Wine Society ups focus on fine wine
The Wine Society has unveiled a new fine wine strategy that will make fine wine “a central pillar of its long-term plans”, as it looks to appoint a new head of fine wine.
A key plank of this strategy is a new Fine Wine Spotlight that will roll out on a consistent basis, focusing on different regions. The first, which starts rolling out today on a staggered basis, sees Spain in the spotlight, with a campaign for Australia planned in October, and the Rhône and Italy getting a spotlight in 2026.
According to buyer Harriet Kininmonth, the new collection of Spanish wines includes the 2021 Rioja vintage in bond, as well as “rare and mature parcels… that demonstrate just how beautifully Rioja can age”, and a 2024 release from two producers, Sierra Cantabria and Cuentavinas, which Kininmonth described as “two wineries, father and son, bound by their precision and dedication to land but with contrasting vision and style” – part of the new “wave of innovation redefining [Rioja] as one of the most exciting, dynamic regions on the fine wine stage.
Other wines from Ribera del Duero and Galicia are also include in the selection, which show the “diversity of styles from the next generation of winemakers who are working with old, forgotten plots and approaching their land with fresh eyes and deep respect.”
Director of Wine Pierre Mansour said it was the first time The Wine Society had made fine wine “a central pillar of its long-term plans” despite selling fine wine for 150 years. Although it would stay “true to [its] mission of offering exceptional value and making fine wine accessible to everyone”, it would now have a “greater focus on enriching the fine wine experience in our uniquely Wine Society way” he said.
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“Combining approachability, and a memorable experience for both new and longstanding members.”
“We’ve taken inspiration from the European monopolies and renowned French retailers, and are differentiating our fine wine offer, looking beyond just traditional En Primeur campaigns and focusing on exclusive releases and new and exciting ways to buy.”
The Society has seen its team change in the last year, with the external appointments of Victoria Mason from Bordeaux Index in September, and Lay & Wheeler buyer Fiona Hayes and Kininmonth, who was previously C&C Group’s former wine trading director, in April.
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