One of the most iconic names in the London’s independent wine retailing scene has disappeared. 

Philglas & Swiggot first opened in Northcote Road, Battersea, in 1991 and quickly established itself as a beacon for wine lovers looking for an alternative to the off-licence chains that dominated the specialist market at that time.

Mike and Karen Rogers, its founders, later established branches in Richmond and Marylebone.

The business was bought by Justin Knock MW and Damien Jackman in 2014, who sold it to the Irish group O’Briens four years later, though Knock retained a role.

In recent times the remaining stores in Battersea and Marylebone have struggled to recreate the energy of the earlier incarnations of Philglas & Swiggot, and had lost their point of difference in an increasingly crowded indie market.

O’Brien’s had been pursuing a sale of the business, which had become a drain on its profits thanks to soaring costs, but talks with potential buyers last year came to nothing.

“After more than 30 incredible years, we’ve made the very difficult decision to close Philglas & Swiggot,” a statement said.

“It has been an absolute joy to serve London’s wine lovers – whether in-store, online, or through our private client and en primeur services. 

“Sadly, increasingly challenging trading conditions and the additional complexities of Brexit have made it impossible for us to continue.”

The business is scheduled to serve its last customers on March 16.