BOROUGH CONFIDENTIAL

Discovered by a tip-off, there is a magical wine shop tucked away in one of the back streets near Borough Tube station, not far from the excellent Borough market. Waterloo Wine is based in a former warehouse which was developed into apartments not long ago. The shop, trading since 1982, invites you in, doors wide open, into what looks like a slightly dusty wine cellar. Dark shelves, or rather cubicles, hold some rare and delicious wines, many at bargain prices: superb samples from top producers in the Loire Valley, including star-buys from Prince Poniatowski’s cellar, quality Rieslings from Germany and Alsace, a large selection of Austrian wines, New Zealand wine and many more.

Founded by a co-owner of the Kiwi Wairapa West winery, their philosophy is mainly to work directly with family owned estates, bypassing intermediaries - hence the attractive prices. They act as wholesalers as well as retailers.

Thanks to their philosophy, many brands are available year after year, which makes it possible to conduct comparative studies of vintages or how a wine can develop in the bottle by buying consecutive vintages by the same producers. So you can experiment in the comfort of your home and share your experience with your friends and other wine lovers.

Make your way to Waterloo Wine on Friday or on a Saturday morning when you can enjoy Borough market too, which sells a host of gourmet delights. Buy yourself a few treats as you soak up the market’s electrifying atmosphere or have a leisurely meal in one of the many restaurants, oyster bars, pubs and cafes, old and new. And if you feel like spoiling yourself, pop into the wine museum Vinopolis to tickle your taste buds even further. And don’t forget to check out the bargains at Majestic, next door.

To fully enjoy the experience, allow yourself 5 to 6 hours.