A Golden Cellar of Opulence – Schrader Cellars at The Savoy Grill Wine Experience Room
A couple of weeks ago I stepped inside the Wine Experience Room at the Savoy Grill and found myself in a spectacular golden cellar adorned with rare and exclusive wine bottles lining the walls. This extraordinary space is designed to impress, accommodating up to eight guests who seek an unparalleled wine journey. It sits inside the Savoy Grill’s dining room, simultaneously affording guests the atmosphere of the main room while maintaining a seductive feeling of seclusion. Overseen by Gordon Ramsay Restaurants’ group head of wine, Emanuel Pesqueira and Restaurant Director Thierry Tomasin, the private room promises guests a bespoke experience that can be tailored entirely to their wants and whims. This flexibility means the room is unique and unmatched in London.
I was fortunate to be a guest of Schrader Cellars, a Californian wine producing legend that’s achieved an astounding thirty-nine perfect 100-point scores from top wine reviewers—more than any other winery in Napa Valley. Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or a curious novice, your dedicated sommelier will be your companion throughout this vinicultural adventure. Mine, for the evening, was the one and only Jason Smith, Master Sommelier and General Manager of Schrader Cellars.
During the evening, Jason regaled us with the history of the wines, sharing intricate tasting notes, and explain why each bottle has been thoughtfully paired with the specific dishes. It’s not just about the wine; it’s about the stories, the terroir, and the craftsmanship behind every bottle.
The heritage of Schrader Cellars, takes us back to it being founded in 1988 by the visionary Fred Schrader. He embarked on a mission to craft Cabernet Sauvignon that transcends mere wine—it captures the very soul of Napa Valley’s finest vineyards. During 200, Fred’s unwavering commitment to quality and provenance lead him to the Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard in Oakville. He knew he’d found the source for great cabernet and set out to secure grapes from this remarkable estate. At the same time, he approached Thomas Rivers Brown about joining his new Cabernet project as a winemaker. They worked together to produce big, fruit forward cabernets, with exceptional purity and structure. They both considered the 2001 vintage to be the first sign of great things to come. “The rest, as they say, is history”.
First up was the Double Diamond, Oakville Napa Valley, Cabernet Sauvignon 2021, paired with the Savoy pressed ham hock, duck liver terrine. This is their entry level wine, full of juicy red fruits, fine tannins and a long lasting acidity, providing such freshness to the wine.
The 2021 RBS Beckstoffer to Kalon Vineyards 2019 was up next and was the perfect accompaniment to the iconic Savoy Grill Beef Wellington, pomme puree, tenderstem broccoli, truffle and red wine jus. First planted in 1868 by the legendary Hamilton Crabb, To Kalon Vineyard is the hallowed ground for Napa Valley’s finest Cabernet Sauvignon. The grapes are sourced from blocks of the vineyard that receive full sun and optimal heat during the day and are cooled by marine fog at night. Oozing with cassis, blueberries and plums, a combination of chocolate and roasted coffee leading to wonderful silky tannins and a velvety mouthful to finish
The Heritage Clone 2021, produced from small clusters of the tiniest of berries, is elegant, complex and expressive. Densely fruited and plush with lively acidity, this wine offers flavours of ripened red cherries, chocolate shaving and orange rind. The perfect match for Beauvale cheese, quince and pain d’epice.
We finished the evening with my favourite in their range, Old Sparky 2021. Blended from a selection of only the best barrels from the vintage, this wine is built to age. Only bottled in magnum, its full bodied, firm with ripe tannins. Flavours of raspberries, blackberries and black cherries are accompanied by a fresh acidity, and the longer it spends in the glass, its elegant floral aromas unfold. An absolute delight when partnered with apple tart tatin, Madagascan vanilla ice cream and a salted caramel sauce.
If you have something truly special to celebrate or you’re wanting access to some of the world’s best wines, then raise your glass and embark on a vinous journey like no other at the Savoy Grill Wine Experience Room.
Before your visit, you’ll have the opportunity to discuss your wine preferences with the expert sommeliers. This ensures a customised menu that harmonises beautifully with the wines you’ll encounter.
The team have also curated a series of wine dinners in 2024 for guests to experience the
magic of the Wine Experience room whilst tasting ultra-rare and renowned wines. These intimate dinners will be hosted by producers and industry experts with the culinary team curating a bespoke menu to complement each dinner.
Launching with Angelus on the 27th of February, followed by Silver Oak on the 6th of March and Kistler on the 9th of April, these immersive dinners are an opportunity to meet the people behind the incredible wines and enjoy a bespoke paired tasting menu delivered by the Savoy Grill culinary team.
So why not book your table, sip a glass or two of Schrader’s Cabernet Sauvignon, and remember that each drop carries the artistry of Fred Schrader, the mastery of Thomas Rivers Brown, and the whispers of Napa Valley’s storied vineyards. And if you wish to enjoy the cult wines of Schrader Cellars before your visit then contact Fine and Rare Wines, Hedonism Wines, Four Corners or Berry Bros and Rudd.
