A new day has dawned at The Park; our wonderful beverage director Sean Kelly has relocated to America with his family. But we have a new wine guru in town. Sebastian Weschler, our distinguished wine manager, has decades of experience scouring the globe for the very best — and most intriguing — bottles. So Sebastian…
What inspired you to pursue a career in wine?
The passion for wines, which I developed along the three decades working in hospitality. Previously I worked for Smith & Wollensky, America’s Steakhouse, famous for its New York location, which opened in 1977.
What are some of your plans for the wine program at The Park?
To trigger curiosity and develop inspiration among the guests to discover the big, big wine world.
What’s your favourite bottle on the list at the moment?
The Château Montelena Chardonnay — it’s the 50th Anniversary of the Judgement of Paris 1976. And as for reds, the iconic Harlan, Napa Valley.
What’s your favourite wine region to visit?
Champagne, by far. I even celebrated two birthdays there and visited many cellars. There are still more cellars to visit…
If you could only drink wines from one producer for the rest of your life, who would it be?
This is a difficult one, because there are many fantastic producers and wines, but I think I would choose Christophe Baron, because he’s from the Champagne region. He also produces Champagne, pure Pinot Meunier — magnums only. He’s very successful in Washington, famous for his Cayuse Vineyards and the iconic Bionic Frog Syrah.
How do you feel about non-alcoholic wines?
I’d highly suggest San Pellegrino sparkling water, “non-vintage.”
When you aren’t working, how do you like to spend your free time?
I love to do my “kitchen disco,” cooking or baking some mean scones with tipsy raisins or a Grand Marnier Cheesecake and enjoying a good wine, according to my mood. And if the weather allows, I’ll jump on my bicycle and go for a long ride to Hammersmith.