#United States #Washington, DC #Wine #Spirits #Berry Bros. & Rudd

Introducing House of 1698

In a significant move for fine wine and spirits collectors in the United States, Berry Bros. & Rudd has unveiled its new membership initiative, House of 1698. This innovative program is set to enhance how enthusiasts collect, enjoy, and experience fine wines. Established in 1698, Berry Bros. & Rudd has built a reputation as a leading family-owned merchant in the wine and spirits industry. With its new Washington, DC location opening in November 2025, the brand intends to cater to the evolving preferences of American consumers.

The House of 1698 will feature three distinct membership tiers — Green, Gold, and Black — each designed to provide varying levels of access to the company’s extensive expertise, exceptional wines, and exclusive experiences. Green members, who spend $15,000 annually, will gain access to select benefits, while Gold and Black members will enjoy even greater privileges, spending $50,000 and $100,000 respectively. Not only will these members receive exceptional bottles and personal recommendations, but they will also become part of an exclusive community of wine aficionados, connecting them with likeminded individuals across the globe.

Lizzy Rudd, Chair of Berry Bros. & Rudd, emphasizes the importance of community and relationships in the world of wine. "Some of the greatest pleasures of wine and spirits are the conversations, friendships, and gatherings that grow around them," she states. This philosophy drives the company's mission, expanding beyond simply providing bottles to understanding clients' tastes and introducing them to new discoveries within the fine wine and spirits space.

The House of 1698 membership model is deeply rooted in the company's rich history. Named after the year it was founded, Berry Bros. & Rudd aims to combine trusted guidance with access to remarkable bottles. The initiative seeks to enhance clients' experiences and understanding of their collections, allowing them to build meaningful relationships with the products and the people behind them.

For the past year, Berry Bros. & Rudd has actively engaged with the American market. Hosting masterclasses, winemaker dinners, and exclusive events, the team has gathered invaluable insights on how American wine enthusiasts prefer to interact with their collections. Claudia Chamberlain, Head of US Operations, notes, "American collectors want to meet the winemakers, visit vineyards, and share their passion with others who appreciate wine as much as they do. The House of 1698 is designed to facilitate these connections and deepen their appreciation of fine wines."

Berry Bros. & Rudd’s commitment to excellence is not limited to its products and services; it extends to its operational ethos as well. The company has been a certified B Corporation since 2025, meaning it meets strict standards of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency. This long-term commitment to sustainability and responsible practices underscores the company’s dedication not only to its customers but also to the communities that cultivate superior wines and spirits around the world.

As the wine and spirits market continues to evolve, Berry Bros. & Rudd’s House of 1698 stands at the forefront, offering American collectors an unprecedented avenue for enjoying and expanding their collections. With carefully curated experiences and valuable insights, members can now navigate the complex landscape of fine wines with a renewed sense of confidence and excitement. For those interested in joining this exclusive community, membership can be initiated based on previous purchases or by placing the qualifying amount on account for future use.

With expansion into the US market and innovative programs like the House of 1698, Berry Bros. & Rudd is poised to shape the future of wine collecting in America, making the joys of fine wine more accessible than ever before.

For additional details or to learn more about the benefits of becoming a member, visit their website at Berry Bros. & Rudd.