Independent Wine Writer
Marketing Communications
Public Relations
Brand Identity
About Drinks Network
Best Boutique Wine Marketing Agency (UK) in the Global Excellence Awards
Best Wine Marketing Consultancy (South West England) in the LUX Life Food & Drink Awards
Established in 2005, Drinks Network is a bespoke wine marketing consultancy specialising in celebrating the triumphs and overcoming the challenges faced by boutique wineries. The consultancy is spearheaded by Fran Bridgewater FCIM, an accomplished wine judge, independent wine writer and content creator with a heartfelt passion for wine, viticulture and wine tourism. Fran’s expertise is backed by a 22-year track record in the wine trade.
As an advocate for iconic wines with engaging provenance, Fran instinctively creates and nurtures the success of premium, artisan drinks brands. She combines insightful commercialism, solutions-focused project management and diligent implementation, with the natural ability to hit the ground running on all projects.
Fran Bridgewater FCIM: IWSC Awards Finalist, Senior Judge for Wines, Beers, Spirits and Gourmet Food
Our Approach
Drinks Network offers quality and affordability through an accomplished network of specialists, engaged on a freelance project-by-project basis. This model ensures that clients receive top-tier services tailored to their unique needs, leveraging the expertise of industry professionals without the overhead costs associated with traditional agencies. Drinks Network offers a passionate and strategic approach to wine marketing communications, enabling niche brands to thrive on the global stage.
Services
- Wine Marketing Consultancy: Tailored strategies to elevate boutique wineries on a global scale.
- Brand Development: Cultivating the success of premium, artisan drinks brands through strategic insights and marketing expertise.
- Project Management: From concept to execution, ensuring seamless and successful project delivery.
- Content Creation and Campaign Management: Crafting engaging and authentic content that resonates with wine enthusiasts and industry professionals alike, coupled with effective campaign management to maximise impact.
Expertise & Skills
Fran is a prominent wine personality, frequently featured on TV, radio and podcasts. She served as the conference moderator and journalist-in-residence at the Women in Wine Expo 2023 and has been a presenter at The People's Choice Wine Awards. Additionally, Fran plays an active role in journalism for the new Libération Tardive Foundation and has contributed her expertise to major industry events such as VinExposium in Bordeaux, London Wine Fair and the Wine Future Conference in Portugal.
Accomplished Judge for Prestigious International Competitions including the IWC, Guild of Fine Food, Great Taste Awards, Glass of Bubbly Awards and Bellavita London Awards. As well as a Judging Notes Transcriber for the IWSC, Fran brings extensive experience in evaluating gourmet food, spirits and wine with a discerning palate and keen critical eye to ensure a meticulous and informed approach to every judging panel.
Journalism, Copywriting & Editing: Skilled in authentic copywriting, transcription and proofreading to ensure all content is on point with a professional touch.
Multilingual Proficiency: Fluent in French and Spanish, both written and spoken, enabling effective communication and marketing in diverse marketplaces.
Client base includes: CHAFOR Wine Estate - fine English Sparkling Wine distributed nationally though Waitrose (zero-to-hero in two years); Hathersage Hall Business Centre - rural regeneration success story for the conversion of Grade II farm buildings into a high-tech office space; Rasgón de Maria; The Wine Portfolio; World Wine Agencies; Bésos UK; Constellation Europe; Thierry’s; Felix Solis; Cálem of Oporto plus 21 high-end boutique wineries across the globe.
“Fran is a professional, dynamic and tenacious individual, dedicated to translating strong creative ideas into profitable solutions by leveraging the full power of the sales and marketing communications mix. Operating at Board Level, she benefits from the balance of 30 years of marketing, business development & PR experience, from both brand owner and agency-side.”