Two Sydney sommeliers have opened Claret Club in Darlinghurst, a wine-led venue split across a two-storey terrace with a walk-in wine bar downstairs and a European-style restaurant upstairs.
Where’s Nick owner Bridget Raffal and former Rockpool and Dinner by Heston sommelier Harry Hunter lead the wine program across both levels, backed by head chef Andy Buchanan (ex-The Dry Dock, Balmain) upstairs.
Wine is the focus here. The list runs at 30 bottles by the glass, with plans to expand the bottle list to more than 800 labels, largely drawn from Raffal and Hunter’s personal cellars. The selection includes Grand Cru Burgundy, Bordeaux and Australian claret styles from regions including Macedon Ranges, Yarra Valley, Coonawarra and Margaret River.
There are no cocktails. The drinks offering centres on wine, aperitifs, digestifs and a small spirits selection.
Upstairs, Buchanan’s à la carte menu is built to drink with the cellar, from gnocco fritto with anchovy and sage to market fish with sauce vierge and roast duck with summer cherries and bitter leaves. Downstairs, the wine bar keeps things simple with snacks, small plates, and counter meals for walk-ins – whether it’s a quick glass or a long night. Claret Club is now open in Darlinghurst.