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Looking back on 2016 and ahead to 2017: Ted Sandbach, Oxford Wine Company

Published:  21 December, 2016

The Oxford Wine Company's Ted Sandbach on a (mainly) good year, the challenges ahead and drinking more Pinot Noir

What were the highs and lows for you and your business in 2016?

Mostly highs, a bigger turnover and a massive increase in profits. Closing our Cirencester shop was disappointing but allowed us to develop in our home patch.

What were the most significant things that happened or issues and trends that occurred in 2016?

A huge increase in trade business and a much more professional approach as well as some good appointments.

What trends do you predict for 2017?

An increase in interest in English wines and not only sparkling. As Brexit and all this entails affects pricing, English wine will become more affordable.

What are likely to be the biggest opportunities for the trade in 2017?

From our perspective we plan to open another retail shop but this time in the heart of the city. For the trade in general, who knows?

What are the biggest challenges facing the trade in 2017?

Exchange rate and price increases as well as deep discounting. Dealing with the business rate increases.

Who are the people, companies or retailers to watch in 2017?

English wine producers and their evolvement. Small city based retailers with three to four premises should do well.

What are you most looking forward to drinking over Christmas and New Year?

Languedoc red and Macon white.

What would you like from Father Christmas?

An efficient bank, but that's asking too much, even for the great man.

If you were granted one wish for 2017, what would that be?

That all sommeliers took a compulsory course in humility.

And your New Year's resolution?

Drink more Pinot Noir.

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