Back in March 2009 the Chancellor increased duty on wines by an inflation busting 11%. Part of his rationale was that the simultaneous decrease in VAT from 17.5% to 15% would reduce the effect of this for consumers.

You will perhaps be unsurprised to learn that now VAT has once more increased back to 17.5% (from Jan 1st) there is no corresponding reduction in the rate of duty – and no doubt further tax rises will follow in the Spring.

We have had to reflect the new rate of VAT in our prices, but have increased prices across the range only by an average of 1.6% - less than the 2.5% additional VAT charge – and many prices remain unchanged.

We thank you for your continued loyalty and believe that our wines still offer excellent value in today's competitive market.