About The Independent Vintner

The Independent Vintner was set up by Giles Smith-Walker in 2012, with 24 years’ experience in the wine trade. It was the doing the 1999 Champagne harvest that confirmed his calling into the trade.  Giles spent the next 12 years at Berry Bros & Rudd in retail, selling to private clients then for 7 years in the corporate hospitality department, organising and hosting numerous events and wine tastings.

The Independent Vintner can offer a personal service for any individual or company whether it is helping choose an interesting wine, organising and hosting a wine tasting and dinner, selecting wines for investment or storing and managing wine collections.  Giles can tailor the service to your exact requirements and is able to offer impartial advice.

Wine travel has been a new venture, mainly in France. Short trips, fun tastings and great local food. Giles will take you around the regions to explore.

Giles has the Wine & Spirit Education Trust- Diploma and is an active member of The Vintners Company in the City (also a great venue for a tasting!)