London’s wine scene just got a whole lot more exciting with the opening of Lower Wine Bar, one of the most anticipated launches of 2024. Helmed by the excellent Alex Pitt, this stylish new spot redefines what it means to drink fine wine in the capital. We sat down with Alex to discuss his philosophy on wine, the rarest bottle in his collection, and how we can make fine wine more accessible.
Watch the full-length interview here below:
The Meaning of Fine Wine
For Alex, fine wine is all about a sense of place. Whether it’s a single vineyard site or the signature style of a particular winemaker, provenance is key. While price is often a factor, the trend he’s noticing now is a shift towards wines with strong regional identity. The rarest bottles often come from small, sought-after producers who make limited quantities—meaning that exclusivity plays a role too.
A Rare Find in the Cellar
So, what’s the rarest bottle tucked away in Lower Wine Bar’s cellar? That honor goes to a 1989 Ruster Ausbruch, of which only 1,000 bottles were ever made. A true collector’s item, this bottle is emblematic of the kind of rare and special wines you can expect to find at Lower.
Most Memorable Wine Experience
When asked about his most unforgettable fine wine moment, Alex recalls an evening spent dining with Katharina Prüm. The night turned into a Riesling-fueled adventure, with Katharina repeatedly disappearing into the cellar and emerging with yet another extraordinary bottle for blind tasting. That kind of experience—spontaneous, thrilling, and deeply rooted in wine culture—is what Alex hopes to bring to Lower Wine Bar.
Favourite Wine Regions
If he had to pick just one? Barolo. The magic of this legendary Italian region is undeniable. But if he could sneak in another? Burgenland in Austria. A region on the rise, producing some of the most exciting wines in Europe right now.
Up-and-Coming Regions to Watch
Speaking of rising stars, Alex has been keeping an eye on Nova Scotia’s wines, particularly its sparkling offerings. He also name-checks Benjamin Bridge, a producer making waves in the fine wine world.
Making Fine Wine More Accessible
Fine wine has a reputation for being expensive and exclusive, but Alex is on a mission to change that. His approach? Reducing bar and restaurant pricing means fairer margins and better value for drinkers. Generosity, both in pricing and in the way wine is poured and shared, is at the heart of Lower’s ethos.
If you’re looking for a wine bar that combines rare and exciting bottles with an open, welcoming atmosphere, Lower Wine Bar should be at the top of your list. Expect top-tier wines, fair pricing, and a space designed for true wine lovers. Cheers to that!