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In the planning stage, Sorrells’ visualisations gave Lisa and Graham a
flavour of how the cellar was going to look. The finished cellar however is
better than they imagined. “It’s beautiful, a really special space. We told
friends we were doing a cellar, and they were interested. But when they
see it in the flesh, they are blown away by it. The quality is superb.”
Adding to the sense of occasion is the adjoining dining room. A screen
for watching key sporting events and a music system add to the social
ambience. “We chose traditional French oak and added to it some
contemporary elements. It hits the right design notes,” says Graham.
The cellar holds around 1,200 bottles and in the centre is a tasting area.
The couple buy their wine based on recommendations and on personal
preferences. Having a cellar means they have a more organised approach.
“We take a couple of breaks a year to explore vineyards. Last spring Lisa
and I went to Épernay and we are keen to explore some of the Majorcan
vineyards. We’ll be dovetailing more of our holidays around wine to build
our cellar,” says Graham.
There’s one more reason Lisa is so delighted with the cellar. “Graham is
one of the most difficult people to buy for. Now I will always know what
to get him!”
It gives me a ‘going out’ experience
without having to leave my front door.
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