Wine rooms emerge as one of the most desirable amenities for luxury properties
Written by Wendy Bowman | Photography Courtesy of Jeff Elson
Luxury properties are all about creating a lifestyle—complete with over-the-top amenities such as wine rooms. No longer content to keep up with the Joneses, however, today’s homeowners are attempting to stand out from the crowd by creating showpieces with storage for umpteen bottles nestled side by side and stylish nooks for sampling their favorite vino.
Take, for example, the stunning wine cellar/tasting room that’s the first thing on view when entering the Malibu home of former CEO and current vice chairman of Robb Report, Bill Curtis. “This is not a wine cellar tucked away in a closet or the corner of a basement level; glass doors and windows frame the space and allow the design to shine,” says Sally Forster Jones of John Aaroe Group, who is listing the property for $15 million.
Included is storage for about 3,000 bottles perfectly displayed on exotic Sapele wood racks, with custom lighting accented by rock walls and Durango Cream travertine countertops. Custom Fontenay wine barrel wood flooring, Hickory plank tongue-and-groove ceilings and solid maple cabinets add a touch of warmth to the space, while a mirrored tasting room sporting Belgium block walls, a Hobart wine glass washer and champagne refrigerator provides the ideal spot for relaxing and enjoying the collection.
Creative and functional wine rooms always are an added feature in any luxury home, adds Hilton & Hyland Realtor Jesse Lally, who collaborated with Sacramento developer John Saca and noted interior designer Trip Haenisch to create a custom $48 million Beverly Hills estate. Now on the market, the property’s 1,300-bottle wine room serves as a focal point, with its mix of glass, black-stained cedar, teak floating stairs and concrete board creating an experience as you enter the master retreat. Meanwhile, windows allow onlookers to survey the space from the kitchen, family and dining rooms.
It all boils down to indulgence and sophistication. “People love wine,” says Forster Jones. “If you’re a real connoisseur or a serious collector, a space for display and enjoyment is a must.” To that, we say, “Cheers!”
