The History of Claridge’s Rare Beverages Collection
Claridge’s reputation extends beyond luxury accommodations and fine dining to include its exceptional collection of rare and vintage beverages. Over the years, the hotel has curated an extensive collection of the finest spirits and wines. Whether you're a whiskey lover or a champagne aficionado, Claridge’s offers a one-of-a-kind tasting journey through history.
From rare whiskeys to the finest vintage champagnes, the hotel’s collection is a reflection of its commitment to excellence and its desire to provide guests with only the best.
Unique Prohibition-Era Whiskeys and Their Stories
Claridge’s boasts a collection of Prohibition-era whiskeys, each bottle offering a direct link to the era when alcohol was outlawed in the United States. These rare whiskeys provide a window into the clandestine world of speakeasies and the determination of distillers during this fascinating period in history.
Claridge’s collection of Prohibition-era whiskeys is a testament to the resilience of distillers. Dating back to the 1920s, these rare bottles were hidden and smuggled during the Prohibition period, offering collectors and connoisseurs a taste of history.
Signature Prohibition-Era Bottles: Some of the finest Prohibition-era whiskeys are on display at Claridge’s, each with a fascinating backstory. Guests can enjoy tastings of these rare spirits, accompanied by insights into the history and craftsmanship behind them.
Highlights of the Champagne Collection
Alongside its rare whiskeys, Claridge’s boasts an extraordinary selection of vintage champagnes. The champagne collection features some of the world’s most prestigious labels, handpicked to provide guests with an exceptional experience.
Exquisite Vintage Champagne at Claridge’s: Claridge’s vintage champagne collection includes rare bottles from prestigious houses such as Dom Pérignon, Krug, and Salon. These champagnes are selected for their unparalleled quality and rarity, with many limited-edition releases that attract collectors and connoisseurs.
What makes Claridge’s champagne offerings truly stand out is the personalized experience that guests can enjoy when tasting these exquisite wines. The hotel’s sommeliers work with guests to curate the perfect champagne experience, ensuring that each sip is a memorable one.
Exclusive Tastings and Pairings
Claridge’s offers bespoke tasting experiences for those eager to explore rare spirits in greater depth. These unique experiences pair fine whiskeys and vintage champagnes with gourmet food selections, allowing guests to savor the full complexity of each drink.
The Whiskey and Food Pairing Experience: Guests can experience the full richness of rare Prohibition-era whiskeys when paired with gourmet cheeses, charcuterie, and dark chocolates, creating a complementary and balanced tasting experience.
The Champagne Pairing Experience: The champagne tasting experience is equally luxurious, with delicate bites such as caviar, smoked salmon, and lobster. These pairings enhance the effervescence and subtle notes of the champagne, creating a multi-sensory experience that delights the palate.
No matter your level of expertise, Claridge’s tastings provide an educational and enjoyable exploration of these rare and luxurious beverages.