End of an Era as Popular North-East Wine Merchant Retires
By Mary Collator
A familiar face in the North-East’s wine scene, Jonathan Simpkin of Woodhouse Wines, is preparing to close the final chapter of a remarkable 38-year career in the trade. Having launched his wine business in April 1988 in Woodhouse Eaves, Loughborough, before moving operations to Scotland in 1994, Jonathan has spent decades supplying quality wines and sharing his passion with loyal customers who, over the years, became close friends.
Jonathan’s decision to retire follows his wife’s own retirement in June 2025. “The plan was always to retire together,” he explains. “Selling the business didn’t quite happen as planned — and selling off stock takes a little longer than handing in a P45!”
The final stock clearance, which began in January 2026, includes around £22,000 worth of wines. Ever the professional, Jonathan is keen to help customers find new suppliers and hopes one of his long-time partners will continue the Dornfelder distributorship, home to his best-selling wine.
Beyond his business, Jonathan is well known throughout the North East as a public speaker who used his trademark humour and charm to introduce thousands of people to the world of wine. His engaging talks and tasting events have made fine wine accessible to all, helping to demystify the subject and remove the sense of snobbery that can surround it. His relaxed, entertaining approach reflects his belief that wine should be enjoyed — not analysed.
As for the next chapter, Jonathan and his wife plan to indulge their love of travel, exploring both the UK and further afield with their newly purchased touring caravan. “We’re hoping to see all seven of our children and nine grandchildren,” he says. “The furthest is in Devon, so a UK tour is definitely on the cards! There’ll also be some gardening — and, of course, drinking the remaining stock. Hic!”
You Might Also Like:
While the business may be closing, Jonathan isn’t disappearing completely. He’s considering taking on freelance speaking events and the occasional wine tasting evening, allowing him to share his expertise in a more relaxed way.
Reflecting on nearly four decades in the industry, Jonathan says, “My life in wine has been excellent, made possible by all my customers who I feel are more like friends. I want to thank them all for such a great journey — and hopefully, we’ll keep in touch. If you’d like to invite me round for dinner, I’ll bring the wine!”
(If any of our readers are interested in purchasing some of Jonathan’s stock, look our for our special Union Media discount offer later this week.)
