Dan Belmont is the Director and Wine Buyer at Good Wine Good People, a London-based wine business known for its strong sense of purpose, sustainability-driven ethos, and carefully curated global selection. A Certified American Wine Expert and WSET Diploma holder, Dan was also named “Wine Buyer of the Year – Specialist” at the London Wine Fair, reflecting his influence and credibility within the UK wine trade.

With experience spanning retail, buying, and education, Dan brings a broad, consumer-focused perspective to the London Wine Competition judging panel. His approach prioritises flavour, typicity, and authenticity, ensuring that winning wines resonate with modern drinkers while remaining commercially relevant.

What inspired your journey into wine?

Everything clicked for me during my first visit to New York’s Finger Lakes wine region. That trip opened my eyes to the diversity, quality, and potential of wine beyond the traditional benchmarks — and I never looked back.

Favourite UK restaurant to enjoy wine

Dan’s favourite place to enjoy wine in the UK is Lower Wine Bar, a venue celebrated for its relaxed atmosphere and thoughtfully chosen wine list. Known for championing small producers and expressive styles, it perfectly reflects Dan’s own approach to wine discovery.

Favourite UK wine shop

Dan’s go-to wine shop is The Wine Tasting Shop, his local merchant in Balham, valued for its knowledgeable team and strong curation. He also highlights Passione Vino for Italian wines and The Sampler for its innovative try-before-you-buy tasting machines.

What is your go-to wine under £20?

Dan loves a sub-£20 bottle and highlights Seegut Lentsch wines as a standout choice — versatile, food-friendly, and enjoyable across seasons, whether on a hot summer day or paired with a hearty winter roast.

Which wine region do you think is underrated?

“I’m going to be shamelessly biased here,” says Dan — New York State and Austria. Both regions continue to deliver exceptional quality, diversity, and value, yet remain underappreciated by many consumers.

What wine trend are you most excited about for 2026?

A continued drive toward greater quality and diversity across categories, alongside a welcome shift away from ultra-heavy glass bottles, which Dan sees as unnecessary and environmentally wasteful.

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

The London Wine Competition offers full-picture judging. Wines are assessed not only on technical quality, but also on value, packaging, and overall drinking experience — reflecting how consumers actually buy and enjoy wine.

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

Choose wines with character, typicity, and specificity. Wine should be about flavour and quality above all else. Packaging matters, but it should always come second to what’s in the bottle.

Closing paragraph

Having your wines judged by Dan Belmont, Director and Wine Buyer at Good Wine Good People, means placing your wines in front of a buyer whose decisions are driven by authenticity, sustainability, and real consumer appeal. Dan’s approval signals to producers, importers, and retailers that your wines deliver true character, strong identity, and genuine drinking pleasure — qualities that resonate across today’s competitive global wine market.

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Meet the Judges: Tim Triptree MW, International Director of Wines & Spirits – Christie’s