Vintage Conservatory: Step Into A World Of Wine, Privacy And Opportunities
At the Vintage Conservatory, wine enthusiasts can enjoy their collections in a private, refined and welcoming setting, perfect for entertaining and networking.
Stepping into a private members’ club is always intriguing because you never know what to expect. Whether you’re a guest or a newly enrolled member, one thing is certain: You want to be impressed and have a great experience. You’re craving the “wow” factor to make that long- lasting impression and to feel that you are part of something special. Since 2010, the Vintage Conservatory has been doing just that — an exclusive, intimate setting where wine, friends and business all flourish in the most unique ways.
Founder and President of the VC Constantine Patiniotis recalls that the inspiration for this creation came from a past coworker in the finance services who would entertain his guests and clients with wine from his collection.
“A bottle of wine is the mortar,” says Patiniotis. “So, the inspiration was to create a culture that invites a community for like-minded individuals to be able to meet other similar-minded people and discuss ideas, business or personal.”
Between the VC’s two locations (Yorkville and King), there are approximately 1,200 members, and that number continues to grow organically mainly by word of mouth. It is a true testament to the brand’s identity and the value of exclusivity it represents.
“Your pace lightens, and the stress diminishes when you walk into the club,” says Patiniotis.
“Our Intent Was To Create Exclusivity Without Stiffness – A Culture Which Is Both Discrete And Convivial. Friendships Are Made, Business Is Quietly Discussed, And Of Course, Wine Is Often Shared.”
In life, some of the best gems are hidden. This is also true for VC Yorkville, as its concealed entrance ensures that members always experience a special feeling upon arrival. Scanning your fingerprint using a biometric security system, a beautiful wood door opens to reveal a space of sensuous design and quiet luxury. Instantly, they are welcomed with smiling faces, meaningful conversations and flowing bottles of wine directly. from the 6,000-square-foot cellar.
“The first reaction people often have when the door opens is an unexpected, delightful surprise,” says partner John Caliendo. “Our intent was to create exclusivity without stiffness – a culture which is both discrete and convivial. Friendships are made, business is quietly discussed, and of course, wine is often shared. Some of our members have remarkable cellars but others are still discovering and building their collections which is half the fun. We offer unique tasting events and paired dinners with wines from some of the world’s finest and most interesting vineyards. Members and guests are engaged, and they appreciate the fact that the staff have gotten to know them not just by their name but their preferences — the little things that make it a personalized experience.”
An important part of the club’s culture is introducing its members to a network of winemakers, collectors and agencies that can expand their interests and collections and help them save time. The club hosts weekly tastings and offerings with winemakers and wine agents from around the world at no additional cost to members and their guests. On other occasions, the club will organize an exceptional pairing dinner to be prepared so each dish is perfectly accompanied by the given wine.
“We instruct our kitchen to only source the very best ingredients and create a high-value experience for our members — not a high-price experience,” says Caliendo.
Previous events have hosted notable figures, like famous jazz guitarist Al Di Meola, who performed an intimate musical set for the dinner guests in support of the Toronto Jazz Festival. In honour of his cultural roots, an authentic Neapolitan dinner paired with exceptional wines from Campagna was served.
Such events allow members to fully explore their passion for wine and food and perhaps enjoy a varietal for the first time.
“It shouldn’t be forgotten we have also hosted some remarkable Scotch, Tequila, and Cognac events. In fact, our recent Leyenda de Mexico tequila paired dinner was a knock-out as was our Scotch dinner with 20 – 40-year-old whiskies from the House of Grant”, noted Costa.
In addition to the 6500 square foot lounge and dining rooms, a private elevator takes a member to the fully acclimatized cellar where they have access to their personal wine collection. The $350-per-month average membership fee — not including initiation — includes a wine log and a secure wine storage locker with a capacity of 50 to 400+ bottles.
The club does not charge corkage or dining spending minimums, so the value is immediately apparent.
From food to travel, the club will provide an elevated experience for its members by working with other clubs and top hotels – the Ritz- Carlton, various 67 Pall Mall locations, The Park Hyatt Hotel & Spa and the Hazelton Hotel Toronto – and extend benefits and upgraded accommodations to its members.
We all understand the irreplaceable feeling of belonging, which cannot be forced or manufactured. Whatever you call it — be it camaraderie, loyalty or community — the Vintage Conservatory’s culture and reputation are so well- established and known that this bespoke club’s discerning members will almost always know who is coming through that front door.
Nothing is more personal than sharing and enjoying a bottle of wine from your personal collection … Welcome to the Vintage Conservatory.
