Ask the Collective

What is the best way to contact HMRC for guidance on duty compliance for made wine production, and who should I speak to?

HMRC can be a helpful resource for duty guidance if you reach the right person. Members recommend two primary contacts: - **Babajide Akiode, Higher Officer at HMRC Individuals and Small Business Compliance** — Phone: 03000 551 459; Mobile: 07977034 724; Email: Babajide.Akiode@hmrc.gov.uk; Address: BX9 1LE. Members found him knowledgeable and responsive. - **Philip Griffiths** (philip.griffiths@pgea.co.uk) — A specialist external advisor described as "the god of this sort of thing" and "very reasonable and knowledgeable," particularly for navigating made wine duty processes. The general advice is that HMRC staff on the phone can be "super helpful" once you connect with someone who understands your category, though getting through to the right person may require persistence.