About Us

It may sound terribly clichéd, but it’s true – wine is at the heart of everything we do. Ever since Frank Stainton established Stainton Wines in 1984, we have been steadfastly driven by our passion for discovering great tasting wine from small, interesting and independent producers, and introducing them to our customers here in the North West. We also put as much value on the levels of service we provide to our discerning customers – people who know that Stainton Wines will always offer honest, knowledgable and impartial advice about wine.

Frank Stainton, founder of Stainton Wines, independent wine merchant, Kendal, Cumbria

Frank Stainton

FOUNDER

Frank has been extracting corks from bottles for a colossal 60-years and in that time has literally seen, sniffed, tasted, talked about and, most importantly, drunk every style of wine, from every corner of the globe. It is true that he may be taking things a little easier these days but, be assured, his hands are still firmly on the corkscrew.

Chris Leather, director at Stainton Wines, independent wine merchant, Kendal, Cumbria

Chris Leather

DIRECTOR

After a patient apprenticeship that commenced back in the early 1980s, Chris feels he is ready to take on the mantle of chief glass washer. He has a sneaking suspicion that the internet may be the next big thing, so watch this space.

Tom Wall, Stainton Wines, Kendal, Cumbria

Tom Wall

GENERAL MANAGER

We know he would rather be dressed head to toe in Lycra, cycling around the Lake District and beyond, but Tom’s three decades of wine trade experience mean we need him hard at work and ensure the Lycra is mainly reserved for weekends only.

Jane Boothroyd

ACCOUNTS

She may appear diminutive of stature but a whirling dervish of energy, Jane is seldom still, or quiet. Her person skills make her an absolute favourite with our customers and she is another member of staff with over 30-years of wine trade experience.

Hugh Tyson

WAREHOUSE / LOGISTICS

We like to think that Hugh is the most knowledgeable warehouseman in the country - certainly when it comes to wine. Hugh has been an integral part of the Stainton Wines team for over 20-years and runs a very tight ship when it comes to the myriad of wines arriving or being sent for delivery every week.