The 450,000-bottle Wine Cellar at Hôtel de Paris
Image: Courtesy of LHW
Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo is an iconic establishment known for its elegance and rich history. Located in the heart of Monte Carlo, the hotel has been a symbol of Monaco's sophistication since its opening in 1864.
It is known for its lavish rooms and suites, exceptional service, and world-class fine dining experiences. The hotel has a handful of highly rated restaurants, including the three-Michelin-starred Le Louis XV – Alain Ducasse, which has long been a beacon of culinary excellence.
A Glimpse into the Hôtel de Paris Wine Cellar
Beneath the grandeur of Hôtel de Paris lies one of its most treasured secrets — the largest hotel wine cellar in the world. This historic cellar had Francois Blanc handling the construction with the help of Marie Charlotte Blanc (née Hensel). Construction was completed in 1874 (ten years after the hotel's opening). It has since become a symbol of the hotel's commitment to excellence.
Image: Courtesy of LHW
The cellar was created to ensure that the finest wines were available to the hotel's distinguished guests, and it continues to serve that purpose today.
The 16,000-square-foot wine cellar is 32 feet below ground and home to an extraordinary collection of wines. With over 450,000 bottles, the cellar includes rare vintages and exceptional wines from around the globe, making it a haven for oenophiles.
Image: Courtesy of LHW
The collection includes Burgundy, Provence, Bordeaux, Champagne, and Rhone Valley wine. These are carefully stored in ideal conditions to ensure their quality and character over time.
Historical Significance
The Hôtel de Paris wine cellar is a piece of living history. During World War II, the cellar's entrance was walled up to hide 20,000 bottles of the finest wines and the hotel's silverware collection from the occupying forces.
Image: Courtesy of LHW
This act ensured that the cellar's treasures survived the war. After the war, Winston Churchhill was present to celebrate the reopening of the cellar. The event is one of many celebrations held in the cellar throughout its history.
Today, the wine cellar is managed by a team of experts who oversee the care and selection of the wines. They are responsible for curating the collection and ensuring that each bottle is in perfect condition when it is uncorked.
The cellar's extensive collection allows Hôtel de Paris to offer its guests an unparalleled wine experience.
Image: Courtesy of LHW
The Ultimate Wine Experience
The Hôtel de Paris wine cellar offers an unforgettable experience for those who choose to visit. Private tours, exclusive dinners, and tasting events can be arranged. This provides a rare opportunity to explore this historic space and learn about the art of wine preservation.
The exclusive tastings allow guests to sample some of the world's rarest and most exquisite wines, guided by the hotel's expert sommeliers.
A visit to the cellar is an opportunity to experience some of the best Monte-Carlo offers. It remains a symbol of the hotel's long-standing tradition of offering only the finest to its guests, whether in luxurious accommodations, gourmet dining, or world-class wine.
