The NICOTAWINES Story
From the vineyards of Emilia-Romagna to the heart of Lagos - a story of passion, craft, and purpose.
Where Passion Became Purpose
Every great bottle has a story. Ours began not in a boardroom, but in the vineyards of Emilia-Romagna, Italy.
Between 2010 and 2012, our founder, Nicholas Isesele, immersed himself in the daily rhythm of vineyard life, working on a family farm where grapes were cultivated with patience, respect, and generations of tradition. It was there - among the vines, the changing seasons, and the meticulous craft of winemaking - that a lifelong passion for exceptional wines was born.
Curious to understand whether Nigeria was ready for wines beyond the ordinary, Nicholas returned home with a small selection of Italian bottles. What started as a simple experiment quickly revealed something remarkable: Nigerian wine lovers were eager to discover authentic wines with character, provenance, and quality.
That discovery became the foundation of NICOTAWINES.
Learning the Craft. Building the Vision.
Nicholas managed the wine portfolio at Fidossi International, introducing several respected Italian wine brands to Nigeria and gaining deep insight into consumer tastes and international partnerships.
He went on to earn two MBAs in Wine and Spirits Marketing and Management at INSEEC Business School in Bordeaux (2021–2022), then interned at WineTales in Brussels, rising to Director of Operations, Communication, and Logistics.
He returned to Nigeria with vineyard experience, two postgraduate degrees, and European operational leadership - ready to bring that same standard of curation to the market.
“To connect Nigerian wine lovers with authentic, exceptional wines from the world's finest wine regions.”
The mission
Curating Wines with a Story
Today, NICOTAWINES proudly imports carefully selected wines from Italy, France, and Canada, representing over forty distinctive labels.
While our portfolio spans multiple countries, Italy remains at the heart of our collection. From the sparkling hills of Emilia-Romagna to the vineyards of Sicily, Puglia, Veneto, Piedmont, Bordeaux, and Canada's renowned wine regions, every bottle is chosen for one reason: because great wine should create memorable experiences.
“We don't simply look for famous labels. We look for wines that express where they come from - wines with identity, history, and personality.”
Nicholas Isesele, CEO & Founder
Understanding the Nigerian Palate
Wine appreciation in Nigeria has evolved remarkably over the years. Consumers are becoming more adventurous, more knowledgeable, and increasingly interested in discovering wines beyond the familiar names.
Sparkling favourites like Lambrusco, Prosecco, and Moscato d'Asti have found devoted audiences, offering freshness, elegance, and the subtle sweetness that beautifully complements Nigerian cuisine.
At the same time, dry wines are earning their place at the table. Native Italian varieties such as Grillo, Primitivo, Negroamaro, Nero d'Avola, and Nero di Troia continue to surprise wine lovers with their ability to pair effortlessly with rich, flavourful dishes.
“When a wine respects our palate, tells an honest story, and offers real value, Nigerians embrace it with confidence.”
Nicholas Isesele, CEO & Founder
More Than an Importer
At NICOTAWINES, we believe importing wine is only the beginning. Our role is to introduce cultures, traditions, and generations of craftsmanship to every restaurant, hotel, retailer, and home we serve.
Every wine tells a unique story. Our focus on organic and authentic wines makes those stories even richer, connecting the people who grew the grapes to the people who pour the glass thousands of miles away.
We are dedicated to making the process of getting good wines from any part of the world into the Nigerian market easier, whether that means importing for our own portfolio, supporting small importers through our logistics service, or helping individuals bring a special bottle home.
Whether it is a family-owned Italian estate, a celebrated French château, an organic Spanish producer, or an innovative Canadian winery, every partnership is built on trust, quality, and a shared love for exceptional wine.
The Future of Wine in Nigeria is Bright.
As appreciation for premium wines continues to grow, so does our commitment to discovering remarkable producers, expanding our portfolio, and creating unforgettable wine experiences across the country.
From Lagos to Abuja, Port Harcourt, Benin City, and beyond, we remain dedicated to one purpose: to bring the world's finest wines closer to those who appreciate authenticity, craftsmanship, and excellence.
Because every bottle has a story. And we're proud to bring those stories home.
Experience Our Premium Top Picks
Browse our curated collection of Italian, French, and Canadian wines - delivered across Nigeria.