Starling Wines & Spirits

Starling Wines & Spirits: investment consultancy for fine wines and whiskies

Starling Wines & Spirits is a London-based consultancy founded in 2011 by Paul Ricketts, its current managing director. The company presents itself as a "friendly, efficient and transparent" service aimed at helping any client build a tailored collection of wines and spirits, whether through maturing bottles or whisky casks. The firm states it has over a decade of experience assisting clients in building and selling their portfolios.

Buying, selling and advisory services

Its main activity is advising on the purchase and sale of fine wines and rare spirits. The site lists among its services fine wine storage, fine wine investment, selling your wine, buying fine wine, en primeur purchases, events and tastings, and wine education. The company states that it works with a selection of high-end wines and whiskies and supports the client throughout the entire process, from acquisition to the sale of their portfolio.

Wine and whisky collecting

Starling distinguishes two collecting lines. On the one hand, fine wine, which the firm describes as an asset with a long-established history of stability and tax efficiency, once reserved for the aristocracy and now accessible to any investor. On the other, cask whisky, which the company presents as a lucrative alternative and a long-term diversification asset for investors. In both cases, the focus is on creating bespoke portfolios.

Client portal and price transparency

The company has a client portal, called Digital Cellar, through which it displays the price of wines in real time and without inflated commission, so that clients can know the true value of their collection at any time. The company links this tool to its proposition of modern and effective investment in fine wine.

Foundation and background

Paul Ricketts founded Starling Wines in 2011 with the aim of creating a wine investment consultancy with a personal and transparent approach. According to the company's information, Ricketts discovered his interest in fine wine while working at events for corporate clients and celebrities, and has over fifteen years of experience in the sector. The firm states that since its launch it has helped clients build and sell their portfolios, and presents itself as a player that aspires to lead the way people buy, sell and invest in fine wines and spirits.

Client profile and market

The site includes a testimonial from J. Barry Orr MBE, who states that he has bought and sold through Starling for several years and recommends the firm for its honesty, efficiency and dedication. The company caters to both personal and business accounts, according to the registration options offered by its platform.

Location and contact

The News Building, 3 London Bridge Street, London. SE1 9SG · Phone: +44 (0)20 7993 6121 · Email: info@starlingwinesandspirits.com · Hours: Monday – Friday 9.30AM – 5.30PM