Tesco was crowned Supermarket of the Year by WinesDirect members, with Sainsbury’s following closely.

WinesDirect members praised Tesco for offering a wide and diverse range of wines that cater to all tastes and budgets. One member commented that Tesco has “A wonderful array of wines to suit everyone. Beautifully displayed with price points & offers to suit.”

A fellow Tesco shopper highlighted the supermarket’s commitment to affordability and variety: “Tesco has a great, affordable selection of wines. Wide selection of British wines and low alcohol wines.”

The WinesDirect audience also had high praise for Sainsbury’s and raved about the ability to purchase international wines as well as the exclusive deals the supermarket offers.

One respondent stated that “Sainsburys has a great range, including from less traditional countries such as Romania and Austria. On top of that, their Nectar price discounts are great, making more expensive wines and champagnes more accessible.”

Another member emphasised that the exclusivity of Sainsbury’s wine makes this supermarket a top choice for them: “A strong selection of wines by country, with some standout Taste The Difference wines exclusive to Sainsburys.”

Across all reasons, the majority of respondents stated that the supermarket having a vast range of wines available is what set their chosen shop above all others. It is fantastic that UK supermarkets offer such a diverse collection of wines that are both affordable and enjoyable for customers.

The surveyed consumers were asked to select their favourite wine merchant and to select why from the same reasons as Supermarket of the Year.

Majestic emerged as the top wine merchant in 2024; Laithwaites were voted second.

Majestic customers highlighted the breadth of options and expertise of staff. One customer commented they have a “Great selection with a wide variety of wines from around the world [as well as] very knowledgeable and helpful staff.”

Another customer shared the same sentiment towards Majestic: “Enthusiastic and well-trained staff support a large range of well-priced wines.”

Laithwaites customers commended not only the variety and quality of wines, but also the company’s commitment to organic and sustainable options: “Whenever I or my friends have bought wine from Laithwaites, it has always been a huge success, with a good range, excellent flavour and great organic/sustainable varieties.”

Another commented on the company’s dedication to customer service stating that Laithwaites has an “Excellent choice of wines and their customer service is first class.”

In contrast to supermarkets, the comments made by WinesDirect members suggests that customer service and wine expertise are of higher importance when shopping with wine merchants as these factors make the shopping experience more personal and engaging.

Laithwaites claimed the top spot for Wine Club of the Year 2024, with Naked Wines following closely in second place.

Laithwaites customers value the club’s flexibility, variety and tailored approach. One customer noted that “There's a great selection of wine, and as someone who likes red more than any other wine, I like being able to buy a red only box and not being forced to get a mixed case and waste whites or rose wines.”

Others praised the customisable experience saying they “Love the flexibility so I can pause when needed, but similarly I can bring forward or delay orders as necessary. Great variety of wines offered and I like being able to swap wines in or out if I want to.”

Another Laithwaites fan highlighted the positive community the club fosters and how it is an “Amazing club with a thriving community that makes you feel cultured and welcome.”

Naked Wines enthusiasts appreciate the club’s mission to support up-and-coming winemakers and a customer shared they “like the fact that we are helping future stars of the wine world become established.”

Someone else highlighted the customer service of Naked Wines stating that they particularly “love their money back guarantee that if you don’t like a wine they recommend, you get your money back.”

The club’s ethos also resonates, with one customer valuing that “They have a non-stuffy attitude to wine. I like the fact that I am helping independent vintners to establish themselves.”

When it comes to wine clubs, the respondents not only highly valued a wide variety of wines but also prioritise convenience of delivery, introduction to new wines and improving wine knowledge and tasting notes.

Yellow Tail earnt the most votes due to its consistent quality and affordability that makes it a firm favourite for wine buyers. One customer described Yellow Tail as a “fabulous but reasonable wine that is always available and pairs well with most dishes.”

Another customer was particularly fond of the wine’s reliability: “Never disappointed with this brand. Consistently good!”

Oyster Bay was highly commended for its refined taste and excellent value with a customer remarking that it “has a superior taste and yet it is also in a reasonable price range”.

Others celebrate the distinctive flavours of Oyster Bay and describe their wine as “elegant and refreshing with glorious fruit flavours.”

Fans of Bollinger praise its luxurious feel and ability to elevate any occasion. One customer remarked “Bollinger is my go-to champagne of choice. Everything about it feels luxurious and drinking it makes any event even more special.”

Another Bollinger lover highlighted its timeless appeal: “There is something sparkling and special about Bollinger champagne, always first choice for champagne. Love a bottle of Bolly!”

The votes proved Veuve Clicquot to be another firm favourite because customers love its crisp and refreshing taste.

One particular customer commented that it’s “A crisp, refreshing champagne that offers full flavours with a smooth finish. Enjoyed many celebrations drinking this champagne, hope to enjoy many more.”

Another emphasised its balanced profile as the reason for why Veuve is their favourite: “Light, flavoursome and just the right amount of fizz.”