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2014 Review and Hopes and Fears for 2015: Nick Oakley

Published:  02 January, 2015

Nick Oakley of Oakley Wine Agencies on the growth of Portuguese wines in 2014, and how he'd like to sell more to independent merchants.

xNick Oakley

Nick Oakley of Oakley Wine Agencies on the growth of Portuguese wines in 2014, and how he'd like to sell more to independent merchants.

What do you think were the most significant things that happened/ issues/trends that occurred in 2014?

The Tesco thing, though I am not sure BWS can be blamed for financing irregularities (any more than any other department). The growth of independents with small chains of shops. A big upsurge in sales of Portuguese wines, my speciality. Within that I would identify the resurgence of the northern DOs of Douro, Dão and Vinho Verde, and in this latter region the change of direction towards high quality single varietal whites, with no spritz. There is a LOT going on.

What opportunities are you most looking forward to working on in 2015?

Selling more to independents. We are not as well-known there as I would hope.

What are the biggest challenges facing the trade in 2015?

For the artisanal element of winemaking, the 'soul' if you like, to be more appreciated among the big buyers. I am sure that value can be added throughout the chain by harnessing this, instead of the constant pressing down on price.  It's not washing powder. But I understand the competitive pressures of course.

Who are the people/companies/retailers to watch in 2015?

Larger independents.  Tanners, Adnams, The Wine Society.  Also the resurgence of the large number of small cluster companies with two, three, four and more trading units. When well-run these can be very exciting places to supply and innovate with. There's a lot of new wine out there, and this is the route to market for it.

What are you doing for Christmas and New Year?

Relaxing at home seeing all three daughters at various points.  All together on Boxing Day in fact.

What will be your favourite tipple over Christmas and New Year?

Reds - Dão and Pinot Noir from anywhere. Whites - Alvarinho, Pouilly Fumé

Favourite Christmas film?

It's a Wonderful Life.

Ideal day out over Christmas period?

A walk in crisp cold sunshine.

What do you want most from Father Christmas?

Generally less trouble in the world, and a bit more tolerance. Personally anything map-based is good. I love a map!

New Year resolution?

Keep fit. Never to let my daughters beat me in any roadrunning race. Time is catching up though...

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