Ever wondered what fine wine means to those at the top of the food and drink game? We sat down with Joe Haynes, co-founder of the much-loved Cloth Restaurant in Farringdon, London, to get his take. Let’s just say, he didn’t disappoint. Here’s the inside scoop on rare bottles, memorable vintages, and how even the “bog standard” can shine with a little patience.
On Fine Wine
When asked what fine wine means to him, Joe’s answer was refreshingly straightforward: “Great bottles. It’s case by case.” There’s no lofty pedestal here – just a love for exceptional wines that tell their own stories. His personal cellar boasts gems from Flavio Roddolo and "a bit of Château Fonsalette—the kind of treasures most of us dream of saving for a “rainy day.”
Memorable Moments in Fine Wine
Picture this: a young Joe at Château Lafite Rothschild, sipping the legendary 1989 vintage during an en primeur lunch in his first year in the industry. “It was pretty great,” he reminisced. Casual brag? Maybe. But hey, wouldn’t you?
Wine Regions Close to His Heart
Joe’s top picks span the map. “My heart really lies in the Mosel,” he shared, though Piedmont also earned a special mention, not just for its stellar wines but for the food, scenery, and all-around good vibes. Up-and-coming regions? Lower Austria and Slovenia are on his radar. “Increasingly, there’s some really great producers coming out year on year,” he said, with genuine excitement. (Austria’s Niederösterreich, we see you!)
Top Tips for Drinking Better Wine
Here’s a nugget of wisdom from Joe that’s both practical and achievable: patience is key. Even “bog standard” wines benefit from a bit of air time. “Giving it a few hours to breathe adds complexity,” he explained. Simple advice, big payoff.
Making Fine Wine More Accessible
Joe’s all for fine wine becoming part of everyday life. “Everyone has the right to have amazing wines every day,” he said. And with the industry increasingly democratising access to great bottles, it’s clear this isn’t just wishful thinking.
So, there you have it. Joe Haynes isn’t just a restaurateur; he’s a passionate wine enthusiast who believes in the magic of a well-chosen bottle, whether it’s a Mosel Riesling or something from an under-the-radar Slovenian producer. Next time you’re in Farringdon, pop into Cloth for some of that magic – and maybe ask Joe what’s in his cellar. You won’t regret it.