The best independent wine merchant in the UK is revealed, and it’s in Cornwall!
Harpers, the respected voice of the wines and spirits industry, unveiled its prestigious list of the top independent wine merchants across the country, with No.1 going to Cornwall’s very own Old Chapel Cellars. The unanimous decision by a panel of judges – all leading figures in the sector – was announced at a ceremony in London last week, but Old Chapel owners Jamie Tonkin and Louisa Fitzpatrick promised to put a cork in it until the official announcement was made on Monday 12th January.
The merchant, which is based in a former chapel on St Clement Street in Truro, has risen through the ranks from No.20 last year; it was also recognised with ninth place in the Harpers list of UK wholesalers last autumn, while Jamie was named Single Venue Independent Merchant Wine Buyer of the Year at the London Wine Fair in 2025.
The owners put their success down to staying consistent in the face of challenging circumstances, striving for excellence in both offering and service, and the personal levels of care and attention they offer customers.
Louisa commented: “Being told we had achieved the very top spot was a bit of a ‘pinch me’ moment, and definitely a high point in my 20+ years in the wine industry. We’re a small, hard-working and passionate team of just six, with brilliantly loyal customers who I know will be celebrating this award alongside us.”
Jamie added: “There are so many fantastic indies serving their wine-loving communities across the country – we work with many of them in the Vindependents group. These awards celebrate the resilience of small merchants like us who have to be agile and inventive, as well as consistent and reliable. To come out on top is a fantastic moment of recognition for us.”
Old Chapel prides itself on dealing direct with wineries wherever possible, building strong relationships in wine-making regions around the world. Jamie and Louisa are also advocates of innovation in the wine market, offering wine refills, wine in cans, and ‘NoLo’ alternatives. The result is a curated selection of wines and spirits which the team can vouch for personally; the relaxed and enjoyable experience of choosing a bottle or two of wine at Old Chapel, whatever your level of wine knowledge, was highly praised by the judges.
Old Chapel also host regular tastings and events, have an educational arm in the form of regular WSET courses, and support a variety of trade customers to build and maintain outstanding wine lists.
You can find out more about them at their website and follow on Facebook and Instagram for their latest news.
