Carla Bertellotti is the Managing Director of Vinos Latinos, a UK-based wine importer specialising in wines from Latin America, with a particular focus on Uruguay. Originally from Uruguay and now based in the UK, Carla has built her career around introducing authentic, character-driven wines to the British market, helping producers from emerging regions gain meaningful visibility and commercial traction.

With a strong understanding of both the producer perspective and UK market dynamics, Carla brings valuable commercial insight to the London Wine Competition judging panel. Her approach to wine is rooted in authenticity, cultural storytelling, and clear market positioning — qualities that align closely with how wines are evaluated in real trade environments.

What inspired your journey into wine?

Helping the wines from my homeland establish themselves in the UK has always been my main motivation. Wine is an incredibly powerful way to share culture, history, and identity, and I wanted to create a bridge between Uruguay and the UK through wine.

Favourite UK restaurant to enjoy wine

Carla’s favourite place to enjoy wine in the UK is Diogenes The Dog, a venue celebrated for its relaxed atmosphere, independent spirit, and thoughtfully curated wine list. Known for championing characterful producers and avoiding trends for trends’ sake, the restaurant reflects a genuine passion for wine — an approach that strongly resonates with Carla’s own philosophy.

Favourite UK wine shop

When it comes to wine retail, Carla turns to The Good Wine Shop, a respected independent merchant recognised for its carefully selected range and commitment to discovery. The shop is particularly known for highlighting lesser-known regions and producers, encouraging curiosity and exploration among consumers.

What is your go-to wine under £20?

Anything I haven’t tried before, especially wines from lesser-known regions. Discovery and curiosity are what keep wine exciting.

Which wine region do you think is underrated?

Uruguay.

Despite producing high-quality, expressive wines with a strong sense of place, the country remains underrepresented on the international wine stage.

What wine trend are you most excited about for 2026?

Orange wine, which continues to grow as consumers become more open to texture-driven, expressive, and alternative styles.

From a judge’s perspective, what makes the London Wine Competition stand out?

The competition brings together judging professionals with genuine commercial awareness and a strong understanding of the UK market. This ensures that winning wines are not only excellent in quality, but also relevant and viable for real-world trade.

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

Make sure the recommended retail price (RRP) you provide is accurate. Pricing clarity is essential when wines are assessed for commercial success.

Having your wines judged by Carla Bertellotti, Managing Director at Vinos Latinos, means placing your wines in front of a buyer whose opinion carries weight across the international wine trade. Carla’s approval signals to importers, distributors, and on-trade buyers that your wines are not only high in quality, but also clearly positioned, commercially credible, and ready to succeed in competitive global markets.

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