Ambleside sommelier named among UK's top 50 by Harper's

Laurentiu Bulprich, restaurant manager and head sommelier at The Old Stamp House in Ambleside, was recognised for the first time in Harper’s UK Top 50 Sommeliers list.

His inclusion follows a string of recent accolades, including a place in the Taylor’s Port Top 100 Sommelier List in June and a silver award at the UK Star Wine List of the Year Awards in March.

Mr Bulprich said: "It’s been a bit of a year for us at the Stamp House from a wine point of view, being awarded a silver award in the Star Wine Awards and also entering the Taylor’s Port UK Top 100 Sommelier List for the first time and now the Harper’s UK Top 50 Sommelier list for the first time is amazing.

"It’s a real honour to represent Cumbria and The Old Stamp House, and I couldn’t be prouder of what we’ve achieved with our wine programme, and it's wonderful to see that celebrated on a national stage."

The Harper’s list is designed to showcase talent within the UK’s sommelier community and is regarded as a leading mark of excellence in the hospitality industry.

The judging process spans two days and evaluates factors including innovation and creativity (Image: Jenny Jones Photography)

Harper’s top 50 acknowledgement remarks: "Bulprich has worked in hospitality for 20 years, starting his career in various restaurants in Romania, before moving to the UK.

"Since completing his wine qualifications, he has built the list at The Old Stamp House with a laser-sharp focus, keeping it concise and perfectly matched to its Cumbrian food offer.

"Wines must both be balanced and expressive of their origins to make it onto his list – with a special focus on The Cradle of Wine in Eastern Europe and the Levant."

The judging process spans two days and involves evaluation of nominees’ education, communication skills, innovation, leadership, and vision, as well as their ability to create engaging and creative wine lists.

A food and wine pairing suggestion, based on the chef’s current menu, is also part of the submission.

Ryan Blackburn, chef-owner of The Old Stamp House, said: "I'm absolutely delighted for Laurentiu, and this recognition from Harper's is thoroughly deserved.

"He brings the same care and precision to our wine list that we strive for in the kitchen, and it means so much to see that reflected in a list of this calibre, and it's brilliant to have that talent recognised nationally."

Mr Bulprich’s approach to wine has been praised for its balance, expressiveness, and alignment with the restaurant’s culinary identity.