About Sam Sandbach

Sam started his wine career in Bordeaux, working in vineyards and studying French, also oenology and viticulture at Bordeaux University. Moving on to Jerez, Sam worked in a sherry bodega for twelve months before coming home via Oporto, the Douro valley, and northern Spain.  Moving to London, Sam trained as a professional wine-buyer within the Diageo group, completing all WSET study courses including the Diploma, as well as undergoing an MW study course.  Nine years later, Sam founded Winepress as a London importing & wholesaling business, and opened a popular wine-bar under the same name.  Following relocation to Gloucestershire, Sam continued the Winepress agency business and became consultant to Broadwell Vintners near Stow on the Wold. In a further appointment Sam took on the role of buyer for Windrush Wines in Cirencester and Northleach.

Sam’s mission is to seek out and bring to market up-and-coming producers of distinctive quality and origin, resulting in a valuable portfolio of specialist producers in France, Spain and Italy. The discovery of vineyards in lesser known areas has provided an additional source of fine quality wines and often excellent value, thus fulfilling Sam’s key listing criteria for an interesting selection to offer to consumers.  In 2009 Sam acquired Ledbury Wine Cellar, which now supplies a rapidly growing number of loyal private customers as well as a few selected restaurants.