Raj Solanki DipWSET is an accomplished wine buyer and category manager with more than 28 years of experience in the UK drinks industry. He currently serves as Senior Category Manager and Wine Buyer at Libra Drinks Wholesale, an independent drinks distributor supplying bars, pubs, restaurants, hotels and clubs across the UK. He is also a Director of the Society of Vintners.

A WSET Diploma holder and qualified wine educator, Raj has worked with several leading businesses within the UK on-trade. At Libra Drinks, he is responsible for sourcing wines, developing the company’s portfolio and helping hospitality customers create commercially effective wine lists.

Raj approaches wine selection with the end consumer firmly in mind. He considers quality, value, packaging, market relevance and the role each wine will play within a venue’s overall offering. His extensive buying experience and understanding of what succeeds in the UK on-trade make him a valuable addition to the London Wine Competition judging panel.