The buying team
Meet the team
It goes without saying: You can’t create the greatest wine and spirits experiences without an outstanding selection of wines and spirits. And that’s where our buying team comes in. With years of experience and expertise matched with unparalleled passion, our team can uncover and source the most beautiful wines and the best spirits from across the world.
Our Mantra
Behind every great wine, every excellent spirit, there’s a special story. Together, these become part of the collective story – the one we all share as discerning drinkers in search of exceptional wine and spirits experiences.
That’s what we celebrate here at United Cellars – the sharing of stories and this collective experience. It’s why our team is the best at what they do. Beyond the products, they care about your story and want to support and enhance your adventures in wine and spirits, from recommending tailored products and sharing important anecdotes about the products, makers, and provenance to educating and entertaining you through tastings, tutorials, and other events.
Meet the team
Head Wine Buyer
Ian Boyle
Ian Boyle is a seasoned wine buyer based in Australia, originally hailing from New Jersey, USA. His journey into the world of wine began during his university years, working at one of the largest bottleshops in New Jersey, where he discovered his passion for the industry. Beginning at United Cellars in 2022, Ian has brought over a decade of experience in online wine retail, having held key positions with prominent online retailers and boutique bottleshops in Sydney. His expertise is not only in aged wines, which he particularly enjoys, but also in sourcing the best value-for-money options for his clients.
Ian's extensive travels to renowned wine regions across Europe, South America, North America, and throughout Australia have enriched his palate and deepened his knowledge. He has collaborated with premium wineries around the world, always on the lookout for exciting new wines to try. Known for his customer-focused approach, Ian’s selections consistently reflect a commitment to quality and affordability. Whether you're an experienced connoisseur or a newcomer to the wine world, Ian Boyle is your trusted guide to exceptional wine discoveries.
Senior Wine Buyer
Richard Horsley
Richard Horsley is a wine buyer based in Byron Bay, Australia, with a passion for discovering the finest wines from around the world. With years of experience in the industry, he has built a reputation as a knowledgeable and skilled professional, with an exceptional palate and a keen eye for quality. He has worked with some of the most prestigious wineries in Australia and abroad, sourcing and selecting the best wines for his clients. Richard's expertise extends to a wide range of varietals, including red, white, and sparkling wines, and he is always on the lookout for exciting new vintages to add to his portfolio. Whether you're a seasoned wine connoisseur or a novice looking to expand your palate, Richard Horsley is the go-to expert for all your wine buying needs.
BUYING & LOGISTICS NZ
Te Rangi Ropata
Te is a New Zealand-grown wine geek.
He migrated to the bright lights of Auckland in the early 2000s, working in bars, restaurants, events management, and customer service. While training bar staff in cocktails, craft beer, and wine, he becomes addicted to the lore and romance of the vine. After eight years in hospitality, he uprooted himself to study wine and travel to vineyards in New Zealand, France, Italy, and South Africa, eventually returning to Auckland and starting with United Cellars in 2017. Working from the ground up to help grow this award-winning portfolio, Te is always hunting for his next ‘desert-island wine’ … and an excuse to open it!