Berry Bros & Rudd

300-year-old wine emporium.

From £5 bottles of Berry’s Good Ordinary Claret to £7000 bottles of Romanée Conti this historic wine emporium has something to suit every palate. Housed in an amazing old building, laden down with exceptionally well-kept wood panelling, entering this shop feels more like being granted admission to an exclusive manor house hotel. While its location in St James – the Mecca for gentlemen’s clubs – further emphasises this air of exclusivity, once you’re inside, roaming around the rickety old rooms, sniffing out classic vintages, it’s easy to forget any initial sense of awe. Dating back to 1698, Berry Bros have amassed over 300 years of experience and genuinely do know everything there is to know about the wine business. Experienced, enthusiastic staff are on hand to guide customers through the fine old selection of ports and clarets as well as the extensive wines on offer, although you can wander around on your own if you choose. Make sure you explore the amazing vaulted cellars, which also double up as the venue for regular wine tasting courses and lunches. Take your time and enjoy this truly vintage shop.

Best for:
Claret and Cabernet Sauvingnon, Bordeaux and Burgundy, cellars and sophistication.

Did you know?
A tulip shaped glass is the best for wine tasting because it concentrates the aromas in its tapered opening.