As Head of Wine at Annabel’s, one of London’s most exclusive and prestigious private members’ clubs, Georgios Iordanidis curates a world-class wine list and makes key buying decisions that influence some of the UK’s most discerning consumers. His role is central to shaping the club’s wine program, from sourcing rare vintages to selecting bottles that deliver exceptional quality, value, and storytelling for its members.

Founded in 1963, Annabel’s is an internationally renowned members’ club celebrated for its elegance, hospitality, and luxury. Known for hosting royalty, celebrities, and industry leaders, it offers exceptional dining and entertainment experiences. The wine program is a hallmark of Annabel’s, designed to pair seamlessly with its fine dining menus and reflect both classic regions and emerging wine trends.

With 20 years of invaluable experience in the wine industry, Georgios has cultivated a distinguished career marked by expertise and passion. His leadership is defined by a deep understanding of global wine trends and a commitment to excellence, making him a respected figure in the world of fine wines.

Who or what inspired your journey into wine?

My Greek Georgian heritage

Your favourite UK restaurant to enjoy wine (outside of your workplace)?

Noble Rot in Mayfair

Noble Rot in Mayfair is a standout wine bar and restaurant nestled in the atmospheric Shepherd’s Market, offering an intimate, elegant experience full of character and charm. 

Noble Rot Mayfair's menu has been devised by Head Chef Adam Wood (ex-Perilla and The Square) and executive chef Stephen Harris of The Sportsman. Each Noble Rot has its distinct culinary personality and menu: here the focus is on indulgent, future classics such as warm smoked eel, baked potato and Avruga caviar; steamed asparagus brown crab hollandaise; and a whole roast duck with Chambertin sauce and potato and cep gratin or Sea Bass Bilbaína to share for two.

Joshua Castle, Group Head Buyer for Keeling Andrew, Noble Rot, and Shrine to the Vine is also a judge at the London Wine Competition. Read more about his buying, his insights on becoming a top sommelier here.

Your favourite UK wine shop (not your venue)?

Hedonism definitely

Hedonism Wines, founded in 2012, has earned the reputation of being one of the globe’s most iconic wine destinations. Located on the prestigious Davies Street, it’s known for its unparalleled collection of fine and rare wines and spirits—with more than 6,500 wines and 3,000 spirits meticulously sourced by the UK’s top buyers.

Go-to wine under £20?

Anything I can get from Schloss Johannisberg (Rheingau Riesling)

Schloss Johannisberg, perched above the Rhine River in Germany’s Rheingau region, is one of the world’s most historic wine estates and a global benchmark for Riesling. With a winemaking tradition dating back over 1,200 years, it is credited as the birthplace of Spätlese (late harvest) Riesling in 1775. The estate’s south-facing vineyard, a single monopole of 50 hectares, benefits from ideal exposure, slate-rich soils, and a unique microclimate that together produce wines of remarkable purity, minerality, and ageing potential. Today, Schloss Johannisberg continues to craft Rieslings across all Prädikat levels, celebrated for their elegance, balance, and expression of terroir.

A wine region you think is underrated?

Plenty of undiscovered gems, but I would go with Greece

Anhydrous Krama, crafted from the iconic Assyrtiko grape of Santorini (vintage 2023), emerged as the prestigious Wine of the Year — Greece, earning a Gold Medal and an impressive 97 points from the London Wine Competition. It won the best wine from Greece. 

A wine trend you’re excited about for 2026?

People are drinking rare wines again instead of hot wines

For wineries thinking of entering, what makes the London Wine Competition stand out?

Great panel of people, very experienced and knowledgeable, who understand the market

One piece of advice you’d give to wineries entering the London Wine Competition?

Send the most interesting wines you have.

Having your wines judged by Georgios Iordanidis, Head of Wine at Annabel’s, means presenting them to one of the most influential buyers in London’s luxury hospitality scene. His approval signals to high-end restaurants, private members’ clubs, and global distributors that your wines deliver the quality, elegance, and commercial appeal demanded by the world’s most exclusive venues.

Also Read:
Meet the Judge: Michele Orbolato, Head of Wine & Sake at Thesleff Group
Noble Rot’s Joshua Castle on what it takes to be a top sommelier
Amid Global Trade Turmoil, the UK Rises Again as a Prime Wine Market