About Us

Wine made approachable

We believe great wine should be about pleasure, not pretence. At Portman Vintners, our mission is simple: to make buying and enjoying wine easier, friendlier, and more rewarding wherever you are on your wine journey.

A passion for wine

Our Story

Portman Vintners was founded by Richard, a lifelong wine enthusiast with professional training and a genuine passion for helping people enjoy good wine. After years of sharing recommendations with friends and family, he realised there was a gap between intimidating high-end sellers and impersonal supermarket shelves.

That’s why he started his wine business in the 1990's eventually creating Portman Vintners Ltd: a place where every bottle is personally tasted and approved, and where knowledge is shared in plain English.

Here, you’ll find quality wines at fair prices, with a friendly approach that takes the guesswork out of choosing. Personally curated cases or friendly advice is always available should you need it.

Our Values

At the heart of Portman Vintners are four simple principles:

Curated Quality

Every wine is carefully selected and personally approved by Richard to guarantee value and enjoyment.

Accessible Expertise

We share clear notes, food pairings, and producer stories that make wine easier to understand - no jargon, no fuss.

Flexible Enjoyment

Whether it’s a single bottle, a case of twelve, or our no-commitment Wine Club, you’ll always have options that suit you.

Personal Connection

With Richard at the centre, Portman Vintners is about trust, fun, and a genuine love of sharing great bottles.

Vineyard

How We Work

  • Every bottle is personally tasted and approved by Richard — that’s our guarantee.
  • Buy as little or as much as you like, from single bottles upwards.
  • Save with discounts when you order 12 bottles or more.
  • Enjoy 5% off for life when you join our mailing list.
  • Count on fast, reliable delivery and straightforward returns.

Meet Richard

Richard has been immersed in the world of wine for over 35years, building knowledge through both training and hands-on experience including many WSET qualifications. What sets him apart is his approachability: he believes wine should be something everyone can enjoy, without barriers or snobbery.

“For me, wine has always been about enjoyment. I want people to feel confident choosing a bottle, knowing it will taste great and offer real value. That’s why I taste every wine myself and only select the ones I’d be proud to share at my own table.”

Passionate About Great Wine

Meet the Team

Richard Lukins

Owner

Richard Lukins brings a deep knowledge of wine and a genuine passion for helping people discover bottles they’ll love. At Portman Wine, he plays a key role in shaping the range and sharing the stories behind its producers.

richard@portman.wine

+44 7825 056056

+44 7825 056056

Ben Furst

Business Development Manager

Ben Furst is a fine wine specialist with more than 25 years of experience in the premium drinks industry. A WSET Diploma holder, he has worked with some of the world’s most respected wine houses and luxury hospitality groups, building a reputation for curating exceptional portfolios and developing enduring relationships across the UK fine wine trade. Through Portman Vintners, Ben combines deep industry expertise with a passion for sourcing distinctive wines for discerning private and trade clients. 

benf@portman.wine

+44 20 3670 6705

+44 7402 407722

Richard Banks

Brand Ambassador

We are delighted to be working alongside Richard Banks, who represents Bellevue, Eagles’ Nest and Ridgeback.

Richard brings the stories and character of these three distinctive South African producers to life. As Brand Ambassador, he helps trade customers and wine lovers connect not only with the wines, but also with the estates and the people behind them.

richardb@portman.wine

+44 20 3670 6706

Start your wine journey today

Discover wines chosen for taste, not pretence - and find bottles you’ll love, whatever the occasion.