One of the consequences of the recent changes in UK Licensing Law has been the removal of the minimum order requirement. Previously mail order, internet and some wine warehouse merchants were able to operate without a Liquor Licence if they sold by the case (12 bottles or 9 litres), as this was classed as "wholesale" rather than retail. Now, the law requires any sales direct to the public to be from licensed premises and under the merchant's personal licence - all involving more paperwork and costs.
The upside is that the minimum order requirement under the Law is removed, so that you should be able to order just a few bottles from any merchant. However, you need to check on delivery charges, as most delivery services will charge the same for a box of 3 or 4 bottles as for a case of 12. And, as many merchants effectively subsidise delivery charges, there is less scope to cover those costs on an order for less than 12 bottles.
Interestingly though, MAJESTIC WINE WAREHOUSES intend to continue the 12-bottle minimum order according to their website.
For more on French Wines and merchant recommendations see www.frenchduck.co.uk
Keywords: France, Wine,Merchant,UK
