In 2017, James Nicholson  celebrated 40 years in the business. Wine lovers far and wide trust James’s knowledge, passion and dedication to bring them the best the world has to offer. James’s respect throughout the wine industry is renowned, having won the International Wine Challenge Regional Merchant of the Year an astonishing 26 times since 1988. Look out for loads of great events and special offers in 2019.

James Nicholson has been part of the wine scene in Northern Ireland for over 40 years.  Starting out in the restaurant trade, James’ keen interest in wine, combined with an independent spirit, set him on the path which gradually evolved into the JN Wine you see today.

The wholesale side of the business came first.  James was doing what no one else in Ireland was doing at the time; going out to the vineyards and sourcing his own products, only purchasing wines he tasted and felt he could stand over.  It’s a liberating way to do business, but with great freedom comes great responsibility – there is no one to hide behind.  James still spends a lot of time visiting vineyards, developing decades long relationships with some of his longest standing suppliers while sourcing new talent and exciting products.  He’s been in Bordeaux every spring since 1982 for the en primeur campaign too.  The selection of wines you will find in our portfolio is a reflection of the winegrowing world as it is today – each bottle selected by hand and carrying the James Nicholson seal of approval. These days our premises look a lot smarter and the team has grown, but the ethos remains exactly the same.

We travel.  We taste.  We sip.  We deliberate.  And then we buy for your drinking pleasure.  Because we are independent and nippy, we can bring in small parcels of really interesting wines you won’t see anywhere else. Each member of the team is a professionally trained, educated, passionate wine drinker and we are here to help in whatever way we can. No gimmicks, no fuss, just good quality, enjoyable wines!