Who We Are

We are Bat and Bottle, an independent English wine merchant, proudly run by a husband-and-wife team with over 30 years’ experience importing artisan Italian wines. We’re not part of a chain, franchise, or group, just the two of us, sharing our passion for characterful, sustainably farmed wines with fellow wine lovers across the UK.

We also run a personal, engaging Wine Club that’s been recognised as one of the best in the UK by Decanter and the International Wine Challenge (IWC).

What We Do

There’s no minimum order here, just honest, hand-picked wines, sourced directly from small, often family-run vineyards, and delivered straight to your door. These are wines made with integrity, rooted in tradition, and always delicious.

Whether you're choosing a bottle for dinner or curating a case for a special celebration, we’re here to help. If you ever feel overwhelmed by choice, we’re only a call or email away , happy to offer tailored wine recommendations for individuals, businesses, or events.

We also offer a thoughtful gift service with personalised messages and careful packaging. From weddings and fine dining to fundraising tastings or educational evenings, we provide wine and support to suit any occasion.

How to Buy

You can buy online, over the phone, by email, or visit us in person at our warehouse on the outskirts of Oakham, in Rutland, England’s smallest county. However you choose to shop, you’ll receive expert, friendly service and reliable nationwide delivery.

Our Story

Bat and Bottle began life in 1994 as a classic kitchen table and van operation in Uppingham, Rutland. After a stint in Staffordshire, we eventually returned to Rutland in 2003, settling in Oakham where we remain today.

In the early days, we had ambitious plans to sell both wine and cricket bats, hence the name. While the bats are long gone, the wine remains, more focused and beloved than ever.

Our Italian journey began thanks to a chance meeting with a Benedictine monk at a kissing gate. He introduced us to the remarkable Felicita Pask-Hughes, an Italian wine importer with a fearless palate. At a time when Chianti came in straw-covered bottles, she was importing Sassicaia and Isole e Olena. In 1998, at the age of 82, she told Ben it was time for us to take over, and so we did.

Inspired by Felicita and later by six months of wine travel through Italy in 2003, our focus has remained primarily Italian, though we also stock a small, carefully chosen range of artisan gins and spirits.

Our Philosophy

We don’t chase trends or buy wines for the mass market. Instead, we seek out wines with soul, made by growers who understand and love their land. Our aim isn’t just to sell wine; it’s to connect people with bottles that have a sense of place, history, and character.

We take wine seriously when sourcing, but never too seriously when serving our customers. Good wine should be a joy, not a lecture.

If you’re curious about our Wine Club or have any questions, please do get in touch. We’d love to hear from you.