The Drinks Retailing Awards 2026 saw The Oxford Wine Company win the Regional Group of the Year award on 3 February, with judges commenting on the company’s expanded rum range and esoteric selection of wines.
At the annual celebration, held at London’s Dorchester Hotel, a spate of prizes were also awarded to other independent retailers.
Convenience Drinks Retailer of the Year went to Wine Rack Guildford. Meanwhile, Independent Bar and Shop of the Year was awarded to Vinomondo, based in Conwy, Wales.
Bath Road Beers, based in Cheltenham, was picked for the Independent Beer & Cider Retailer of the Year award. At the same time, Grape Minds from Oxford was named Independent Wine Retailer of the Year.
For spirits, Amathus Drinks was crowned Independent Spirits Retailer of the Year, with judges noting a niche selection of categories such as cachaça, pisco and soju, alongside traditional options.
Independent Drinks Retailer of the Year went to Dunell’s, located in Jersey, which underwent a major rebrand in 2025.
The Excellence in Training & Education award was given to Loki Wine in Birmingham, which supports employees with fees and time off to study for up to their WSET Level 3. Newcomer of the Year was won by Hackstons, based in Knightsbridge.
Hedonism fared especially well at the awards, being named both Independent Champagne & Sparkling Wine Retailer of the Year and Luxury Retailer of the Year. Finally, Specialist Online Drinks Retailer of the Year went to Master of Malt.
Drinks Retailing editor, Jo Gilbert, said: “Despite a challenging trading environment, the standard of entries for the Drinks Retailing Awards remains exceptionally high. Our winners were chosen from a shortlist of retailers which demonstrated innovation, resilience and outstanding customer focus.
“The Oxford Wine Company taking home the Regional Group award is a great example of how independents continue to evolve and thrive. To be shortlisted is a real achievement, and to win is a clear mark of excellence. Huge congratulations to all involved.”
Samantha Halliday, commercial director, added: “Once again, the independent businesses have demonstrated outstanding standards this year. While each category can have only one winner, every entrant is a hero in their own right.
“These businesses exemplify innovation and strong business acumen. It’s incredibly rewarding to know the winners will proudly display the DRA badge, a mark of trust and excellence. Congratulations to them all!”
