Set for Christmas: Ribble Valley wine shop wins top award
The Whalley Wine Shop, in the village of Whalley in the Ribble Valley, was named Best Local Wine Shop in the UK by the wine industry’s leading magazine Decanter at the prestigious Decanter World Wine Awards this autumn.
Judges praised the shop and staff who felt “very approachable”, adding: “We loved the wine list, it’s a great selection, it’s really well priced and gives the customer an excellent choice
“Our winner was all about an approachable charm and a fairly priced, well sourced range of wines – many congratulations to The Whalley Wine Shop.”
The store, on the site of a former Threshers Wine Shop, was radically revamped in 2010 by new owners Tom and Jen Jones.
“We’ve always felt our little shop was a bit special but to have it confirmed with this award is fantastic for the whole team,” they said.
“We’ve worked incredibly hard to build a new generation of wine shop, with fresh ideas and innovations. Winning a Decanter award, for us, is the absolute pinnacle in our industry”.
The award was presented to manager Matt Monk at an event in London packed with nearly 200 of the country's top wine industry professionals after the shop beat competitors from the length of the country, St Andrews down to Jersey.
“I went to the ceremony more in hope than expectation, but when the judges read out our name I was gobsmacked!” says Matt.
“It’s an amazing feeling to be recognised by people you admire and respect, but more than anything I am so proud that the hard work that the team have put in is so appreciated and rewarded in such a way.”
The category was judged by a panel of five top independent wine experts, including writer and TV presenter Peter Richards, who follow a rigorous judging process over three months, including mystery visits to the shops.
As well as their impressive selection of wines and champagnes including carefully selected mixed cases with big discounts, customers can choose from spirits, craft beers, cigars and much more at The Whalley Wine Shop, which will be celebrating its ten-year anniversary next year with a busy schedule of events.
“The aim from the very start has been to find superb quality wines that are really good value and to champion those wines with genuine passion, enthusiasm, and fantastic service,” adds owner Tom. “Our customers also have a unique opportunity to taste and sample a large range of wines and spirits in store.”
The Whalley Wine Shop can be found at 63 King Street and is open seven days a week, from 10.30am until 10pm, so why not pay them a visit to find your perfect festive tipple.
To contact the shop, call 01254 822581 or to check out the latest online offers visit www.thewhalleywineshop.com/shop-online.