Farthinghoe Fine Wine was founded in 1975 by Simon and Nicola Cox in the small Northamptonshire village of Farthinghoe. Nicola, fresh from winning the Sunday Times Cook of Britain award, brought a deep understanding of food and flavour, while Simon – following a distinguished 16-year career in the British Army – turned his attention to the world of fine wine.

The business grew steadily, and by 1983 Simon was making his first trip to Hong Kong, marking the beginning of long-standing relationships with private clients living and working overseas. Many sought our help in building cellars of fine European wine – a focus that expanded further into Singapore by 1988. By 1986 Simon had earned the rare and prestigious title of Master of Wine.

In 1997, their son Alex joined the family business. After training at estates across South Africa and Bordeaux, and gaining his WSET Diploma in 2000, he worked alongside his father for over 15 years – until Simon’s passing in 2013. Nicola remains a director to this day. 

In 2015, Alex was joined by Julian Chamberlen, who brought with him over 30 years of experience in the UK wine trade. Together, they relocated the business to larger premises in the Oxfordshire village of King’s Sutton – allowing for continued growth while preserving the boutique, personal service that has defined Farthinghoe since the beginning.