New independent The Twisted Cork opened in Tiptree, Essex, last month.

Christine Longden and her husband Lee are the team behind the venture.

“We always thought this was something we wanted to do,” says Christine, “and when this unit became available I thought it would be really nice to have a boutique wine shop as there’s nothing like it nearby.”

The shop is one of eight converted shipping containers in the village.

“People love coming round here because it’s a nice little community on its own,” says Christine.

“I’ve already got regular customers and great feedback about the wine.”

Free local delivery is available and with a background in logistics the couple have taken nationwide deliveries in their stride, opting for accounts with APC and DPD.

The business is focusing on organic wines and is working directly with a number of local vineyards and distillers.

Alliance has been “brilliant with advice”, says Christine.

“My husband and I are keen wine drinkers but we have a lot to learn. We’ll be taking WSET courses further down the line.”