Paul Grimwood is the co-founder of the Ultracomida group, which includes Curado Bar, Bar Vermut, and Spanish Wines. Since 2001, Paul has been importing Spanish wines into the UK, building a business that spans retail, wholesale, and restaurant divisions.

His career reflects a deep-rooted love affair with the food and wines of Spain. Through decades of hands-on importing and direct engagement with producers and consumers, Paul has developed a sharp understanding of what resonates in the UK market — particularly when it comes to regional Spanish expressions.

As a judge at the London Wine Competition, Paul brings an importer’s perspective shaped by experience, independence, and a strong commitment to showcasing Spain’s diversity.

What inspired your journey into wine?

“My love for Valencian wines was the beginning of my wine adventure and started my education into the wines of Spain.”

This early connection to Valencia set the foundation for a lifelong focus on Spanish wine culture and regional identity.

Favourite UK restaurant to enjoy wine

Paul enjoys dining at Palmito in Brighton — a restaurant known for its vibrant cooking and thoughtful wine offering.

What is your go-to wine under £20?

Mazas Roble — a Spanish red that delivers character, structure, and value, reflecting Paul’s enduring passion for Spain’s quality-driven producers.

Which wine region do you think is underrated?

Aragon, Spain.

Paul highlights Aragon as a region producing distinctive, high-quality wines that deserve broader recognition in the UK market.

What wine trend are you most excited about for 2026?

“The growth of high-quality Spanish wine production across Spain and an increase in the UK consumer's interest in lesser-known regions and grape varieties.”

Paul sees continued momentum for Spain, particularly as UK consumers become more adventurous and curious about emerging appellations and indigenous varieties.

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

“With the diversity of judges on the panel, the LWC offers wineries a fantastic opportunity to show their wines in an impartial and broad arena.”

Paul values the competition’s diverse judging panel, which ensures wines are assessed from multiple professional perspectives.

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Closing paragraph

Having your wines judged by Paul Grimwood means receiving evaluation from a specialist importer with more than two decades of experience championing Spanish producers in the UK. His perspective reflects real market exposure, consumer understanding, and a commitment to authenticity. Recognition from Paul signals that a wine resonates beyond technical quality — it connects culturally, commercially, and regionally within today’s competitive trade landscape. 

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