James founded Handford Wines in 1989. The aim was to bring wines of character, charm and a true representation of their origin to the good people of Holland Park. James became an MW in 1994, one of the youngest Masters at the time.

Gav first arrived to manage the Holland Park shop which we sadly shut in 2007. Now, the glue that holds the whole operation together, you’ll find him running everything from our general management through to our maintenance.

Celia is our retail manager, in charge of all things happening in the shop. She fell in love with the wine trade during an internship in Pauillac and still has a soft spot for fine left-bank wines, though she also loves more modern, funky wines.

An Aussie with an unsurprising fondness for Margaret River wines, Laurie completed his WSET Diploma of Wines and Spirits in 2018. As well as helping people find amazing wines, Laurie manages the online and marketing side of the business.

Vicky joined the Handfords team back in 2011. Her most notable vinous achievement was completing the Medoc Marathon - with its 23 tasting stops it was a great way to combine exercise and education! She completed her WSET Diploma in 2010 and became a certified WSET educator in 2017. Vicky loves fine wines from around the world and she would love to help you create your perfect cellar.

Nial is an American that has a background in restaurant management and is finishing up his WSET Diploma. He joined the team in 2016 and has been running the wine club since 2018. His favourite wine is whatever is in his glass but is partial to reds from South Africa or Italy. Nial loves talking about wine, food, or just about anything else.