Harrods expands wine and spirits department

Harrods claims it is taking drinks retailing ‘to a new level’ with the unveiling of its much-expanded wine and spirits department.

The new 7,000sq ft space will offer more than 3,000 wines, spirits and beers, with an increased focus on education.

Harrods intends to offer tasting events and masterclasses, as well as Champagne and spirits rooms, a new Wine Vault and an expanded selection of ‘eclectic’ products.

Innovations include the Aroma Zone, an interactive area created in partnership with wine accessories retailer Le Nez du Vin and using aroma technology to pinpoint and explain wine’s different flavour components.

The Tasting Room will be the venue for tasting events and food and wine pairing evenings, while customers can sample up to 18 wines more informally at the Tasting Bar.

The finest wines are housed in the Wine Vault, a glass-walled, temperature-controlled room housing a rotating selection of rare and old wines, plus verticals of the most sought-after names.

And the Eclectic Selection offers obscure wines from emerging countries such as Slovenia and Japan, and curiosities including Fondillon from Alicante and grapes such as Grignolino and Verdanel.

‘We believe that we have created the ultimate destination for customers of all tastes and levels to experience the world of wine and spirits,’ Harrods head wine buyer Alistair Viner said.

‘With the new Wine Shop, our aim is to share our real passion for wine, to demystify, educate and make great wines accessible to all.’

Written by Richard Woodard