Morrish & Banham – Wine Tasting and Masterclasses

Morrish & Banham are a wine merchant offering a diverse range of quality wines along with tasting and masterclass sessions. They first opened their shop back in 2015 and basing themselves in Brewery Square. Over three years later and the business is going from strength to strength.

We caught up with co-owner Mark Banham for some background information into the business including what you can expect during a visit, future plans and also what Mark gets up to in his spare time.

What is the history behind your business, and what made you want to open up here in Dorchester?

We have over 30 years experience in the Wine Trade, Mark having worked for Wine Merchants including Tanner’s in Shropshire and Palmers Brewery in Bridport. Having had a strong desire to open his own Wine Merchant & Tasting Room the opportunity to set up in Brewery Square arose, a perfect fit on the site of the great Eldridge Pope Brewery who ran a successful wine merchant from the Brewery for many years.

Describe your business in three words?  

Contemporary, expert, friendly.

What can people expect when participating in your tasting and masterclass sessions?

 A relaxed approach to the art of wine tasting and wine and food matching. The aim is to educate in a fun way, for customers to enjoy the whole experience and open the senses to new & exciting products.

What is your most popular wine? 

Cava Defra Prosecco sells so well, it is a terrific example.

If you were a customer in your own wine merchant & tasting room, what would you buy?

So many wines we wouldn’t have the room at home! If I had to narrow it down, at the moment, it would be Chateau Noaillac from Bordeaux, France. Great value and drinking beautifully now. We really love Bordeaux wines.

Do you have a loyal customer base? 

Absolutely, we are really lucky to have a great customer base. It is a real pleasure to get to know our customers and their likes and dislikes and to be able to match the right wine, spirt or ale to the right customer. We have an approachable, friendly style and we enjoy finding the right wine for the right occasion.

Aside from running your business, what are some personal hobbies or local activities that you enjoy?

I have enjoyed playing Rugby for many years and now enjoy coaching. I am an RFU Level 1 coach and can be found coaching Bridport Under 12’s every Sunday.

Any exciting plans for the future?

We are loving bringing great wine and wine events to Dorchester and look forward to offering more in the future. It is so exciting our great wines and spirits across the UK via our new website.

Morrish & Banham can be located at 1 Pope Street, Brewery Square, Dorchester DT1 1GW. Their Opening times are Monday to Thursday 10am – 6pm. Friday & Saturday 10am – 8pm.

For updates and information, checkout Morrish & Banham on Facebook.

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