Laithwaites Newsletter

Laithwaites has been connecting wine lovers with outstanding bottles since 1969, when founder Tony Laithwaite fell for the wines of Bordeaux and started delivering them direct to customers across the UK. Over more than five decades the business grew from a one-man van operation into one of Britain's best-known mail-order wine merchants, based in Theale, England.

A Passion for Wine, Delivered Direct

Tony Laithwaite began by sourcing wines personally from Bordeaux, Spain's Rioja region and beyond, writing detailed booklets about the winemakers he visited and inviting customers to order for home delivery. That direct, personal approach became the cornerstone of the Laithwaites identity. In 1973 a partnership with the Sunday Times Wine Club brought the brand to a much wider audience and cemented its reputation as a trusted guide to great-value wine from around the world.

Wines for Every Occasion

The Laithwaites catalogue spans reds, whites, roses and sparkling wines from classic European regions as well as Australia, the Americas and beyond. Whether you are looking for an everyday bottle, a case for a dinner party, or a fine-wine gift, the range is built around personal recommendations and seasonal offers. Regular newsletters and special discounts keep subscribers well stocked throughout the year.

A Legacy Built on Quality

Barbara Laithwaite, who joined the business in 1970 and later co-owned it, was awarded a CBE for services to wine in 2023. The company pioneered the concept of "flying winemakers" - encouraging producers from the New World to work in European vineyards - helping to raise quality standards across the industry. In a 2025 Which? survey Laithwaites was rated joint runner-up among UK wine merchants with a 77% customer satisfaction score.

Frequently Asked Questions

When was Laithwaites founded?

Laithwaites was founded in 1969 by Tony Laithwaite, originally trading as Bordeaux Direct. The company rebranded as Laithwaites Wine in 2000 and remains family-owned.

What types of wine does Laithwaites offer?

The range covers reds, whites, roses, sparkling wines and fine wines sourced from France, Spain, Italy, Australia, the United States and many other regions. Cases and mixed selections are available alongside individual bottles.

Does Laithwaites offer a wine subscription or club?

Yes. Laithwaites has a long-standing subscription club that sends curated mixed cases to members at regular intervals, often with exclusive pricing. As of 2024 the club had more than 100,000 active customers.

Is Laithwaites suitable for buying wine as a gift?

Fine wines, gift cases and mixed selections have always been a core part of the Laithwaites offer, making it a popular choice for birthdays, anniversaries and corporate gifts.

Where is Laithwaites based?

The company is headquartered in Theale, Berkshire, England, and operates as a mail-order and online retailer delivering across the United Kingdom.

Has Laithwaites won any industry recognition?

Co-founder Barbara Laithwaites received a CBE for services to wine in 2023. The company was rated joint runner-up in the 2025 Which? wine merchant survey with a 77% customer satisfaction rating.

Note: this brochure is from our archive. Details such as pricing, availability and current offers may no longer apply. We recommend checking directly with Laithwaites for up-to-date information.