Owner Rachel Gibson started out in the wine trade as a graduate trainee with Majestic Wine back in 1999. After seven years managing various stores, ending up in Winchester, she moved on to work for an independent merchant for four years, before making the decision to set up on her own.
“My focus is primarily on the customer and making sure they have access to the very best wines I can find, backed up with a friendly, personal service. The opportunity for customers to taste the wines, learn more about their origins and judge for themselves is incredibly important.”
Wine Utopia began in September 2011 with a wine list, a mail order service and a handful of local wine tasting events. It opened its first shop on Stockbridge High Street in July 2012 and the second shop on St Thomas Street in the centre of Winchester in August 2013. In October 2015 it opened the Wine Utopia Warehouse in Kings Worthy, just outside of Winchester. This encompassed a warehouse style shop and greater space for improved distribution and tastings.
Wine Utopia
Rachel discovered her interest in wine as secretary of the Wine Tasting Society at Durham University. After graduating in 1999 she spent many years managing various branches of Majestic Wine and a couple of independent wine merchants, after which she decided to set up on her own, launching Wine Utopia in the summer of 2011.
Richard started his wine career in 1992, as a trainee with Majestic Wine. After 8 years in retail, he moved in the Commercial Department in London. He rose to Head of Regional sales, leaving the company this year to join Wine Utopia as Sales Director. His personal love is Bordeaux and Northern Italian Reds.
‘I am delighted to be a part of a unique and passionate team here at Wine Utopia and look forward to help develop the next chapter in the company’s future’.
Tim is well-qualified with his WSET Diploma and is a crucial member of the Wine Utopia team. From managing a store to making sure your delivery gets to you on time, Tim is an expert in all areas.
Many of you will recognise Dan from our annual tasting events, where he regularly helps out, pouring and recommending wines. Dan also has a ‘real job’ but enjoys a little light relief from time to time by assisting us with our wine research and tasting notes!
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"Wine Utopia is a great store, with excellent wines at realistic prices. That you are part of the local community is very appealing too."
"Expert personal service and advice on a terrific range of wines you won't easily find elsewhere makes Wine Utopia the top venue for wine lovers."
