Monaco is uniquely located to enjoy some of the finest wines on the French Riviera and beyond. Its proximity to the Italian border and fantastic links by road, air and sea also ensure that those who reside in the Principality get the best selection of imported wines too. Monaco’s luxury real estate market has always attracted foreigners with its tax-free living and abundance of sunshine, but wine connoisseurs are also flocking to the Principality to pick up the best vintages and partake in decadent degustations.
- Wine Palace
Wine Palace Monte-Carlo is undoubtedly the most popular wine house in the region. In fact, it is so luxurious that it has been upgraded to palace status and the wines proffered in its hallowed space are fit for royalty. Situated in the exclusive Yacht Club de Monaco, Wine Palace has an unrivalled cellar offering more than 2,300 wines, champagnes and spirits in a sophisticated setting.
Both Old World vintages and New World modern wines are available and have undergone a rigorous selection process. Sample the wine on the elegant terrace or within the chic interior with its plush burgundy leather seats. Enjoy sumptuous tasting platters of salmon, charcuterie and cheese chosen to perfectly accompany each recommended wine. The highly-renowned interior design company Sabrina Monte-Carlo supplies the glassware and tableware. Wine Palace Monte-Carlo is a firm favourite with yacht owners and sommeliers since it can deliver to your home or yacht at no extra charge.
- Caves et Gourmandises
This is the shop to visit for rare Italian and French wines. The friendly and knowledgeable staff will certainly help you make a selection if you are overwhelmed by the choice. It is in a good location at Boulevard Albert Ier by the port and has a seated area for champagne and wine tasting with various condiments and accompaniments. Caves et Gourmandises has a wonderful selection of local Provence wines and delivery is free in Monaco and Nice.
- Dionysos Wines
Having opened just two years ago, this wine cellar is the newest in the Principality. Dionysos Wines is situated at 4 Rue Princesse Caroline in La Condamine district. The contemporary boutique wine shop offers courses and wine tasting events with different themes in its stylish tasting room. The expert sommelier can advise you on the best wine and gift boxes for all occasions and personalities and there is shelf upon shelf of enticing options from as far afield as South Africa and Australia. They offer free delivery in Monaco and its surrounding communities.
- Caves Nicolas Monaco
Nicolas is in a central location at 29 Boulevard de Moulins. It is a liquor store that savvy locals visit when they want to pick up something special from a good selection of wines and spirits. The fifteen-year-old store is well established and part of a European chain. It offers seasonal tasting, gourmet tips and online ordering.
- Maison del Gusto
This virtual delicatessen is an online shop dedicated to supplying the most refined international products to customers. Its unique approach and sophisticated gourmet gifts have earned it numerous admirers. Maison del Gusto can certainly find the most exclusive and elusive wines from France, Spain and Italy, which are ideal for impressing guests.
Try the Spanish tapas gift box (€400.00) with small plates for a culinary experience from Iberia’s top producers coupled with the 2011 Macán and Macán Clásico Riojas. If you get bored of fine wines, try the 32 Via dei Birrai, the first Italian artisan brewery (and non-Belgian beer) to earn the prestigious Houblon Belge distinction.
