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Warwick Smith
Founder, Renegade Urban Winery - London's Urban Winery "Differentiated, premium, craft wines made with love in London"
Warwick Smith is the founder of Renegade Urban Winery, an innovative urban winery based in London.12 He established the company in March 2016 and currently holds the position of Chief Wine Officer, a title he humorously admits to making up himself.1
Background and Philosophy
Smith's approach to winemaking is unconventional and disruptive. He aims to break traditional wine rules and create premium, innovative wines for modern tastes.1 His philosophy emphasizes:
- Making wine "snob-free"
- Focusing on innovation rather than old-world techniques
- Creating differentiated, premium wines in an urban setting
Winery Operations
Renegade Urban Winery operates differently from traditional wineries:
- Sources grapes from England and continental Europe
- Processes grapes in London
- Produces small-batch craft wines
- Follows minimum intervention practices
Experience and Education
Smith's background is not in winemaking, which he believes contributes to Renegade's unique approach.2 He holds a BSc in Philosophy & Economics (Hons) from the London School of Economics and Political Science.1
Winery Growth
The winery has expanded since its inception:
- Started in a railway arch in Bethnal Green
- Moved to a larger facility in Walthamstow in 2021
- Now includes a mezzanine wine bar and restaurant
Smith's vision for Renegade Urban Winery continues to challenge conventional winemaking practices while producing distinctive, high-quality wines in the heart of London.
