London hospitality sees new wine bar openings

London's hospitality scene has seen the opening of two distinct wine-focused venues. The Savoy has launched the Beaufort Wine Bar, which features over 250 selections from 18 countries, including Bordeaux and Burgundy. The venue claims to host the UK's largest wine-by-the-glass programme, utilizing Coravin technology to allow guests to sample rare and vintage wines without purchasing a full bottle. Led by head sommelier Romain Audrerie, the bar also offers grape-based spirits and shared plates such as artisan cheeses and Jamón Ibérico.

In Notting Hill, a new venue named Sova has opened on Blenheim Crescent. The establishment functions as a wine bar, restaurant, and vinyl listening spot, specifically highlighting the flavors of Eastern and Central Europe. The menu features wines from Georgia, Armenia, and Ukraine, paired with Slavic-inspired dishes such as beef tartare on Borodinsky bread. The space includes a small seating capacity of 40 and features guest DJs playing electronic and contemporary music.