The Savoy’s Sparkling Secret - New Masterclasses
The wine room
There are few places in London that whisper quiet grandeur quite like The Savoy. The Savoy Grill by Gordon Ramsay is all hushed lighting, polished brass and old-school charm, but slip into the private Wine Room and the atmosphere shifts. This glass-fronted chamber, lined with bottles that include Château Petrus and Romanée-Conti, feels like a secret kept for those who know where to look.
The Savoy Grill first opened in 1899 and has hosted a roll call of famous faces, from Chaplin to Churchill. Today, with Executive Head Chef Arnaud Stevens at the helm, the menu continues to blend British, French, and New York grill influences.
It’s here that Head of Wine Giuseppe D’Aniello and his team host regular themed wine masterclasses. Part education, part performance, and entirely pleasurable, these tastings are an insider’s treat: thoughtful, generous, and surprisingly good value at £95 per person (excluding lunch).
On the day I attended, five sparkling wines from five different countries were poured, each with its own story, each introduced with the kind of insight that never felt rehearsed. D’Aniello has a rare ability to balance depth with charm. He’s opinionated, but never overbearing.
We began with Ferrari “Maximum” Blanc de Blancs from Trentino-Alto Adige. Sleek and structured, it was an elegant introduction,green apple and cream, with an Italian accent. “Fifteen years ago, you might have been nervous to pour this,” said D’Aniello. “Now? It stands proud.”
Next came Raventós i Blanc 2022, a Spanish wine determined to rewrite the narrative of Cava. Here was chalky freshness and poise, a world away from the mass-produced bottles often found on supermarket shelves. “It’s about identity,” D’Aniello said. “Not everything labelled Cava is created equal.”
England’s entry was Coates & Seely Brut Reserve from Hampshire. 100% Chardonnay and full of bright mineral energy, it showed just how far English sparkling wine has come. “They arrived confident,” said D’Aniello. “They always aimed high,and they’ve delivered.”
Then came something unexpected: House of Arras Blanc de Blancs from Tasmania. Creamy, layered and alive with citrus, it was arguably the biggest surprise of the flight. “I hadn’t served this before,” D’Aniello admitted. “But it’s got something to say.”
We finished, fittingly, with Perrier-Jouët Grand Brut. Floral, fine and polished, it closed the tasting on a classic note, reminding us all why Champagne remains the benchmark, even as the global conversation broadens.
After the tasting, lunch was served in the same room. The setting is hard to beat for intimacy. I began with an Arnold Bennett soufflé, rich with smoked haddock and Montgomery cheddar. Then Suffolk Cross lamb, served three ways with spring vegetables and mint jus, elegant and just brilliant. Dessert was a Tarte Tatin with Madagascan vanilla ice cream and salted caramel. This is what I refer to as “proper” food, cooked with a real understanding of process, texture and balance. It is precise and ever so tasty.
What adds further depth to the experience is the setting itself, The Savoy Grill, an institution reimagined. Reopened in April 2023 after a sensitive redesign by Afroditi Studio, the restaurant has balanced modern enhancements with a strong sense of heritage. The original layout, Churchill’s favourite clock, and the iconic Swarovski chandeliers remain. More natural light and subtle touches now elevate the dining room for a new generation of guests.
The Wine Room, where the masterclass is held, is known affectionately as the “wine room of dreams,” housing iconic labels and offering a sense of seclusion without detaching from the restaurant’s atmosphere. Restaurant Director Thierry Tomasin, formerly of Le Gavroche and Aubergine, leads front-of-house with effortless grace, and it shows in every aspect of the experience, from pacing to knowledge.
This is, quite simply, one of the best value wine experiences in London right now. The pours are generous, and Giuseppe’s conversation genuinely informative, and the setting unmatched. It’s a reminder that education and enjoyment aren’t mutually exclusive.
It’s also ideal for a celebration. Whether a birthday, anniversary, or a corporate lunch for colleagues, his is the kind of event that encourages conversation, curiosity and connection. You’ll leave with a better understanding of wine, and a strong desire to return to enjoy one of the other masterclasses on offer.
You can book your experience here
