth, and repeat business!
What is the best thing about being in the wine trade?
My job is quite multifunctional for our wine business and the variety of areas I manage keeps me on my toes.
From credit control to HR and even controlling the flow of orders and deliveries each day can be challenging, but also ultimately very rewarding!
Favourite Region / Grape Variety / Wine and Why?
I love the wines from Marlborough in New Zealand.
Nothing beats the freshness and purity of great Kiwi Sauvignon with their hallmark acidity, passion fruit and ripe tropical aromas.
Random Fact?
I once shared a Jacuzzi with the New Zealand All Blacks.
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| Gillian Davie |
| Finance Assistant |
t: 01506 468900
e: gillian@wine-importers.net |
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Why did you join the wine trade?
I was looking for a change of scenery after working for a charity for a number of years and Wine Importers looked like a good fit for me.
What is the best thing about being in the wine trade?
I work surrounded by lovely bottles of wine and happy people, what more can I say.
Favourite Region / Grape Variety / Wine and Why?
Wine has never been my drink of choice, that’s more my husband’s preserve, but since starting work with Wine Importers I have been introduced to a lovely Rosé, also a beautiful fruity and light white wine both from France, so I may become a convert to wine drinking.
Random Fact?
I did an amazing week long trip across the Gibson Desert in Western Australia, whilst 4 months pregnant, sleeping out under the stars. The trip ended in Alice Springs and from there took the famous Ghan train to Adelaide. A real highlight of my life. Also managed while in Western Australia to take a tour around some vineyards in the Swan valley.
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| Tracey Gill |
| Stock Control |
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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