A sommelier at a leading East Lancashire restaurant has been named as one of the UK’s best.
Magdalena Sleziak, who goes by Magda and is the head sommelier at Northcote, was named in the UK’s Top 100, which recognises the most skilled and influential wine professionals.
Additionally, she was shortlisted for the Innovation Award, which honours sommeliers who are reshaping the industry.
Craig Bancroft, managing director of Northcote, said: “We are immensely proud of Magda and thrilled to see her talent and dedication recognised on a national level.
“Magda brings professionalism, creativity and passion to everything she does.
"She embodies the Northcote spirit and plays a vital role in continuing our tradition of wine excellence.”
Originally from Poland, Magda began her wine career in 2016, where she served as head and consultant sommelier at leading venues in Krakow.
Since joining the team at Northcote in 2022, Magda has established herself as an expert in her field, and alongside leading the sommelier team, she also curates wine flights to complement the tasting menus crafted by chef patron-director Lisa Goodwin-Allen.
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She said: “To be regarded as one of the UK’s top 100 sommeliers means everything to me.
“It feels like all the hard work has paid off. I could never have achieved this without moving to England and working at Northcote, where I’ve had the chance to learn from some of the best in the business.”
“Wine is my passion, and I feel so lucky to be able to build a career around that. Working alongside Craig and Lisa is a real privilege.
“Our seasonal menus constantly challenge us to create exciting new pairings, and I love that every day brings an opportunity to learn and grow.”
Additionally, Northcote’s wine programme was recognised globally in the 2025 Wine Spectator Restaurant Awards, receiving the Best of Award of Excellence, which celebrates outstanding curation in wine lists.
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