Patrick

With a background in export sales, Patrick set up his own speciality drinks import business called Wickedsoup Ltd in 2004 (a reference by Scotland’s national poet, Rabbie Burns to all things alcohol), supplying bars and restaurants with specially sourced drinks. He then took over the reins at Aitken’s in 2007, an independent Dundee wine merchants established in 1874. Since then, the business has grown considerably, allowing Patrick to pursue his passion for travel, culture, international commerce and of course, wine.

Fun fact:
Likes to try to speak Spanish and French but thinks his German is decent!

Favourite non-wine drink:
Wants to say coffee but no, it’s beer, definitely beer!

Best Wine Memory:
Too many to mention, but when food and wine pairings come together to create magical moments, like Manzanilla Sherry with fresh prawns,  a Nebbiolo with white truffle shavings on a fried egg (favourite dish ever), Godello with Octopus, Cabernet Franc with a South African Braai (they do the best BBQs!!!) or good Champagne with haddock and chips!!

Top tips for customers:
Supermarkets cut corners and compromise on quality to achieve pricepoints. That £10 wine which was £20, is probably a £10 wine.

Favourite grape:
Tempranillo (and a few more, including Chardonnay for sure)