On 13 July, The Royal Exchange welcomes Oeno House and its collection of some of the world’s finest and rarest wines. In addition to the boutique, the elegant new space also features a terrace and a private tasting room.

Oeno House belongs to the Oeno Group, specialists in fine wine known for a dynamic approach. It’s therefore hardly a surprise that the new boutique stands out for the quality of its offering. ‘There are few, if any, other wine bars or wine boutiques that are able to offer the range of luxury wines that we will have available,’ says director of wine, Justin Knock.

Case in point, the wine list features over 700 references from some of the world’s greatest producers, as general manager Luisa Martinello explains: ‘Our list is very high-end and dynamic in terms of offer. Thanks to our strong relationship with many important wineries and importers, we have the opportunity to vary our selection according to our customers’ preferences, the latest trends and new releases.’

The focus is on the most prestigious and luxurious names in wine, with names including Domaine de la Romanée-Conti, Henri Jayer and Penfolds.

‘The majority of wines will be from well-known names,’ says Knock. ‘With a few exclusive superstars that are extremely rare but perhaps less well known, such as Boërl & Kroff champagne and Liber Pater from Bordeaux. We can offer many of them in older vintages, complete verticals and exquisitely rare, large and ultra-large formats.’ In addition, Oeno House will also stock many exclusive wines.

The selection of wines can be discovered in a luminous space defined by a modern and intimate feel. It’s a far cry from the classic look that one might associate with a more traditional wine boutique. The sleek, modern décor reflects the Oeno House approach, says Martinello: ‘We want to bring the premium bottles to life by moving away from the often overly formal context in which they have always been presented to the public.’ This takes shape, for example, in an interactive service with digital aids including an in-store iPad and QR codes. Knock also emphasises the high quality of service which will appeal to wine novices and connoisseurs alike, who he explains ‘will also have access to the greatest service experience in the wine business, more akin to a concierge than a retail occasion.’

The terrace is a key feature of the new boutique, where customers can enjoy the Oeno House wine selection along with some food. As part of the brand’s efforts to offer premium wine at a fair price, the wines served at the terrace are sold at retail price with a service charge fee. Whether for an after-work drink or a celebration, the terrace is a perfect opportunity to sample refined wines against the elegant backdrop of The Royal Exchange.

In addition, Oeno House features a tasting room for private bookings. Able to host 12, it can be reserved for a wide range of events. The knowledgeable team will be on hand to provide their expertise and there are also catering options available.

Oeno House plans on hosting a series of private tasting events with its brand partners on a rotating basis. These events will be a chance to showcase new wine releases, exclusives and limited editions. The aim? ‘We want to give people the opportunity to try the world’s greatest wines,’ says Knock.

Martinello recommends three wines for July: ‘We have chosen the following wines to be on offer by the glass, as they are great examples of the expression of a terroir, of great winemaking and top-quality grapes.’ The first is a house champagne from Maison Brimoncourt, which is elegant and complex in the glass thanks to a long aging on the lees. The second is Freemark Abbey Chardonnay 2019, an exclusive to Oeno House, that is approachable, full of flavour and perfect to drink now. The third, another exclusive, is the Gagliardo Barolo 2015, a great vintage for Nebbiolo grapes with plush tannins and attractive red fruit notes.

Oeno House at The Royal Exchange is open Tuesday to Saturday, from 11am to 11pm.

Discover Oeno House’s recommendations and premium wine list for yourself: reserve a table at the terrace of the new The Royal Exchange boutique