Soho's Mountain Shines: A Beacon for Wine Lovers in the UK

In the heart of London, amidst the buzzing and ever-evolving culinary scene, a particular restaurant has managed to stand out not just for its innovative cuisine but also for its exceptional wine offerings. Mountain, a relatively new gem in Soho introduced by superstar chef Tomos Parry, has swiftly ascended to the pinnacle of wine lovers' must-visit venues. Its recent accolades at the prestigious Star Wine List awards serve as a testament to the meticulous care and passion infused into its wine selection.

Tomos Parry, a name synonymous with culinary excellence, ventured into the Soho scene last summer, transforming a former Byron Burger location on Beak Street into the city's newest hotspot. Parry, renowned for his unique application of Basque cooking techniques to top-notch British ingredients and a flair for flame cooking, has always sought to push the boundaries of gastronomy. His earlier venture, Brat, which opened in a former Shoreditch strip club, quickly earned a Michelin star, hinting at Parry's knack for turning unconventional spaces into culinary wonders.

Mountain, described as "London's coolest restaurant" by Time Out upon its opening, has lived up to the hype, offering a dining experience that's as memorable for its food as for its wine. The mastermind behind the wine list, sommelier Holly Wilcocks, has crafted a selection that perfectly complements Mountain's Basque-Welsh fusion cuisine. Her dedication was rewarded not once, but thrice at the Star Wine List ceremony, where Mountain scooped the Best Newcomer List, Best Long List (for selections boasting over 600 wines), and the coveted Grand Prix award for the best overall wine list.

Wilcocks's philosophy is simple yet profound: to curate wines that are not only from beautiful locales and produced by individuals who respect the land and its people but also those that embrace a cleaner, low-intervention style, apt for Soho's chic and discerning clientele. This approach has clearly resonated with both the judges and the patrons, affirming Mountain's status as a haven for wine enthusiasts.

The 'Down to Earth' section of Mountain's wine list, highlighted by Wilcocks, underscores the restaurant's commitment to accessibility, offering exceptional bottles under £50. This initiative reflects a broader ethos that fine dining and fine wine do not necessitate extravagance, making quality wine experiences available to a wider audience.

While Mountain stole the spotlight, the Star Wine List awards celebrated the diversity and excellence of wine lists across the UK. From Etch by Steven Edwards in Brighton, hailed for the Best Medium-Sized List, to Hjem in Hexham, Northumberland, which received accolades for the Best Short List, the awards showcased the depth and variety of the UK's wine scene. Notably, representation from outside London, such as Hjem's recognition, underscores the richness of the UK's culinary landscape beyond its capital.

Other notable winners included Noble Rot Mayfair for the Best By the Glass List and Les 110 de Taillevent in London for the Best Sparkling Wine List, among others, highlighting specialized selections that cater to diverse preferences and occasions.

The Star Wine List awards have not only spotlighted the unparalleled dedication of sommeliers and restaurants across the UK to elevating the wine dining experience but also affirmed the country's position as a premier destination for wine lovers worldwide. With venues like Mountain leading the charge, the UK's wine scene continues to evolve, promising exciting discoveries and unforgettable experiences for connoisseurs and casual enthusiasts alike.