Meet the
EW&W
Team
Steve Bishop
Founder and Managing Director
Steve’s first recollection of his love for whisky and wine stems from his family holidays in Cannes growing up.
With an early career in finance, Steve finally took the plunge and set up his own fine whisky & wine merchant back in 2012 with nothing more than a few cases of Bordeaux and a WSET Level 3 certification to his name. Bringing honesty and integrity to the world of whisky cask collecting, over the past 10 years Steve has developed incredibly close relationships with some of Scotland’s finest distilleries.
While he is not exploring the highlands or Hebrides of Scotland, searching for that perfect dram, he can be found on the golf course or travelling the world with his family. Whether you are a self-proclaimed whisky connoisseur or are yet to start your journey, Steve believes everyone should have access to some of Scotland’s finest treasures.
Nick Greene
Executive Director
Nick joined Elite Wine and Whisky ltd in 2013 as an investment director.
Having previously traded fine wine and being an avid wine collector, his knowledge and confidence provided him with the right tools to become an integral part of the team quickly. Nick also has a history of asset management and a brief spell in the city trading CFD’s. With qualifications in business and fine wine he naturally began to develop as a senior figure in the company and in 2016 he became managing partner. Day to day, Nick oversees purchases, operations and heads up the company’s global strategies.
Outside of the office Nick can be found spending time with his wife and children. He is also a huge football fan supporting West Ham United.
Favourite Tipple: Ridge Lytton Springs 2010
Thomas Johnson
London Office Manager & Head of Private Trade
Thomas started with us in December 2023 having previously worked with Steven & Nick in his 17 years in the wine and spirit trade.
Thomas has a world of knowledge across French wine and Scottish whisky.
Away from the office he loves spending time with his family and going to rugby. His one true obsession is building his personal collection of fine wine in his cellar.
Craig Allison
Head of Bottle Sales
Craig joined the team in June 2024 having worked for a number of distilleries over the past 15 years and has a strong general knowledge of the alcohol industry with a main focus on Whisky.
Outside of work he’s a family man and a keen traveller having been to over 40 countries.
Favourite tipple – Glenrothes 18 year old
Maisie Keller
Administration
Maisie joined Elite Wine & Whisky in 2017 and plays a key role in managing administrative tasks and logistics. With a keen eye for detail and strong organizational skills, Maisie ensures the smooth operation of internal processes and supports the team in achieving its goals.
Outside of work, Maisie enjoys socializing with friends and exploring new destinations through travel, always seeking new experiences and connections.
Favourite Tipple: Dom Perignon Rose 2006
Sophie Tapping
Administration
Sophie became a valued member of the administration team in 2021. With a strong attention to detail and a passion for organisation, she ensures everything runs smoothly behind the scenes.
Outside of work, Sophie is an avid fitness enthusiast and loves staying active. She also enjoys spending time with friends and socializing, always finding time to connect and unwind.
Favourite Tipple: Taittinger 2006′
Shannon Barratt
Administration
We’re thrilled to welcome Shannon as the newest member of our Elite Wine and Whisky Administration team in 2025. With her prior experience in the whisky industry, Shannon brings valuable knowledge and expertise, making her a fantastic addition to the team.
Outside of work, Shannon enjoys relaxing with anime and a good series, exploring new culinary spots, and planning exciting travel adventures.
Favourite Tipple: Hibiki Japanese Harmony
Samuel Odogwu
Portfolio Manager
Sam Joined us with a Background in Asset management and Private Equity.
Day-to-day he’s busy managing Cask portfolios and teaching all about the wonderful world of Whisky!
Outside of the office, Sam is an avid athlete and when he’s not training can be found enjoying time with family and friends.
Favorite Tipple: Tamdhu 12y/o Single Malt
Luke Gaskin
Portfolio Manager
With over a decade of experience in financial markets and a degree in Accounting and Finance, Luke Gaskin brings precision, insight, and passion to the world of whisky cask ownership. His focus lies in helping clients turn a love for whisky into a meaningful and strategic portfolio—built on transparency, education, and a deep respect for the craft.
When the laptop closes, Luke turns his attention to his biggest joy—being a dad to his 3-year-old son. His go-to dram? A Sherry Oak 18-Year-Old Macallan—a whisky that, like any good investment, only gets better with time.
Rian Davis
Portfolio Manager
With nearly a decade of experience across various investment markets, Rian offers extensive knowledge and a strategic, proactive approach to both the whisky market and his clients’ portfolios. He specializes in turning his clients’ passion for whisky into profitable, long-term investment opportunities.
Outside of work, Rian enjoys exploring new cuisines and restaurants. He is also an avid sports enthusiast and a dedicated Arsenal supporter.
Favourite Tipple: Macallan Sherry Oak 18 Year Old
Oliver Needleman
New Account Manager
Oliver joined the company a few years ago after graduating with a degree in Finance and Business. He now focuses on managing cask whisky portfolios and enjoys helping clients discover the unique opportunities within the world of whisky investment.
Outside of work, Oliver is a keen golfer and values spending time with family and friends.
Favourite Tipple: Macallan 12 Year Old Sherry Oak
David Pollock
Warehouse Assistant
David brings a wealth of experience in
warehouse operations and whisky maturation.
His practical, hands-on approach, combined with
meticulous attention to detail, guarantees the
efficient and secure management of all casks
within the warehouse.
David brings a wealth of experience in warehouse operations and whisky maturation.
His practical, hands-on approach, combined with
meticulous attention to detail, guarantees the efficient and secure management of all casks
within the warehouse.
