Stories From the Cellar
The World of Laithwaites
Fifty years of adventure, curiosity, and a belief that great wine starts with people, not labels.
Some wine companies are built on scale. Others are built on stories. Laithwaites belongs firmly in the second category.
Founded in 1969 by Tony Laithwaite, and soon joined by his future wife Barbara, Laithwaites began not as a corporation, but as a personal quest to find wines worth talking about.
Long before “wine clubs” became a category, Laithwaites was built on curiosity, relationships, and trust.
More than fifty years later, that same spirit still defines how they source, select, and share wine.
What makes Laithwaites different
Laithwaites has never been about chasing trends or pushing the loudest labels. Their approach is rooted in direct relationships with winemakers around the world.
- They work closely with independent growers, not just large estates.
- They prioritize character, balance, and value over hype.
- They have a long history of discovering regions before they became fashionable.
The result is a portfolio that feels global, approachable, and deeply human. Wines that tell a story, not just fill a rack.
Why we partnered with Laithwaites
At Crimson Cask, we are careful about partnerships. We do not accept pay for placement, and we do not recommend clubs we would not confidently gift or pour ourselves.
Laithwaites stood out for a simple reason. Their philosophy aligns with ours.
Wine should feel like discovery, not intimidation.
For readers who enjoy variety, storytelling, and a sense of adventure, Laithwaites offers a world worth exploring.
Who Laithwaites is best for
- Wine drinkers who enjoy discovering new regions and producers.
- People who value story and context alongside taste.
- Gift givers looking for something personal, not generic.
- Anyone curious about wines beyond the usual retail shelf.
If you prefer the same bottle every time, another club may suit you better. If you enjoy variety with guidance, Laithwaites is worth your attention.
Explore Laithwaites
Discover wines from around the world
Learn more about Laithwaites, explore their current selections, and see why they have been trusted by wine lovers for generations.
Note: Crimson Cask may earn a commission if you choose to explore through this link. Our editorial opinions remain independent.
Where Laithwaites fits in the bigger picture
If you are comparing options, Laithwaites appears in our broader guides as well. You can explore how it stacks up alongside other clubs in our Best Wine Clubs hub, or see how it performs specifically for gifting in Best Wine Clubs for Gifting.
And if you want a fast, personalized recommendation based on how you drink or gift, start with the Find Your Wine Club Quiz.
Want the full short list? See Who We Trust.
