An Ottery St Mary business has been named the Online Drinks Retailer of the Year.

Christopher Piper Wines (CPW) adopted a fully digital approach during the pandemic resulting in its recognition for the best in e-commerce award.

The Drinks Retailing Awards showcase the best independent retailers with a selection of awards such as newcomer of the year, wine retailer of the year, spirits retailer of the year and more.

This year, the awards were looking for an attractive web design, product range that sets out from the crowd, positive measures of customer satisfaction along with other criteria.

Chairman Chris Piper was joined by business partner John Earle and website designer Fiona Taylor at a ceremony at the Dorchester Hotel in London to receive the award.

Christopher Piper Wines was established in 1979 following Piper’s time working in Beaujolais as a wine-maker in Brouilly.

In 1980, he was joined by his friend John Earle and the business was incorporated. The business has grown since then, and the friends now supply top quality wine to independent hotels, restaurants, and pubs throughout the South of England.

Sidmouth Herald: Fiona Taylor (website/marketing) accepts the award at The Dorchester.Fiona Taylor (website/marketing) accepts the award at The Dorchester. (Image: Christopher Piper Wines)

The business says its principle is to supply top quality wine to independent hotels, restaurants and pubs throughout the South of England.

CPW will be looking to continue its sales growth by expanding its consumer base online and plans to be a local business 'to keep a look out for' due to its success in 2024.

Chris still makes wine in Brouilly every year at Chateau de Vaux and that wine can be seen alongside the full CPW collection online.

CPW's former shop in Ottery - which still has the name above the door - is now being used for Tar Barrels merchandise.

For a full selection of all available drinks, head to www.christopherpiperwines.co.uk