Oxford’s newest venue will open on the corner of the High Street and King Edward Street, just a stone’s throw away from the group’s other city venue, Sandy’s Piano Bar.
The property, which was previously occupied by Sweaty Betty, became vacant when the British retailer specialising in women’s activewear relocated to the Westgate Centre.
In a boost to Oxford’s High Street and hospitality scene, the group revealed The Oxford Wine Cellar is set to open this autumn, providing a unique venue for the city. The Oxford Wine Cellar will bring the popular concept of the group’s Jericho-based venue – Oxford Wine Café – to the city centre.
Visitors to the wine bar will be able to choose from more than 200 different quality and affordable wines, as well as a wide array of spirits and beers. Spread across two floors, the versatile venue will offer visitors a unique experience with the conversion of the old damp cellars. It will be open all day for coffee, light food and drinks.
Renovation work has commenced to convert the former retail destination into a tasteful, relaxed space that will welcome locals, students, wine aficionados, visitors to the city and groups of families and friends. The ground floor will accommodate a large bar and seating area, while the basement will be transformed into a wine cellar where guests can enjoy a more intimate experience.
The Oxford Wine Cellar is the latest addition to the family-owned Oxford Wine Group portfolio, which includes the Oxford Wine Company, the Oxford Wine Café, Sandy’s Piano Bar and Little Sandy’s in Witney. The family-owned, independent wine merchant has four retail shops around Oxford and a successful wholesale arm.
George Sandbach, a director of the Oxford Wine Group, said: “We are pleased to announce the opening of our latest venture in Oxford, the Oxford Wine Cellar. This is another significant investment in Oxford by our group and demonstrates our commitment to the city and to delivering exceptional venues and experiences.
“We have wanted to bring our tried and tested concept of the Oxford Wine Café to the city centre for a long time, so when this unique venue became available it was the perfect opportunity for us to do so.
“The venue will be managed by two existing managers from Oxford Wine Café, meaning our guests will be treated to exceptional levels of service and expertise. Renovation work is well underway and the venue is taking shape.”
The Oxford Wine Company, which now stocks more than 2,000 wines, beers and spirits, was founded in 1992 by Ted Sandbach. It has just been named as the UK’s No 1 retail wine merchant by Harpers Wine and Spirit, the leading drinks industry publication. It remains a family company.
