Cumbrian wine experts have been named among the best in the UK in a prestigious industry list.
The Taylor’s Port Top 100 Sommeliers highlights the best people and places across the UK to enjoy exceptional wine service.
Beth Bond, co-owner of Cottage in the Wood, in Whinlatter and Valentin Mouillard, head sommelier at Cartmel’s L’Enclume feature in the top 50.
Daniel Bennett, general manager of Heft in High Newton, near Grange-over-Sands, was named among five of the top five young sommeliers in the list’s special awards.
Beth was named on the list for the first time last year and in 2025, has secured the number 49 spot.
She said: “I’m thrilled to be included once again in the UK’s Top 100 Sommeliers List.
“Everything we achieve at The Cottage in the Wood is a true team effort – every single member of our team plays a crucial role in making this such a special place. I love being able to introduce our guests to exciting, carefully curated wines here in our little corner of Cumbria.
“The continued support we’ve received since taking on The Cottage means the world to us, and we’re grateful for every opportunity to contribute to both Cumbria’s and the UK’s vibrant hospitality scene.”
Valentin, of L’Enclume, first entered the Top 100 in 2023, debuting at number 47. He climbed to number 16 in 2024 and now reaches the top 10 in 2025 – a rise of 37 places in two years.
Valentin said: Maintaining your skills as a sommelier requires constant learning, not just in wine, but across the full spectrum of drinks, from beer and spirits to sake, as well as no- and low-alcohol options.
“True success takes passion, dedication, and consistent hard work; without that commitment, the rewards simply don’t follow.
“The level of effort involved is often underestimated, making recognition like this all the more meaningful. I’m thrilled that awards like these shine a light on the professionalism of sommeliers and the vital role we play in creating exceptional experiences for every guest.”
Umbel Restaurant Group’s operations director, Nicolas Perdrier, said: “We couldn’t be prouder of Valentin. Securing a place in the Top 100 for a third consecutive year is an outstanding achievement, and rising 37 places during that time is truly remarkable.
“This ranking is a testament to his unwavering dedication, tireless work ethic, and continuous drive to expand his knowledge. We’re delighted for him and proud to have him representing both Umbel and the North West at such a high level.”
Charlotte Hey, co-founder of Top 100 Sommeliers, said: “Whether you’re dining in a Michelin-starred restaurant or exploring a countryside gem, this annual ranking celebrates the sommeliers who are setting the standard for wine service nationwide.
“The ranking invites nominations from sommeliers and their hospitality peers from across the British Isles, making it possibly the most independent, objective and accurate ranking of its kind.”
Now in its third year, the list evaluates its entrants on how much time they spend working on the floor with guests, their responsibilities in wine buying, team training, and day-to-day managemen, career experience and standout achievements and ongoing education, qualifications, and wine studies
