Cork & Bottle wine bar closes in on two new London sites

07-Feb-2012 - Last updated on 07-Feb-2012 at 10:04 GMT

The Cork & Bottle, which was established in 1972, was acquired last year by entrepreneur Will Clayton

The Cork & Bottle wine bar in Leicester Square is close to agreeing terms on the first of two new sites in central London.

The brand, which was established in 1972, was acquired last year by Will Clayton – the entrepreneur behind Gresham Inns.

“The moment I first stepped into the Cork & Bottle in Leicester Square I knew this had the potential to be a brand that could spread across London and potentially the South East,” said Clayton.

The two new sites come after Clayton had previously expressed his ‘frustration’ at the lack of available sites and vibrant brands to grow within London.

Multiple sites

Looking ahead, Clayton added: “I intend to get behind the Cork & Bottle brand in 2012 and establish it as a multiple-site wine bar, each offering great wines from around the world, carefully selected by our buyers.

“It’s also important for me to create venues that have something for everyone – wine can be very intimidating, but I believe our USP is our ability to provide an offer that exceeds expectation whatever the consumer’s wine knowledge and always in an inclusive and friendly manner.”

The Cork & Bottle wine bar also serves food, with dishes including Raised Ham & Cheese Pie, Wild Boar Sausages and the C&B Homemade Hemingway Burger.