“We still believe that everything you should look for in a wine or spirit comes down to one simple question: is it good to drink?”
This timeless philosophy has guided Berry Bros. & Rudd (BBR) for more than 325 years—since its founding in 1698 by a woman known only by her surname, Bourne, in the heart of London. Over three centuries later, the world’s oldest wine and spirits merchant continues to expand its reach—now setting foot for the first time in the United States with the opening of a store in Washington, D.C.
A Legacy of Taste and Royal Prestige
From its iconic headquarters at 3 St. James’s Street, London, BBR has long defined the upper echelon of fine wines and spirits. Its prestigious status as a supplier to the British Royal Family, a role it has held since King George III, speaks volumes about its uncompromising standards. Still operated by descendants of the founding Berry and Rudd families, BBR has weathered centuries of global change—while remaining anchored in a core belief: quality comes first.
Global Footprint, Local Taste
BBR’s expansion into Asia with offices in Hong Kong, Singapore, and Tokyo was just the beginning. The new U.S. store is a strategic move, capitalizing on a growing American appetite for British luxury heritage brands, including peers like Fortnum & Mason and Holland & Holland, which have already seen strong demand stateside.
In a statement to BusinessMatters, a BBR spokesperson described the U.S. opening as “a key milestone in our international growth,” reflecting the company’s intention to reach a broader and more diverse clientele while maintaining the same standards that earned its royal warrant.
Politics, Trade, and Timing
The launch of BBR’s U.S. presence comes at a notable moment in Anglo-American diplomacy. The Labour government of Sir Keir Starmer has made concerted efforts to reinforce relations with the Trump administration, including a state visit invitation extended by Starmer on behalf of King Charles. Recent trade agreements between the U.K. and U.S. are seen as part of a wider diplomatic “reset,” which provides a favourable environment for British luxury businesses to thrive in the American market.
Still, challenges persist. 10% tariffs on several goods continue to strain British exporters, and at home, BBR has faced economic pressure due to increased national insurance contributions, new packaging taxes, and alcohol duty reforms. These rising costs have led the company to announce layoffs of approximately 30 positions from its 400-strong team earlier this year.
A New Chapter in British Wine Prestige
Despite these hurdles, BBR’s move into the American market signals a broader trend: British fine wine merchants are increasingly focused on international expansion to ensure sustained growth. For American consumers, this means unprecedented access to one of the world’s most storied names in wine—right in the nation’s capital.
The arrival of Berry Bros. & Rudd is more than just a retail opening; it's a statement of intent from a company that, while steeped in tradition, remains globally relevant. At its heart remains the simple yet profound guiding question:
"Is it good to drink?"
Source: WineNews