It’s good to support local independent wine merchants, so congratulations to the following Sussex-based shops who featured in the Harpers Top 50 Indies 2026. The comments are those of Harpers.
To have 6 out of the top 50 shows this is a great county in which to buy and drink good wine
Hennings Wine Merchants (South-East standout)
This third-generation family merchant, based in Pulborough in West Sussex, is a quiet but very consistent achiever, being the go-to merchant in the county for quality wines and spirits. With two retail shops, and thriving online and wholesale wings to the business, owner Matthew Hennings puts his customers first, with a list that is incredibly strong on the likes of Bordeaux and Burgundy, plus English sparkling wine, yet while still managing to offer mouthwatering global finds in its extensive range. Alongside a busy schedule of tailored tastings and events for both retail customers and wholesale clients, investment continues apace, with ‘best in class’ customer service the goal, most recently evidenced by award-winning upping of the digital offering. Strong commitments to sustainability, staff and community complete a very compelling picture.
Butlers Wine Cellar
Well plugged in to the community and a tireless supporter of local charities and good causes, the small team here host a fabulous range of wines and spirits, which they also supply via online and by wholesale, enlivening the lists of many local pubs and restaurants. Add in initiatives such as a podcast, legendary tasting events and a focus on diversity and inclusivity, and this very independent Brighton indie shines bright indeed.
Fourth & Church
Originally drawing inspiration for the business from the vinotecas of Italy and Spain, the focus at Hove’s finest vinous oasis remains firmly on quality niche wines, favouring winemakers that care deeply about their vines, their land and the wines they produce. Among many strong points are Riesling, sherry, Jura and the backroads of Spain, plus initiatives such as community work with Plumpton College and support for the Curious Vines organisation.
South Downs Cellars
With two shops, including Hurstpierpoint, this fiercely independent merchant carries a remarkable range of some 2,000 wines, beers and spirits, with much sourced locally from Sussex producers, while also building strong relationships with suppliers across Europe. The likes of Georgia, Greece, Romania and India have been recent focuses, and this plucky indie also continues to distribute for several producers across East and West Sussex.
Chanctonbury Wines
Listing what it describes as proper wines of real character, there’s a European focus at this Steyning star, with the constantly shuffling wall of 170-odd wines matched by an ever-changing 10 wines by the glass. This is rounded off by the hybrid approach, which delivers 28 seats to also enjoy charcuterie and cheese with a glass of something good. There’s also a very busy events programme too, plus a pop-up wine bar on wheels planned for this year.
Palate Bottle Shop
An independent, hybrid bottle shop, tasting room and wine bar, this merchant specialises in artisan wines, craft beers, ciders and spirits, plus, of course, expert advice. Prioritising sustainably made wines, there’s a large selection of organic, biodynamic and natural bottles, with this Shoreham-by-Sea business also championing local and British where it can.