Legacy in Every Sip

If there’s one name that is synonymous with wines in the Philippines, it will be Ralph’s Wines and Spirits. For more than three decades now, Ralph’s has been at the forefront of wine and liquor supply and distribution in the country, with an extensive array of wines from all over the world. To say the least, Ralph’s stayed on top of the competition because of its superior quality products and its dedication to become the country’s leading wine distribution group.

“Wine is a lifestyle,” described Robert Lim Joseph, the eldest among the four Joseph brothers and one of the directors of Ralph’s Wines and Spirits. The statement sounds exciting more than intoxicating. After all the Joseph’s knows their business, the country’s leading wine and spirits retail store.

“Wine has lower alcohol content, it has a lot of health benefits especially for the heart, and it gives you the feeling of peace and relaxation,” explained Robert.

“You drink wine to enjoy, not to get drunk. And taste is very important. That is why, there are different kinds of wines, because it caters to different taste preferences,” added Ronnie Joseph, second to the eldest and the one taking care of wine selection, import, and vineyard inspection. Since quality control is a crucial part of his job, Ronnie ensures that only good quality wines that give value to customer’s money are displayed on the shelves of their 20-outlet stores. “We have wines for every budget. For different kinds, we also have different price points.”

Suffice it to say, the hands on management of brothers Robert, Ronnie, Ralph and Raymond, and their expertise in the business, are just some of the reasons that keep Ralph’s several steps ahead of the competition.

Starting Years

Fresh out of college in 1974, Ralph Lim Joseph went to his friend’s store in Clark. He discovered sparkling white wines (which are commonly mistaken for champagne) that only sell at P20 per bottle. He brought several bottles and brought it to his house and sold it to his friends and relatives for P35. That is when he saw a big potential in wine and liquor retail and decided to put up his own store. He copied his uncle’s corporation papers, registered his company and told his mother and brother about his plans.

“My mother and my brothers have been so supported about my plans”, narrates the third Joseph.