THE winner and runner up of the Palmers Brewery Wine Pub of the Year have given Bridport something cheer about.

The George Hotel and The Ropemakers, both in Bridport, have been recognised for their wine sales.

In first place is The George Hotel, which has been declared the inaugural champion.

The Ropemakers follows in second place.

The Palmers Wine Pub of the Year Award recognises licensees who have shown the greatest innovation and commitment to developing their wine offer. Winner are selected from Palmers estate of 55 pubs and inns.

Judging the award, Palmers' tenanted trade director, Jayson Perfect said: “We received some exceptional entries from our licensees and I am delighted that our winner and runner-up, although near neighbours, come from two very different pubs.

“The George is a fantastic example of a modern town centre premises that have developed their wine sales in conjunction with an excellent food offer, whilst retaining a reputation as a cosmopolitan watering hole where you can pass an evening will a glass of wine, refreshing cider or a few pints of real ale.

“The Ropemakers has always been a ‘drinking-led pub’, which has used wine-based events and promotions to attract new customers and to engage with wine drinkers.”

Julian Dove and Annette Beardsmore, who took over as licensees of the George Hotel Bridport in November 2013 said that the pub was delighted to have won the first Palmers Wine Pub of the Year competition as the team has worked hard over the last 18 months.

John and Geraldine Baker, licensees of the Ropemakers said: “We are very pleased that the Ropemakers has been recognised in the Wine Pub of the Year competition.

“The results speak for themselves, our wine sales have doubled and amazingly we currently sell more wine in the Ropemakers than lager.

“Customers love our monthly wine and cheese evenings where they can buy a selection of wines by the glass that have been matched to the cheeses of the evening.

Jayson Perfect said that a pub’s wine offer is now at the centre or any successful pub business.

He added: “Whether customers are popping out for a social drink, a light lunch or longer dinner they look forward to being presented with a wine selection that is both appealing and value for money, and they anticipate that staff will be knowledgeable and confident about discussing wine.”

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