The Wee Vinoteca Profile of an Award-Winning Indie Merchant with Duncan Gammie
This show was published Friday, October 24, 2025
- The Wee Vinoteca Profile of an Award-Winning Indie Merchant with Duncan Gammie
Overview
Episode Overview
In this episode, we talk to Duncan Gammie, founder of The Wee Vinoteca, a unique hybrid of wine bar and shop based in the UK. With a philosophy of 'less but better', Duncan’s focus is on a small, seasonally changing selection of around 100 wines, chosen for quality, character, and value.
We explore how The Wee Vinoteca blends hospitality, retail, and community - from serving wines by the glass alongside a simple food menu, to running events and their award-winning wine club.
Duncan shares the story of opening The Wee Vinoteca in late 2018, just in time for Christmas trading, and how the business has evolved since. Their flat corkage rate of £12.50 encourages customers to explore wines in-store, creating a relaxed, accessible atmosphere.
The Wine Club
Duncan’s Wee Vinoteca Wine Club, recently crowned IWC Wine Club of the Year 2025, offers a bespoke 'sommelier service' experience. Limited to just 200 members, the club provides personally curated wine selections with a strong emphasis on service and discovery. A waiting list ensures the quality and attention to detail remain high.
The wines are handpicked by Duncan, supported by a small logistics team, and sourced from small, specialist importers — often with close collaborations to bring in exclusive wines from producers.
Key Discussion Points
The philosophy of 'less but better' in a crowded wine market
Balancing the roles of bar, shop, and community hub
The origins and evolution of The Wee Vinoteca since 2018
Building and maintaining an award-winning wine club
Working closely with small importers and producers
How the hybrid model offers a more personal wine experience
About The Wee Vinoteca
Vinoteca means 'wine library' and Wee is a nod to Duncan’s Scottish roots — together reflecting a warm, approachable, and well-curated wine experience.
🌐 Website: www.weevinoteca.com
📸 Instagram: @weevinoteca
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Music
The music used for the UK Wine Show is Griffes de Jingle 1 by Marcel de la Jartèle and Silence by Etoile Noire.
