Business

Co Down wine merchants toast record 25th award win

Crossgar company JN Wine has now won the top regional prize at the International Wine Challenge Awards for a record 25th time
Crossgar company JN Wine has now won the top regional prize at the International Wine Challenge Awards for a record 25th time

LEADING Northern Ireland wine merchants JN Wine have triumphed for a record 25th time at the annual industry awards in London.

The Co Down retailer founded by James Nicholson, triumphed at the prestigious International Wine Challenge Awards, winning the ‘Regional Merchant of the Year’ title for Northern Ireland.

The victory marks a record 25 wins for the Crossgar business at the event, widely acknowledged as the Oscars of the global wine industry and comes as the as the pioneering company celebrates 40 years in operation.

Mr Nicholson said bringing home the top award for the 25th time was a massive endorsement for the company, which has just invested £300,000 in a new online ordering and delivery service, enabling the 30-strong team to service wine connoisseurs and hospitality clients across the UK and Ireland.

“Since I started the company four decades ago, innovation has been key in meeting the requirements of our growing customer base. The business has come a long way from delivering wine from my Ford Cortina to restaurants in Northern Ireland’s fledgling hospitality sector, to now servicing customers across the UK and Ireland with a fleet of vans.

“We’re delighted that our passion for the industry continues to be recognised at an international level.”

To celebrate this landmark year, JN Wine will be hosting a series of special events, including joining forces with award-winning chef Michael Deane, who is celebrating 20 years in business, for a one-off event at Deanes at Queens with a five-course menu and champagne reception.