67 Pall Mall is coming to Bordeaux
67 Pall Mall is preparing to open in Bordeaux this summer. Located in the heart of the city’s prestigious “Triangle d’or” district, the renowned club is expected to be spectacular and could soon become a hotspot for fans of Grands Crus de Bordeaux. Sales Director Lorraine Carrigan presented it to Vintage by UGCB.
Can you tell us about 67 Pall Mall?
67 Pall Mall is a private members’ club dedicated to wine lovers. It is named after the address of the first club, which opened in London ten years ago. Its founder and CEO, Grant Ashton, a fine wine enthusiast, used to work in finance. A passionate collector, he wanted to share his love of fine wine with his friends. But when they visited restaurants, the fine wines were often served too young and rarely in the best conditions. This inspired him to create an establishment dedicated entirely to wine. The first club opened in the heart of the London “Clubland”, near Buckingham Palace and Marlborough House. From the outset, the philosophy was clear: a club created by wine lovers, for wine lovers. Wine is at the heart of everything we do and we all love it.
Why did you choose Bordeaux?
Bordeaux is one of the world’s greatest wine capitals. When we began to develop the concept abroad, starting in Verbier and then Singapore, it soon became clear that Bordeaux also had to be part of the adventure, just like Beaune. These two cities represent two major wine regions.
What will the club look like?
The club will be located at 21 Cours de l’Intendance, in the heart of Bordeaux’s prestigious “triangle d’or” district, in a 1,800 square meter space housed in a magnificent building. The architecture and décor are inspired by the local identity. In Bordeaux, the concept draws on 18th and 19th century Châteaux, while retaining the spirit of traditional English clubs. Bordeaux is the only club in the network which will be partially open to the general public. The ground floor will welcome visitors around a spectacular “wine tower” while the upper floors will be reserved for members. The wine list will feature around 1,000 wines by the glass and almost 5,000 bottles, with Bordeaux given pride of place, accompanied by a large international selection. Wine lovers will be able to seek guidance from our sommeliers who will be delighted to help them discover little-known gems. Our Chef will also be on hand to offer tailor-made food and wine pairings to those who’d like to eat on-site. Lastly, several private rooms will be available to host tastings, lunches and dinners. The aim is simple: to create a social hub dedicated to wine in the heart of the city.
When can we discover it?
The opening is planned for this summer. It won’t be ready for En Primeur week but a few guests will be given exclusive access during events organised for this occasion! (Wine professionals wishing to visit the Club during En Primeur week can contact events-bordeaux@67pallmall.com for more information)
Who is 67 Pall Mall aimed at?
There is no specific profile. The club is aimed at all those who love wine. To become a member, you simply need to be sponsored and to pay a fee. Joining 67 Pall Mall is about becoming part of a community of people passionate about wine, ranging from wine lovers looking to explore the wine world to collectors and industry professionals. One thing is certain: there is a real interest and a need for such a place in Bordeaux!
On a personal note, do you have any fond memories of tasting fine Bordeaux wines?
The 1996 Château Lynch-Bages instantly comes to mind, which I tasted during 67 Pall Mall’s 10-year anniversary gala last December. I will always remember that evening, organised in the magnificent National Gallery. After seven years with the Cazes family, I had a particular affinity with this wine and this vintage. As soon as I raised the glass to my nose, I was overcome with very fond memories. The olfactory memory is quite impressive! But the context of the event transcended the experience: surrounded by masterpieces by Caravaggio, in the company of our members and architects from Bordeaux and Beaune, emotions were running high and there was a real sense of pride in the air. It was an extraordinary tasting. Only the finest wines can create such a magical moment! I also have very fond memories of an exceptional tasting of the five First Growths served by the glass during Christmas celebrations at the club last year. It was a rare occasion to savour five outstanding wines while rediscovering the legendary 1982 vintage in all its splendour.
A message for lovers of Bordeaux Grands Crus?
Come and taste them at 67 Pall Mall! Here, conversations always start with what’s in the glass. It is a celebration of the magic of wine, an opportunity to share special moments and showcase the work of winemakers by tasting wines at their peak.
