The best wine lists in London have been officially unveiled, offering a definitive guide for discerning diners seeking exceptional vintages across the city. With an overwhelming array of restaurants, the Star Wine List Awards provide clarity, highlighting venues that excel in everything from champagne to Italian reds and quality by-the-glass options.
A Celebratory Affair at the 1 Hotel Mayfair
The awards ceremony was a vibrant gathering of sommeliers and venue owners at the prestigious 1 Hotel Mayfair. Attendees flocked to the Champagne Laurent-Perrier stand, which sponsored the best sparkling wine list award, enjoying pours of rosé and blanc de blancs. The event featured tastings of notable wines, including a vintage 1983 Veuve Clicquot champagne, before guests took their seats. The atmosphere buzzed with positivity and excitement, as cheers echoed for every nominee, reflecting the industry's passion and camaraderie.
Judging the UK's Diverse Wine Scene
Master Sommelier and judge Katherine Larsen-Robert noted that the UK presents the biggest challenge for judges globally, due to the high calibre of wines and diverse approaches taken by venues. The Star Wine List Awards, now in their ninth year and held in 46 countries, include a handy app for international wine list ratings, ideal for traveling enthusiasts. Shortlists showcased the plethora of excellent options, with notable mentions like Noble Rot, whose three venues received multiple nominations without wins, yet remain respected in the trade.
London's Award-Winning Venues
London solidified its status as a global wine capital with several standout winners. Row on 5 secured two awards: Best By The Glass and Best Sparkling Wine List. Doppo also achieved double success, winning Best Italian Wine List and Best Long List, boasting over 600 references. For those preferring more concise selections, Trivet won Best Medium Sized List (200-600 references), while DakaDaka took Best Short List, marking a first for a restaurant focusing on Georgian wines.
Specialty and Sustainability Highlights
Other categories highlighted international excellence: Newcomer Wines won Best for Austrian Wine, and the acclaimed Mountain secured Best for Spanish Wine. Claridge's was awarded Best for Riesling, and The Terrace, Ventnor on the Isle of Wight, repeated its win for Best for Rosé. The Sustainability Prize, evaluating both list and venue, went to Restaurant St Barts, and Best Newcomer was Labombe by Trivet, praised for a list with purpose, personality, and promise. The Special Jury Prize honored the glorious Greek restaurant OMA.
