Looking back on 2016 and ahead to 2017: Robin Copestick, Copestick Murray

By Andrew Catchpole

Published: 22 December, 2016

Robin Copestick of Copestick Murray predicts a more adventurous 2017 wine-wise, while hoping for that big win for Stoke City

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

Obviously a big low was Brexit but we had many highs including I heart Wines continuing its astonishing success and Mionetto winning the Prosecco Trophy at the IWSC Awards.

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

The continuing upward trend for Sparkling and Prosecco in particular has a very positive impact for our business but this was slightly dampened by the weakening pound following Brexit.

What trends do you predict for 2017?

I do see Sparkling and Prosecco continuing to grow but we are backing the retailers to become a little more adventurous again and we are launching what we believe will be an incredibly successful brand in 2017.

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

We all have to work hard to excite our customers. Wine is fun and we should make sure this enjoyment is passed on to all the people who drink our products. If we do this then we can all start to create a better, more enjoyable and more interesting proposition for the end consumer.

What are the biggest challenges facing the trade in 2017?

Volatile exchange rates and potential disruption that may affect Free Trade within Europe are the biggest challenges in 2017 in my opinion.

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

As always I am most concerned about the people who work with me at Copestick Murray. We have a great team with power to add and we will continue to grow in 2017.

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

I have bought some incredible Magnums of Schloss Johannisberg Gelbleck Trocken. I am sure they will be enjoyed by the 10 people that will join me on Christmas Day and also the 7 people with whom I will party on New Year's Eve. I have one bottle of Vega Sicilia Unico 1994 which will also make and appearance over the holidays.

What would you like from Father Christmas?

A lovely day in Cornwall.

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

Stoke City to win the FA Cup.

And your New Year's resolution?

To enjoy 2017 as much as I have enjoyed 2016.

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