Truro-based wine importer Old Chapel Cellars is continuing to grow its national profile in 2022, receiving notification this week that it is a finalist in two categories at the IWC (International Wine Challenge) Merchant Awards 2022.

The awards are said to be among the most prestigious in the industry and “celebrate the most successful small and large businesses, delivering an outstanding service to wine consumers across the UK”.

Old Chapel Cellars is the only Cornwall-based merchant to make the finals, and has done so in two categories – the Regional Merchants Awards (South West) and the Small Independent Merchant of the Year.

Old Chapel Cellars, which earlier this year became the first UK wine merchant to achieve B Corp status, is co-owned and run by business partners Jamie Tonkin and Louisa Fitzpatrick.

On hearing the news of the awards shortlisting while on a buying trip to France and Spain, Tonkin said: “As a small independent merchant, we’ve always worked hard in our little patch to offer excellent wines and service.

“To be recognised for that by our peers in the industry is a great feeling. Louisa and I are looking forward to attending the awards in London on 7th July.”